A self-drive journey to discover the strong contrasts of the famous South African Western Cape, you will pass through all malaria-free areas, with the security and tranquillity of our on-site support.
It starts with a stay in Cape Town, an ancient and modern city at the same time. Continue to the famous Cape vineyards and the spectacular Garden Route, renowned for its endemic flora, white beaches, parks, valleys and forests. The journey ends with the unforgettable South African safari in the Shamwari Game Reserve – a close encounter with the famous African Big Five.
Travel idea to customize
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town
Arrival in Cape Town and meeting of the Italian speaking guide who will accompany you to collect the rented car. Free transfer to the hotel.
Afternoon free to walk in the Waterfront. Opportunity to visit the Two Oceans Aquarium located right in front of your hotel.
The Waterfront is the old port of Cape Town, still in use for smaller tonnage boats, but which has been transformed into a pedestrian zone of shopping malls and restaurants, overlooking the piers and a spectacular Table Mountain. It is an extremely safe neighbourhood to move around in the evenings.
Day 2: Free visit of the Cape and surroundings
The city stands in a vast natural amphitheatre dominated by Table Mountain, a gigantic sandstone bastion with a characteristic flattened peak, visible 200 from distance.
A cable car fills the one-thousand-meter drop that separates the plain from the summit: on clear days the view extends to the Cape of Good Hope and it is possible to identify the elongated shape of the peninsula that creeps between the two oceans. The magnificent natural settings contribute to making Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Day 3: Free visit of the Cape of Good Hope
Free day for various excursions.
We suggest visiting the Cape of Good Hope.
Day 4: Cape Town and Stellenbosch
Breakfast at the hotel and departure towards the hinterland to reach the renowned area of South African vineyards. Destination Stellenbosch – Majeka House a jewelled hotel, located in Paradyskloof, part of Stellenbosch and a few kilometres from the most famous vineyards. The hotel’s restaurant, Makaron, has an excellent reputation and is frequented by local and international guests.
Day 5: Hermanus
In the morning continuation of the itinerary towards Hermanus, destination Harbor House Hotel. (about 100 km). Hermanus is a pretty town in whose bay, in the austral winter (from June to October), frank whales gather to give birth and to wean the young. Cetaceans can be spotted from the beach or approached by whale watching cruise or, for the more adventurous, by kayak.
Day 6: Visit of Hermanus
Free day to visit the town of Hermanus and whale watching activities.
Day 7: Mossel Bay and Garden Route
Breakfast in Hermanus and departure for Mossel Bay, the front door of the famous Garden Route. (Approximately 310 km).
Day 8: Exploration of the Garden Route
Departure for a day’s journey along the Garden Route with destination to the exclusive Tsala Treetops Lodge. (about 150 km). Built on top of the trees of the Tsitsikamma forest and connected by suspended wooden passages, the Tsala is not far from the famous seaside resort of Plettenberg Bay. The Hunter family has created an enchanting and unique place with luxury rooms and private relaxation possibilities in the midst of wooden courtyards and infinity pools overlooking the trees of the forest. Cuisine from European and African flavours at the award-winning Tsala restaurant.
Day 9: Boat trips for dolphin watching
Day of excursions to discover the spectacular scenery of the area. Possibility to participate in the many activities offered by the lodge (for a fee, but, if necessary, to be organized locally). Swim with seals – dolphin watching boat trips, – interactions with elephants – walk in the monkey forests etc. Alternatively, visit the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Day 10: Departure for the Shamwari Game Reserve
Breakfast at Tsala and departure for Port Elizabeth airport (about 240 km).
Release of the rented car to the airport Budget offices. Meet one of our representatives who will welcome you and transfer you to the Bayete Lodge, Shamwari, located in the northern part of the reserve of the same name in a magnificent location that offers unique views. The tented suites are luxuriously furnished with wooden floors and the walls and ceilings are constructed partly in curtains and partly in wood. The lodge is designed to maximize contact with nature, with its noises, scents and evening breezes. First photo-afternoon safari in 4×4 vehicles discovered.
Day 11 to 12: Safari and Big Five Days
A day dedicated to wonderful Big Five safaris at the beautiful Shamwari Bayete Lodge.