South Africa is a land of unmatched wildlife experiences and endless seas. Getting here from India is super easy with quick layovers from Dubai, Doha or Mauritius. We’ve travelled to South Africa twice with two amazing road trip itineraries.
The first one ticks all the big boxes: Kruger National Park for unforgettable wildlife, the buzzing vibes of Cape Town, and the laid-back beauty of George. The second? It’s all about the Garden Route – starting in Cape Town and cruising along South Africa’s most stunning coastline, all the way to Port Elizabeth.
South Africa
DISCOVER SOUTH AFRICA: FROM SAFARI TRAILS TO SANDY SHORES
The beauty of South Africa is that it’s a year-round destination, but the best time really depends on what you want to experience. If wildlife is your priority, head there during the dry season (May to September) when animals are easier to spot in the bush. For beach days, vineyard visits, and exploring Cape Town or the Garden Route, the summer months (November to March) are perfect with sunny skies and warm weather. No matter
when you go, South Africa promises unforgettable adventures and picture-perfect moments!
RENTING A CAR FOR SAUTH AFRICA
Exploring South Africa by road is an absolute delight, and renting a car makes it super convenient. The best option is to pick up your car in Cape Town and drop it off at your final stop along the Garden Route—most likely Port Elizabeth. We recommend trusted rental companies like Avis and Hertz for their reliable service and well-maintained vehicles.
South Africa follows a right-hand drive system, so it’s quite similar to driving in India. And yes, you can use your Indian driving license as long as it’s in English. With wide, well-paved roads and stunning scenery at every turn, hitting the road here is an experience you’ll never forget!
"Our ride for the journey - The Hyundai Staria"
ITINERARY 1: KRUGER SAFARI, CAPE TOWN & GARDEN ROUTE
|
Day |
Itinerary | Overnight |
|
Day 1 |
Arrive in Nelspruit |
Kruger National Park |
|
Day 2 |
Game Drive in Kruger National Park |
Kruger National Park |
|
Day 3 |
To Cape Town |
Cape Town |
|
Day 4 |
Cape Town City Tour |
Cape Town |
|
Day 5 |
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope |
Cape Town |
|
Day 6 |
To George |
George |
|
Day 7 |
Canggu Caves, Oudtshoorn, Bloukran’s Bridge |
George |
|
Day 8 |
Depart from George |
ITINERARY 2: CAPE TOWN & GARDEN ROUTE
|
Day |
Itinerary | Overnight |
|
Day 1 |
Arrive in Cape Town | Cape Town |
|
Day 2 |
Cape Town City Tour |
Cape Town |
|
Day 3 |
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope | Cape Town |
| Day 4 | Victoria & Alfred Waterfront |
Cape Town |
|
Day 5 |
To Hermanus and Knysna |
Knysna |
|
Day 6 |
Explore Knysna |
Knysna |
| Day 7 | To Addo National Park |
Addo National Park |
| Day 8 | Game Drive at Addo National Park |
Port Elizabeth |
| Day 9 | Depart from Port Elizabeth |
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
We arrived at Nelspruit Airport and then started our South African adventure with a scenic drive to Kruger National Park. After checking in at Kambaku River Lodge we took some time to relax and soak in the stunning surroundings. The resort offers incredible views of the bush, we were surprised to spot zebras or antelopes right from the room!
In the evening, we embarked on an exciting game drive to catch the first glimpse of South Africa’s iconic wildlife. Then, we returned to the resort for a hearty barbecue dinner under the stars – the perfect end to our first day in the wild.
“Wild Encounters in Kruger National Park”
Next day, the magic of Kruger National Park began with a game drive. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometers, Kruger is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves, and it gave us the perfect opportunity to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
With an experienced guide leading us, we explored the park’s stunning landscapes, from open savannahs to dense woodlands. Along the way, we spotted elephants gathering at waterholes, herds of buffalo grazing in the distance, and even caught a glimpse of a leopard lounging in the treetops. We paused for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild.
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town is a city like no other, and staying in the Camps Bay area adds a touch of luxury to your trip. With its spacious, modern Airbnbs offering stunning views of the ocean and the dramatic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountains, Camps Bay is the perfect base to explore the city.
“At Camps Bay, Cape Town”
Whether you decide to stay for 3 or 4 days, don’t miss these attractions in Cape Town! Starting with the Bo-Kaap Museum, nestled in the heart of the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, this museum gave us a glimpse into the rich history of Cape Town’s Cape Malay community. We wandered through streets lined with vibrant houses, learned about the culture and traditions, and got a deeper appreciation for the city’s diverse heritage.
“Colours of Bo-Kaap”
If you are travelling with kids, then this one is a must do – Two Oceans Aquarium. This family-friendly spot is perfect for anyone curious about marine life. Located at the V&A Waterfront, the aquarium showcases species from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. From playful penguins to mesmerizing jellyfish, and even a walk-through shark exhibit, it’s a fascinating dive into South Africa’s underwater world.
“Underwater Wonders”
The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens isn’t just any garden—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Located at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is a lush paradise filled with indigenous plants, colourful blooms, and peaceful walking trails. We loved the canopy walkway, nicknamed the “Boomslang,” which offered panoramic views of the gardens and surrounding landscapes.
“Nature in Full Bloom at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens”
No visit to Cape Town is complete without taking the Table Mountain Cableway. The rotating cable car whisked us to the top, where we were greeted with jaw-dropping views of the city, the ocean, and even Robben Island in the distance. It’s a must-do for those postcard-perfect photos and a chance to marvel at one of the New7Wonders of Nature. We recommend going to the Table Mountain Cableway at sunset for exhilarating views to blow your mind!
“On Top of the World: Views from Table Mountain”
Last, but certainly the best is the V&A Waterfront! This is a vibrant hub of activity, perfect for shopping, dining, and entertainment. We spent hours exploring its world-class shopping malls, packed with everything from high-end boutiques to local artisan stores. The lively atmosphere is unbeatable, with street performers, live music, and waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and international cuisine. One of the highlights was a sunset cruise, where we set sail on a luxury catamaran to watch the sun dip below the horizon—a magical experience not to be missed.
“V&A Waterfront Sparkles After Dark”
“Golden Hour at V&A Waterfront”
CAPE POINT AND CAPE OF GOOD HOPE
One of the most breathtaking road trips in the world, the drive to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope winds along a spectacular coastline with panoramic ocean views. It’s an absolute must-do for anyone visiting Cape Town!
“Chasing Horizons: Enroute Cape of Good Hope”
Our first stop was Boulders Beach, famous for its colony of adorable African penguins. While the viewing platform tickets are a bit pricey, the sight of these waddling creatures up close is worth it. For a quieter experience, you can also walk along the adjacent beach where you might spot a few penguins roaming freely.
“At Boulders Beach”
Cape of Good Hope – The iconic spot often mistakenly thought of as the southernmost tip of Africa (that title belongs to Cape Agulhas). Historically, it was called the “Cape of Storms” due to its treacherous seas, but later renamed the “Cape of Good Hope” as it symbolized a hopeful sea route to India. Standing here feels like standing on the edge of the world, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and untamed natural beauty.
“Where Oceans Meet: The Majestic Cape of Good Hope”
“Together at the Edge of Africa”
A short drive from the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point offers stunning views and fascinating history. The Cape Point Lighthouse, perched on top of a cliff, is the star attraction. We took the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the top—a fun and easy way to reach the lighthouse without a steep climb. The views from up there are absolutely worth it, with the Atlantic and Indian Oceans seemingly meeting at the horizon.
“Cape Point Lighthouse”
THE GARDEN ROUTE
The Garden Route is a must-explore stretch along South Africa’s southern coast. While the cities of Cape Town and Port Elizabeth serve as bookends for most travellers, the official Garden Route begins at Mossel Bay and ends at Storms River, offering a tapestry of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and thrilling adventures.
“South Africa’s Scenic Masterpiece: The Garden Route”
Our journey began with a stop at Hermanus, the world’s best land-based whale-watching spot. From June to November, southern right whales grace these waters, and you can spot them on a cruise if you are lucky enough.
“Coastal Walks in Hermanus”
We chose Knysna as our central hub, a beautiful town nestled on a lagoon surrounded by forests. Its iconic Knysna Heads offer jaw-dropping views, while the waterfront is perfect for dining, shopping, and indulging in fresh oysters—a local delicacy. The Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort is a perfect stay along the Garden Route.
“Beachfront at Brenton Haven, Knysna”
A short detour inland took us to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. We visited an ostrich farm, and the highlight was the Cango Caves, a breathtaking underground wonder with limestone formations.
“Oudtshoorn Adventures”
“Underground Wonders at Cango Caves”
For the adrenaline junkies among us, stopping at the Bloukrans Bridge is a no-brainer. It’s home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at a dizzying height of 216 meters. Even if you don’t jump, watching others take the plunge is a thrill!
“Edge of Adrenaline: Bloukrans Bridge Bungee Spot”
ADDO NATIONAL PARK
When in Addo National Park, the best place to stay is the Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge to experience the charm of Addo Elephant National Park. Nestled in the wilderness, the lodge offered a luxurious yet close-to-nature vibe. The resort has a sunset game drive, giving a first taste of Addo’s wildlife.
“Safari Clicks at Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge”
The main Addo Elephant National Park is located quite away from the Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge, but the best part is you can travel inside the park in your own car which is a thrilling experience in itself. Spotting the Big Five here is a bit challenging – leopards are rare, and lions are elusive. We came across herds of elephants, zebras, and warthogs. Though we hoped to see lions, luck wasn’t on our side this time!
“Self-Drive Safari Scenes from the Heart of Addo”
“Elephant Encounters in Addo National Park”
The Port Elizabeth town is the perfect end to the Garden Route adventures. The drive was scenic and relaxing, a perfect wind-down after days of exploration and wildlife encounters.
“Coastal Calm in Port Elizabeth”
WHERE TO STAY IN SAUTH AFRICA?
- Cape Town – Bakoven, Boulders View hosted by Nox Rental / Ocean Sunset Apartment hosted by Nenette, Camps Bay Area
- Knysna – Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort
- Addo National Park – Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge
- Port Elizabeth – Nova Boutique Hotel
- Kruger National Park – Kambaku River Lodge
0
20/11/2024
