South Africa Self-Drive Highlights

Fly overnight from the UK to Cape Town.

On arrival, collect your hire car and drive into the city to the suburb of Tamboerskloof on the lower slopes of Table Mountain where you will spend 3 nights at Parker Cottage, a welcoming owner-run boutique guesthouse offering a relaxed atmosphere and an excellent location from which to explore Cape Town.

Two free days to explore Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula. With Parker Cottage’s central location, the V&A Waterfront, Atlantic beaches and Table Mountain are spitting distance away. We can also arrange some great excursions and activities to show off the culture, history, and adventure of the city. See our Cape Town guide to find out more on what there is to do in the city.

See some of our best recommendations below!

• Table Mountain
• Penguins at Boulders Beach
• Camps Bay
• Robben Island Tour
• Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
• The V&A Waterfront
• Lion’s Head
• Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point)
• Chapman’s Peak Drive
• City Centre Walking Tours

We can help you decide! 

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your holiday

Leaving Cape Town in the rearview mirror, drive one hour into the stunning valleys of the Cape Winelands, arriving in the charming village of Franschhoek for a 2 night stay at Ashbourne House, an elegant boutique guesthouse within walking distance of Franschhoek’s renowned restaurants.

Enjoy leisurely days exploring the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, home to some of South Africa’s finest wineries and acclaimed restaurants. Ride the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram between estates, browse the village’s boutiques and galleries or simply relax amongst the vineyards whilst taking in the spectacular mountain scenery.

A beautiful 3hr drive will take you over the stunning Franschhoek Pass and south to the town of Hermanus on the Whale Coast to spend 2 nights at the 138 Marine Beachfront Guesthouse. Considered one of the best accommodation options in town, this friendly 6 room property offers great hospitality and a great coastal location!

Day 8 is free to explore the Whale Coast. During Whale season (June – December) you can enjoy land and sea based whale watching, and out of season you have great hiking, kayaking, surfing, boat trips and for the brave, cage diving with the Great Whites!

Today’s drive takes you inland along the scenic Route 62 through mountain passes and wide-open landscapes into the heart of the Klein Karoo, arriving in Oudtshoorn for a 2 night stay at La Plume Boutique Guest House.Set on a working farm with spectacular views of the Swartberg Mountains, this charming country retreat provides a peaceful escape surrounded by dramatic Karoo scenery.

Free time to explore the region’s unique attractions including the famous Cango Caves, local ostrich farms and unforgettable sunrise meerkat experiences.

Need help deciding? Talk to one of out experts today. 

Driving south to the coast, join the famous Garden Route and continue onwards to Plettenberg Bay for a 3 night stay at Bitou River Lodge, a relaxed boutique lodge overlooking the tranquil Bitou River and surrounded by nature close to Plettenberg Bay.

This beautiful stretch of coastline offers a wonderful mix of relaxation and adventure, from long sandy beaches and scenic lagoon cruises to ocean safaris in search of dolphins and seasonal whales.

The surrounding area is also home to excellent walking trails, indigenous forests and a number of fascinating wildlife sanctuaries and conservation areas, providing plenty of opportunities to experience the region’s unique natural beauty.

Ask us what we would recommend based on what you like.

Continue east to the malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park region where you will spend your final 2 nights at Camp Figtree. Hidden within the Zuurberg Mountains, Camp Figtree combines safari experiences with spectacular valley views, providing the perfect ending to your South African adventure.

Activities include self-drive & guided game drives into Addo Elephant National Park, guided walks, mountain biking, bush picnics and optional excursions to nearby private reserves for further wildlife experiences including lion tracking and horseback safaris.

If you would prefer to stay in a private game reserve for a more immersive safari experience then do ask us for recommendations.

After a final leisurely morning and breakfast, drive to Port Elizabeth International Airport, return your hire car and begin your journey home via Johannesburg.

Return home with unforgettable memories of South Africa’s spectacular scenery, exceptional hospitality and incredible wildlife encounters.

Welcome Home!