South Africa - 8-day Cape Town & Garden Route Low-Key - Private self-drive

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South Africa – 8-day Cape & Garden Route Low-Key – Private self-drive

8 days / 7 nights
Cape Town • Hermanus • Franschhoek • Oudtshoorn • Knysna

Highlights

Cape Town

Hermanus

Franschhoek

+2 destinations

Rated 4.9/5

See reviews

South Africa – 8-day Cape & Garden Route Low-Key – Private self-drive

From $775
Oudtshoorn
Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
La Splendida Hotel
Oudtshoorn
Cape Town
Oudtshoorn

Includes

7 nights' accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
Rental car, economy category, with full insurance, unlimited mileage, manual transmission, and air-conditioner - price is subject to change until rental car is booked and confirmed

Excludes

Flights
Drinks
Meals other than breakfast
Fuel and toll fees
Increase in rental car fees
Excursions and entrance fees
Gratuities - we recommend ZAR 180 per person/day per guide and for lodge staff
Entry visa
Travel insurance
Increase in government tax and park fees

Itinerary

Cape Town, South Africa

Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbour. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs of Cape Point; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years; and many more.
Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town
+11
  • La Splendida Hotel

    Day 1 - 3

    Sidewalk cafés, the expansive Atlantic Ocean and a bustling promenade set the scene where La Splendida is found, in Mouille Point. This region is incredibly trendy and forms part of Cape Town’s upmarket Platinum Mile. The hotel is ideally suited to its surrounding environment as it similarly exudes a fashionable look and modern feel.
    La Splendida Hotel
    La Splendida Hotel
    La Splendida Hotel
    La Splendida Hotel

Day 1

Day Notes:

Upon arrival in Cape Town, collect your rental car at the airport and head to your hotel to kick off your first night in this vibrant city. If you find yourself with some extra time, seize the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace with your rental car or consider adding a city tour to your itinerary for a guided adventure.

Driving time: ~60km/30 minutes

  • Self Drive from Cape Town International Airport [CPT] to La Splendida Hotel

  • Check-in to La Splendida Hotel

  • Cape Town City

Day 2

Day Notes:

Discover the Cape Peninsula at your own pace with the flexibility of a self-driven excursion, or add a guided tour to your itinerary.

Journey along the picturesque Chapman's Peak Drive, reaching the iconic Cape of Good Hope. On your way back towards the city, make a worthwhile stop in Simon's Town to observe the charming penguins. A visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is recommended for those with a penchant for botanical beauty.

  • Cape Peninsula

Hermanus, South Africa

Situated just 140 kilometres from Cape Town and built between the beautiful shores of Walker Bay, Hermanus has grown from a small seaside resort town to become arguably the best-known place for whale watching in the world. This town is also famed for its natural scenic beauty, featuring long stretches of pristine beaches. An excellent variety of restaurants, cafes and bars are also on offer. Today, Hermanus is more than just a popular holiday destination and offers visitors all kinds of activities, both energetic and relaxing. Visitors can explore the Old Harbour Museum, which is comprised of the charming fisherman’s village, the old harbour, and the Whale House Museum; hike through the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve, and sample an array of top-quality wine along the famous Hermanus Wine Route.
Hermanus
Hermanus
Hermanus
Hermanus
Hermanus
Hermanus
  • 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

    Day 3 - 4

    Overlooking the Indian Ocean in Hermanus, Western Cape, 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House is an excellent accommodation option for a relaxing getaway. The property features six beautifully decorated rooms with en-suite bathrooms, TVs, and safes. Guests can start the day with a hearty breakfast on-site. Facilities and services include lounges, decks, parking, and Wi-Fi.

Day 3

Day Notes:

After breakfast, leave Cape Town and make your way to the charming seaside town of Hermanus, known as one of the best whale-watching places in the world. From here, you can even watch whales from shore. Whale season is typically from June - November. But also outside of whale season, Hermanus has a lot to offer, with its stunning scenery, which can be taken in on beautiful coastal walks; its rich history, and vibrant culture.

Check in at 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House, or Auberge Burgundy if you choose an accommodation upgrade.

Driving time: ~120km /2 hours

  • Check-out from La Splendida Hotel

  • Self Drive from La Splendida Hotel to 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

  • Check-in to 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

Franschhoek, South Africa

Set just over an hour from Cape Town, within the inspiring landscapes of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is a heritage town and a world-renowned food and wine destination. Travellers could choose to focus their visit on any one aspect alone - nature, cuisine or culture - and find plenty to keep them busy. The estates here attract wine experts from around the globe with their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cap Classique sparkling wine (among others). Five-star restaurants alongside the cellars are surrounded by the same jaw-dropping valley scenes that have brought artists and writers to the area for centuries. A superb literary festival takes place around May every year, and, combined with the town’s Cape Dutch manor houses, fascinating museums, and charming boutiques, makes Franschhoek a wonderful place to visit in winter. Summer provides endless hiking, cycling and other outdoor opportunities among the lush farmlands and mountains.
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
  • Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

    Day 4 - 5

    This picturesque guest house is just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, situated in the peaceful Winelands country also known as the Franschhoek Valley. Avondrood’s original Victorian Cape-Dutch home offers guests a beautiful peaceful stay with a rich historical feel of French Huguenot culture combined with all of the modern luxuries and amenities you desire.
    Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
    Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
    Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
    Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
    Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

Day 4

Day Notes:

After breakfast, leave Hermanus and make your way to the stunningly beautiful landscapes of the Cape Winelands. Check-in at Avondrood Guest House in the centre of town and then head out for a wine tasting. We highly recommend joining a tour aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram.

Driving time: ~100km/1 1/2 hours
 

  • Check-out from 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

  • Self Drive from 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House to Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

  • Check-in to Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

  • Franschhoek Wine Tram

Oudtshoorn, South Africa

Located along the well-known Route 62 in South Africa’s beautiful Klein Karoo, the charming town of Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world. It is surrounded by numerous ostrich farms and the golden arid landscape of the Karoo. Visitors can enjoy the locally produced wine and port; sample ostrich meat and biltong; learn about the ostrich feather boom at the C.P. Nel Museum; and visit the world-renowned Cango Caves, the largest cave system in Africa featuring ancient rock formations and sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. Other popular activities include: mountain biking, paragliding, horse riding, and taking a day trip to the quaint town of Prince Albert over the scenic Swartberg Pass.
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn
  • De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

    Day 5 - 6

    Only 7km outside Oudtshoorn, in the Garden Route, surrounded by the famous Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains, is one of the world’s 17 "hot spots" with 3 overlapping flower zones. This owner managed, 2000 hectare working lusern farm, is malaria free and child friendly.
    De Zeekoe offers a unique in the world opportunity to walk with Wild Meerkats (Five shy Meerkats) and to be part of the shy 5 experience!
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
    De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

Day 5

Day Notes:

Plan for an early departure from Franschhoek for the scenic drive along Route 62 through the Little Karoo. Your destination today is Oudtshoorn, which is known for its ostrich farms and the famous Cango Caves. If you arrive early enough, you can still visit both this afternoon. If not, you can visit one in the morning before making your way to Knysna.

Driving time: ~380km/5 hours

  • Check-out from Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

  • Self Drive from Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek to De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

  • Check-in to De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

  • Cango Caves

  • Ostrich Show Farms

Knysna, South Africa

Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests. This well-catered town is also a perfect base for safari expeditions at nearby parks such as Knysna Elephant Park, and close-up animal experiences at centres such as Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, Birds of Eden, and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. From here, enjoy ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, yachting, jet-skiing, boating, fishing, and golfing. Visitors can also look forward to an array of wonderful markets, a picturesque waterfront filled with superb restaurants and shops, and several fantastic art galleries. Make sure to take a ferry trip to the famed Knysna Heads and sample the local oysters.
Knysna
Knysna
Knysna
Knysna
Knysna
Knysna
  • Belvidere Manor Hotel

    Day 6 - 8

    Situated on South Africa’s scenic Garden Route in the popular lagoonside town of Knysna, Belvidere Manor offers comfortable self-catering accommodation in single- and double-storey freestanding cottages, a range of delicious dining experiences and breathtaking natural surroundings.
    Belvidere Manor Hotel
    Belvidere Manor Hotel
    Belvidere Manor Hotel
    Belvidere Manor Hotel
    Belvidere Manor Hotel
    Belvidere Manor Hotel

Day 6

Day Notes:

Before you depart for Knysna, it is highly recommended that you join the 'Into the Wild' tour from De Zeekoe to encounter their little Meerkat colony (can be prebooked through us, but must be paid directly).  Drive through George, Wilderness, and Sedgefield on your way to Knysna.

Driving time: ~120km/2 hours

  • Five Shy Meerkat tours

  • Check-out from De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

  • Self Drive from De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve to Belvidere Manor Hotel

  • Check-in to Belvidere Manor Hotel

Day 7

Day Notes:

There is so much to see and do in the areas surrounding Knysna! Relax on one of the Garden Route's unspoiled beaches, visit the Featherbed nature reserve, or take a drive to Tsitsikamma, home of some of the most beautiful hikes and ocean views in South Africa.

  • Featherbed Nature Reserve

Day 8
  • Check-out from Belvidere Manor Hotel

  • Self Drive from Belvidere Manor Hotel to George Airport [GRJ]

End of Itinerary

Destinations

Cape Town
South Africa
Day 1-2

Cape Town

Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards.
Hermanus
South Africa
Day 3

Hermanus

Situated just 140 kilometres from Cape Town and built between the beautiful shores of Walker Bay, Hermanus has grown from a small seaside resort town to become arguably the best-known place for whale watching in the world.
Franschhoek
South Africa
Day 4

Franschhoek

Set just over an hour from Cape Town, within the inspiring landscapes of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is a heritage town and a world-renowned food and wine destination.
Oudtshoorn
South Africa
Day 5

Oudtshoorn

Located along the well-known Route 62 in South Africa’s beautiful Klein Karoo, the charming town of Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world.
Knysna
South Africa
Day 6-7

Knysna

Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests.

Accommodations

La Splendida Hotel
Cape Town
Day 1-3

La Splendida Hotel

Sidewalk cafés, the expansive Atlantic Ocean and a bustling promenade set the scene where La Splendida is found, in Mouille Point.
No image
Hermanus
Day 3-4

138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

Overlooking the Indian Ocean in Hermanus, Western Cape, 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House is an excellent accommodation option for a relaxing getaway.
Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Day 4-5

Avondrood Guest House Franschhoek

This picturesque guest house is just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, situated in the peaceful Winelands country also known as the Franschhoek Valley.
De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve
Oudtshoorn
Day 5-6

De Zeekoe Guest Farm & Reserve

Only 7km outside Oudtshoorn, in the Garden Route, surrounded by the famous Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains, is one of the world’s 17 "hot spots" with 3 overlapping flower zones.
Belvidere Manor Hotel
Knysna
Day 6-8

Belvidere Manor Hotel

Situated on South Africa’s scenic Garden Route in the popular lagoonside town of Knysna, Belvidere Manor offers comfortable self-catering accommodation in single- and double-storey freestanding cottages, a range of delicious dining experiences and breathtaking natural surroundings..

September 2025

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 13,355
  • Single traveller: ZAR 17,805
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 20,805
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 1,965

October 2025

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 15,510
  • Single traveller: ZAR 20,680
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 23,680
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,325

1 November - 24 December 2025

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 16,100
  • Single traveller: ZAR 21,420
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 24,855
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,325

25 December 2025 - 5 January 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 17,020
  • Single traveller: ZAR 24,994
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 28,120
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,325

6 January - April 2026

  • Per person sharing*: ZAR 16,250
  • Single traveller**: ZAR 24,590
  • Solo traveller**: ZAR 27,680
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,325

May - August 2026 - ENQUIRE ABOUT STAYING A THIRD NIGHT FOR FREE AT LA SPLENDIDA

  • Per person sharing*: ZAR 13,380
  • Single traveller**: ZAR 18,210
  • Solo traveller**: ZAR 21,305
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,565

September 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 15,575
  • Single traveller: ZAR 23,660
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 26,755
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,195

October 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 16,785
  • Single traveller: ZAR 25,590
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 28,890
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,325

1 November - 24 December 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 17,460
  • Single traveller: ZAR 26,455
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 30,240
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,195

25 December 2026 - 5 January 2027

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 19,040
  • Single traveller: ZAR 33,455
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 36,890
  • Child rates: on request
  • Supplement for Auberge Burgundy: ZAR 2,195

*Supplement at La Splendida of ZAR 1,035 for period 1-6 February and 8-10 March 2026

**Solo/Single supplement at La Splendida of ZAR 2,815 for period 1-6 February and 8-10 March 2026

South Africa: 19-day Cape Town, Garden Route & Madikwe Safari

This was my second trip through Indigo Safaris, after Papua New Guinea in August. It came about at the last minute as the coup in Madagascar cancelled a trip booked previously through another company. Christopher spring into action and put together a wonderful itinerary for a trip combining a self-drive along the Garden Route that was so much easier than I thought it would be, tours around Cape Town, and a safari to Madikwe before returning to the Cape.
The accommodations were excellent, and that was before we got an upgrade in Cape Town, the scenery so varied, and the wildlife stunning. I'm looking forward to seeing what can be put together for our next trip with more than one week's notice!

Nishard Abdeen
Absolutely fabulous

South Africa: Garden Route and Karoo Self-Drive

Totally awesome ! We had the best time and saw lots of birds, beautiful landscapes and we were very happy with the boutique hotels. driving was easy and fun, Klein Karoo and the meerkats were superb.

Judith Lindhorst
Totally awesome

SOUTH AFRICA – SABI SAND SAFARI & GARDEN ROUTE SELF-DRIVE ADVENTURE

My husband and I travelled to South Africa recently and was looking for someone with hands on experience to help with organising/booking our trip. We came across Indigo Safaris and specifically dealt with Ines who was amazing. They run a very professional efficient business, replying within 24 hrs (even though we are in Australia and they Seychelles). All our bookings etc were fantastic and very much to our liking everything ran very smoothly and would not hesitate in using Indigo Safaris (Ines) again and highly recommend anyone else to use them.

Helen Nicholls
Cannot fault Indigo Safaris - highly recommend

Botswana photographic safari – Moremi, Khwai, Savuti, Chobe, Nxai Pan

Coming out of our life in our luxury UAE bubble to 1 vehicle for 2 weeks with 3 nationalities and 5 people/personalities, making this a rewarding exploration of Botswana could have been a challenge in itself.
Catering for individual needs in a group is a challenge that Christopher masters whilst at the same time multitasking as a patient driver, amazing chef & experienced field guide with us the guests helping pitch tents, prepping veg & doing the dishes.
Being in the lush green Okavango Delta with amazing campfire dinners to break the ice set the expectations for the game drives and camping in Moremi, Savuti, Chobe, Vic Falls and Nxai Pan.

Julie Robinson
Amazing chef & experienced field guide

Karen Head Namibia

High-quality service and excellent experience!

We used Indigo Safaris to book a self-drive safari in Namibia. Michelle was incredibly efficient and responded quickly finding accommodation and supporting with our agenda. Nothing was too much trouble and the organisation was excellent. Everything went smoothly and we had a great time. The value for money was excellent and it took the stress out of our holiday. I'd highly recommend!

Karen Head
United Kingdom

Linda Kvilten 4 x 4

Makes everything for you to get the best out of your adventure!

I went on a 4 day Soussusvlei and Swakopmund tour and it was absolutely amazing. The contact with Indigo Safaris, in my case Michele, was excellent and she did absolutely everything to make the trip as memorable as I wished for.
When in Swakopmund I suggest you do the 4X4 wheel on the sand dunes in Sandwich Harbour which is the Namibia you´ve probably seen on pictures, where the dunes meets the ocean. Don´t miss this!
Travelling from Swakopmund to Sossusvlei was an adventure itself with the changing landscape along the road.
Also the guide we had, Kennedy, was great and a very good and safe driver.
I definitely recommend this tour and Indigo Safaris!

Linda Kvilten
Sweden