Day 1 – Knysna
Distance travelled today: 360 kms
Departing Port Elizabeth you head westwards along the Garden Route, which follows the Indian Ocean coastline and is bordered inland by soaring mountain ranges and indigenous forests. Visit the spectacular Tsitsikamma National Park and Storms River Mouth (weather permitting). You’ll arrive at your hotel in Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa, nestling on the banks of a beautiful lagoon in the heart of the Garden Route. The afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore the town. (D)
Accommodation: 2 nights Rex Hotel.
Located in the centre of the quaint Garden Route town of Knysna, the Rex Hotel is a stylishly modern property offering upmarket apartments. A fusion of contemporary and classic décor, the 30 rooms are well-appointed for guest comfort and include a range of configurations from studios to two-bedroom apartments. With the exception of the 5 standard rooms, all have fully-equipped kitchenettes and balconies. Central areas are built around a courtyard and feature a lounge, trendy restaurant and bar. Surrounded by town life and conveniently situated, the Rex Hotel offers easy access to Knysna’s scenic attractions and the bohemian boutiques and cafés which give this town a certain charming appeal.
Day 2 – Knysna
Distance travelled today: 15 kms
After a leisurely breakfast you will enjoy a lagoon cruise to the Featherbed Nature Reserve (weather permitting), where you can take a trailer ride to the top of the Western Head to enjoy panoramic views of the town and lagoon, returning for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore this charming town set around a natural harbour lagoon. (BL)
Day 3 – Oudtshoorn
Distance travelled today: 210 kms
Travel through the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the “ostrich capital” and the centre of the world’s Ostrich farming industry. You will visit an Ostrich Farm for a guided tour and light lunch, before taking a tour of the spectacular limestone caverns of the Cango Caves, one of the world’s great natural wonders, sculpted by nature through the ages. You will arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon, in time to check in and relax before dinner (for own account). (BL)
Accommodation: 1 night Hlangana Lodge.
Welcome to one of the finest small luxury establishments in South Africa, and the best choice for your stay in Oudtshoorn. Hlangana Lodge is located 1km from the Oudtshoorn town centre and within walking distance from well-known restaurants such as Jemima’s, Bello Cibo and La Dolce Vita.
Day 4 - End of your Garden Route Uncovered Tour
Distance travelled today: 468 kms
There is an option (for own account and subject to availability) to enjoy an early morning Meerkat Safari. Witness these incredible wild habituated creatures emerging out of their burrows, in time to soak up the sun before they head about their daily activities (weather permitting). After this thrilling experience, head back for a delicious breakfast. After breakfast, the journey continues through the ‘Little Karoo’ to Barrydale, where you will have the opportunity to visit a local farm school, interact with the children and teachers, spending time with them in the classroom learning more about the local farming community, before travelling to Montagu, a picturesque and historic spa town. (The school visit is subject to the school being open). Continue straight through to Cape Town, spectacularly set at the foot of Table Mountain. (B)