16 Day Self Drive Bush & Garden Route

Enquire Now

Enter into your adventure through some of South Africa's most prominent locations, blending luxurious stays with immersive experiences. This curated itinerary promises unparalleled comfort, awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the country.

Itinerary

Day 1 :

Upon arrival, you will experience the vibrant heart of South Africa's largest city, with proximity to the OR Tambo International Airport, the Radisson Hotel is the perfect start to your onward journey. Enjoy a restful stay in a junior suite and the hotels home-cooking-inspired dining experience where they celebrate both Afro-Asian and South African favourites. Breakfast included.

Day 2 :

The morning after your delicious breakfast, it is time to collect your car and embark on your adventure to Welgevonden Game Reserve. Diving deep into the African bushveld, enjoying the tranquillity of the wild. 

Day 4 : 

After breakfast with a typical African flair, it is time to move onto your next destination. The friendly city, Gqeberha. Your flight awaits.
Once in Gqeberha, you will collect your vehicle and head to Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel. Enjoy the authentic South African art,

Day 5 : 

After breakfast you set off on a 2 hour drive to Plettenberg Bay. Nestled in the Piesang River Valley you will find the perfect place, 5 minutes from the golden blue flag beach, Barrington’s Small Hotel. Staying in a Deluxe room with your private balcony, it is time to spend the next day on your own time, exploring the on site craft brewery, restaurant and bar.

Day 7 : 

As you rise with the sun, get ready for check out at 11:00 am. Your next stop is Buffelsdrift Game lodge in Oudtshoorn, a true African experience.
A unique tented adventure in your luxury waterhole tent alongside the frequently visited waterhole by local wildlife. For the next two days enjoy the wildlife on a morning and afternoon safari. Enjoy the authentic Karoo cuisine of the full board option included.

Day 9 :

After breakfast, get ready for the road trip down to Franschhoek. Nestled in the heart of South Africa's wine region, indulge in gourmet cuisine, world-class wines, and breathtaking views of vineyards and mountains at Angala Hotel. In the luxury room you have a private veranda with secluded garden. All with outdoor showers.

The next two days, enjoy the slew of bars, restaurants, art galleries of the beautiful Franschhoek.

Day 11 : 

After breakfast at the private guest only hotel, get ready to move to your next destination.

The coastal town of Hermanus offers scenic beauty, whale-watching opportunities, and a serene escape from city life. Harbour House Hotel is perfectly located in the heart of Hermanus. Here you will stay in the romantic room at Manor house and enjoy a bed and breakfast experience. Your next two days can be enjoyed lounging next to the crystal blue pool or enjoy the town which a few minutes away.

Day 13 : 

Your next three days will be to discover Cape Town's iconic landmarks, from Table Mountain to Robben Island. With the beach at your doorstep in Camps Bay, you'll experience the best of city and seaside life at The Bay Hotel. Your sea view room allows breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean from the comfort of your private balcony. At this hotel you are spoilt for choice with 4 uniquely different restaurants to dine with.

Day 16 : 

Explore the beauty of South Africa at your own pace. Drive through picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and along scenic routes that the country has to offer before you drop off your rental car.

Read more ›

Location and getting there

Rates & Pricing

R
$ 280 USD
R
$ NaN USD
$ 280 USD
Rates are starting prices per person, per night sharing.
We book at the same price as going direct, see more

SEAMLESS SAFARI PROMISE

Since 2006, we’ve arranged unforgettable safaris for over 58,000 travelers, handling every detail with precision. Learn more about our Seamless Safari Promise

Inclusions

  • 1 Night at Radisson Hotel OR Tambo, Johannesburg
  • 2 Nights at Mhondoro Game Lodge, Welgevonden Game Reserve
  • 1 Night at Mantis No5 Boutique Art Hotel, Gqeberha
  • 2 Nights at Barrington's Small Hotel, Plettenberg Bay
  • 2 Nights in Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Oudtshoorn
  • 2 Nights in Angala Hotel, Franschhoek
  • 2 Nights in Harbour House, Hermanus
  • 3 Nights at The Bay Hotel, Camps Bay, Cape Town
  • All Meals and Local Drinks Included at Lodges
  • Daily Breakfast Included at Hotels
  • 2 Safari Activities Per Day Included at Lodges
  • Flight From Johannesburg to Gqeberha Included
  • Car Rental with GPS

Let's start planning

We’re committed to being with you every step of the way—before, during, and long after your safari.

Learn more about fully refundable terms
We care about your privacy
THANKS FOR YOUR INTEREST!

A travel expert will be in touch shortly to assist with planning your trip :)
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Meet your travel advisor

Meet Sara, your dedicated safari expert. With years of experience and countless glowing reviews, Sara will craft your perfect itinerary, handle every detail, and assist you before, during, and after your trip. Trust Sara to create a seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable safari experience.

Don’t just take our word for it—see the reviews below!
Sara Van Coillie

What our guests say about Sara

November 20, 2024
Outstanding Experience! (Cape Town, Sabi Sands, Vic Falls)
After attempting to book this trip myself (a couple coming from the US), I gave up and reached out to Sara from Safari.com. I told Sara what I was thinking and by the next day she had created several wonderful itineraries! Based on her suggestions, we personalized the itineraries and within 7 days I was booked and all set!! Sara was available at all times (before, during, and after the trip). We are currently heading home and we are so happy with all the bookings Sara created for us! Everything went flawlessly. Her 3rd parties for tours and transfers were perfect (always early, professional, knowledgeable, and kind). The hotel acknowledged our anniversary thanks to Sara. We stayed at the Victoria & Alfred hotel in Cape Town, then off to Dulini Moya in Sabi Sands, and finally Victoria Falls Island Treehouse in Zimbabwe. I highly recommend all of them. Tell Sara what you envision your experience to be and your budget and she will make it happen!! Her knowledge was so helpful in assisting us to choose the perfect itinerary. It was comforting that she kept in touch while we were traveling throughout Africa. I feel so lucky to have had Sara arrange this trip and will certainly request her expertise again in the future!! You won’t have to worry about anything because she is on top of it all. Do not hesitate!! Book with Sara from Safari.com!
Annette P
,
MW
November 8, 2024
Sara was very helpful
Sara was very helpful, she answered all my questions, addressed all my requests and did so very quickly 😁
Melanie
,
CA
October 27, 2024
Sara is the best
Sara is the best! Believe me we had tons of questions about our upcoming safari and all were dealt with quickly and with detail and graciousness by Sara. Considering the 7 hr time difference, response time was as if she lived next door! Maybe she doesn't sleep. Sara's knowledge is also outstanding. We never received an "I don't know but will get back to you" response. We are so looking forward to our trip especially knowing that Sara is always available to help us out!
Frank Piraneo
,
US

Customer Testimonials

4.9
out of 5 based on
Dec 4, 2024
Prompt & knowledgeable
Prompt & knowledgeable
Scott Millar
,
Dec 4, 2024
Great service from Denise at Safari.com
Denise from Safari.com was extremely helpful. She responded promptly, provided good advice on safari lodgings options and worked up a couple of itinerary options to suit our budget. Denise also organised flights and transfers very quickly so that we could finalize our booking in a short time. Much appreciated.
Noelene Hosking
,
AU
Dec 4, 2024
It was amazing
It was amazing. She even helped us with some of our questions and where to stay.🌞
SMK Thomas🌞🌞
,
Dec 2, 2024
a seamless booking experience with…
a seamless booking experience with everything handled really well. Bravo!
JUDITH ANN
,
US
Dec 2, 2024
Kim Abrahams is as great to work with
Kim Abrahams is as great to work with. Very responsive and helpful for setting up my trip to Africa
Nicholas Nelson
,
US
Nov 30, 2024
Great advice, responsive and knowledgeable!
Pascal John at Safari.com guided me on different safari lodges (experience, rating), and most importantly knew about specials (buy 3 nights, get 4th for free) which allowed my family to secure a 5-star location at a more reasonable rate. Great advice, responsive and knowledgeable!
Rebecca Cauffman
,
US
Nov 29, 2024
Fast responses and informative answers.
Fast responses and informative answers.
Zadra Morgan
,
US
Nov 29, 2024
Nicole was amazing and dealt with all…
Nicole was amazing and dealt with all my requests and changes in a timely manner
MARTY DIAMOND
,
US
Nov 29, 2024
Mel du Toit
Mel du Toit, gave us excellent service and was so quick to respond to our request!! We are looking to return to Simbavati, because of our previous experience there, and Mel has shown that we may continue to expect this !!! Thank you !!!
JUDITH ANN
,
US
VIP service
Your own personal travel assistant
18 years in business
Attention to every detail
Relationships with 500+ operators through Africa
Consultants available 24/7
58,000+ customers and counting
Read more