Description
The Tour
This fantastic self-drive tour, meandering through South Africa's famed garden route, offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife in abundance. Perfect for the entire family, learn about cheetahs at the Spier and see four of the 'Big Five' on this tour. Knysna is also home to the Knysna Elephant Centre for yet another chance to get close to the wildlife! Your tour ends in Cape Town, a vibrant, bustling city, packed with even more family-friendly attractions.
Day 1: London - Cape Town
Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Cape Town international airport with Virgin Atlantic or South African Airways.
Days 2-3: Winelands
On arrival, pick up your hire car for the short drive to your hotel and base for the next 3 nights, with perhaps a quick visit to Stellenbosch in the heart of the world-renowned Cape winelands and host to charming 'old world' shops. Fantastic for families, the hotel provides comfortable, spacious accommodation in a village-style setting and is only 15 min from Gordon's Bay. It is close to all attractions, although boasts many attractions of its own, including several swimming pools, superb sports facilities, a golf course, tennis courts and even a spa! Take time out to visit the Cheetah Outreach Centre at the Spier - a fantastic opportunity for the family to learn about the habits and lifestyle of these beautiful, endangered creatures. Overnight: The Spier Hotel.
Day 4: Winelands
Enjoy an early morning breakfast before departing for a day's safari to the Aquila Private Game Reserve - must-see when visiting Cape Town or the surrounds and a mere 2-hour drive away. The reserve stands in an area of 4,500 hectares of southern Karoo highlands with breathtaking majestic mountains, rivers, valleys and kloofs. It offers horseback safaris, quad-bike safaris, Khoi/San rock art tours and proudly boasts big game viewing. It's also home to 172 species of bird and to several breeding pairs of the rare and endangered black eagle, after which the reserve has been named. Hopefully, after a not too exhausting day, return to your hotel for your last night in the Winelands. Overnight: The Spier Hotel.
Days 5-7: Garden Route
Your journey takes you into the heart of the Garden Route - Knysna, well known for its rich green forests and endless lakes. Your base is the Knysna Country Hollow Hotel, a secluded country estate near Knysna's famous lagoon, perfect for fishing, sailing, kayaking and swimming. The kids will also enjoy a trip to Featherbed Nature Reserve, home to South Africa's national bird - the blue crane, as well as a steam-train ride along the coast. Another must is the Knysna Elephant Park for a rare and exciting opportunity to get close to these gentle giants. Overnight: Knysna Country Hollow. (B)
Days 8-10: Cape Town
After a fantastic trip along the Garden Route, admiring its abundant wildlife and fauna, with perhaps a stop at Hermanus, this is a chance to see the marine 'Big Five'. Return to Cape Town for a 2-night stay in a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of this historical city. The Victorian and Albert Waterfront (popularly known as V&A) has something for everyone; also take a cable-car ride to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking views. For an insight into Cape Town's past, head to the Robben Island Museum or stock up on bargain goods at the many well-stocked malls. Overnight: Cape Town Hollow. (B)
Day 10: Cape Town - London
Drop your hire car off at Cape Town international airport for the journey back home to London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic or South African Airways.
Special Offer
Early Booking Offer: Book before 31/12/07 for travel between 10/01/08 - 20/12/08 and receive a discount of £250 per family.
Tour Notes
- Tour departs daily.
- Car included.
- Park entrance fees not included.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.