4-Day Garden Route Safari in South Africa – Lodge-Based Tour
Explore the Best of the Garden Route on a 4-Day Safari Adventure
Discover the scenic beauty and natural wonders of South Africa on this exciting 4-day Garden Route Safari. From the semi-arid Karoo to the lush coastal landscapes of the Cape, this safari takes you on a journey through charming towns, dramatic mountain passes, and rich wildlife habitats—all while staying in comfortable lodge accommodations.
Tour Highlights:
- Travel along the famous Route 62 to Oudtshoorn
- Wine tasting in the Robertson Valley
- Visit the Cango Caves and an ostrich farm
- Scenic Swartberg Pass drive
- Explore Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park & Nature’s Valley
- Big 4 wildlife safari in Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Cape Town to Oudtshoorn – The Karoo Experience
Begin your Garden Route Safari with a scenic drive from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn. Stop in the Robertson Wine Valley to sample world-class local wines before continuing along the iconic Route 62. In Oudtshoorn, tour a working ostrich farm and learn about the region’s “feather palace” history.
Accommodation: Turnberry Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Dinner included
Activities: Wine tasting, ostrich farm tour
Day 2: Oudtshoorn to Knysna – Mountain Passes and Coastal Beauty
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Cango Caves, then tackle the stunning Swartberg Pass, renowned for its dramatic views. Enjoy a traditional South African lunch at Kobus se Gat before heading to the coastal town of Knysna—the heart of the Garden Route.
Accommodation: Graywood Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Activities: Cango Caves tour, Swartberg Pass scenic drive
Day 3: Knysna, Tsitsikamma & Plettenberg Bay – Forests and Wildlife
Continue your Garden Route Safari through ancient indigenous forests and coastal beauty. Visit Nature’s Valley and explore the dramatic landscapes of Tsitsikamma National Park. Optional excursions include Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Tenikwa Wildlife & Rehabilitation Centre.
Accommodation: Overnight in Knysna
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Activities: Visit to Nature’s Valley, Tsitsikamma National Park, optional wildlife sanctuaries
Day 4: Botlierskop Game Reserve & Return to Cape Town
On the final day of your Garden Route Safari, enjoy a game drive at the malaria-free Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Spot four of Africa’s Big Five along with giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and antelope before heading back to Cape Town, enriched by a remarkable South African experience.
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Safari game drive at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
About Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Set between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, this 4,500-hectare reserve is home to lions, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos, as well as cheetahs, zebras, hippos, and rare black impalas. The reserve offers guided game drives, horseback safaris, and relaxing amenities including a spa and restaurant.
Garden Route Lodge Accommodation
Stay in charming, centrally located hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a taste of local flair. Turnberry Boutique Hotel in Oudtshoorn and Graywood Hotel in Knysna are the preferred accommodations, featuring en-suite rooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Alternative accommodations of similar quality may be arranged if necessary.
Child Policy
This Garden Route Safari is family-friendly. Children of all ages are welcome to join, provided they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
v