Exploring South Africa: Johannesburg to Cape Town

Day 1 | Johannesburg – Pretoria

Distance approx. 70 km; driving time approx. 1 hour

Once you have arrived at Johannesburg Airport and picked up your rental vehicle, you make your way to Brooks Cottage in Pretoria. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing at the hotel pool or exploring Pretoria.

Day 2 – 3 | Pretoria – Hazyview

Distance day 2: approx. 400 km; driving time approx. 5-6 hours

Driving through the provinces of Gauteng and Mpumalanga, you pass the small towns of eMalaheni and Mashishing (formerly Lydenburg) before reaching Pilgrims Rest. Go for a walk through this historical village and travel back to the days of the gold rush. You then continue to the Hamilton Parks Country Lodge near Hazyview. The following day you have more than enough time to drive along the Panorama Route and visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and the Blyde River Canyon viewpoint. The Graskop Gorge Lift is also worth a visit. Enjoy beautiful views from top and take the lift down into the gorge. Walkways and suspension bridges lead your way through indigenous forests. Two nights will be spent at the Hamilton Parks Country Lodge.
Breakfast

Day 4 – 6 | Hazyview – Kruger National Park

Distance day 4: approx. 80 km; driving time approx. 1-2 hours (excl. game drives)

The destination for today is the world-renowned Kruger National Park.  Entering at the Phabeni Gate, your wildlife adventures begin. You spend the next few days on game drives in search of the Big Five (elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard and lion). Once you have seen the Big Five, turn your eye to the other animals. You will stay at Skukuza Rest Camp for two nights, followed by one night at Lower Sabie Rest Camp. Guided night game drives and bush walks can be booked at both camps.
Breakfast (Day 4)

The bungalows are equipped with cooking facilities. Supplies can be bought from the rest camp shops, but there are also restaurants available for those wanting to sit back and relax.
Please note that in high season and school holidays some camps may be fully booked and alternatives would be used.

Day 7 | Kruger National Park – Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland

Distance approx. 300 km; driving time approx. 3-4 hours

On your outward journey to the Crocodile Bridge Gate, you can once more enjoy exciting wildlife viewings and the beautiful surroundings. Heading south you cross the border into Swaziland and travel via Manzini to the Ezulwini Valley. The afternoon can be spent hiking, biking, or even horse riding. Alternatively, visit the nearby Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Colourful Swazi crafts (weaving, textiles, candles, woodcuts) can be purchased at the local markets. Overnight at Mogi Boutique Hotel.

Day 8 – 9 | Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland – Kosi Bay

Distance day 8: approx. 350 km; driving time approx. 4-5 hours

Today you head back into South Africa and make your way to Kosi Bay, a small village situated in the 11,000 ha Kosi Bay Nature Reserve. Four freshwater lakes, all connected by canals that eventually flow into the Indian Ocean, form the pristine Kosi Bay lake system. Boat trips, snorkelling tours and turtle excursions can be arranged by the Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge, your home away from home for the next two nights. You can also spend your days relaxing, going for a swim or taking a walk in the beautiful surroundings. The river mouth has an abundance of fish due to the warm fresh river waters meeting the cooler sea and snorkelling is highly recommended. Please note that many of the activities in the area require the use of a 4×4 vehicle, which can be booked at the lodge.
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 10 | Kosi Bay – St Lucia

Distance approx. 250 km; driving time approx. 3-4 hours

After breakfast, you make your way to the town of St Lucia, where you will spend the next two days. There are many activities that you can do in the area – swimming, birdwatching, horse riding, forest walks and boat trips. A visit to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Cape Vidal, where you can fish or snorkel, is also recommended. The St Lucia area has well over hundred types of birds and is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Loggerhead turtles also come to nest here during the months of November and March and excursions can be booked to get a closer look. You stay at the St Lucia Wetlands Guesthouse.
Breakfast

Day 11 | St Lucia – Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park – St Lucia

Distance approx. 100 km; driving time approx. 1-2 hours (excl. game drives)

The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve is Kwa-Zulu Natal’s only Big Five game reserve and is home to a black and white rhino breeding program. An early start is recommended in order to spend as much time in the park as possible. The park’s unique landscape makes it one of the most beautiful wildlife viewing destinations in South Africa.  Guided game drives and walks can be arranged. After extensive game drives, you will return to St Lucia Wetlands Guesthouse for your overnight stay.
Breakfast

Day 12 | St Lucia – Durban

Distance approx. 250 km; driving time approx. 3-4 hours

Today you head to Durban situated along the Indian Ocean. The town is well known for its large Indian population and colourful spice markets. You can visit a multitude of attractions, such as the botanical gardens, uShaka Marine World aquarium, the promenade or the muthi market, which gives you an insight into traditional African healing practices. Alternatively, you can spend the day on one of Durban’s excellent beaches. You stay the night in Umdloti, about 19 km north of Durban, at the Greenfire Dolphin Coast Lodge. The lodge has a beautiful view over the ocean and is close to excellent restaurants, where you can enjoy dinner.
Breakfast

Day 13 – 14 | Durban – Giant’s Castle, Central Drakensberg

Distance day 13: approx. 200 km; driving time approx. 2-3 hours

After breakfast, you make your way via the breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills and Pietermaritzburg to Mooi River. You turn off here and head to the Central Drakensberg region. In this region, you will find artists, crafters, fly-fishing enthusiasts and mountain hikers. The nearby Giant’s Castle National Park is well worth a visit and offers hikes to nearby caves with rock art and swimming in the mountain streams. You spend two nights at the Antbear Eco Lodge.
Breakfast; Dinner

Day 15 | Central Drakensberg – Port Edward

Distance approx. 350 km; driving time approx. 4-5 hours

Today you head back to the coast and continue south towards Port Edward. You have the afternoon to explore the coves along the coast, go for a swim, play some golf, go horse riding or simply relax with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. You stay the night at the family-owned Plumbago B&B, situated in the small village of Leisure Bay.
Breakfast

Day 16 – 17 | Port Edward – Coffee Bay

Distance day 16: approx. 380 km; driving time approx. 5-6 hours

Look forward to discovering South Africa’s magnificent Wild Coast! After breakfast, you set off to Coffee Bay, which also is a popular destination for backpackers. On the road through the rural area of the former Transkei you will not only see many buses and local taxis, but also donkeys and perhaps the occasional chicken – drive carefully. Set against the backdrop of dark cliffs, white sandy beaches, green hills and the deep blue ocean, Coffee Bay is the place to be. Take a walk along the coast to marvel at the famous Hole in the Wall, formed by the sheer power of the waves. Wonderful views all along the way are guaranteed. Optional activities such as horse riding, kayaking and boat trips are also available. You home for the following two nights is the Ocean View Hotel.
Breakfast | Dinner

Day 18 | Coffee Bay – Chintsa East

Distance approx. 300 km; driving time approx. 4 hours

Continuing southwest towards East London, you get to Chintsa Bay and the Crawfords Beach Lodge, your destination for the day. Go for a swim, stretch out on the beach, kayak, go surfing or horse riding – the afternoon is yours! Enjoy an excellent buffet dinner at your lodge before you retreat to your room.
Breakfast | Dinner

Day 19 | Chintsa East – Addo Elephant National Park

Distance approx. 300 km; driving time approx. 4 hours

After breakfast, you make your way to the Elephants Footprint Lodge near the little town of Colchester. Located only two kilometres from the southern entrance gate to Addo Elephant National Park, the lodge is the ideal base for you to explore the park. In the afternoon, you venture into the park to search for the Addo elephants. With a little bit of luck, you might also spot zebras, various antelopes, lions and many more. After extensive wildlife viewing, you return to the Elephants Footprint Lodge where you have dinner and spend the night.
Breakfast | Dinner

Day 20 | Addo – Tsitsikamma National Park

Distance approx. 200 km; driving time approx. 3 hours
Today you continue your journey to Tsitsikamma National Park, a region known for its forests, rivers and stormy seas. Without any doubt, Tsistikamma is a true paradise for hikers and lovers of dramatic coastlines. Whether you hike the first few kilometres of the famous Otter Trail or cross the Storms River Mouth on the suspension bridges, the dramatic scenery will fascinate you. You stay at the charming At the Woods Guesthouse in Storms River.
Breakfast

Day 21 – 22 | Storms River – Knysna

Distance day 21: approx. 100 km; driving time approx. 1-2 hours

Driving along the picturesque R102, you travel past Nature’s Valley to Plettenberg Bay. Stop here to go for a walk in the Robberg Nature Reserve. After lunch, you continue to the charming town of Knysna. The following day is for you to enjoy at leisure. Knysna offers many things to do – boat cruises or kayaking on the Knysna Lagoon, beautiful views from Knysna Heads’ viewpoint, forest walks and cycling tours. You spend two nights at Stannards Guest Lodge.
Breakfast

Day 23 – 24 | Knysna – Oudtshoorn

Distance day 23: approx. 150 km; driving time approx. 2-3 hours

Today you travel to George and over the dramatic Outeniqua Pass to the Little Karoo. Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostriches and the striking sandstone mansions are a reminder of what a booming industry it once was. Take a tour of an ostrich farm or squeeze through the narrow Devil’s Chimney in the Cango Caves. The following day, we recommend you drive over the scenic Swartberg Pass (depending on weather conditions). The winding road leads you to the quaint village of Prince Albert. Take a lunch beak here before continuing via Klaarstroom and through the beautiful Meiringspoort to De Rust and back to your lodge. Along the road, there are several stops. Get out of the car and marvel at nature’s beauty. The lovely Thabile Lodge will be your home for two nights.
Breakfast | Dinner

Day 25 | Oudtshoorn – De Kelders

Distance approx. 380 km; driving time approx. 5-6 hours

Driving along the picturesque Route 62 you pass Calitzdorp, Ladismith, Montagu and Swellendam before finally reaching your destination for the day: the little fishing village of De Kelders, at the Walker Bay coast close to Gansbaai. During the months of June and November, the Walker Bay is the perfect place to do some whale watching as you stroll along the rugged coastline. Overnight at the Sea Star Cliff Lodge.
Breakfast

Day 26 – 27 | De Kelders – Cape Town

Distance day 26: approx. 180 km; driving time approx. 2-3 hours

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and offers a wide range of nature and city-based activities. Enjoy the following days hiking up the forested slopes of Table Mountain, visiting Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years, or exploring the city and its various restaurants, galleries and museums. You are really spoiled for choice in the Mother City. You stay two nights at the Nine Flowers Guest House, close to many restaurants.
Breakfast

Day 28 – 29 | Cape Town – Stellenbosch

Distance day 28: approx. 160 km; driving time approx. 4-5 hours (incl. Cape of Good Hope)

Start the day off early and explore the beautiful Cape Peninsula. Via the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, you make your way to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. Expect to be amazed by the panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean! You continue your trip via Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek and Muizenberg to Stellenbosch in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The surrounding mountains create a dramatic backdrop to the beautiful vineyards. The town and its historical streets and buildings can be explored on foot. Join a wine tasting tour to sample the fruit of the winemakers’ labours or go for a hike in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. You spend two nights at L’Avenir Country Lodge, situated on a beautiful wine estate just outside Stellenbosch.
Breakfast

Day 30 | Stellenbosch – Cape Town Airport

Distance approx. 70 km; driving time approx. 1-2 hours

After a leisurely morning, you drive to Cape Town International Airport to drop off your rental car. Not ready to leave? Let us know and we will gladly offer you a connecting tour or a few extra nights in Cape Town.

Applicable rates for this self drive itinerary are the following:

Min. number to guarantee tour: N/A
Max number of participants: private tour
Departure day: any day of your choice
Price: from 29,900 ZAR
Single Supplement: from 11,500 ZAR