12 Days South Africa - Garden Route Plus Addo Elephants Tour

Today you're driving your first stretch of the Garden Route! The drive from Mossel Bay to Wilderness along the N2 highway is 60 kilometres and normally takes less than 45 minutes. Feel free to spend some time in Mossel Bay after breakfast before your next destination calls. If you are travelling with kids, it's a great idea to stop in George along the way (after 40 kilometres). The Redberry Farm offers plenty of child-friendly activities, and you can pick a basket of strawberries before indulging in a delicious farm-fresh lunch.

Activities:

Wilderness
Framed by forested hills and endless stretches of sand, Wilderness is a seaside gem that lives up to its name – wild, beautiful, and blissfully unhurried. Start with a few lazy hours on the beach, then follow the shoreline to a peaceful lagoon where you can drift along in a canoe or take a scenic cruise on the Touw River. The town centre is small but full of charm, with cosy cafés, artisan shops, lively restaurants and a friendly buzz. Nature lovers will adore the Wilderness section of the Garden Route, where they can explore lush walking trails like the Kingfisher Trail, while those with a camera in hand shouldn’t miss the Map-of-Africa viewpoint – a twist in the river that really does look like the continent from above.

Accommodations:
Silver - Fairy Knowe Hotel
Gold - The Ocean View Guest House
Platinum - Escape to the Beach

The drive from Wilderness to Knysna is 47 kilometres on the N2 highway and takes a mere 40 minutes. If you are leaving Wilderness around lunchtime, it's a good idea to stop in Sedgefield along the way. This is a quaint seaside village set in the lakes district just between Wilderness and Knysna, and the Pilipili Restaurant with its forever-summer vibe is a great spot to kick off your shoes and enjoy a lovely beach lunch – think decadent cocktails and a variety of local craft beers served ice cold for the grown-ups while the kids are having a ball (and a pizza).

Activities:

Knysna
Knysna is a coastal treasure where forest trails, white sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage meet. The town’s story is deeply tied to the Houtunqua people, but today it’s also known for its mix of adventure and relaxation. Start with the iconic Knysna Heads – two dramatic cliffs guarding the lagoon’s mouth – perfect for breathtaking views and an obligatory sundowner. The next day, take a ferry to Featherbed Nature Reserve for a walk or kayak trip through its shallow waters. Spend some time on the pristine shores of Buffalo Bay, and wrap up your visit at the bustling Waterfront, where boutique shops and mouth-watering eateries keep the vibe lively well into the evening.

Accommodations:
Silver - Premier Resort The Moorings
Gold - Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Platinum - Pezula Nature Retreat

Knysna is a coastal treasure where forest trails, white sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage meet. The town’s story is deeply tied to the Houtunqua people, but today it’s also known for its mix of adventure and relaxation. Start with the iconic Knysna Heads – two dramatic cliffs guarding the lagoon’s mouth – perfect for breathtaking views and an obligatory sundowner. The next day, take a ferry to Featherbed Nature Reserve for a walk or kayak trip through its shallow waters. Spend some time on the pristine shores of Buffalo Bay, and wrap up your visit at the bustling Waterfront, where boutique shops and mouth-watering eateries keep the vibe lively well into the evening.

Activities:

Eco-Experience at Featherbed Nature Reserve
The Featherbed Nature Reserve, set on Knysna’s untouched Western Head, is a private eco-paradise only accessible by ferry. A must-do 4-hour excursion departs daily from the Knysna Waterfront and includes the return ferry, a scenic 4x4 drive to the top of the headland and an optional 2.2 kilometre guided walk through lush coastal forest, fynbos, and ancient sea caves. The walk isn’t too demanding, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Along the way, expert guides share fascinating insights into local ecosystems, plant life and lagoon wildlife. It’s an unforgettable nature experience suitable for all ages - just wear comfy shoes, bring a camera, and dress for the season. Pre-booking is essential, and you can even add a delicious lunch to round off your trip!

Buffalo Bay near Knysna (free of charge)
If you’re a beach lover, Buffalo Bay – or Buffelsbaai as the locals say – is a must on your Garden Route itinerary. This laid-back seaside village is famous for its sweeping views, golden sunsets, and one of the safest swimming beaches in the region. Just a short drive from Knysna and Sedgefield, it offers an ideal mix of family-friendly fun, great surf, and a mellow coastal vibe. Feeling energetic? Take a scenic beach walk all the way to Brenton-on-Sea and keep an eye out for colourful murals, mosaics and surfboard art, as Buffalo Bay is part of the Knysna Art Route. There are also a handful of beach cafés and restaurants, perfect for lingering over lunch or catching a stunning sundowner.

Accommodations:
Silver - Premier Resort The Moorings
Gold - Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Platinum - Pezula Nature Retreat

It's 35 kilometres from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay, so you should be able to reach your next destination in half an hour. In case you didn't tick off all the boxes in Knysna, you can stick around there in the morning. But if you're keen to visit the Knysna Elephant Park, it's better to make an early start and book the 8 AM Elephant Experience; it's on your way to Plettenberg Bay, and it includes breakfast! Either way, Plettenberg's stunning beaches are waiting for you!

Activities:

Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay – or ‘Plett’ as the locals like to call it – is where golden beaches, lush forests, enchanting lagoons and the dramatic Robberg Nature Reserve all meet in one postcard-perfect scene. Ocean lovers will be in their element here: snorkel colourful reefs, swim alongside playful Cape Fur Seals, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins riding the waves. From July to December, the bay turns into a prime whale-watching stage. And here’s an insider secret: Plett is South Africa’s smallest wine region, with 57 kilometres of boutique vineyards dotting the coast from Packwood to the Crags. Order a crisp local white, sink your toes into the sand, and let the good life come to you.


Elephant experience in Knysna Elephant Park
Meet Africa’s gentle giants at Knysna Elephant Park, the first facility in South Africa to care for orphaned elephants, with over 40 rescued and raised since 1994. Here, elephants roam freely without fences, and you’re invited to interact with them respectfully, on their terms. The experience is both unforgettable and educational, offering insight into the elephants’ personalities, stories, and social bonds. Book the 8 AM or 4 PM Elephant Experience, and walk alongside them while learning fascinating facts from expert guides. The morning session includes breakfast! Located just off the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, it’s a perfect and heartwarming stop – and yes, you can even sponsor your favourite elephant!

Swimming with seals in Plettenberg Bay
Swim with the playful Cape fur seals of Robberg Nature Reserve - one of Plettenberg Bay’s most exciting and family-friendly adventures! These curious and gentle marine mammals love to interact and often zip past you underwater, just inches away. Even children from 6 years and up can hop off the boat and snorkel alongside the seals. But you are also welcome to simply stay dry and enjoy the view from the deck. The 1.5-hour adventure includes a scenic boat trip to the seal colony, all gear (wetsuits and snorkels) and expert guidance from trained PADI snorkel instructors. After your salty dip, refresh with hot showers, changing rooms and secure lockers at the Beacon Island Hotel. Booking ahead is essential!

Accommodations:
Silver - Plett Quarter Hotel
Gold - The Robberg Beach Lodge
Platinum - The Plettenberg

The drive from Plettenberg Bay to Tsitsikamma National Park is 57 km and shouldn't take more than 40 minutes. However, if you get hungry along the way, stop at Ristorante Enrico - a lovely Italian restaurant in Keurboomstrand (which is on your route). It's a prime site for watching dolphins and whales with swooping views across the bay, all the way to Robberg, and it's very kid-friendly.
Or drive to Brampton wines for a lovely wine tasting and a picnic overlooking the Tsitsikamma mountains. When you arrive at your destination, Robberg Nature Reserve and the Monkeyland & Birds of Eden sanctuaries make great activities to get you started!

Activities:

Robberg Nature Reserve
Start your day with a morning visit to the spectacular Robberg Nature Reserve, just 8 kilometres south of Plettenberg Bay. This World Heritage Site offers dramatic cliffs, coastal dunes, ancient caves, and Stone Age history. And don’t miss the Cape Seal Lighthouse, perched 146 metres above sea level. Look out for the tiny blue duiker, Cape fur seals basking on the rocks, whales or dolphins splashing offshore during the season, and fantastic birdlife to accompany you on your hikes. You can choose from three scenic hiking trails, ranging from an easy 30-minute loop to a challenging 4-hour adventure, all with breathtaking views.

Monkeyland and Birds of Eden combo visit
Spend a relaxing afternoon in Plettenberg Bay exploring Monkeyland and Birds of Eden - two neighbouring sanctuaries that make up part of the world-renowned Sanctuary Alliance. A combo visit allows you to enjoy both experiences in one go! Start with a 1-hour guided forest walk through Monkeyland, home to over 550 free-roaming primates who were rescued from captivity and now live happily in a 12-hectare indigenous forest. Then wander through Birds of Eden - the largest free-flight aviary on the planet - where more than 3,500 birds from 220 species flutter freely through lush forest and over a waterfall. You can explore the 1.2km canopy walkway at your own pace, or request a free guided tour for insider stories.

Accommodations:
Silver - Tsitsikamma Lodge and Spa
Gold - The Fernery Lodge and Spa
Platinum - Misty Mountain Reserve (Domes)

The Tsitsikamma National Park encompasses 80 kilometres of untamed coastline, dotted with glorious beaches, fynbos and evergreen coastal forest. Today the thrills don’t come from spotting lions (although you might see whales from June to November), but from conquering epic hikes, walking the 2 kilometres long suspension bridge over the Storms River, plunging into waterfalls and trying exhilarating outdoor activities… scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and tubing to name a few. And the adrenaline lovers among us can do the highest bungee jump in the world or an exciting tree-top canopy zip-line tour. Adventures galore!

Activities:

Kayak and Lilo Adventure (Tsitsikamma National Park - Storms River Mouth)
Paddle, float, and leap...that sums up the Kayak and Lilo Adventure at Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. The 2 to 3 hour trip begins with either kayaking across the ocean under the suspension bridge or hiking through the forest to start higher up, depending on sea conditions. You paddle through the gorge, passing caves, cliffs, and long stretches of still water before switching to a lilo to float deeper into narrow sections of the river. The return adds an optional round of cliff jumping into the deep pools, or you can simply enjoy the calm drift back.

Boat Tour at Tsitsikamma National Park - Storms River Mouth
The boat tour at Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park takes you through a gorge with cliffs that rise nearly 20 meters high. To reach the jetty, you walk 800 meters along the Mouth Trail to the suspension bridge, where the “Spirit of Tsitsikamma” departs. The boat carries up to 22 passengers and leaves every 45 minutes, with each trip lasting about 2 hours. Along the way, you pass caverns, narrow passages, and cliff faces, with the possibility of spotting bat colonies above.

Accommodations:
Silver - Tsitsikamma Lodge and Spa
Gold - The Fernery Lodge and Spa
Platinum - Misty Mountain Reserve (Domes)

It's a 110-kilometre drive from Tsitsikamma National Park to Jeffreys Bay, which shouldn't take more than 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, you might want to make a quick stop in St. Francis Bay and visit the lighthouse, admire the fancy marina or enjoy a relaxing canal cruise. From there, it's just a half hour's drive to J-Bay, the surf capital of South Africa!

Activities:

Canal Cruise in St Francis Bay
When travelling from Tsitsikamma to Jeffreys Bay, why not stop in charming St Francis Bay and enjoy a relaxing cruise through its picturesque canal system – the very first marina ever built in South Africa. Sit back in style as you drift along the scenic waterways, soaking up the tranquil surroundings. Your guide will share fascinating facts and inside stories about the canals, their origins, and the rich ecosystem they support. This leisurely activity is perfect for all ages. Don’t forget to book your spot and boarding is at a river barge named Topsy!

Accommodations:
Silver - The Ocean Bay Luxury Guesthouse
Gold - On the Beach Guesthouse
Platinum - Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation

Jeffreys Bay – or J-Bay to the locals – is a legendary surf town best known for its prime beaches, epic waves and laid-back surfers vibe. With world-renowned surf spots like Supertubes, Point and Kitchen Window, it’s a mecca for surfers chasing fast, powerful breaks reaching up to 12 feet. But there’s more: go sandboarding, stroll nature reserves, or visit the shell museum. J-Bay is also famous for its handmade leather goods, shell art and surf-inspired fashion (go shopping in Surf Village!) - plus a cool craft beer brewery to match the scene. And don’t leave without trying the local calamari, fresh from the ocean and straight to your plate.

Activities:

Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay
Ready for some high-speed fun on golden dunes? Sandboarding in Jeffreys Bay is perfect for all levels, with gentle beginner slopes and thrilling steep runs for the brave. It’s like snowboarding, just warmer – and with ocean views over St Francis Bay that might even include dolphins or whales (in season). Your 2-hour adventure starts at the Wacky Wipeouts Sandboarding Shack at Marina Martinique Beach parking, with all gear and instructions provided. Tours run daily at 10 AM and 2 PM, and you can even book an add-on kayaking trip or SUP on the lagoon for an extra splash of fun!

Accommodations:
Silver - The Ocean Bay Luxury Guesthouse
Gold - On the Beach Guesthouse
Platinum - Canal Guest House - Waterfront Accommodation

From Jeffreys Bay, you can choose two routes to reach Addo and the Addo Elephant National Park. Via the Groendal Nature Reserve and scenic views on its rolling hills, it takes 142 kilometres or a good two hours' drive to reach Addo. If you decide to take the alternative route through the city of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), it also takes two hours, but this route covers a distance of 182 kilometres. No matter which route you choose, the Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve is the perfect spot for a pit stop – and if you're passing there around lunchtime, try one of the fantastic beachfront restaurants, just a stone's throw from the reserve. Because ocean views pair with any dish!

Accommodations:
Silver - Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge
Gold - Elephant House
Platinum - Kuzuko Lodge

Addo Elephant National Park is the country’s third-largest game reserve, located right along South Africa's iconic Garden Route (meaning your drive already takes your breath away!). The park is home to more than 600 elephants AND to the Big Seven. Wait, what now? Yes, you read that right, the Big Seven! In Addo, the famous Big Five family of large safari animals extends its reach into the ocean to include the humongous southern right whale and the great white shark. And Addo is the only place where you have a chance to see them all!

Accommodations:
Silver - Barefoot Addo Elephant Lodge
Gold - Elephant House
Platinum - Kuzuko Lodge

The last drive of your itinerary is the one from Addo Elephant National Park to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), where you'll catch your flight. The drive is 112 kilometres and you can choose to take the route through the countryside or the one along the coastline. Both should lead you to your destination in 1.5 hours. Enjoy the magnificent scenery one last time and reminisce about your Big Seven encounters and all the other memories made.

Activities:

Flight home from Gqeberha/ Port Elizabeth (not included in the price)
All good things come to an end. This is your last day, and it's time to catch your flight home from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Sad to leave…? Not to worry! You can also hop on a domestic flight to Cape Town or Tshwane (Pretoria) and add a few days to your holiday. How about exploring (and tasting) world-class wines, hiking the Table Mountain and diving into the rich history of the country? Let us know your wishes, and we will gladly organise a holiday extension to help you explore other parts of South Africa.