Wildlife Safaris & Road Trip
Garden Route, Big 5 game drives, ocean kayaking.
Operated by Ilios Travel
$0 charged today. We place a pending $1,080 hold — released if the trip doesn’t lock in, captured as your deposit (25%) if it does.
- Group of 8–20 friends
- Lock-in defaults to 8 (you choose)
Powered by TrovaTrip · 4.7★ · 33k+ travelers
About this trip
Epic road trip through South Africa’s Garden Route. Penguin kayaking, Cape Peninsula tour, Table Mountain, Big 5 safari game drives, monkey sanctuaries, snorkeling with seals, wine tasting.
What’s included
- Double occupancy in 3-star hotels
- Local Guide
- All city transfers
What’s not included
- International flights
- Food & alcohol (except as noted)
- Visas & travel insurance
- Tips for Guides
What you’ll do
- Cape Town ArrivalAirport pickup, welcome dinner on the V&A Waterfront.
- Table MountainCable car up Table Mountain, city tour, Bo-Kaap.
- Cape PeninsulaBoulders Beach penguins, Cape Point, Chapman’s Peak drive.
- HermanusCoastal drive, optional cage diving or whale watching (in season).
- Garden RouteDrive through the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay, monkey sanctuary.
Day by day9 days · 4 cities
- Day 1
Welcome to Cape Town!
Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
Stay (one of these)2 nights- Old Bank Hotel★★★★Overnight in Cape Town.
- Kloof street hotel★★★★Overnight in Cape Town
- Radisson Cape Town Foreshore★★★★A serene city oasis ideally located near the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Relax in one of the modern rooms with views of the city skyline or Table Mountain. Enjoy Italian-inspired dining at Filini, rooftop cocktails at ELVN11 Rooftop and workouts at the fully equipped fitness center.
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsDinner - Day 2
Adventure Along the Cape
A day dedicated to exploring Cape Town's natural attractions. In the morning, a transfer will take you to Hout Bay over Chapman's Peak, and on to Boulders Beach to view the African Penguin in their natural habitat! Following this, a journey by vehicle will lead you to Table Mountain National Park. You will first visit the Cape of Good Hope, a pristine area marking the most southwestern point of the African continent. Here, you'll embark on easy walks, and then enjoy some free time for lunch at your leisure. Continuing the adventure, a visit to Table Mountain awaits, offering an exhilarating ascent via cable car to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. You'll return to your hotel in the late afternoon. For today's adventure, we recommend comfortable walking shoes, accompanied by a hat, sunglasses, and a bottle of water.
- Boulders Beach PenguinsBoulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. You will be able to view the penguins in their natural habitat from the wooden walkways, and you'll also be able to learn more about these amazing birds by stopping in the information center.10:00· 60 min· Cape Town
- Transfer · Cape Town → Boulder's BeachDepart the hotel and take a private transfer to Boulder's Beach.60 min
- Transfer · Boulder's Beach → Table Mountain National ParkA scenic private transfer will guide you through the captivating landscapes of Table Mountain National Park.60 min
MealsBreakfast - Day 3
Zipline Adventure
Say farewell to Cape Town as you journey southeast toward the picturesque seaside town of Hermanus. Along the route, brace yourself for an exhilarating stop at Elgin Valley, where an exciting zipline adventure awaits. Glide across mountain cliffs and soar like a bird above the stunning Riviersonderend Gorge. Following the zipline adventure, continue your scenic drive to Hermanus, arriving in the afternoon. Along the way, indulge in a lunch stop at a charming farm stall, where you'll have some free time to savor a meal at your own expense. For the zipline excursion, be sure to pack warm clothes, as Cape weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the mountains. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are advisable for this adventure.
- Cape Canopy Zipline TourArrive in Elgin Valley -- a lush area nestled amidst majestic mountains. Prepare for an exhilarating stop at Cape Canopy, your destination for an incredible zipline adventure. The experience comprises eleven thrilling slides, some spanning over 985 feet, each culminating on a platform perched atop the cliffs overlooking the awe-inspiring Riviersonderend Gorge. A highlight of this adventure is the unique suspension bridge, traversing a narrow sandstone ravine above a magnificent double waterfall -- a sight sure to etch itself into your memory! Trained guides will accompany each group on the approximately 4-hour tour. To ensure smooth logistics, groups larger than 8 travelers will run in concurrent half-hour timeslots, accommodating 8 people per slot. At the reception area, a cozy coffee shop awaits, offering a delightful cup of coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi, and additional drinks and snacks for purchase. Please note, reaching the zipline area requires a 4x4 ride followed by a 1-mile hike. This thrilling activity, unfortunately, is not suitable for pregnant individuals, and has a weight limit of 265 pounds. It is also not recommended for those with a fear of heights. After completing the zipline adventure, restroom facilities are available at the entrance before you rejoin the vehicle to continue your transfer to Hermanus.08:30· 240 min· Hermanus
- Transfer · Cape Town → HermanusAfter an early breakfast, pack your luggage and prepare to check out of the hotel. Then, jump into the vehicle and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive from Cape Town to Elgin Valley, where you'll enjoy a thrilling zipline activity. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.private · 120 min
- Transfer · Zipline Tour → HermanusFollowing your zipline tour, resume the transfer for another 2-hour drive to Hermanus. A midday stop at a charming farm stall is planned, allowing you the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your own expense. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.120 min
Stay (one of these)1 night- Windsor Hotel★★★Overnight in Hermanus.
- Harbor House★★★★Overnight in Hermanus
- Houw Hoek Hotel★★★Hotel
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfast - Day 4
Cage Diving & Safari Adventure
Continue your journey along the iconic Garden Route, leading to a unique lodge nestled amidst the wildlife landscapes of Albertinia. In the morning, a stop at Gansbaai offers an optional shark cage dive -- an exhilarating encounter with these powerful sea creatures! For those choosing not to participate, take advantage of the free time to leisurely explore the untamed beauty of Gansbaai's wild beaches. Following this, resume your drive to Albertinia, with a lunch stop en route. Upon arrival and settling into the lodge, a sunset safari is planned, promising an opportunity to encounter Africa's legendary 'Big Five' animals. Later, dinner awaits at the lodge's restaurant. For the shark cage dive, it's advisable to bring a swimsuit and flip-flops. As for the safari, be sure to have a jacket, fleece, beanie, and scarf for cooler evening temperatures. Additionally, having mosquito repellent on hand is recommended!
- Transfer · Hermanus → AlbertiniaAfter an early breakfast, pack your luggage and prepare to check out of the hotel. Then, jump into the vehicle, and enjoy a scenic 1.5 hour drive from Hermanus to Gansbaii, where the optional shark cage dive activity takes place. Following this optional shark cage dive, the transfer resumes for another 4-hour drive to your lodge at Albertinia. A gas station stop along the route is planned, where you can purchase sandwiches and drinks for your lunch. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.private · 330 min
Stay (one of these)1 night- Garden Route Game Lodge★★★Overnight in Albertinia.
- Surval Boutique hotel★★★★Overnight in Oudtshoorn
- Hlangana Lodge★★★★Overnight in Oudtshoorn
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfastDinner - Day 5
Sunrise Safari & Stand-Up Paddle
Today calls for an early start, but trust us, it's entirely worth it! At sunrise, immerse yourself in another incredible safari experience, offering a glimpse into the diverse morning wildlife. After the game drive, indulge in a satisfying breakfast at the lodge, and then set off on your journey towards Plettenberg Bay, a picturesque coastal city. Your guide will choose the perfect spot for a lunch stop along the route, where you can enjoy a meal at your own expense. Once settled into your hotel, head to the beach for a stand-up paddleboarding adventure on the tranquil waters of Keurbooms Estuary. For the sunrise safari, be sure to wear warm clothing, and for the SUP activity, anticipate getting wet, so wearing a swimsuit is advisable. Don't forget to bring along a backpack with a towel and a change of clothes for added comfort.
- Big 5 Morning Safari Game DriveSet your alarms early for a unique experience as you embark on the second safari of your South African adventure. Today the game drive activity starts before sunrise; and unlike the previous evening's sunset safari, this time you'll witness the awakening savanna. The morning light casts a different ambiance, offering a chance to spot an array of wildlife distinct from those seen during the evening hours. Board the safari vehicle as the dawn breaks, and keep your eyes peeled for animals that prefer the cooler temperatures of the morning, which might include various antelope species, zebras, giraffes, and perhaps elusive predators starting their day. To keep you warm and energized during the safari, hot drinks and snacks will be provided. After 2 hours, return to the lodge where a hearty breakfast awaits. It's also time to check out of the hotel, and then jump into the vehicle for your journey to Plettenberg Bay.06:30· 150 min· Plettenberg Bay
- Transfer · Albertinia → Plettenberg BayAfter breakfast at the lodge, it's time to embark on your journey towards Plettenberg Bay. Anticipate arriving around noon, where your first stop will be at a recommended restaurant selected by your guide. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure. Following lunch, proceed to your hotel for check-in and some time to freshen up.private · 180 min
Stay (one of these)2 nights- Bayview Hotel★★★Overnight in Plettenberg Bay.
- Plett Quarter Hotel and Apartments★★★Overnight in Plettenberg Bay
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfast - Day 6
Wild Encounters & Swimming With Seals
Embark on a day dedicated to discovering the natural wonders of Plettenberg Bay! Your morning begins with a scenic transfer to the eastern countryside, where you'll have the opportunity to visit two sanctuaries. First on the itinerary is Monkeyland, a sanctuary where various primate species roam freely. Following this, you'll explore Birds of Eden, a sanctuary where birds enjoy free flight in a natural habitat. Both visits involve leisurely walks, allowing you to immerse yourself in these conservation efforts while learning about their dedication to animal welfare. Later, a transfer will take you to Robberg Beach. Here, a thrilling 10-minute boat ride awaits to transport you to a seal colony. Prepare for an unforgettable snorkeling experience amidst these playful creatures. Attire for today's adventures should be comfortable, including walking shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. Don't forget to bring along a backpack containing a swimsuit, water shoes, a towel, and a change of clothes for use after snorkeling.
- Monkeyland & Birds of Eden SanctuariesAfter breakfast, a quick 30-minute transfer will whisk you from Plettenberg Bay to two animal sanctuaries. The first stop is Monkeyland, an innovative haven where more than 550 primates roam freely. Here, you will find glimpses of diverse species like Capuchin Monkeys and Ring-tailed Lemurs. An impressive 128-meter suspension bridge offers a captivating forest canopy view. The sanctuary not only shelters rescued primates but also reintroduces endangered species into the wild. Exploring Monkeyland's flat trails typically takes about 1 hour. Next, a brief 5-minute stroll connects you to Birds of Eden Sanctuary. Hosting over 220 bird species and providing a haven for 3,500 birds, this sanctuary stands out for its commitment to bird welfare. The diverse aviary, housing exotic and African birds, showcases varied habitats, ensuring a holistic experience for bird species. About an hour's exploration along the sanctuary's walkways awaits! Both sanctuaries offer cafes and restroom facilities. Remember, touching or feeding the animals is strictly prohibited. After these visits, your journey continues to Robberg Beach for a snorkeling activity. En route, a brief stop at a local restaurant offers you the opportunity to enjoy a quick and satisfying lunch, at your own expense.09:00· 120 min· Plettenberg Bay
- Snorkeling with SealsAfter visiting the sanctuaries, a 30-minute transfer will take you to Robberg Beach. Before reaching the beach, you'll stop at a local restaurant for lunch at your expense. Upon arrival at the beach, you'll be provided with a wetsuit, mask, and fins. Following a safety briefing and instructions from your guide, a 20-minute boat ride will bring you close to Plett’s colony of Brown Fur Seals in their natural habitat. Situated in the Robberg Nature Reserve, the seal colony eagerly welcomes visitors, showcasing their acrobatic skills and playful nature upon your arrival. These Brown Fur Seals are friendly and enjoy interaction, showcasing pure joy as they engage with guests. It's advised not to tug back if they playfully interact with your equipment to avoid startling them. The seal swimming adventure is safe, requiring no prior skills. After enjoying your time in the water, you'll return to the beach. Changing facilities will be available for you to switch into dry clothes, followed by a short 10-minute transfer back to your hotel.14:00· 90 min· Plettenberg Bay
MealsBreakfast - Day 7
Nature Hike & Cave Exploration
Today marks your westward journey through the Garden Route! Before leaving Plettenberg Bay for Oudtshoorn, we have one last thrilling activity planned. After checking out from the hotel, a brief transfer will whisk you to the Robberg Nature Reserve, where a scenic hike awaits. Following this exploration, you'll embark on the journey to Oudtshoorn. Upon arrival, our first stop will be the Cango Caves, a fascinating network of caverns adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Here, you'll navigate narrow passages and thrilling tunnels. We'll conclude the day by reaching your hotel in the late afternoon. For today's adventures, it's recommended to dress comfortably in hiking shoes and athletic attire to fully enjoy the activities
- Robberg Coastal HikeAfter enjoying breakfast and checking out of the hotel, you'll head to the Robberg Nature Reserve with a short 15-minute drive. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you along pathways and sandy trails that wind through the reserve. The trails here cater to various skill levels and timeframes, with the most common trail extending for around 3.5 miles. This trail leads to the spectacular Witsand dune, offering panoramic views of the coastline and frequent opportunities to spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and diverse bird species. The Robberg Coastal Trail promises an adventure that blends natural beauty with thrilling wildlife encounters, making it a must for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers. Make sure to carry ample water, wear hats, apply sunscreen, and opt for sturdy hiking shoes. Be ready for potential weather changes along the way. Restrooms are available at the parking area. Once you've concluded your hiking experience, you'll hop back into the vehicle to begin your transfer to Oudtshoorn.07:00· 120 min· Plettenberg Bay
- Cango Caves TourUpon arrival in Oudtshoorn, your journey begins with a captivating exploration of the Cango Caves before your hotel check-in. These subterranean marvels greet you with towering limestone formations and an irresistible air of mystery. Your adventure kicks off with a guided tour, leading you through a complex network of caverns. Renowned for their extraordinary dripstone formations, these caves exhibit a mesmerizing showcase of stalactites and stalagmites. Meandering through narrow passages and vast chambers, the magnificent formations, meticulously shaped over centuries, command attention with their sheer scale and intricate allure. Please note that this excursion involves traversing thrilling passages and narrow tunnels, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Prepare to crawl, slide, and climb—immersing yourself fully in the art of spelunking. The duration of the activity spans approximately 1.5 hours. Once you have finished, a brief 30-minute transfer will whisk you away to your hotel.15:00· 90 min· Oudtshoorn
- Transfer · Plettenberg Bay → OudtshoornAfter the hike at Robberg Nature Reserve, it's time to continue your journey toward Oudtshoorn. Expect to arrive early in the afternoon, with the Cango Caves as your first stop. Please note that there will not be a restaurant stop available for lunch today, but there will be opportunities for gas station stops where you can purchase snacks and beverages.private · 180 min
Stay (one of these)1 night- De Zeekoe★★★Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
- Hlangana Lodge★★★Overnight in Oudtshoorn
- Gondwana Game Preseve★★★★Overnight in Herbertsdale
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfast - Day 8
Journey to Cape Town
Today marks the return journey to Cape Town via the picturesque Route 62. An optional sunrise safari is available for those seeking more wildlife encounters, specifically a chance to observe meerkats. If you opt out, you can enjoy a few extra hours of sleep back at the hotel. After the safari, return to the hotel for breakfast and check-out before starting the transfer to Cape Town. Along the way, we'll make a stop at a local winery for a wine tasting experience. There, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at the winery's restaurant at your own expense. Please note, for the meerkat safari, it's advisable to dress warmly with a jacket, fleece, beanie, and scarf.
- Wine TastingAfter a 3-hour drive, we'll pause at the boutique Van Loveren Winery, nestled in a stunning natural setting. Your guide will teach you the winemaking process, from the vineyards to the glass. Explore the nuances of three different wine varieties during the tasting, discovering their distinctive flavors. Feel free to wander the gardens and revel in the winery's beauty. The winery offers a restaurant where you can opt for lunch at your expense. Please note, the specific winery may vary based on availability. As time for lunch is limited, it's advisable to enjoy a quick meal to continue our journey to Cape Town.14:00· 45 min· Cape Town
- Transfer · Oudtshoorn → Cape TownAfter breakfast and hotel check-out, we'll begin our transfer to Cape Town. After 3 hours, we'll make a stop at a local winery, nestled in a beautiful natural setting. Following your winery visit, we'll continue our journey with another 2.5-hour transfer, arriving at the Cape Town hotel in the late afternoon.private · 360 min
Stay (one of these)1 night- Old Bank Hotel★★★★Overnight in Cape Town.
- Kloof street hotel★★★★Overnight in Cape Town
- Radisson Cape Town Foreshore★★★★Overnight in Cape Town
You’ll stay in one of the above (or another property of equivalent tier). twin occupancy.
MealsBreakfastDinner - Day 9
Goodbye, South Africa!
All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
MealsBreakfast
Common questions
How does this work?
You start the trip and pick possible dates. Friends commit by putting a card on file — $0 charged today. Once 8 friends commit and ops confirms, the trip locks in and we capture a 25% deposit. If we don't hit 8 in time, every hold is released and nothing happens.
When am I actually charged?
Only if the trip locks in (8 friends commit) AND TrovaTrip ops confirms the booking. Until then your card is just authorized — no money moves. At lock-in we capture a 25% deposit; the remainder is due ~60 days before departure, same as any TrovaTrip trip.
What if we don’t get enough friends to commit?
If we don’t hit 8 commitments before the window closes, every hold is released automatically. $0 charged, the trip just doesn’t happen.
Can I cancel after I commit?
Yes — anytime before lock-in your hold is released, no questions asked. After lock-in (and once the deposit is captured), standard TrovaTrip cancellation policy applies based on how close to departure you are.
Does the price change as more friends join?
On trips with group discounts, yes — the more friends commit, the lower everyone's price. The final price is set at lock-in based on the size of the group at that moment. Everyone pays the same.
What if I want different dates than the group?
When you commit you pick which of the proposed dates work for you. If the group lands on a date you can't do, your hold is released and you're under no obligation.
Who's actually running the trip?
TrovaTrip handles all the logistics — flights, hotels, guides, on-the-ground operator (Ilios Travel for this one). We've run thousands of group trips across 80+ countries. Once your group locks in, our ops team takes over and you get a real human point of contact.
Do I need a TrovaTrip account?
To start a trip, yes — that's how we know who to coordinate with. To commit as a friend you can do it as a guest (just email + card), or sign up — whichever's easier.