3 Day Whale Coast & Botlierskop Safari | Game Reserve Glamping & Hermanus, Whale, Cape Agulhas - Bettys Bay Penguin 3day Safari Select Luxury Group Tour | Hotspots2c
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Tempo
Medium pace
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Whale Coast & Botlierskop Safari

wishlist it

from

$1,960

per person if 2 book (rate varies per group size)
Duration of tour
3 days
Private Transfers

Transfer Type

Mini-coach / Van
Departs when minimum requirements met

Overview

Merging an excurtion to see the great blue beasts of the ocean with a safari to spot wild wanderers of the bushveld, this overnight luxury safari is the perfect escape from the unending demands of everyday life, offering a break-away back to nature amidst the serene fynbos-covered hills of Botlierskop Private Game Reserve and beyond.

This itinerary is designed with the esteemed safari-seeker with limited time in mind and offers a comprehensive look into African wildlife, local cuisine, world-class game sightings, seasonal whale watching and more – this all within ±4,5 hours from Cape Town! 

From a visit with adorable African penguins to trying spectacular land-based whale watching - it's like a coastal dream as you enjoy postcard views of dramatic ocean scenes throughout the day. As a cherry on top, your final destination for the day is the Botlierskop Game Lodge, where you’ll be whisked up into luxury in your own glamping tented accommodation deep in the private wildlife reserve. The opulence continues as day two is spend at leisure at the lodge, a sunrise 4x4 game drive and affords you the choice of an immersive horseback safari or an indulgent bush spa treatment. Your safari dreams embodied in a perfectly planned 3-day 2-night indulgence offering the essence of Africa. 

Who can say no to a chance to see Africa's unofficial "Big 6" -  whales, penguins, lions, buffalo, rhino and elephant?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Start

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
End

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
 

Why You'll Love It

  • Walk amongst fragrant fynbos along the Hermanus cliff paths for some of the world's best seasonal land-based whale watching.

  • Meet the cute resident penguins at Stony Point Nature Reserve.

  • Wind along the wild beauty of the Kogelberg Biosphere with the dramatic coastal scenery of Clarence drive.

  • Stand at the point where two oceans meet at Africa's southernmost tip.

  • Spot some of Africa's Big Five on a 4x4 safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve.

  • Indulge in an out-of-body pampering experience at Botlierskop Bush Spa to detox both your mind and body.

  • Go beyond where the road may take you on a guided horseback safari at Botlierskop.

Itinerary guideline

This itinerary guideline can run in reverse or a different order.
Day 1
Cape Whale Coast > Garden Route Region
±450km

Start with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Cape Town.

Set out, expectant for the day ahead with a guaranteed window seat on the tour portion of your journey and the promise of many awe-inspiring moments to come. You’ll depart Cape Town and head along the spectacular Clarence Drive, winding along the coastal road and marvelling at the dramatic twists where the ocean meets the mountain slopes. The view changes with each turn, revealing more of the silhouettes ahead and exposing the vast expanse of False Bay as the ocean stretches out before you. If the skies are clear, you’ll be able to see glimpses of the Cape Peninsula across the bay, in all her glory. Just as you thought the sights couldn’t get any better, you’ll arrive at the clumsy colony of African penguins at Stony Point, where a hoard of waddling penguins are ready to win your heart over. Traverse the wooden boardwalks as you gaze upon the playful fellas and learn more about the history of this former whaling station and the conservation efforts made to keep the African penguin colony growing. 

More coastal beauty awaits as you continue on to the little hamlet of Hermanus, known around the world for its unparalleled land-based whale watching. You’ll set off on a light hike amongst the indigenous fynbos to get to the perfect vantage points from which to watch frolicking whales leap forth right before your eyes. June to November is whale season in Hermanus, and the bay sees huge numbers of calving southern-right and humpback whales pop-in to wave a fin at adoring on-lookers. While the thrill of spotting a breaching big blue is difficult to top, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the magnificent surrounding scenery and the intricate sights and smells of the unique fynbos lining the paths. When you’re all whale’d-out, head into the heart of the quaint streets of Hermanus for a hearty lunch at a local eatery.

Travel via the most Southern Tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas - the point where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet, before heading towards your glamping base for the night at the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Hidden between Mossel Bay and George along the esteemed Garden Route, this 4200-hectare private reserve with sprawling views of the Outeniqua mountains and the Indian Ocean is the ultimate getaway. Home to four of the Big Five, Botlierskop offers a host of unrivalled wild game viewing options as well as some seriously drool-worthy accommodation options. Your hideaway takes the form of a colonial-style tented suite, taking glamping to a whole new level and offering all the creature comforts of luxury accommodations, while still bringing you back to basics and the beauty of nature. 

Dinner is included at the African inspired lodge where you’ll feast on wood-fired masterpieces with the sounds of the bush as your back-track and the heavenly scents of local cuisine floating through. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stay Package

Accommodation included according to your selected stay package. Subject to availability.

Day 2 - 3
Garden Route Region
±450km
Awaken to the gentle symphony of the bush as dawn paints the mountains in golden hues. Delight in a free day, entirely at your own pace, at the lodge — a haven of serenity where nature envelops you in its tranquil embrace. Indulge in the lodge offerings; safari drives, unwind by the pool, and let the tranquility of the winderness wash over you.

You’ll set out with the sparrows for a sunrise game drive with a trained ranger in a specially modified 4x4 safari vehicle. Remember to dress warmly, it can get quite chilly on the vehicle as the fresh morning air whisps through your hair. Your expert game ranger is meticulously trained to spot even the most camouflaged animals and to follow the tracks of wildlife to ensure you’re at the right place at the right time to see sensational wildlife. You can expect wild encounters with giraffes, honey badgers, Cape mountain zebra, vervet monkeys, hippos, waterbuck and the rare and endangered white rhinoceros. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Africa’s apex predators, the lions. Your 3 hour drive ensures you great odds to tick as many animals off your bucket-list as possible and is sure to leave you feeling more connected with nature, surrounded by the rustic and raw beauty of the African bush.

Your breakfast awaits at the lodge. After your feast, you have the choice of embarking upon a one hour guided optional horseback safari experience or a last spa treatment at Botlierskop’s luxury Bush Spa. The horseback safari is suitable for riders of all skill levels, and your accomplished guide will ensure that you have an unforgettable safari experience. You’ll get the chance to explore hidden parts of the reserve that are not accessible by car, tracking wildlife on an experience like no other. Your trained steed offers an immersive safari viewing opportunity with an unobstructed connection with nature.

For those who would prefer to indulge in a little self-love, a truly African pampering experience awaits with a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Bush spa, in the heart of the wildlife reserve. You’ll feel the essence of nature as the sounds of the bush filter into the treatment room and the scent of the earthy products tickles your senses. Luxurious relaxation at its finest.

After lunch you'll be able to join the afternoon safari drive too before returning for dinner at the lodge's reataurant.

 

Day 3

This concludes your dream safari and you’ll head back towards Cape Town along the lush N2. From your window seat, you’ll be able to watch as the landscapes change from indigenous aloe-lined roads to vast open rolling farmland and craggy rocky highlands. Sir Lowry’s pass offers your final wow-moment as you reach the crest to reveal the serendipitous views over False Bay extending towards Cape Town. A fitting farewell as it feels like time stands still in the valley below, the only sign of movement is the rolling in of ocean swell, mesmerisingly reminding you that life indeed, does go on.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town accommodation.

Included

Private

This trip will run exclusively for you.

Local Guide

Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.

Transport

Transfers to included tour highlights. 

Pick-up & Drop-off

There is no central meeting point for this tour. A transfer service will collect you from your Cape Town accommodation.

Accommodation

2 nights luxury tented accommodation.

Rates are calculated on 2 people per room/tent sharing. If a single or uneven number of people are booked the package rate will add a single supplement fee and the extra person will overnight in a separate room/tent.

Meals

1 Dinner, 1 Lunch included

2 Breakfasts included

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Botlierskop 4x4 Safari
  • Wind Along Coastal Clarence Drive
  • Meet the Betty's Bay Penguins
  • Hermanus Cliff Paths Walk
  • Reach Cape Agulhas - The Tip of Africa

Excluded

Flights

Local and international flights are excluded.

Travel Insurance

You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance. 

Lunch + Drinks

You can purchase meals + drinks on tour.

Optionals
  • Horseback Safari or Botlierskop Spa Treatment 

*Leopards are elusive, nocturnal animals and hardly seen along the Western Cape or Garden Route region during the day.

 

 

 

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Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: 10% deposit to reserve. Full payment 14 days prior.
*Buy Refund Protector policy for full refund

10% deposit or part payment is allowed up to 14 days before the departure date. Full payment is required to confirm a booking if made lass than 14 days before.

Buy the 10% non-refundable Refund Protector on the day of initial deposit to be eligible for a 100% refund up to 2+ day cancellation notice.

Cancellation / Refund Policy:
14+ days notice: 100% refund
13 to 8 days notice: 50%*
7 days or less notice: 0%*
 

Full payment is due at least 14 days before the tour departure.

If there’s no other option than to cancel or change your booking, fees may be involved depending on how far ahead of the departure date you cancel.

  • 14+ days notice before departure = free cancellation 100% refund 
  • 13 to 8 days notice before departure = 50% refund*
  • Up to 7 days notice prior, no shows or early checkout = no refund*  

*Exception:  Buy the 10% non-refundable Refund Protector on the day of initial deposit to be eligible for a 100% refund up to 2+ day cancellation notice.

 

Read the full terms online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#terms  

Travel insurance is not included in tour fees, invest in good travel insurance to cover you if you need to cancel or change a tour date due to any reason.  

Cancellation fees are calculated on the total value of the booking. Booking changes; including date changes within 7 days of the booking date is seen as a cancellation and standard cancellation terms will apply. 

Transfer fees and forex conversion costs charged by the banks will be billed to the customer.

Child Policy: No children under 8 years

Children under 8 years are not allowed.

Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and book a private room.

Children under 18 years are not allowed to stay or book a Dorm sharing room package.

Minors under 18 years are not allowed to consume alcohol and will require adult consent to partake in some optional activities.

FAQ



  Click on question to show answer

How can we help you plan your dream tour package?
Hotspots2c is a tour operator based in the Cape Town region.  We offer tour packages that include guided transport + accommodation + day activities. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or to turn your trip wishlist into the tour package of your dreams.

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country info

 what to expect

 

South Africa

  

11 official Languages Spoken

Afrikaans – English – isiNdebele – Sepedi.– Sesotho – Siswati – Xitsonga – Setswana – Tshivenda – isiXhosa

How to say hello?

Molo – Xhosa

Sawubona - Zulu

Hallo - Afrikaans

Dumela - SeSotho

 

Electricity – Volt & plug

The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins.

Measurements 

Metric System

 

WiFi/Internet Access on tour 

WiFi can be found at most accommodations, restaurants and airports, however, the download speed is often slow and many connections limit your data usage. In short, you’ll be able to stay connected with home, but don't expect to watch HD movies in your spare time.

 

When to go

South Africa is blessed with a mostly mild climate, but different areas will yield different temperatures throughout the year. Summer in South Africa is usually peak season, lasting between November – February, however, Easter time (March) is often still considered peak season too. Temperatures range from 25ºC in coastal areas to high 30ºs in inland areas. Cape Town has ideal weather during this time and Durban sports warm beaches and humid air, Johannesburg experiences hot clear days and often an afternoon thunderstorm.

The shoulder season is April and May, as well as September and October. Surprisingly, the weather in Durban is often at its best during this time, and other areas simmer down from their scorching highs. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller. September and October see eruptions of flowers and blooms all around the country.

Winter is beautiful in most parts of the country. Cape Town experiences winter rain and is often a little cold and miserable, but still crisp and beautiful. Because of the warm Indian Ocean, Durban has spectacular weather in winter, often hovering around 20-25ºC with clear blue skies. Inland areas get quite chilly and the odd snowfall is not uncommon (it only lasts for a day though!). Prices are at an all-time low and it is an ideal time for game viewing, as the animals are more active in the cooler weather. 

The Garden Route enjoys a Mediterranean Oceanic climate, which is intrinsically temperate and mild almost all year round. Summers are warm to hot, and winters are cool. Second only to Hawaii, the Garden Route is acclaimed for having one of the mildest climates in the world.

However, the winter rain season can cause some delays for outdoor activities but the mild sunny days and the appeal of seeing the Southern Right Whale migration makes the Cape Whale Coast & Garden Route an ideal destination during the European summer holidays. You can expect cool mornings and evenings, but usually the climate remain bright and sunny during the day.

 

Best time to go where?

Jun-Jul ( mid winter) = Safari in Kruger region

Jan-Feb ( mid summer) = Cape Town city or beach destinations along the Cape Coast

Year-Round = Moderate weather in the Garden Route region

 

Public Holidays

With the possible exception of Christmas Day and New Year's Day, most tourist services and attractions are open on South African public holidays. In addition most city shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues remain open.

1 Jan   New Year's Day
21 Mar   Human Rights Day
30 Mar   Good Friday
2 Apr   Family Day
27 Apr   Freedom Day
1 May   Workers' Day
16 Jun   Youth Day
9 Aug   National Women's Day
24 Sep   Heritage Day
16 Dec   Day of Reconciliation
17 Dec   Day of Reconciliation Holiday
25 Dec   Christmas Day
26 Dec   Day of Goodwill

 

Visa & Travel docs

Travellers from most Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand), most Western European nations, Japan and the USA receive a free, 90-day visitor's permit on arrival. These travellers do not need a visa to enter South Africa. A valid passport is essential with at least two empty pages. You generally will need to show return or onward travel arrangements. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents details).

Some countries do, however, need a visa. Visas are not issued upon entry, they must be attained beforehand. It is advised that you clarify this before you leave, the Department of Home Affairs office has a comprehensive list of countries that do not require visas. http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries

 

What to pack

We're generally laid back in South Africa, so no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when you head to our shores. Here's some clothing advice when in South Africa:

  • For the summers, bring clothes that are cool and comfortable, along with an umbrella or rain jacket, as this is when most of the country gets rain. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don't forget a swimming costume.
  • The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But we do get some days when temperatures plummet, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg (some nights go below 0ºC), so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. If you are going to the Cape, rain gear will be needed in this season (your average here will be between 10-20ºC).
  • Always bring a hat - the sun can be strong even in the winter months. Make sunglasses, a hat and sunblock a firm part of your skin care kit.
  • Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
  • For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard and kit yourself out like David Livingstone, out to explore Africa for the first time.
  • For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, go the smart-casual route. If you are simply going out to get a bite to eat, a general “no shirt, no shoes - no service” rule applies, so as long as you are fully clad, your attire should not be an issue.
  • When travelling with Hotspots2c we encourage reasonably sized bags for multi-day tours and we are able to accommodate bags that are on average under 20kgs. For one and two day tours, a light backpack is encouraged. 

  

Health & Safety

There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa with exception of a yellow fever vaccination if you have been in a yellow fever area within the last 12 months.

The only major health risk you might face in South Africa is malaria, which is confined to small areas in the north-eastern parts of the country. Small pockets of the northern parts of the Kruger National Park fall under this area but the risk here is considered extremely low and it is not always necessary to take anti-malaria tablets. Remember as a precautionary measure to check with your doctor or a local travel clinic on what is recommended for your country to visit South Africa.

 

For more info about the safety regulations on tour - please see https://hotspots2c.co.za/ideas/safetravels

 

South Africa may have high crime statistics, but if you conduct yourself wisely, most tourists enjoy the country without any incident at all. Here are some tips: ensure that you lock away your passports and travel documents in a safe, which is usually provided by your accommodation or keep valuables at a safe place. Don't flash around valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all time. Majority of South Africa’s crime is opportunistic petty crime, so if you are vigilant about your belongings you should not have any problem.

 

Getting Around 

South Africa has 3 world-class airports that receive international flights every day; Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Most international airlines will have flights into one or all of these airports daily.

There are numerous budget carriers that offer domestic flights between the major cities for very reasonable rates; this is the fastest and safest way to span large distances, especially between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which is a 2-hour flight.

From the airports there are numerous shuttles and taxis that you can pick up upon arrival, there are also many different car hire options at each airport and in all major cities. Uber is another reliable and affordable option.

 

Money 

Our currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. You can easily convert your currency to rand at a bank or Forex Bureau, the airports and larger towns often have many different Forex options. You can also withdraw from an ATM, banks are available throughout South Africa. Be sure to check what international bank charges you will incur for withdrawals before you arrive. Major credit cards are usually accepted in hotels or restaurants, however, there may be a surcharge. It is advisable to have small amounts of cash for curios and tipping. 

Tipping

  • Tour Guides and Drivers – Tipping on tour is neither expected nor compulsory, however, should you wish to tip the team on the road you are welcome to decide on a value that match the level of service received. A recommendation usually range from R50 to R200 per person per day.
  • Restaurants and Bars - Tipping in restaurants is the norm and is customarily kept at 10% of the total shown on the bill. Many restaurants will add a 10% service charge to a bill if the number of guests exceeds six or ten.
  • Hotels - At hotels you may also leave money to housekeeping at the end of your stay. Porter fees may already be included in your quote, and will be listed under your tour package inclusions.
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