Duration
11-Day
Accra, South Africa
11-Day South Africa Self-Drive Adventure Tour
Overview
Discover one of the world's most scenic coastal journeys. Drive from Port Elizabeth via charming seaside towns, dramatic mountain passes and pristine beaches. Explore highlights like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Tsitsikamma NP, with opportunities for wildlife encounters, whale watching, and adventure activities. Enjoy curated routes and complete freedom to stop where the road inspires you. The ideal blend of relaxation, scenery and adventure, the Garden Route promises an unforgettable road trip.
Plan snapshot
Quick Facts
Route
Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth to Cape Town (Cape Town)
Via Tsitsikamma (Garden Route NP), Knysna (Garden Route), Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)
Country & park
South Africa
Style
Mid-range safari
Group size
1-12 travelers
Starts
Any day if available
Activities
game drives
Accommodation
Garden Court Kings Beach - Mid-range hotel in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals
Meals at Own Expense; Breakfast Included
Pickup
Airport transfer included
Booking
Request quote
Currency
ZAR
Rates
Rates Per Person
ZAR
Start datesSingle2+ people
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
n/a* ZAR
R 37,950 ZAR
Before booking
Important To Know
This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 6 people.
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
This tour is offered in South African Rand (ZAR).
This tour accepts children of all ages.
Quote flow
Request Guidance
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators ()
Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Route
country
South Africa
Start
Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (Day 1)
Day 2
Tsitsikamma (Garden Route NP)
Day 3
Knysna (Garden Route)
Day 4
Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)
Day 5
Garden Route GR (Garden Route)
Day 6
Hermanus (Whales)
Day 7-9
Cape Town (City)
Day 10
Franschhoek (Winelands)
End
Cape Town (Cape Town) (Day 11)
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses lodges and hotels.
Self-drive tour
Drive a vehicle yourself and travel without a tour guide. Rental vehicle is included.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Not for solo travelers
Solo travelers cannot book this private tour.
Suitable for all ages
This tour is suitable for children of all ages.
Activities & Transportation
Activities: game drives
Game drives: open-sided 4x4 vehicle & self-drive
Getting around: self-drive
This operator can book your international flights
Clients collect and return their self-drive vehicle at the airport
Accommodation & Meals
Day 1
Garden Court Kings Beach
Mid-range hotel in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) – Meals at Own Expense
Meals at Own Expense
Day 2-4
Knysna Log-Inn Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Knysna (Garden Route) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 5
Garden Route Game Lodge
Luxury lodge inside Garden Route GR (Garden Route) – Breakfast & Dinner Included
Breakfast & Dinner Included
Day 6
The Windsor Hotel
Mid-range hotel in Hermanus (Whales) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 7-10
Cresta Grande Cape Town
Mid-range hotel in Cape Town (City) – Breakfast Included
Breakfast Included
Day 11
End of tour
(No accommodation)
Breakfast Included
Day By Day
Tour step
Arrival
Clients collect their self-drive vehicle at the airport. Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1
Arrive in Port Elizabeth
Upon arriving at Port Elizabeth Airport, make your way to the self-drive counter to pick up your vehicle. After collecting your car, proceed to your hotel in Port Elizabeth, check in and relax. Port Elizabeth, now known as Gqeberha, is a coastal city in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Famous for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and thriving port, it offers a blend of outdoor activities like surfing and wildlife experiences at nearby reserves such as Addo Elephant Park. The city is rich in history, with cultural sites such as the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum and the Donkin Reserve. Known as the "Friendly City", Gqeberha provides a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. The rest of the day is free at leisure. You will spend the night in Port Elizabeth. Mid-range hotel located in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Destination: Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) Stay: Garden Court Kings Beach Mid-range hotel located in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) Meals: Meals at own expense Drinks not included
Day 2
Port Elizabeth - Tsitsikamma - Knysna
After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and embark on a self-drive journey to Knysna, with en route stops to enjoy the activities as mentioned in the day-wise inclusions (if any). Afterward, continue your journey to Knysna. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Knysna is a popular destination along South Africa's renowned Garden Route, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture. The town is famous for its scenic lagoon, surrounded by the dramatic Knysna Heads, which guard the entrance to the ocean. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with activities such as hiking in the surrounding forests, boat tours on the lagoon, and exploring nearby beaches. Knysna also hosts a thriving arts community and is known for its delicious oysters, with an annual oyster festival drawing visitors from around the world. The rest of the day is free at leisure. You will spend the night in Knysna. Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Tsitsikamma Section of Garden Route NP (Garden Route NP) Stay: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 3
Knysna - Oudtshoorn - Knysna
After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Oudtshoorn. Arrive at Cango Caves and enter the dark tunnels and shadowy chambers of this popular tourist cave, winding through nearly 4 km of dimly lit underground passages. Visitors can only explore Cango Caves on guided group tours. The tour takes travelers through easy-going portions of the caves, where sharply pointed stalactites and stalagmites aglow from spotlights make for impressive photos. Arrive at Cango Wildlife Ranch and take a guided tour through the award-winning grounds for a look at flying foxes, exotic birds and water monitors. Cheetah Land, an elevated catwalk that made this ranch famous, is also home to tigers, cheetahs and a white lion. Arrive at Ostrich Farm for a fun, interactive guided tour of a working farm, where you can get up close and personal with these ancient birds. You can stand on ostrich eggs, feed them, and learn how we farm. You see their nests and how they breed. You will overnight in Knysna. Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Knysna (Garden Route) Stay: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 4
Knysna - Plettenberg Bay - Knysna
After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Plettenberg Bay. Arrive at Birds of Eden, a massive free-flight bird sanctuary home to over 220 bird species from around the world. Visitors can walk through the lush, forested area and see vibrant parrots, hornbills, and other exotic species up close as they fly freely. Monkeyland is the world’s first free-roaming primate sanctuary, where various species of primates, including capuchins, lemurs, and vervet monkeys, live in a vast forested area. Visitors can take guided tours through the sanctuary and observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, interacting with each other in the wild. Arrive at Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, a sanctuary dedicated to big cats and other predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and more. It is not a zoo but focuses on providing a safe environment for rescued or retired wild animals. Drive back to your hotel and relax. You will spend the night in Knysna. Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route) Stay: Knysna Log-Inn Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Knysna (Garden Route) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 5
Knysna - Garden Route Game Lodge
After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and drive to your accommodation, Garden Route Game Lodge. Check in and freshen up. Proceed for an afternoon safari game drive. An afternoon game drive at the Garden Route Game Reserve offers a relaxed yet exciting way to observe wildlife as the sun sets. Starting in the late afternoon, the drive offers a chance to see animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species as they become more active as temperatures cool. The golden light of the setting sun adds a magical touch to the experience, with stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife in the perfect light for photography. This is a great time to spot predators on the hunt or see herds grazing as they prepare for nightfall. You will have dinner and an overnight stay at Garden Route Game Lodge. Luxury lodge located inside Garden Route GR (Garden Route) Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Garden Route Private Game Reserve (Garden Route) Stay: Garden Route Game Lodge Luxury lodge located inside Garden Route GR (Garden Route) Meals: Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included) Drinks not included
Day 6
Garden Route Game Lodge - Hermanus
Proceed for a morning safari game drive. A morning game drive in the Garden Route Game Reserve offers a thrilling opportunity to experience the wild beauty of South Africa’s Southern Cape. Starting at dawn, you’ll explore the reserve’s diverse landscape, spotting animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitat. With the cool morning air and expert guides sharing fascinating insights, it’s an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Africa’s wildlife. Have breakfast at the lodge, then check out and drive to your overnight accommodation in Hermanus. Upon arrival, check in and relax. Mid-range hotel located in Hermanus (Whales) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Hermanus (Whales) Stay: The Windsor Hotel Mid-range hotel located in Hermanus (Whales) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 7
Hermanus - Cape Town
Check out and depart for a whale-watching experience in Hermanus. Enjoy a guided boat tour with expert commentary as you look out for Southern right, humpback, and Bryde’s whales, as well as dolphins and seals. After the cruise, stroll along the famous cliff paths for more whale sightings and breathtaking ocean views. Time permitting, visit the Whale Museum or enjoy lunch overlooking the bay (own cost). Later, drive back to Cape Town and check in at your overnight accommodation. Return your self-drive vehicle at the designated drop-off point. Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Town (City) Stay: Cresta Grande Cape Town Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 8
Cape Town City Tour
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. You can opt for an optional 12-minute scenic helicopter ride (additional cost). This morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel for a private half-day tour of Cape Town. Highlights include the Parliament Buildings, City Hall, Slave Lodge, and an optional visit to the Castle of Good Hope or a walk around Grand Parade Square. Continue past District Six to the Company’s Garden for a short stroll, followed by a visit to the colourful Bo-Kaap area. You’ll also visit a diamond-cutting studio to learn about South Africa’s diamond heritage. The tour ends with a scenic coastal drive past the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Stadium, Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay. We then make our way to Table Mountain, where you will experience the revolving cable car ride to go up to the top of the iconic Table Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of Cape Town and the Peninsula (weather dependent). Later, transfer back to your hotel in Cape Town for an overnight stay. Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Town (City) Stay: Cresta Grande Cape Town Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 9
Cape Peninsula Tour
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up and travel along the scenic Atlantic Seaboard, passing Mouille Point, Sea Point, Bantry Bay, Clifton, and stopping at Maiden’s Cove for photos. Continue through Camps Bay to Hout Bay, where you’ll enjoy a boat trip to Seal Island to view the resident Cape fur seals. The journey continues along the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive before reaching Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Take the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the viewpoint (return ticket included) to witness where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Next, visit Boulders Beach to see the colony of African penguins up close, and end the day with a scenic drive through Muizenberg, known for its colourful beach huts and ocean views. Keep your eyes on the ocean as we drive back along this beach route to reach Cape Town by evening, where you will spend the night. Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Town (City) Stay: Cresta Grande Cape Town Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 10
Cape Winelands Tour
After breakfast, depart for a full-day tour of the Cape Winelands, known for its stunning scenery of rolling vineyards and mountain backdrops. Enjoy one wine tasting experience, including insights into the winemaking process, a guided visit to the vineyard and cellar, and a tasting of selected estate wines. An optional lunch, paired with local wines, is available at your own expense. After the experience, return to Cape Town, with optional scenic stops or coffee breaks if time permits. Arrive back in Cape Town in the early evening and stay overnight. Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Franschhoek (Winelands) Stay: Cresta Grande Cape Town Mid-range hotel located in Cape Town (City) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Day 11
Cape Town Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and take a private transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your return flight home. Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Destination: Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town) Stay: No accommodation (End of tour) Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included) Drinks not included
Tour step
End of tour
Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. Clients return their self-drive vehicle at the airport.
Included
Rental vehicle
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
International flights (From/to home)
Roundtrip airport transfer
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$5.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks
Getting There
This tour starts in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth and ends in Cape Town, South Africa
This operator can book your international flights
Fly to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ - Check price)
Fly back from Cape Town Airport (CPT - Check price)
Clients collect and return their self-drive vehicle at the airport
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Offered by
Africa Incoming
5.0 operator rating
46 reviews
Africa Incoming is a dynamic tour operator and destination management company dedicated to delivering exceptional travel experiences across the African continent. With a head office in Cape Town and established in 2016, we have grown into a reliable and trusted partner for seamless tour planning and bookings. Through our extensive services and strong network, we ensure convenient, personalised, and memorable journeys throughout Africa.
Offices In
South Africa, Kenya
Size
20-50 employees (Founded in 2016)
Member Of
SATSA & SKAL
Tour Types
Custom mid-range & luxury tours that can start every day
Destinations
Botswana, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Traveler feedback
Reviews
Overall
5.0/5Communication
5.0/5Accuracy
5.0/5Value
5.0/5Safety clarity
5.0/5Cultural value
5.0/5Very knowledgeable with customer mind set and friendly
I have worked with several tour guides for planning, coordination and actual tours in Johannesburg, Kruger and Cape town, found each one of the member I interacted with Africa Incoming has been friendly, accommodating and prioritized in giving us the best service. Quite happy with Charu who helped us with whole trip planning and tour guide Faldie in Cape Town
Rajani Gudipudi · United States
Excellent planning and execution. Very good guides
Great service and value. The guides were excellent in all of our stay in JBourgh, Kruger, Hazyview and Capetown. Cordial, knowledgeable and very accommodating
Sreenivasa Patibandla · United States
“Excellent service and well-planned trip”. Our guide FALDIE made this trip more memorable!
We recently booked our vacation through AFRICA INCOMING , and it exceeded our expectations. The team carefully understood our preferences and created a personalized itinerary that covered all the must-visit places. The accommodations were comfortable, transportation was punctual, and the overall experience was seamless. Our guide Mr. Feldie was truly memorable. From the very beginning, he was friendly. He is very knowledgeable and well-organized, making the entire journey smooth and enjoyable. His deep understanding of the history and culture of each place added so much value, turning simple sightseeing into a meaningful experience. The game drive in Kruger was definitely the highlight, and the arrangements were seamless. Transfers were always on time, and the team was very responsive whenever we needed assistance. It felt like every detail was taken care of. For AFRICA INCOMING safety and comfort were also clearly a priority for us. Their professionalism and attention to detail truly made our trip memorable. Will definitely book again and will recommend to others too.
Vaishnavi Jain · India
Reliable
We spent fantastic days in Namibia, and the lodges are all beautiful, set amidst breathtaking landscapes
Xiexia · Hong Kong
Practical answers
Tour FAQs
Are rates charged per person?
Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.
Which currency is this tour priced in?
This tour is offered in South African Rand (ZAR).
Can children join this tour?
This tour accepts children of all ages.
Can this tour start on my preferred date?
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Can the itinerary be customized?
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Where do travelers stay during this tour?
Garden Court Kings Beach - Mid-range hotel in Gqeberha / Port Elizabeth (City) – Meals at Own Expense. Meals: Meals at Own Expense
How does the quote request work?
We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators () Requests are sent directly to the tour operator If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
Operator policy
Terms and Conditions
Disclaimer
This tour is offered by Africa Incoming, not SafariBookings.
This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Africa Incoming.
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