South Africa: 12-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Tour

The Heads, Eastern Cape



Embark on an unforgettable 12-day tour from Cape Town to Johannesburg, traveling through some of South Africa's most scenic coastal towns, game reserves, and other natural wonders.

12-Day South Africa Coastal and Safari Tour from Cape Town to Johannesburg

This 12-day tour travels from Cape Town to Johannesburg, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking coastal towns, hiking, and game drives.

Highlights

  • See African Penguins at Betty's Bay and taste wine at Benguela Cove
  • Hike in Robberg Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg Mountains
  • Visit Knysna Heads and explore Knysna Waterfront
  • Game drives in Kruger National Park and Addo National Park to see the Big 5
  • Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruise in St Lucia Estuary at iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Description

Start in Cape Town and travel along the coast to Betty’s Bay to view endangered African Penguins. Enjoy a wine tasting of five varieties at Benguela Cove, then continue to Hermanus, known for whale watching.

On Day 2, follow the Garden Route to Knysna. Hike coastal trails in Robberg Nature Reserve spotting seals and dolphins. Visit Plettenberg Bay beaches, the Knysna Heads where the lagoon meets the sea, and explore the Knysna Waterfront and Lagoon.

Day 3 involves a drive to Port Elizabeth with a stop at Bloukrans Bridge for optional bungy jumping (own cost). Experience a game drive in Addo National Park to see elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, buffalos, and other wildlife.

Travel east to East London on Day 4, with time to relax on its beaches. Day 5 leads to Mthatha, the gateway to the Wild Coast, including a visit to the Nelson Mandela Museum.

Day 6 offers hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains, traversing one of South Africa’s dramatic landscapes. On Day 7, explore Durban’s Golden Mile beachfront, cultural sites, and local cuisine.

Day 8 includes a Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in the St Lucia Estuary within iSimangaliso Wetlands Park for close wildlife encounters.

Continue through Mpumalanga Province on Day 9 en route to Kruger National Park. Day 10 features a full-day safari in Kruger to spot the Big 5 and numerous other animals.

On Day 11, tour Blyde River Canyon, viewing landmarks like Three Rondavels and God’s Window, plus Bourke's Luck Potholes.

The final day travels through Mpumalanga to Johannesburg, concluding the tour around 5pm.

Includes

  • 11 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • Game drives in Addo National Park and Kruger National Park
  • Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve and Drakensberg Mountains
  • Wine tasting at Benguela Cove
  • Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruise in iSimangaliso Wetlands Park
  • Durban city tour
  • Tour of Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Three Rondavels
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned parks and reserves
  • Pick up in Cape Town and drop off in Johannesburg

Excludes

  • Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Optional Bloukrans Bridge bungy jump

Important Information

  • A moderate fitness level is required for hiking activities
  • Weather can vary; pack accordingly

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, bring comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and binoculars. Book early to secure availability during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour covers Cape Town, Betty’s Bay, Hermanus, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and ends in Johannesburg, passing through the Eastern Cape region.
The best whale watching in Hermanus is typically from June to November, during the Southern Hemisphere winter months.
Yes, African Penguins can be observed in Betty’s Bay as part of the tour's coastal wildlife experience.
The tour includes visits to game reserves where you can see species such as elephants, lions, rhinos, and other native wildlife in the Eastern Cape.
Yes, the tour includes wine tasting at Benguela Cove, located near the Eastern Cape coastal area.
Basic hiking gear such as comfortable shoes and water are recommended for hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve.
The itinerary includes a visit to Plettenberg Bay beaches, typically allowing a few hours for exploration and relaxation.
The 12-day tour starts in Cape Town and ends in Johannesburg.
Yes, the tour includes travel along the Garden Route, covering key stops like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Yes, the tour features guided activities including wildlife viewing, hiking, and wine tasting along the South African coast and Eastern Cape.

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