South Africa Eastern Cape Escape
This South Africa Eastern Cape Escape takes you to Cape Town and through the Garden Route. See the beauty of South Africa with this self-driving vacation package.
This South Africa Eastern Cape Escape was planned for a couple from Boston who were doing their second trip to South Africa. They wanted some different locations and were interested in the Garden Route, so we started them in Cape Town and put them outside of the waterfront in Constantia at the Alphen Boutique Hotel.
With their rental car, they decided to do a quick trip to beautiful Stellenbosch for some wine tasting and lunch. The next day, they hiked up the iconic Table Mountain for some beautiful views of Cape Town. They also chose to do a local foodie tour and took a cultural excursion to historic Robben Island. Next on their South Africa Eastern Cape Escape, they traveled down to Hermanus to the beautiful Mosaic Private Sanctuary, surrounded by ocean and mountain scenery. They enjoyed seeing the scenic grounds and rich wildlife on both leisurely walks and a mountain bike ride, and also chose to do a day excursion to do Great White Shark cage diving.
From there, they traveled along the Garden Route to Knysa to the Kanonkop House. While there, they enjoyed the beauty of the area and spent some time on the beach. Then on their South Africa Eastern Cape Escape, they drove to Kichaka Luxury Lodge for the safari portion of their trip. At the malaria-free game reserve, they had a chance to see the Big 5 while on safari. Experienced guides ensured fascinating game viewing from open vehicles and on guided walks. They enjoyed a relaxing massage in the safari-style wellness suite, outstanding cuisine complemented by premium wines, and the friendly staff.
They ended their escape on the Wild Coast at the Prana Lodge. They chose to stay in this unique small luxury beach lodge and wellness spa situated in a pristine forest alongside the spectacular Chintsa Bay. They stayed 2 nights, ending their South Africa Eastern Cape Escape in luxurious serenity.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Cape Town! Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board and assisted through immigration, baggage collection, and customs. You’ll then be transferred to your luxurious accommodations at Alphen Boutique Hotel. Located in the up-market residential suburb of Constantia in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, the historic Alphen Boutique Hotel is positioned in 11.5 acres of landscaped gardens with ancient oak trees, with Table Mountain National Park as a backdrop. Spend 3 wonderful nights discovering the magic of the Cape Peninsula.
Alphen Boutique Hotel
Day 2 – 3
Pick up your rental car and spend these days at your leisure. Explore Cape Town’s vibrant neighborhoods, world-class food scene, and historic sites such as Robben Island. Take the cable car up Table Mountain for incredible views over the city and coastline. Perhaps drive out to the neighboring Cape Winelands to discover the incredible food and wine on offer among the sunny, rolling hills and historic Cape Dutch towns.
Alphen Boutique Hotel
Day 4
After breakfast, begin your drive to Hermanus and your luxurious accommodations at Mosaic Private Sanctuary, a hidden gem along the southern Whale Coast. A place where time stands still, Mosaic Farm is lodged between the ocean, lagoon, and glistening Overberg Mountains. Capture the essence of tranquility in your luxurious accommodations hidden among ancient milkwood trees. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from your private deck.
Mosaic Private Sanctuary
Day 5
Enjoy some of the many activities Mosaic has to offer, including:
- 4×4 beach excursion to the secluded Walker Bay Beach; whale watching when in season
- Boat cruise on the Hermanus Lagoon for fabulous bird watching and sunsets
- Kayaking on the lagoon
- Quad bike excursions exploring flora, birds, and lagoon wetlands
- Archaeological cave tour to Klipgat Cave and beach walk
- Guided nature walks exploring the Cape Floral Region
- Boules court at the 1892 Spookhuis
- Indoor activities at the 1892 Spookhuis library, lounge, games, and puzzles
Mosaic Private Sanctuary
Day 6
Today, you’ll make your way to the island of Knysna, where your fabulous accommodations await at Kanonkop House. Enjoy exceptional cuisine and stunning panoramas at this converted power station.
Kanonkop House
Day 7
Spend this day at your leisure. Enjoy activities in the area including pontoon cruises, fishing charters, eco-safaris, and kayaking. Or take up a game of golf on the local golf course.
Kanonkop House
Day 8
After breakfast, you’ll begin your drive to Kichaka Game Lodge. Spot the Big 5 at the nearby waterhole. Enjoy 5-star accommodations and service while resting up for your upcoming safari adventure.
Kichaka Game Lodge
Day 9 – 10
Discover local wildlife on day and night game drives and keep your eyes open for the Big 5! Discover the thrill of seeing elephants, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, and so much more up close in the wild. For a more intimate nature experience, you can also go on walking safaris with an expert guide who will provide fascinating insight into the local flora and fauna. In between game drives, recharge at the lodge and enjoy relaxing spa treatments at the wellness suite.
Kichaka Game Lodge
Day 11
After breakfast, make your way to your next destination, Prana Lodge. Spend 2 nights in your fabulous accommodations. Relax and enjoy the breathtaking views overlooking the long beaches, green hills, and deep valleys of the Wild Coast.
Prana Lodge
Day 12
Spend today in ultimate leisure. Enjoy a game drive, go for a swim, or take a guided walk. Looking for a little less activity? Relax in the lounge or library, or treat yourself to a massage at the wellness suite.
Prana Lodge
Day 13
This morning marks the end of your South Africa Eastern Cape Escape. Make your way to the airport, where you’ll drop off your rental car and catch a flight to Johannesburg to begin your journey home.
About this vacation
Cost Per Person
Does not include the cost of airfare
Based on
You might also be interested in
Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania Vacation: Shoebills, Gorilla Trekking, and Serengeti Safari
This Rwanda and Tanzania vacation allows you to go gorilla trekking, witness the Great Migration, and visit beautiful African beaches.
Classic Kenya Luxury Safari Package
Witness the Great Migration; experience safaris on horseback, camelback, or in a fixed-wing plane; and enjoy authentic interactions with local Maasai guides on this luxury Kenya safari.
Safari and Beach Package: Kenya, Tanzania, and Pemba Island
Discover adventure and luxury in East Africa’s most breathtakingly beautiful regions. Walk with the Maasai in the Chyulu Hills; witness the Great Migration; soak up views of Ngorongoro Crater from your luxury lodge; and enjoy 5 days of beach bliss on beautiful Pemba Island.
Best of South African Luxury: Relaxation and Adventure
Book a perfect trip to South Africa! Stay at the country’s top experiential luxury hotels: the fashionable new Silo Hotel in Cape Town, a grandiose getaway in wine country, a luxurious beach house, and an incredible Big 5 safari lodge.