6-Day Private Garden Route Tour in South Africa
Embark on an unforgettable Private Garden Route Tour along South Africa’s southern coast. Discover the scenic Cape Whale Coast, the lush landscapes of the Garden Route, and the semi-arid beauty of the Klein Karoo along Route 62. This fully guided private tour offers the perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture, starting and ending in Cape Town with daily departures available.
Quick Itinerary Overview
Explore the top highlights of the Garden Route on this Private Garden Route Tour, including Wilderness, Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma, Knysna, and Oudtshoorn. Enjoy flexible scheduling, personalized experiences, and curated accommodation tailored to your travel style.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cape Town to Hermanus
Your Private Garden Route Tour begins in Cape Town, with pick-up from your accommodation. Journey along the scenic coastal route to Hermanus, stopping at Betty’s Bay to visit a colony of endangered African penguins. Spend the afternoon exploring Hermanus, especially vibrant during whale season (July to November).
- Included Activities: Visit to African penguin colony at Betty’s Bay
- Optional: Whale-watching boat trip (in season)
Day 2: Hermanus to Wilderness & Plettenberg Bay
Travel through the rolling hills of the Overberg region before entering the world-renowned Garden Route. Take in spectacular views, pristine beaches, and indigenous forests. Optional canoeing and hiking in Wilderness National Park offer an adventurous way to connect with nature. End the day in the seaside town of Plettenberg Bay.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Optional: Canoeing and hiking in Wilderness National Park
Day 3: Explore Plettenberg Bay
Enjoy a flexible day in Plettenberg Bay, a coastal gem perfect for leisure or adventure. Choose from beach time, wine tasting, hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve, or visiting local cultural sites like Mungo Mill. Your private guide can help customize your experience.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Optional: Robberg hiking trail, winery visits, Mungo Mill tour
Day 4: Tsitsikamma National Park & Knysna
Continue your Private Garden Route Tour to Tsitsikamma, where coastal cliffs meet ancient forests. Cross the famous suspension bridge, swim in the Indian Ocean, or hike through the lush forest. In the afternoon, travel to Knysna, one of the most iconic destinations on the Garden Route.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Included Activities: Entry to Tsitsikamma National Park
- Optional: Bloukrans Bungee Jump, kayak & lilo in Storms River
Day 5: Discover Knysna
Spend the day in Knysna, surrounded by indigenous forest and coastal beauty. Relax or enjoy optional excursions like the Featherbed Eco Experience or a sunset catamaran cruise. The Knysna Lagoon also offers opportunities for birdwatching and boat trips.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Optional: Whale watching (seasonal), Featherbed tour, Lagoon cruise
Day 6: Route 62 to Oudtshoorn & Return to Cape Town
The final day takes you over the majestic Outeniqua Mountains into Oudtshoorn, the “Ostrich Capital of the World,” nestled in the Klein Karoo. Travel the scenic Route 62 back to Cape Town, with optional stops for wine tasting in the Breede River Valley.
- Included Meals: Breakfast
- Included Activities: Route 62 scenic drive
- Optional: Wine cellar tour & lunch
Add a Big 5 Safari Experience
Enhance your Private Garden Route Tour with a 2-night Big 5 safari in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, located conveniently en route to Cape Town. Spot elephants, lions, rhinos, and more on game drives in a malaria-free setting. Contact our travel experts to include this unforgettable wildlife extension.
Customizable Private Garden Route Tour
This itinerary is fully customizable to suit your budget, schedule, and travel preferences. Whether you prefer budget-friendly accommodation or luxury stays, our safari specialists will help tailor the Private Garden Route Tour to your exact needs.
Pick-up & Drop-off Information
The tour departs from Cape Town with pick-ups available from Cape Town International Airport, central Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and other major areas. Departure typically occurs between 6:00 and 8:00 AM, depending on your location.
Accommodation Options
Choose from 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star guesthouses and hotels throughout your Private Garden Route Tour. Each property is carefully selected for its comfort, location, and character. Options range from budget to luxury, with pricing details available on request.
Meals Included
Daily breakfasts are included, offering a mix of healthy and hearty options. Special dietary needs such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-free meals can be accommodated. Dinners and drinks are not included but can be arranged.
Optional Excursions
- Knysna Lagoon Cruise
- Whale Watching Boat Trip (seasonal)
- Canoeing & Hiking in Wilderness
- Sunset Catamaran Cruise
- Bloukrans Bungee Jump
Child Policy
Children are welcome on this Private Garden Route Tour. Please enquire for child-specific pricing and recommendations.
Important Notes
While every effort is made to follow the planned itinerary, accommodations and routing may occasionally be adjusted due to availability or unforeseen circumstances. We ensure that alternative arrangements offer comparable value and experience.
Ready to explore South Africa’s iconic coastal route? Contact our travel team today to book or customize your Private Garden Route Tour.