Port Elizabeth, Safari, Garden Route and Cape Tour
Day 1 – Arrival in Port Elizabeth
This afternoon you will arrive in Port Elizabeth from either Cape Town or Johannesburg. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for the evening. The Beach Hotel is a 4-star hotel right on the beachfront, overlooking the sun-drenched sands of Port Elizabeth's famous Hobie Beach. Many of the luxury en-suite rooms have sea views. There are two in-house restaurants and lunch is served on the verandah. You have the evening at leisure to visit the nearby restaurants and The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Complex.
Accommodation:
The Beach Hotel -
more info
The Beach Hotel
The Beach Hotel is situated right on the beachfront, overlooking the sun-drenched sands of Port Elizabeth’s famous Hobie Beach, and is a truly relaxing getaway hotel. Hobie Beach offers safe bathing and there is also a hotel swimming pool and deck. Many of the luxury en-suite rooms have sea views. There are three superb in-house restaurants: The Bell, the Crest and the Verandah.
The Beach Hotel is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 2 – Port Elizabeth to Lalibela Game Reserve
You have the morning to visit the beach opposite your hotel. At 11h30 you will be collected and transferred to Lalibela Game Reserve, approximately 90km's from Port Elizabeth. You will arrive in time for lunch, and then your game ranger will transfer you to your lodge for two nights on full board basis.
Accommodation:
Lalibela Game Reserve -
more info
Lalibela Game Reserve
Lalibela Game Reserve, a Big Five game reserve near Port Elizabeth, is not only malaria-free, but spans 5 ecosystems, resulting in a breath-taking diversity of flora and fauna. Lalibela is unique in the Eastern Cape in that they have no public roads running through their property. All of the animals, including the predators, are free-roaming throughout the entire reserve. They currently have Three lodges to offer their clients - Lentaba Lodge, Mark's Camp and Tree Tops.
The décor at all the lodges are infused with the essence of Africa, as well as warm and friendly service and unforgettable game viewing. At each lodge, thatched chalets are placed where indigenous gardens merge with the surrounding bush. Each lodge has an outdoor dining area with views over a waterhole. At Lalibela, food is true safari cuisine with an emphasis on local specialities, ranging from centuries-old recipes to exciting contemporary African dishes.
Mark’s Camp is Lalibela’s child-friendly lodge and offers family suites, a children’s programme with special children’s game drives, child minders and children’s meals.
All the lodges at Lalibela are graded 4-star..
Basis:
Full Board (accommodation, meals, local beverages and game activities included)
Days 2 & 3 - will be enjoyed at Lalibela Game Reserve
Accommodation:
Lalibela Game Reserve -
more info
Lalibela Game Reserve
Lalibela Game Reserve, a Big Five game reserve near Port Elizabeth, is not only malaria-free, but spans 5 ecosystems, resulting in a breath-taking diversity of flora and fauna. Lalibela is unique in the Eastern Cape in that they have no public roads running through their property. All of the animals, including the predators, are free-roaming throughout the entire reserve. They currently have Three lodges to offer their clients - Lentaba Lodge, Mark's Camp and Tree Tops.
The décor at all the lodges are infused with the essence of Africa, as well as warm and friendly service and unforgettable game viewing. At each lodge, thatched chalets are placed where indigenous gardens merge with the surrounding bush. Each lodge has an outdoor dining area with views over a waterhole. At Lalibela, food is true safari cuisine with an emphasis on local specialities, ranging from centuries-old recipes to exciting contemporary African dishes.
Mark’s Camp is Lalibela’s child-friendly lodge and offers family suites, a children’s programme with special children’s game drives, child minders and children’s meals.
All the lodges at Lalibela are graded 4-star..
Basis:
Full Board (accommodation, meals, local beverages and game activities included)
Day 4 – Port Elizabeth to Knysna
This morning after brunch at Lalibela, you are brought back to the day centre, and you will be transferred back to Port Elizabeth. Here you will collect your hire car for the duration of your trip. Travel to the Tsitsikamma forest, an indigenous primeval forest with towering ancient yellowwood trees, lush vegetation and deep gorges. Drive down a steep pass to the aptly-named Storms River Mouth, where there are numerous short walking trails into the forest. You can also visit the 800-year old "Big Tree".
Continue past the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay and on to Knysna, where you will check in to Augusta Bay guest house for three evenings on B&B basis. This unique and beautiful guest house is nestled against the Eastern Head of the Knysna lagoon, where the famous sea Captain John Benn II cottage once stood. The suites are luxuriously appointed and tastefully furnished. Guests enjoy the understated luxury of the bar, sipping a cocktail while getting to know other guests.
There is also a separate lounge area for those guests who want peace and quiet. The pool deck is conveniently situated on the same level and the guests can take a break and sip a cocktail, and if the conditions are right, watch dolphins swimming in the lagoon.
Accommodation:
Augusta Bay -
more info
Augusta Bay
This unique and beautiful guest house is nestled against the Eastern Head of the Knysna lagoon, where the famous sea Captain John Benn II cottage once stood. The suites are luxuriously appointed and tastefully furnished. Guests enjoy the understated luxury of the bar, sipping a cocktail while getting to know other guests.
There is also a separate lounge area for those guests who want peace and quiet. The pool deck is conveniently situated on the same level and the guests can take a break and sip a cocktail, and if the conditions are right, watch dolphins swimming in the lagoon.
Augusta Bay is graded 5-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 5 – Knysna and surrounds
As Knysna is only a half hour drive away from Plettenberg Bay, you should drive back there for a visit. This coastal town is also known as South Africa's "Millionaire's Playground" and has beautiful beaches that stretch for miles. Take a sedate 45 minute "eco-stroll" along the Robberg Peninsula, a rocky headland which presents a fine example of how plants and animals adapt to the interacting influences of land and sea. Robberg affords excellent views of any whales or dolphins that may be visiting Plettenberg Bay. Stop at one of Plett's beachfront restaurants for lunch, before returning to Knysna in the late afternoon.
Accommodation:
Augusta Bay -
more info
Augusta Bay
This unique and beautiful guest house is nestled against the Eastern Head of the Knysna lagoon, where the famous sea Captain John Benn II cottage once stood. The suites are luxuriously appointed and tastefully furnished. Guests enjoy the understated luxury of the bar, sipping a cocktail while getting to know other guests.
There is also a separate lounge area for those guests who want peace and quiet. The pool deck is conveniently situated on the same level and the guests can take a break and sip a cocktail, and if the conditions are right, watch dolphins swimming in the lagoon.
Augusta Bay is graded 5-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 6 - Knysna and surrounds
Spend the morning browsing through the arty-crafty shops in Knysna before booking a cruise on the Knysna Lagoon, which will take you out to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A 4x4 trailer takes you up to the top of the Western Head, one of the large sandstone cliffs guarding the narrow mouth to the lagoon. From here you can either enjoy a guided nature walk down through indigenous vegetation or you can ride the trailer again. Enjoy lunch under the milkwood trees on the edge of the lagoon, before returning to the Knysna waterfront.
Accommodation:
Augusta Bay -
more info
Augusta Bay
This unique and beautiful guest house is nestled against the Eastern Head of the Knysna lagoon, where the famous sea Captain John Benn II cottage once stood. The suites are luxuriously appointed and tastefully furnished. Guests enjoy the understated luxury of the bar, sipping a cocktail while getting to know other guests.
There is also a separate lounge area for those guests who want peace and quiet. The pool deck is conveniently situated on the same level and the guests can take a break and sip a cocktail, and if the conditions are right, watch dolphins swimming in the lagoon.
Augusta Bay is graded 5-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 7 – Knysna to Franschhoek Valley
Check out of your accommodation in Knysna and make your way along the Garden Route, travelling via the scenic Lake District and Wilderness, and by-pass George and Mossel Bay. We suggest you stop to stretch your legs and have some lunch when you reach Swellendam, a small town nestled at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. Cross over the breath-taking Sir Lowry's Pass where you will have your first glimpse of the Cape, and then make your way towards the Franschhoek Valley, one of South Africa's three wine producing valleys.
Check in to Franschhoek Country House for three evenings on B&B basis. Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and majestic mountains, the restored manor house and former perfumery is situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Franschhoek. An indulgence to discerning travellers, the guest house consists of individually appointed rooms and suites, with a wide range of facilities complemented by unobtrusive personal service. The famous Monneaux Restaurant is rated as one of South Africa's best and serves an inspired fusion of French and Eastern cuisine to delight any gourmand.
Accommodation:
Franschhoek Country House – villa suite -
more info
Franschhoek Country House
Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and majestic mountains, the restored manor house and former perfumery that comprise Franschhoek Country House are situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Franschhoek. An indulgence to discerning travellers, the guest house consists of individually appointed rooms and suites, with a wide range of facilities complemented by unobtrusive personal service.
The famous Monneaux Restaurant is rated as one of South Africa’s best and serves an inspired fusion of French and Eastern cuisine to delight any gourmand. Unwind by swimming a few laps in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a health or beauty therapy treatment at the in-house spa.
Franschhoek Country House is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 8 – Cape Winelands
Today you are at leisure in the Winelands with its backdrop of majestic mountain ranges and lush valleys. I suggest you visit some wineries and stop for tastings. Here you have the chance to purchase some of the wines you have tasted, and enjoy lunch at one of the many estates in the area. You should also visit the charming town of Stellenbosch, known as the "town of oaks" and which is the second oldest town in South Africa. Visit Paarl as well, with its three imposing granite domes, and return to Franschhoek. Here you should visit the memorial to the French Huguenots, who sought refuge from religious persecution in Europe and settled here in the late seventeenth century.
Accommodation:
Franschhoek Country House – villa suite -
more info
Franschhoek Country House
Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and majestic mountains, the restored manor house and former perfumery that comprise Franschhoek Country House are situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Franschhoek. An indulgence to discerning travellers, the guest house consists of individually appointed rooms and suites, with a wide range of facilities complemented by unobtrusive personal service.
The famous Monneaux Restaurant is rated as one of South Africa’s best and serves an inspired fusion of French and Eastern cuisine to delight any gourmand. Unwind by swimming a few laps in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a health or beauty therapy treatment at the in-house spa.
Franschhoek Country House is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 9 – Cape Winelands
You are at leisure once again in the beautiful Cape Winelands, and you can laze at the swimming pool, read a book in your suite, or explore the Cape Winelands further.
Accommodation:
Franschhoek Country House – villa suite -
more info
Franschhoek Country House
Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and majestic mountains, the restored manor house and former perfumery that comprise Franschhoek Country House are situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Franschhoek. An indulgence to discerning travellers, the guest house consists of individually appointed rooms and suites, with a wide range of facilities complemented by unobtrusive personal service.
The famous Monneaux Restaurant is rated as one of South Africa’s best and serves an inspired fusion of French and Eastern cuisine to delight any gourmand. Unwind by swimming a few laps in the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a health or beauty therapy treatment at the in-house spa.
Franschhoek Country House is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 10 – Cape Winelands to Cape Town
Check out of your accommodation mid morning then take a slow drive to the Mother City, Cape Town, approximately one hour away. Check in to Winchester Mansions for five evenings on B&B basis. This Cape Dutch-style hotel sets itself apart among other hotels in and around Cape Town with its spectacular beachfront location, stylish elegance and personalised service and has for more than 80 years embodied grace, style and contemporary flair.
Accommodation:
Winchester Mansions -
more info
Winchester Mansions
This Cape Dutch-style hotel is unique amongst other hotels in Cape Town for its spectacular beachfront location. The Winchester Mansions hotel is situated right on the Atlantic Seaboard. For more than 80 years the hotel has embodied grace, style and contemporary flair. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mere two minute drive away.
The luxurious rooms and suites have either ocean or mountain views and all have separate walk-in showers in the en-suite bathrooms. Relax around the heated outdoor swimming pool or at the in-house spa. The Harvey’s Restaurant is well-known in Cape Town for its excellent cuisine and musical dinner evenings.
The Winchester Mansions is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 11 – Cape Town leisure
Today you are at leisure to drive to Table Mountain. Here you will ride the cable car up the mountain where you will enjoy magnificent views of the bay, the city centre and Robben Island. You can also visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Accommodation:
Winchester Mansions -
more info
Winchester Mansions
This Cape Dutch-style hotel is unique amongst other hotels in Cape Town for its spectacular beachfront location. The Winchester Mansions hotel is situated right on the Atlantic Seaboard. For more than 80 years the hotel has embodied grace, style and contemporary flair. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mere two minute drive away.
The luxurious rooms and suites have either ocean or mountain views and all have separate walk-in showers in the en-suite bathrooms. Relax around the heated outdoor swimming pool or at the in-house spa. The Harvey’s Restaurant is well-known in Cape Town for its excellent cuisine and musical dinner evenings.
The Winchester Mansions is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 12 – Cape Town leisure: suggest Cape Point
This morning you should take a drive along the coast to Cape Point. Looking at this dramatic promontory jutting into the sea gives us an idea why early sailors nicknamed it the Cape of Storms. A visit to the penguin colony of Boulders Beach is ideal after Cape Point, and then you should end your day at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a stroll through the gardens, which are devoted almost exclusively to the indigenous flora of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Accommodation:
Winchester Mansions -
more info
Winchester Mansions
This Cape Dutch-style hotel is unique amongst other hotels in Cape Town for its spectacular beachfront location. The Winchester Mansions hotel is situated right on the Atlantic Seaboard. For more than 80 years the hotel has embodied grace, style and contemporary flair. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mere two minute drive away.
The luxurious rooms and suites have either ocean or mountain views and all have separate walk-in showers in the en-suite bathrooms. Relax around the heated outdoor swimming pool or at the in-house spa. The Harvey’s Restaurant is well-known in Cape Town for its excellent cuisine and musical dinner evenings.
The Winchester Mansions is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 13 – Cape Town leisure: suggest V&A Waterfront
Today you are at leisure once again to visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront if you weren't able to do so on your first leisure day, as well as visit Table Mountain. You can also take a ferry across Table Bay to Robben Island. An ex-prisoner takes you on an extensive tour of the prison, which includes a visit to Nelson Mandela's cell, the limestone quarry and the old leper colony.
Accommodation:
Winchester Mansions -
more info
Winchester Mansions
This Cape Dutch-style hotel is unique amongst other hotels in Cape Town for its spectacular beachfront location. The Winchester Mansions hotel is situated right on the Atlantic Seaboard. For more than 80 years the hotel has embodied grace, style and contemporary flair. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mere two minute drive away.
The luxurious rooms and suites have either ocean or mountain views and all have separate walk-in showers in the en-suite bathrooms. Relax around the heated outdoor swimming pool or at the in-house spa. The Harvey’s Restaurant is well-known in Cape Town for its excellent cuisine and musical dinner evenings.
The Winchester Mansions is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 14 – Cape Town leisure
You have the day at leisure to relax at your hotel, or take a walk along the promenade opposite your hotel.
Accommodation:
Winchester Mansions -
more info
Winchester Mansions
This Cape Dutch-style hotel is unique amongst other hotels in Cape Town for its spectacular beachfront location. The Winchester Mansions hotel is situated right on the Atlantic Seaboard. For more than 80 years the hotel has embodied grace, style and contemporary flair. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mere two minute drive away.
The luxurious rooms and suites have either ocean or mountain views and all have separate walk-in showers in the en-suite bathrooms. Relax around the heated outdoor swimming pool or at the in-house spa. The Harvey’s Restaurant is well-known in Cape Town for its excellent cuisine and musical dinner evenings.
The Winchester Mansions is graded 4-star.
Basis:
Bed & Breakfast
Day 15 – Cape Town and home
Today you are at leisure to do some last minute shopping for gifts to take home. Make your way to Cape Town International, hand in your hire car and check in for your flights home.
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