Garden Route Splendour

DAY 1
(Sun) Port Elizabeth / Knysna  (D)
We set off from the airport between 11h00 and 12h00 (and earlier if everyone has already arrived), travelling through the indigenous Tsitsikamma Forest towards the romantic seaside resort of Knysna, in the heart of the famous Garden Route, with scenic stops along the way.  Dinner and overnight in Knysna.

Accommodation: Knysna Hollow or similar

Distance travelled today: 320 km

DAY 2
(Mon) Knysna (BB, L)
Cruise on the vast Knysna Lagoon and visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Enjoy an amazing view of the imposing sandstone 'Heads' which guard the sea entrance to Knysna's huge tidal lagoon, and the forests, marshes and pristine beaches beyond. After lunch the remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy this lovely and special town.

Accommodation: Knysna Hollow Country Estate or similar

Distance travelled today: 15 km

DAY 3
(Tue) Oudtshoorn  (BB, HL)
This morning we head underground for a fascinating tour of the Cango Caves, one of South Africa's most incredible natural wonders and enjoy the wonderful views of the spectacular Outeniqua Pass en route to Oudtshoorn, the 'feather capital of the world', so named because it's the centre of South Africa's ostrich industry. After lunch, which features Ostrich Steak on the menu, we learn more about these hardy, enigmatic creatures during a tour of an ostrich farm.

Accommodation: Queens Hotel or similar

Distance travelled today: 210 km

DAY 4
(Wed) Cape Town  (BB)
A day of magnificent vistas! Enjoy the ever changing passing canvas as we travel to Cape Town. During the whale season we will travel via the seaside village of Hermanus in the hopes of catching a glimpse of southern right whales, which frolic offshore (July to November only). Out of season we will return to Cape Town along 'Route 62'.

Optional night in Franschhoek

Distance travelled today: 475 km