South Africa - 8-day Cape Town & Garden Route Low-key  - Tailored Self-drive

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South Africa – 8-day Cape & Garden Route Low-Key – Tailored 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 – Tailored Self-drive

From $775
Belvidere Manor Hotel
Hermanus
Cape Town
Hermanus
Oudtshoorn
Cape Town

Includes

Rental car, economy class, manual transmission, air conditioner, full insurance and unlimited kilometres*
7 nights' accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis

Excludes

Flights
Fuel and toll fees
Drinks
Meals other than breakfast
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, park fees and forced fuel supplements

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
  • Mediterranean Villa

    Day 1 - 3

    Mediterranean Villa offers guests a tranquil stay in Cape Town’s Tamboerskloof suburb, combining Victorian architecture with Mediterranean charm. Each room is individually styled and equipped to suit solo travellers, couples, families or friends, with colourful interiors and essential comforts. Mornings begin with a complimentary breakfast, and nearby dining options provide a variety of casual and regional fare. The villa is within walking distance of local restaurants and Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife, while nearby attractions include Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and city beaches. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the saltwater pool or relax in the tropical garden with a glass of wine.
    Mediterranean Villa
    Mediterranean Villa
    Mediterranean Villa
    Mediterranean Villa
    Mediterranean Villa
    Mediterranean Villa

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: ~30 minutes

  • Self Drive from Cape Town International Airport [CPT] to Mediterranean Villa

  • Check-in to Mediterranean Villa

  • 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: ~2 hours

  • Check-out from Mediterranean Villa

  • Self Drive from Mediterranean Villa to 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

  • Check-in to 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

Franschhoek, South Africa

Nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is an elegant heritage village located approximately 75 kilometres east of Cape Town. Known as South Africa’s food and wine capital, it combines a rich French Huguenot heritage with a relaxed countryside atmosphere. Visitors can explore acclaimed estates producing Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and exceptional Cap Classique sparkling wines, often travelling between vineyards aboard the popular wine tram. Tree-lined streets, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and boutique galleries add to the village’s charm. Summer brings opportunities for hiking and cycling through lush farmland, while winter invites cosy cellar tastings and the acclaimed annual literary festival. The scent of vineyards carried on the breeze, paired with sweeping views of green valleys and dramatic mountain backdrops, creates a refined yet welcoming year-round destination for food, wine, and culture enthusiasts.
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
Franschhoek
  • Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection

    Day 4 - 5

    Perfectly positioned in the heart of Franschhoek village, Avondrood Boutique Hotel offers the rare combination of tranquil country living and easy access to the very best of South Africa’s food and wine capital.
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
    +7

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: ~1 1/2 hours
 

  • Check-out from 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House

  • Self Drive from 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House to Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection

  • Check-in to Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection

  • 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: ~5 hours

  • Check-out from Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection

  • Self Drive from Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection 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: ~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

Nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is an elegant heritage village located approximately 75 kilometres east of Cape Town.
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

Mediterranean Villa
Cape Town
Day 1-3

Mediterranean Villa

Mediterranean Villa offers guests a tranquil stay in Cape Town’s Tamboerskloof suburb, combining Victorian architecture with Mediterranean charm.
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 Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection
Franschhoek
Day 4-5

Avondrood Boutique Hotel by The Oyster Collection

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Franschhoek village, Avondrood Boutique Hotel offers the rare combination of tranquil country living and easy access to the very best of South Africa’s food and wine capital..
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..

May - August 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 12,725
  • Single traveller: ZAR 18,220
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 19,140
  • Child rates: on request

September 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 13,825
  • Single traveller: ZAR 22,220
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 23,140
  • Child rates: on request

October - November & 1-15 December 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 15,245
  • Single traveller: ZAR 24,710
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 25,630
  • Child rates: on request

16-24 December 2026

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 16,010
  • Single traveller: ZAR 26,160
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 27,080
  • Child rates: on request

25 December 2026 - 10 January 2027

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 17,010
  • Single traveller: ZAR 29,760
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 30,680
  • Child rates: on request

11 January - 5 April 2027

  • Per person sharing: ZAR 15,995
  • Single traveller: ZAR 24,105
  • Solo traveller: ZAR 25,110
  • Child rates: on request

 

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