From Cape Town: 5-Day Best of Garden Route and Addo Safari
Garden Route, Eastern Cape
Discover South African wildlife and beauty in some of the country's national parks. Explore some of the top spots while driving along the Garden Route to explore this southeastern coastal paradise.
5-Day Garden Route and Addo Elephant National Park Safari from Cape Town
This 5-day guided tour covers the Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and Tsitsikamma forest, suited for travelers wanting an active wildlife and coastal experience.
Highlights
- See most of the Big Five at Addo Elephant National Park
- Zipline through Tsitsikamma forest (optional)
- Hike suspension bridges with views of a secluded beach
- Jump from the highest commercial bridge bungy (optional)
- Safari road trip along the Garden Route region
Itinerary
Day 1: Route 62
Travel approximately 450km (6 hours) from Cape Town along the world’s longest wine route. Includes a wine tasting stop before arriving in Oudtshoorn. Overnight options: Uthando Backpackers (Backpacker), 88 van Rheede Guesthouse (3-star Comfort), or Hlangana Lodge (4-star Luxury).
Day 2: Oudtshoorn to Addo
Drive about 250km (4.5 hours). Visit the Cango Caves (currently closed; alternative activity provided). Stop en route at a local padstal to sample traditional South African treats such as bobotie, roosterkoek, koeksisters, and melktert. Continue for approximately 400km to Addo region. Overnight at Avaco Cabins (Backpacker), Happy Lands (Comfort), or Addo Wildlife Lodge (Luxury).
Day 3: Addo and Jeffreys Bay
Travel about 300km (3–4 hours). Early morning 2-hour guided game drive in Addo Elephant National Park to spot elephants, buffalo, lions, and more. Then drive 200km to Jeffreys Bay for free time or optional surfing or beach horseback riding (extra cost). Overnight at Island Vibe (Backpacker), Sea Whisper (3-star Comfort), or On The Beach Lodge (Luxury).
Day 4: Tsitsikamma and Sedgefield
Drive approximately 300km (3–4 hours). Optional activities include the highest commercial bungy jump in the world and waterfall zipline in Tsitsikamma forest (both extra cost). Alternatively, spend free time exploring Tsitsikamma National Park. Photo stop at Knysna lagoon before continuing to Sedgefield. Overnight at Pili Pili Backpackers (Backpacker), The Rex (Comfort), or Protea Hotel Knysna (Luxury).
Day 5: Garden Route Safari and Return to Cape Town
Travel about 400km (6 hours) along the coast with a 2–3 hour 4x4 safari game drive at Botlierskop Reserve to spot most of the Big Five and other wildlife. Return to Cape Town with evening drop-offs between 8pm and 10pm.
Includes
- English-speaking accredited local tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off within 5km of Cape Town (if booked 2+ days in advance)
- Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan
- Accommodation for 4 nights according to selected package
- 4 breakfasts
- South African traditional treats tasting
- Entrance to Addo and Tsitsikamma National Parks
- 2-hour guided game drive in Addo National Park
- 4x4 safari game drive at a private reserve
- Wine tasting along Route 62
- Cango Caves tour or equivalent alternate activity due to current closure
Excludes
- Extra meals and drinks not listed
- Optional bungy jump and zipline at Bloukrans Bridge (approx. R1,600)
- Optional Tsitsikamma waterfall zipline (approx. R600)
- Optional surfing or beach horseback riding (approx. R600 each)
Important Information
- The itinerary may run in a different order depending on season and availability.
- Total travel approximately 1,900km with 4–6 hours daily driving; suitable for travelers with limited time.
- During peak season (mid-December to early January), a 2-night stay in Jeffreys Bay replaces Addo accommodation.
- Tour starts at 6:45am from the meeting point near DHL Cape Town Stadium, Green Point. Early hotel pickups available if arranged 2+ days in advance.
- Optional activities are weather dependent and payable during the tour.
- Leopard sightings are unlikely in the Western Cape mountainous regions.
- Accommodation options vary in location and comfort level; backpacker lodging is generally farther from guesthouses.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 2 days before departure for a full refund.
Book early to secure hotel pickup and optional activities. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and camera. The best time to visit is during South Africa's spring and autumn months for moderate weather and wildlife sightings.
