5 Day Garden Route + Addo Adventure - Join Small Group - 5day Best of South Africa Tour | Hotspots2c
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Transport
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Tempo
Medium pace
Packed pace

Garden Route + Addo

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$504

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Duration of tour
5 days
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Transfer Type

Mini-van
Departs when minimum requirements met

Overview

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**Please note: The itinerary order and some accommodation options for this tour has been changed for new bookings. The 4x4 Game Drive in Addo is no longer possible for most departures from 1 Dec 2023, and another 4x4 safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve will replace this optional. The tour still offers a free Addo Park game drive in our tour vehicle. Departures after 7 January 2024 will not include kayaking as per the 2023 season itinerary. We'll specifically inform all customers whose bookings are impacted by these changes. 

SUMMARY

A firm favourite among visitors and locals alike, South Africa’s famed Garden Route offers a generous dose of the great outdoors, where nature and adventure combine in one perfect playground. Country roads perfectly frame both the rolling farmlands and endless flora and fauna. The landscape dramatically changes; from wine farms to untamed wilderness, Tsitsikamma forest to mountain ranges – as the kilometres pass.

There’s optional bungy jumping and even waterfall ziplining for the thrill-seekers and beachtime or a quick swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean for the nature-lovers. Add in hiking in Tsitsikamma National Park, the sounds of silence in Cango limestone caves and prime game viewing at Addo Elephant National Park, home to the densest population of wild elephants on the planet. Plus, you’ll come nose-to-beak with the planet’s largest birds in the feather capital of the world - Oudtshoorn, and observe the biggest land mammals on the planet in the Klein Karoo. Learn to surf or sandboard while visting some of the world's top-rated beaches and cruise down the picturesque Route 62.

One epic road trip awaits!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Start

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
End

Cape Town / Stellenbosch
 

Itinerary guideline

This itinerary guideline may also need to run in reverse or a different order based on season or availability of accommodation or activities.
Day 1
Karoo Region > Oudtshoorn
±450km

Early morning pick up from your accommodation in Cape Town CBD or Stellenbosch (usually is between about 6 to 8am, subject to traffic and the selected pickup route). You can receive your pickup time a day before.

Start this epic road trip journeying along the ever-changing scenery on your first day’s drive from Cape Town to the Southern Cape.  Wind your way through mountain passes where lazy baboons line the roadside;  rolling farmlands and fertile microclimates with rows and rows of grapevines. 

Get ready for the famous Route 62, modeled after America’s Route 66, but with a distinctly local flavour and the longest wine route in the world. The Route 62 is more than just a leisurely drive – showcasing local culture, food, larger-than-life local characters and world-class wines. Wine lovers will be in their element with a Wine Tasting pit stop to sample some of the local produce about midway to your overnight stop. Few things are more beautiful to behold than the innate majestic beauty of this Valley of Wine with a glass of local wine (or grape juice for non-drinkers or children under 18 years of age) in hand.

Complete the day with a journey through the landscape of rugged plains and towering cliffs to reach Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world, situated in the semi-desert Klein Karoo. Those seeking a close encounter with Mother Nature can join qualified elephant guides on an optional Elephant Observation in Nature activity as you follow three rescued elephants (named Jabari, Malaika and Bulelo) as they roam freely in their natural habitat next to a nearby waterhole. These gentle giants were orphaned when their parents were poached in the north of South Africa. In efforts to keep the family together, they were transferred to Buffelsdrift, bringing their boisterous personalities with them. You are free to take pictures and ask the guides as many questions as you like about elephant conservation or other interesting ellie information. 

You’ll spend the evening here at leisure in this countryside town of Oudtshoorn. Your guide can help you book a restaurant or join the backpacker's group to taste local delights, such as ostrich "sosaties" (kebabs) and "pot brood" (bread cooked on open flames) at this optional 'braai' barbecue experience at extra cost. Enjoy a peaceful evening relaxing at your accommodation around a crackling fire or under the vast twinkling starry night sky.

 
 
± 6hr
Stay Package

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

utahndos
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or
Uthando
Hostel
Backpacker Stay
barron cover
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or
88 Baron Van Reede
Guesthome
3 star Comfort Stay
hlangana lodge swimming pool
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or
Hlangana
Lodge
4 star Luxe Stay
buffelsdrift room main
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Buffelsdrift Glamping
Tent
4 star Luxe Stay
Stay Tour Package
Upgrade fee of R2000 pps
Day 2
Oudtshoorn > Greater Addo Region
+-400km

Wake up in Oudsthoorn, where the ostrich reigns supreme. If you haven’t picked it up from the bird-filled paddocks and farms lining the highway or the colourful feather stalls on the way to town centre, you will from the many show farm signs and the palatial sandstone homesteads that hark back to an era when ostrich feathers were worth more than gold. The Cango Ostrich Show Farm gives you a glimpse into the farming industry, allowing you to observe the world’s biggest bird beak-to-beak and test the toughness of the shells. 

Head to the mountains to delve deep underground to the magical Cango Caves’ limestone chambers, alive with drip formation stalactites and stalagmites and remnants of Khoikhoi paintings. Opt for the easy-going Heritage Tour to test the cave’s acoustics and gain insights your guide provides into the formation and dripstone evolution. By contrast, the Adventure Tour (if available) allows would-be contortionists to squeeze, twist and wiggle their way through limestone chimneys on a rather more adventurous underground route.  

As you journey to the world-renowned Greater Addo Region the dusty plains of the Klein Karoo morphs into a greener horizon. This small citrus farming community lies in the Sundays River Valley surrounded by the Zuurberg Mountains that offer some spectacular hiking and game viewing in a malaria free area. Tonight you'll stay overnight close to Addo National Park, making it easy to be ready to go on safari first thing in the morning.

*Important notice for end of year peak season tours: For travel from 10 Dec to 10 Jan, this tour will overnight 2 nights at Jeffreys bay and not in Addo town.

 
 
 
 
 
± 5hr
Stay Package

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

gerald s gift guest house  covers
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or
Gerald's Gift
Guesthome
3 star Comfort Stay
Stay Tour Package
or standard Addo Wildlife Lodge room
addoaccom
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or
Stay Tour Package
deluxe luxury room
Day 3
Greater Addo Region > Jeffreys Bay
± 250km

Rise early to visit Addo Elephant National Park to see wildlife as the bush awakes.  Your guide will use local knowledge to pinpoint the whereabouts of the park’s big game animals while deftly navigating the maze of dusty dirt roads in search of some of the Big Five animals. 

From safari to surf; after the morning of safari adventures the journey continues towards the coast. The large white caps (or seahorses as the locals call the surf break) of Jeffreys Bay herald your arrival into South Africa’s quintessential ‘Surf City’. Hang ten with the locals and slip into a relaxed frame of mind at the beach while enjoying the warmer Indian ocean waters. Shopaholics can visit the JBay’s surf wear shoppers village or if you’ve always fancied surfing at this world famous surf spot ; then put your goofy foot forward and go for it. Opt to fill your afternoon with a choice of the following optionals: book Surfing equipment (or surf lessons if time permits) or Beach Horseback Riding.

End the day with dinner at the backpackers accommodation or a night out to a local seafood delicacy restaurant, listening to the sounds of the waves lap against the shore.

*The travel distance of this day may vary subject to the km/duration of the safari.

± 3hr
Stay Package

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

seawhisper home
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or
Sea Whisper
Guesthome
3 star Comfort Stay
onbeach310401118_496487385828034_8013931707471950652_n
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On The Beach
Guesthome
4 star Luxe Stay
Day 4
Garden Route Region > Knysna > Sedgefield
±250km

Lush green landscapes and adventure go hand in hand on this adrenaline-packed day... from ziplining over gushing river gorges, breathtakingly-beautiful ocean and river views atop Bloukrans Bridge and exploring dense forests along suspension bridges and footpaths in Tsitsikamma National Park - today is all about the "garden" of the Garden Route!

Calling all adrenalin junkies: get ready for the highest Bungy Bridge Jump in the world. The bungy bridge itself is fairly unassuming as you drive over it, but it’s pretty apparent from the squeals and screams that this isn’t your average photo stop. Here, seemingly normal people hurtle face first down the 216m drop only to spring back up on their elastic cord like a yo-yo. So if you're feeling daring, why not face your fears and have a go? 

For a more relaxed thrill, Waterfall Ziplining through dramatic scenery and over waterfalls in the nearby Tsitsikamma forest. You’ll complete about five individual slides (the longest is 211 meters in length), zip over three waterfalls and slide down one impressive gorge. 

This region is a playground for the outdoors, and for those who'd prefer to keep their feet on solid ground a visit to the lush forests of the Tsitsikamma National Park is sure to provide your essential forest fix. From birding to game spotting and waterfall chasing; your Tsitsikamma to-do list will be absolutely jam-packed.  A short but steep walk to Tsitsikamma’s suspension bridge is worth it for the views alone, but the abundant reptile and bird wildlife, secret waterfall and sandy beach is waiting to amaze and delight you along the forest footpaths. 

As you head along the coastal belt, the paradise-like coastal towns show off and display why this region is a favourite with holiday goers and locals alike. Stop for the obligatory photo op at Knysna Heads, a pair of rocky sandstone cliffs on the edge of the lagoon, to drink in the exquisitely scenic lagoon views surrounded by ancient forests.

Spend the evening soaking in the slow town way of life in Sedgefield, Wilderness. Take a walk along the uninterrupted sandy beach shores at sunset, this place oozes serenity, the ideal way to reset your inner calm. After your recharged stroll check out the rustic beach restaurant if you are in Sedgefield or venture into town for a more intimate dinner if you overnight in the Wilderness area. 

 
 
± 4hr
Stay Package

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

pilipilicabanas
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or
Pili Pili
Hostel
Backpacker Stay
fairy covers
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or
Fairy Knowe
Hotel
3 star Comfort Stay
dolphindunevcover
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or
Dolphin Dunes
Guesthome
4 star Luxe Stay
Day 5
Garden Route Region
±500km

Another exciting morning awaits with a trip passing coastal towns along a partly ocean-lined route hugged by forested national parks.

Venture along the N2 national road as you return to the Cape. Choose to do another optional Botlierskop 4x4 Safari drive at this nearby private game reserve.

After ticking off the region's must-do bucket list items along the the Garden Route; you'll sadly now have to end this epic adventure roadtrip.

 
 
 
± 6hr

End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation at about 8pm to 10pm, subject to traffic and your drop-off address.

 
 

Included

Shared Small Group

A minimum group size is required to confirm this tour on scheduled days and ensure a small group experience. 

Local Guide

Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.

Transport

Transfers to included tour highlights. 

Pickup + Drop-off

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

Accommodation

4 nights accommodation and bedding according to your selected Stay package.

Breakfast

4 x Breakfasts included

2Cchange donation

A part of your trip fees will help fund the 2Cchange projects we support. Read more about these projects online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/change

Important info > Peak Season changes

*Important notice for end of year peak season tours: For travel from 10 Dec to 10 Jan, this tour will overnight 2 nights at Jeffreys bay and not in Addo town.

**Please note: The itinerary order and accommodation options for this tour has been changed. The 4x4 Game Drive in Addo is no longer possible for most departures from 1 Dec 2023 - another 4x4 safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve will replace this optional. The tour still offers a free Addo Park game drive in our tour vehicle. Departures after 7 January 2024 will not include kayaking as per the 2023 season itinerary. We'll specifically inform all customers whose bookings are impacted by these changes. 

 

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Route 62 Roadtrip
  • Ashton Chocolate + Wine Pairing
  • Ostrich Farm Visit
  • Cango Caves Exploring
  • Tsitsikamma National Park Walk
  • Knysna Heads Walk
  • Addo Game Drive in Tour Vehicle

Excluded

✕ Optionals

These optional activities are not included but also not compulsory. It has already been reserved for all members on tour.

You can only book some optional activities with your tour guide on the first day of the tour, and then pay directly to the activity provider. 

  • Bungy & zipline at Bloukrans Bridge  ±R1500
  • Tsitsikamma Waterfall Zipline ± R500
  • Botlierskop 4x4 Safari ± R600
  • Elephant Observation in Nature ± R600 
  • Surfing equiptment or Beach Horseback Riding ± R500 each

 

---- do note these changes for new bookings ------

  • Addo 4x4 Safari ± R500  (not available from 1 Dec onwards)
  • Accommodation upgrade to Buffelsdrift Glamping in Oudtshoorn ±from R2000 pps 

± Rates for optional activities are only an indication and subject to change by season or third party suppliers.

✕ Travel Insurance

You are responsible for your own personal travel insurance. 

This tour is scheduled to depart on available dates as listed on the availability calender, if minimums required are booked to confirm a departure. Refer to the tour's booking terms should the tour need to be cancelled for any reason.

✕ Drinks and some meals

Refer to the included section above to see the meals listed as included for this tour. Time is allocated daily to buy and enjoy additional excluded meals + drinks on route.  Read more about your tour's meal options at: https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#meals

FAQ



  Click on question to show answer

Pickup / Drop-off time guidelines?
Early morning pick up from your accommodation in Cape Town CBD or Stellenbosch is usually between 6 to 7am, subject to traffic and your specific address. You can receive your exact pickup time for your exact pickup address the afternoon before the tour. Return times after tours can range from very late afternoon to evening, and for multi-day group tours it usually vary between +/- 7pm to 10pm subject to traffic, weather or how long the group spend at stops during the day. Small group tours can't offer exact start or end times as it all is relative to each person in the group's pickup or drop-off addresses, season and possible road delays. Please do not make any scheduled arrangements (especially flights) for the first or last day of the tour.
If I do not bungy jump, what is the alternative options?
Some thrill seekers choose to bungy and others love to watch their friends soar from the highest bungy bridge in the world, but we understand it’s not for everyone. There are other also another option available which your guide will chat through with you on tour. You can head out on a short walk in the forest to explore the region under the canopy of Tsitsikamma’s famous forested region.
I’m travelling on my own, will I meet people?

We welcome solo travellers. Our tours generally range from four to 12 people per tour. It’s this small group size that gives our tours the personal touch and allows guests to mingle if they chose to.

How safe are safari game drives?
You will be required to sign a disclaimer before entering a National Park or Private game reserve - which is fairly standard in South Africa – but rest assured, safety is paramount and your guides will make sure you are well looked after.

Inside your safari vehicle, your guide will give further safety instruction. Please remember the animals in National Parks and Game Reserves are wild, so do not leave the vehicle, taunt animals with food or hang your head, arms and legs or other body parts out of the jeep or bus.
Are meals normally included?
Our tours are as much about tasting regional produce as they are about viewing the sights. We’ve opted not to include lunches and dinners to allow guests to cater to their individual tastes and budgets.

No need to pack meals for your tour as breakfast for each overnight stay is included and on the road, your guide will offer comfort stops and a lunch break daily. Lunch are en route (limited choices) but your guide can offer advice on great local restaurants or nearby supermarkets (for those that like to self cater) or you can also signup to the group dinner daily. 
Will I have free time on the tour?
Your guide will provides a range of comfort stops and lunch breaks on the tour and you are welcome to spend time with the group or to do join in optional activities, do your own exploring during the "me time" sceduled on the pre-planned itinerary.

Optional activities are offered and scheduled as part of the tour’s free-time. Optional activities are not compulsory, but can turn a standard trip into an unforgettable one. Our goal is to arrive at our accommodation before sunset and your guide (or accommodation hosts) are happy to assist with restaurant recommendations. Some of our guests like to dine together and your guide will be happy to facilitate this, and usually evenings are spent at leisure at the overnight accommodation... to relax, unind and be ready for the next day's adventures.
Do all rooms have private bathrooms?
Private rooms usually offer a private bathroom, especially for guesthouse packages.
How do I pay for optional activites on the tour?
Optional activities are not included but also not compulsory. If your trip offers optional activities, our team has already reserved space for all on tour for these activities.  You can only book these activities on the first day of the tour with your tour guide and pay directly to the activity provider on the day of the activity. Card payment is usually possible, but if not, your guide can get you to an ATM to draw cash. Please don't take large sums of cash with you on tour. All activities are subject to weather conditions.

You'll have an alternative choice of activity or more free time to explore the area if you are not interested in a specific optional activity.
Can children (8+ years) join group tours?
– Children of 8+ years of age are allowed to join scheduled GROUP tour packages if travelling with a parent or adult.

– Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a fare-paying adult or legal gaurdian and be booked in private rooms. Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to book in backpacker dorm rooms. 

- Children under 18 years of age are not allowed partake in some optional activities without the legal consent of their legal guardian or parent.  - Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to consume alcohol.  

– Families with small children or infants under 8 years of age can be booked on an exclusive ‘family-friendly’ tour package with exclusive transport.

- Children 8 years and older will be charged adult rates.

- There are no set age limits on scheduled group tour packages, the itiraries are designed to offer flexibility to all young-at-heart travellers. Some optional activities may however have specific fitness level requirements.
Tammy-lee
Reservations

My passion for hiking gave me a deep appreciation for being surrounded by nature... With some of my local and international must-visit outdoor spots already ticked off from my travel wishlist, I'll always be dreaming about my next adventure. Being part of the travel industry since 2016, especially my recent position as an airline ticketing and customer care consultant; helping fellow travellers plan their perfect holiday perfectly aligns with my love to share our uniquely diverse cultures and places with the world. - Tammy Mackriel

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Why You'll Love It

  • Experience a rush like no other if you dare to jump from one of the world’s highest bridge bungy spots.

  • Soak in the picture-perfect views of Knysna lagoon's tranquil blue waters from atop a sandstone cliff.

  • Zipline through dramatic scenery and over waterfalls in the Tsitsikamma forest.

  • Walk along shaded footpaths and over suspention bridges in the lush Tsitsikamma forest.

  • Get beak to beak with the world’s biggest bird at an ostrich farm.

  • Learn to surf or hang ten on the world famous Supertubes in Jeffreys Bay.

  • Head deep underground to the illuminated wonder world of the Cango Caves.

  • Observe orphaned African elephants at Buffelsdrift as they roam freely in their natural habitat.

  • Roadtrip along Route 62's semi-desert country plains with quirky pitstops along the way.

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

  • Chill out with some beach time or shopping in the surf town of Jefferys Bay.

  • Explore the dusty roads of Addo in the tour vehicle, searching for wild elephant herds and other wildlife.

  • Horse ride along white sandy shores of a secluded beach near Jbay. 

  • Stylish country living in South Africa's storied Klein Karoo.

    Wedged between mountain ranges and on the beloved R62 wine route, Oudtshoorn is a picture of rural bounty. Settled in the mid-sixteenth century as a farming outpost, the town put itself on the map when ostrich feathers surged into fashion in Europe in the 1860s. Suddenly it was an economic firecracker. Vestiges of the heyday still remain - the ornate architecture and a number of thriving farms - and Hlangana Lodge is a perfect reflection of this town's charming character. The Victorian-inspired lodge sits amid sprawling exotic gardens, filled with enormous palms and rose bushes. With luxurious accommodation and personalised service, you can enjoy the fruits of the town's present and former glory.

    Wide porticos and verandas trace Hlangana's exteriors, providing the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening glass of something chilled. A hedge of white roses runs along the edge of the house and vines train the doorways. Inside you'll find intimate lounges furnished with plush sofas, and a large banquet-sized dining room where the daily breakfast buffet is laid out in all its glory. French doors open out onto the brick-laid veranda and luscious views of the garden.

Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: 10% deposit to reserve your space. Full payment due only 8 days before.

10% deposit or part payment is allowed up to 8 days before the departure date. Full payment is required to confirm a booking if made lass than 8 days before.

Cancellation / Refund Policy:
7+day notice 90% refund or 100% voucher
3-6 day notice 50% refund
0-2 day notice no refund
 

Full payment is due at least 8 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.

  • Up to 7 days before departure = 100% voucher or 10% cancellation fee / 90% refund
  • Up to 7 days before departure = 50% voucher or 50% cancellation fee / 50% refund
  • Up to 2 days and no-shows = full cancellation fee / no refund

     

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.

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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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