7 Day Garden Route & Addo National Park Durban to Cape Town

Set out on a captivating 7-day road trip from Durban to Cape Town, exploring the stunning Garden Route and Addo National Park. This adventure promises unforgettable memories and culture in South Africa’s diverse heritage. From wildlife encounters with Africa’s Big 5 to breathtaking landscapes, the journey offers a unique blend of natural wonders and historical significance. With flexible booking options and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the rich tapestry of this remarkable region, setting the stage for an extraordinary exploration.

Key Points

• A 7-day road trip from Durban to Cape Town covering the scenic Garden Route and Addo National Park, with prices starting at $1,751.19 per person.
• Highlights include the Nelson Mandela Museum, Addo’s Big 5, Robberg Nature Reserve, and whale watching in Hermanus.
• The itinerary features culture, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities like hiking and wine tasting.
• Flexible booking options, including reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour provides a comprehensive experience of South Africa’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites along the Garden Route.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 7-day road trip from Durban to Cape Town along the Garden Route and through Addo National Park offers an immersive experience showcasing South Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Priced from $1,751.19 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Led by a live English-speaking guide, the package includes pickup, is wheelchair accessible, and covers highlights like the Nelson Mandela Museum, Addo’s Big 5, Robberg Nature Reserve, and whale watching in Hermanus.

With flexible booking options, this comprehensive road trip provides an excellent way to explore the scenic Garden Route and South Africa’s iconic wildlife.

Itinerary Highlights

As travelers embark on this 7-day road trip, they’ll first journey from Durban to Mthatha, where they’ll have the opportunity to visit local villages.

The next day, they’ll head to East London, exploring the Nelson Mandela Museum and Qunu.

On day 3, they’ll venture to Addo National Park for wildlife viewing, including sightings of Africa’s Big 5.

The following day, they’ll stop at Bloukrans Bridge and Robberg Nature Reserve before reaching Plettenberg Bay.

In Knysna, they can visit animal parks, the Knysna Heads, and optionally take a sunset boat cruise.

The final day takes them to Hermanus for whale watching and wine tasting at Benguela Cove before arriving in Cape Town.

Experiences Included

The tour includes several immersive experiences that allow travelers to fully engage with the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

Guests can enjoy a wine tasting at the renowned Benguela Cove Wine Estate, where they can sample the area’s finest vintages.

They’ll also have the opportunity to hike through the stunning Robberg Nature Reserve, taking in the breathtaking coastal landscapes.

The highlight of the trip is the game drive at Addo Elephant National Park, where guests can spot the famed Big 5 – elephants, lions, buffaloes, rhinos, and cheetahs – in their natural habitat.

An optional sunset cruise in Knysna provides a serene way to cap off the day’s adventures.

Destinations Covered

The tour covers a diverse range of destinations along the renowned Garden Route in South Africa. It begins in Mthatha, where visitors can explore local villages.

The next stop is East London, home to the Nelson Mandela Museum and Qunu.

The tour then ventures to Addo National Park for wildlife viewing, including the Big 5.

Plettenberg Bay offers a chance to visit Bloukrans Bridge and Robberg Nature Reserve.

Knysna is the base for discovering animal parks and the famous Knysna Heads.

The final destination is Hermanus, known for whale watching, and Cape Town, where guests can visit the African Penguins in Betty’s Bay.

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Booking Information

Typically, travelers can check the availability of starting times for this tour. Once a suitable date is selected, participants can proceed with the reservation.

The tour offers flexible booking options, making it convenient for travelers. Customers have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in their payment process.

Plus, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers the peace of mind to adjust their plans if needed.

Day 1: Durban to Mthatha

Your 7-day road trip kicks off with a scenic drive from Durban to Mthatha.

Along the way, you’ll visit local villages, enjoying the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Upon arrival in Mthatha, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings.

This day sets the tone for the rest of your journey, allowing you to experience the diversity of South Africa’s landscapes and people.

As the sun sets, you’ll settle into your accommodation, well-rested and eager for the adventures that lie ahead on the Garden Route and in Addo National Park.

Day 2: Mthatha to East London

After a restful night in Mthatha, the journey continues eastward to the coastal city of East London. The first stop is the Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu, where visitors can learn about the life and legacy of the iconic South African leader. The group then explores the rural village where Mandela was born and raised.

Destination	Highlight	Duration
Nelson Mandela Museum	Learn about Mandela’s life	1-2 hours
Qunu	Visit Mandela’s birthplace	1 hour
East London	Overnight stay	–

After an insightful day, the group settles in for the night in East London, preparing for the next adventure exploring Addo Elephant National Park.

Day 7: Knysna to Hermanus to Cape Town

With the journey nearing its end, the travelers embark on the final day of their captivating road trip.

They depart Knysna for Hermanus, where they’ll enjoy a whale-watching excursion. After the marine wildlife sighting, the group visits Benguela Cove Wine Estate for a tasting session.

Continuing on, they make a stop at Betty’s Bay to observe the African penguins.

The tour then reaches its final destination – the vibrant city of Cape Town. Upon arrival, the travelers can explore the iconic landmarks, museums, and diverse neighborhoods that make this city a renowned global destination.

As the road trip comes to a close, the travelers reflect on the incredible experiences and memories they’ve made along the Garden Route.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Get to the Starting Point in Durban?

The tour includes pickup from Durban, so travelers can conveniently get to the starting point. They’ll be transported to the first destination, Mthatha, by the tour provider for the start of the 7-day road trip.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, travelers can customize the 7-day road trip itinerary to suit their preferences. The tour provider offers flexible booking options, allowing guests to adjust the schedule based on their interests and needs.

What Should I Pack for the Wildlife Viewing Activities?

When viewing wildlife, pack binoculars, camera, comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent. Bring snacks and water to stay energized during the game drives and nature walks.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Price?

The price includes most activities, but there may be additional costs for optional experiences like the sunset boat cruise in Knysna. Travelers should budget extra for any optional add-ons they wish to enjoy during the trip.

Can I Extend My Stay at Any of the Destinations?

Yes, you can extend your stay at any of the destinations. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing you to customize your trip according to your preferences and extend your time at the locations that interest you most.

The Sum Up

This 7-day road trip from Durban to Cape Town immerses travelers in South Africa’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. The journey includes visits to the Nelson Mandela Museum, wildlife encounters in Addo National Park, and breathtaking scenery along the Garden Route. With flexible booking options and knowledgeable guides, this adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of the country’s rich history and natural wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here: