13 Days Country of Contrasts Road Trip: Cape Town, Garden Route, Wild Coast, Kruger National Park
Day 1
Cape Town
 
Day one in Cape Town begins with a visit to Table Mountain, where you can hike or take the cable car for breathtaking views of the city and ocean. Next, explore the lively V&A Waterfront, full of shops, restaurants, and the Two Oceans Aquarium. End the day with a poignant ferry ride to Robben Island, discovering the history and significance of this site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years.
Table Mountain
V&A Waterfront
Robben Island
Day 2
Cape Town
 
The second day includes a visit to the stunning Cape of Good Hope, where dramatic cliffs and natural beauty abound. Afterward, you’ll head to Boulders Beach to see a colony of African penguins in their natural habitat. Finally, spend time at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a spectacular representation of South Africa’s diverse flora, complete with serene walks and beautiful landscapes.
Cape of Good Hope
Boulders Beach
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Day 3
Plettenberg Bay
 
(Garden Route)
Day three brings you to the Garden Route where you’ll start at Tsitsikamma National Park, renowned for its natural beauty and hiking trails. Then, visit Knysna Heads for stunning views of the lagoon and ocean before wrapping up your day at the Cango Caves, a series of incredible limestone caverns showcasing nature’s geological wonders.
Tsitsikamma National Park
Knysna Heads
Cango Caves
Day 4
Plettenberg Bay
 
(Garden Route)
Day four is spent in Plettenberg Bay, starting with a relaxing day at the beach where you can soak in the sun or try water sports. Then, visit Monkeyland for a fascinating experience observing free-roaming primates in a sanctuary. Finally, end your day at the Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, learning about and observing rescued big cats up close in a dedicated conservation environment.
Plettenberg Bay
Monkeyland at Garden Route
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 5
Coffee Bay
 
(Wild Coast)
Day five is filled with nature as you explore the Wild Coast, starting with the iconic Hole in the Wall rock formation. Then you’ll spend time at the vibrant village of Coffee Bay, perfect for surfing or simply enjoying the beach. Finally, visit the tranquil Mdumbi Beach, where you can relax, ride horses along the coast, or just appreciate the remote beauty of this pristine coastline.
Hole in the Wall
Coffee Bay
Mdumbi Beach
Day 6
Coffee Bay
 
(Wild Coast)
The sixth day introduces you to the Wild Coast's Silaka Nature Reserve, perfect for hiking and birdwatching in a peaceful environment. Then it’s off to Morgan Bay, where you can enjoy a charming beach and relax in this quiet seaside town. Lastly, gain cultural insights at a Xhosa Cultural Village, experiencing traditional dances and local crafts that reflect the vibrant heritage of the Xhosa people.
Silaka Nature Reserve
Morgan Bay
Xhosa Cultural Village
Day 7
Durban
 
Your seventh day unfolds in Durban with a trip to uShaka Marine World, a fantastic marine park featuring aquariums and entertainment. Then, enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Golden Mile Beachfront, perfect for beach activities and ocean views. Conclude the day at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where you can take a SkyCar for stunning city views or try the exhilarating Big Swing for an unforgettable experience.
uShaka Marine World
Golden Mile Beachfront
Moses Mabhida Stadium
Day 8
Durban
 
Day eight takes you to the stunning Valley of a Thousand Hills, where you can experience Zulu culture alongside breathtaking scenery. Visit the Durban Botanic Gardens next, a peaceful retreat featuring a wide variety of plant species. Finally, unwind in Umhlanga Rocks, enjoying its upscale atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant coastal charm.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
Durban Botanic Gardens
Umhlanga Rocks
Day 9
Skukuza
 
(Kruger National Park)
On day nine, your safari adventure in Kruger National Park begins with a game drive, searching for the Big Five and learning about the diverse ecosystem from expert guides. Then, marvel at the beauty of Blyde River Canyon with its dramatic cliffs and endless vistas. Finally, visit God's Window for breathtaking views that extend far into the landscape, making it a memorable end to your day of exploration.
Safari Game Drive
Blyde River Canyon
God's Window
Day 10
Skukuza
 
(Kruger National Park)
Day ten explores more of Kruger National Park, starting with the Interpretive Centre, where you can learn about the park’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. Then, visit Lisbon Falls, a beautiful waterfall just outside the park offering scenic views. Finally, enjoy a round of golf at Skukuza Golf Course, playing amidst wildlife in a truly unique setting.
Kruger National Park Interpretive Centre
Lisbon Falls
Skukuza Golf Course
Day 11
Johannesburg
 
Day eleven begins with a visit to the Apartheid Museum, providing a moving experience about South Africa's history. Then, explore Soweto Township, home to key historical sites and a vibrant community. Finally, visit Constitution Hill, a former prison turned museum, where you’ll learn about the fight for human rights and the journey towards a democratic society.
Apartheid Museum
Soweto Township
Constitution Hill
Day 12
Pretoria
 
(Johannesburg)
On day twelve, you’ll head to Pretoria, starting at the Union Buildings, which symbolize democracy and offer stunning views of the city. Then, visit the Voortrekker Monument, honoring the Afrikaners’ journey with an impressive design and educational exhibits. Finally, the Pretoria National Botanical Garden provides a peaceful retreat, showcasing diverse indigenous plants in a gorgeous setting for relaxation and exploration.
Union Buildings
Voortrekker Monument
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
Day 13
Johannesburg
 
On your final day, visit Lion Park for close encounters with lions and other wildlife while learning about conservation efforts. Then, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Montecasino, filled with entertainment options. Finally, relax at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, reconnecting with nature before concluding your fabulous journey through South Africa.
Lion Park
Montecasino
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden