7 Day Garden Route, Capes + Wine combo - 7day Combo Tour | Hotspots2c
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Book Early Deal

Garden Route, Capes + Winelands

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$917
$826

Duration of tour
7 days
Join Group

Transfer Type

Mini-coach / Van
Departs when minimum requirements met
 

Book Early Deal

Book early for 10% off. Only valid for direct advance bookings at least 14 days before departure and travel by Nov 2025. Ask us to verify and add discount.

Overview

 

 itinerary.doc  

 

Prepare yourself for a feast for the senses as a harvest table of flavours and diversity awaits. This well-rounded road trip perfectly pairs wildlife and wine combining 3 popular tours in one combo package, serving both taste connoisseurs and nature enthusiasts alike. Add in a dash of pure adrenaline and you have the perfect platter of South African indulgence.

From meeting some of the Big Seven (yes, the Big Five with whales and sharks!) along the Garden Route to wandering the rolling hills of the Cape Winelands and strolling the cliff paths of Cape Point, this trip has something for every explorer. Think daring adventures, animal sightings, wine tastings, and authentically local culinary delights.

The 5-day Garden Route tour included in the package will have you hiking the famous trails in Tsitsikamma National Park; feel your adrenaline pumping with an optional exhilarating bungy jump, and catch 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, listen to the sounds of silence in Cango limestone caves and observe the biggest land mammals on the planet in the Klein Karoo. And, if the mood takes you, learn to surf on some of the world's top-rated waves or try a spot of sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay. Expect surprises on the palate from the ubiquitous seafood on the coastal belt and Klein Karoo specialities like lamb and ostrich finished off with some of South Africa’s best Port-style wines along Route 62, the longest wine route in the world.

Explore the winding roads from the Stellenbosch Winelands to Paarl and Franschhoek's wine valley on a full-day tour from Cape Town. Not only do you visit three esteemed wine farms for fine wine tastings and phenomenal pairings with cheese and chocolate in the top wine tasting regions of South Africa; the extraordinary scenery along the way will also transport you back to yesteryear to reminisce among white gabled buildings and impressive manor houses flanked by the soaring mountain ranges. Even explore the region's wine valley by rail on a scenic one-way antique Wine Tram journey and taste fine wines along the way.

You'll also get to explore the beautiful Cape Peninsula on a full-day tour from Cape Town. Get a true sense of the beauty and diversity of Cape Town as you meander along some of the peninsula's most precious gems. And the cherry on top - a delight for the eyes as you drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, with dramatic twists along steep mountainsides, the perfect vantage point to view the vast False Bay. Let the adventure begin...

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Start

Cape Town Region
End

Cape Town Region
 
 

Why You'll Love It

  • Experience a rush like no other if you dare to hang-out, jump from or zipline alone 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.

  • Cruise to a colony of Cape Fur seals as these clumsy creatures laze about.

  • Explore the cultural haven of the bustling Hout Bay harbour. 

  • Prepare for unparalleled views as you drive along Chapman's Peak.

  • See wild Atlantic waves crash at the southwestern most point of Africa.

  • Meet adorable African penguins at Boulders Beach if you enter the nature reserve.

  • 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. 

  • See penguins nesting or walking under the shrubs along the Willis Walk near Simon's Town.

  • Wine tasting on the world's longest wine route; Route 62.

Itinerary guideline

This combo tour package consists of more than one tour. The itinerary may need to run in reverse or a different order. Guides or transport will change.
Day 1
Karoo Region > Oudtshoorn
±400km

Start with a morning pick-up from selected hotels in Cape Town city cantre (usually between +/- 6 and 8am, subject to the pickup route). 

This combo tour package may run in a different order. You may start by travelling to the Winelands, Cape Point or the Garden Route. If you start on the Garden Route tour portion; this is the itinerary guideline to follow:

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 wine 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 rangers on an optional Elephant Educational Observation in nature at the Buffelsdrift private game reserve. Follow these three rescued elephants; Jabari, Malaika and Bulelo. 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 from a distance and can ask the rangers as many questions.

You’ll spend the evening here at leisure in this countryside town of Oudtshoorn. Either ask your guide to help you book a restaurant or taste local delights - such as ostrich "sosaties" (kebabs) and "pot brood" (bread cooked on open flames) at an optional 'braai' bbq experience (subject to availability) and spend the evening around a crackling fire under the vast twinkling starry country sky.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
± 6hr
Stay Package

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

utahndos
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Uthando
Hostel
Backpacker Stay
barron cover
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88 Baron Van Reede
Guesthome
3 star Comfort Stay
hlangana lodge swimming pool
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or
Hlangana
Lodge
4 star Luxury Stay
buffelsdrift room main
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Buffelsdrift Glamping
Tent
4 star Luxury Stay
Stay Tour Package
Upgrade fee from R2000 pps
Day 2
Oudtshoorn > Greater Addo Region
±300km

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. A visit to a working Ostrich Farm gives you a glimpse into the local farming industry, allowing you to observe the world’s biggest bird in large breeder fenced areas while touring the farming grounds.

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.  

*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.

 
 
 
 
 
 
±5hrs
Stay Package

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

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 the tour vehicle.

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), Beach Horseback Riding or try Sandboarding as an alternative way to adventure along the sandy coastline.

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.

 
 
 
 
 
 
±4hr
Stay Package

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

onbeach310401118_496487385828034_8013931707471950652_n
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On The Beach
Guesthome
4 star Luxury Stay
seawhisper home
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Sea Whisper
Guesthome
3 star Comfort Stay
Day 4
Garden Route Region > Sedgefield
±300km

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 those who prefer to stay 'grounded', there are also no-jump options available; choose to Zipline or Sky Walk to the hangout edge of the bridge.  

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. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
±4h
Stay Package

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

pilipilicabanas
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or
Pili Pili
Hostel
Backpacker Stay
2TheRex 40 Pool Area
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or
The Rex
Hotel
3 star Comfort Stay
Day 5
Garden Route Region > Cape Town Region
±450km

Today start off strong with another beautiful and exciting trip passing oasis-like coastal towns along the ocean-lined route hugged by forested national parks. 

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

After all the excitement of the past 5 days along the Garden Route; ticking off the region's bucket list items and exploring the best spots of the region, you'll say your goodbyes as you reach Cape Town.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
±7hr
Stay Package

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

Day 6
Stellenbosch Winelands > Cape Town Region
±200km

Join an outsourced Cape Winelands small group day tour to visit at least 3 wine estates: including a selection of Dieu Donné, Simonsig, Mitre's Edge, MiddleVlei, Vergenoegd and more -subject to your specific departure day.

Your guide will collect you from selected hotels in Cape Town city (around 8am-9am). 

From Wednesdays to Sundays explore amazing wine estates in the historic Stellenbosch region, renowned for its Cape Dutch architecture and pivotal role in South Africa’s wine scene. Indulge in vineyard tours, an informal cellar tour and, when available in harvest times; maybe even barrel tastings. And for lunch.. enjoy a delightful traditional South African lunch paired with exceptional wines. Then you'll also visit a third wine estate for a cheese and chocolate wine pairing in the cozy home of a local winemaker, followed by an informal cellar tour.

On Mondays and Tuesdays explore a wine estate in the stunning Franschhoek region, stroll through this charming town (led by your local wine guide) and after a delicious lunch in this self-proclaimed culinary capital of South Africa.

After up to 12+ wine tastings, visiting 3 different wine estates, your winelands explore day will comes to an end, heading back to arrive in the Cape Town region by late afternoon (± 5:30 to 6:30pm - subject to traffic or the group itinerary timings).

*Subject to availability, a similar trip with a different supplier may be booked.   

 
 
 
 
±8hr
Stay Package

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

Day 7
Cape Peninsula
±200km

Join an outsourced Cape Point small group day tour

Subject to availability, a similar trip with a different supplier may be booked.

Start with an early morning pick-up (±6 to 7am) from your Cape Town accommodation. Hout Bay, an unassuming fishing village on the northern side of Chapman’s Peak, is the first stop of the day and offers the chance to visit the seal colony of Duiker Island, just a short cruise from shore. For those without their sea legs, rather explore the local harbour market and snap Instagram-worthy pics of colourful fishing boats.

As you leave Hout Bay behind, you’ll take on a staggering 114 mind-blowingly beautiful bends – stretching over nine jaw-dropping kilometres. Chapman’s Peak road, or Chappies to the locals, is touted as one of the world’s most scenic drives – and with good reason. Rugged mountains face off with the Atlantic and the roadway, an incredible feat of engineering, cuts a swathe right through and provides unparalleled views of the Atlantic below.

Chappies sets the scene for the afternoon’s adventuring as you venture onwards to the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwesterly point of Africa. Here, water and wilderness literally collide and create a picturesque jagged shoreline adorned with greenish fringes of fynbos. This is a place to pay tribute to ancient seafarers of old like Bartolomeu Dias (who discovered the Cape of Good Hope back in 1488) and pioneers, like Vasco da Gama, who journeyed through these treacherous waters from Portugal to India.

Indigenous fauna lines narrow winding pathways en route to the Cape’s whitewashed lighthouse, with views well worth the climb. Local wildlife – ostriches, baboons, and various antelope species, including bontebok – keep the journey interesting and add plenty of postcard moments for the shutterbugs. On the hillside, an optional funicular eases the journey for those that want to reach the top of the lighthouse.

As the day lengthens, travel to Simon’s Town, perched on the shores of False Bay and the home of the South African Navy. Just a few minutes to the south lies Boulders Beach, a comely stretch of sand littered with granite. This hotspot is home to a large colony of African penguins who strut their stuff in their black and white feathered finery to the delight of the crowds that gather to watch. Boardwalks separate man from bird and provide the perfect vantage point to see these cute creatures.

You'll reach Cape Town by late afternoon.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
±8hr

End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation about 5 to 7pm, subject to traffic and your drop-off address. 

 

Included

Small Group

Maximum 13 guests per vehicle or guide. 

This combo tour package consists of more than one tour. The itinerary can run in reverse or a different order and guides or transport will change during the trip.

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 accommodation.

Accommodation

6 nights accommodation and bedding according to your stay package selected.

Breakfast

6 x Breakfasts included

COMBO tour

This combo tour package consists of more than one tour. The itinerary can run in reverse or a different order and guides and transport will change during the combo package.

  • 1 day outsourced Cape Point tour (guided with a different supplier)
  • 1 day outsourced Cape Winelands tour (guided with a different supplier)
  • 5 day Garden Route + Addo tour (guided with Hotspots2c
 
Peak Season accommodation

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

 

Included Activities & Entry fees
  • Browse Hout Bay Harbour
  • Curve Along Chapman's Peak
  • Cape of Good Hope Explore
  • Simon's Town Penguin Willis Walk
  • Route 62
  • Ashton Treats + Wine Pairing
  • Ostrich Farm Visit
  • Cango Caves Exploring
  • Botlierskop 4x4 Safari
  • Chill Out at J'Bay
  • Cape Winelands Tasting Day
  • Tsitsikamma National Park Walk
  • Knysna Heads Viewpoint
  • Addo Game Drive in Tour Vehicle

Excluded

✕ Optionals

Optional activities are not included but also not compulsory. These optionals can only be booked and paid for directly with the activity provider on tour. See the updated rate in the online itinerary.

  •  Bungy Jump & Zipline -or-  Sky Walk  -or-  Zipline at Bloukrans Bridge 

  • Tsitsikamma Waterfall Zipline 
  • Elephant Observation in Nature 
  • Surfboard Hire -or- Beach Horseback Riding  
  • Duiker Island Cruise 
  • Boulders Beach Reserve Entry 

 

Request accommodation upgrades after the initial booking payment to check availability:

  • Accommodation upgrade to Buffelsdrift Glamping in Oudtshoorn ±from R2150 pps for stay up to Apr 2025

 

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

✕ Flights

Local and international flights are excluded.

✕ 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

 

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Terms & Conditions

Click on the terms for more details.

Payment Policy: 20% deposit to reserve. Full payment due at least 31 days before.

20% deposit is required to reserve. The remaining balance is due in full at least 31 days before the departure date.

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.
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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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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