12 Day - DUR - Garden Route - Cape Town - 3/4 *

This tour takes you to the Coastal Town of Umhlanga.  Umhlanga itself is perfectly positioned for discovering further afield.  You can use it as your base for any leg of your South African adventure.  The town is situated 16 kilometres north of the centre of Durban.  And just ten minutes from the King Shaka Airport.  It’s easy to get to the many and varied Zulu Kingdom Game Reserves from Umhlanga.  You will visit the village, Chintsa, in the Wild Coast region of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. Visit the 3rd largest national park – Addo, located on the Eastern end of South Africa and offering great views of Elephants in the National Park.  Travel to beautiful Tsitsikamma, tucked between the mountains and the sea, offers beautiful forests, plentiful accommodation and numerous exciting activities.  Knysna is situated in the heart of the Garden Route and is the perfect town to stay while exploring the surrounding areas.  Knysna is a natural paradise of lush, indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches.  She nestles on the banks of a breathtakingly pretty lagoon. Explore the Ostrich Capital.  The towns of Oudtshoorn and De Rust are in the Klein Karoo between the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains.  Oudtshoorn is the ostrich capital of the world.  The world’s biggest bird is just one of the many attractions in this area of exceptional contrasts and natural beauty.  The region is home to the spectacular Cango Caves, Africa’s largest show cave system; an ecological hotspot where three distinct plant biomes (succulent karoo, cape thicket and fynbos) converge; and the Swartberg mountain range, which is part of the Cape Floral World Heritage Site.  Explore Cape Town, the “Mother City”with all it’s diverse cultures.  Enjoy some scenic drives along the coastal routes and visit some of the highlights Cape Town has to offer.  Enjoy some of South Africa’s best wines in the Stellenbosch Wine Region.

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Protea Marriott Umhlanga Hotel (Umhlanga – Durban) – 1 Night – VIEW FACT SHEET
• Inkwenkwezi Lodge (Chintsa – East London) – 2 Nights – VIEW FACT SHEET
• Zuurberg Mountain Village (Addo – Eastern Cape) – 1 Night – VIEW FACT SHEET
• Tsitsikamma Village Inn (Tsitsikamma) – 2 Nights – VIEW FACT SHEET
• Protea Marriott Knysna Quays Hotel (Knysna Waterfront) – 1 Night – VIEW FACT SHEET
• De Denne Country Guesthouse (Oudtshoorn – Klein Karoo) – 1 Night – VIEW FACT SHEET
• La Splendida Hotel (Mouille Point – Cape Town) – VIEW FACT SHEET OR The President Hotel (Bantry Bay – Cape Town) – VIEW FACT SHEET – clients to choose – 3 Nights

KEYS

• BB – Bed & Breakfast
• DBB – Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
• L – Lunch
• LD – Lunch & Dinner
• D – Dinner
• FB – Full Board (Breakfast; Lunch & Dinner)
• AI – All Inclusive (All Meals, selected drinks, Game Drives/Walk)
• G/Drive – Open Safari Vehicle Game Drive

Umhlanga – Durban
HOTEL:  PROTEA MARRIOTT UMHLANGA HOTEL

Umhlanga is an affluent residential, commercial and resort town north of Durban on the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.  It is part of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, created in 2000, which includes the greater Durban area.  The name means “place of reeds” in the Zulu language, and the correct pronunciation of “hl” in Umhlanga is similar to the Welsh “ll”.  It is bordered by Durban North to the south and Mt Edgecombe to the west.  It is well known for the Gateway Theatre of Shopping which is the largest shopping mall in the southern hemisphere.  It also has the second tallest skyscraper in South Africa named Pearl Sky which stands 183 meters high.  There are two beaches: Bronze Beach and Main Beach, both of which are patrolled by lifeguards throughout the day.  Umhlanga is one of the fastest-growing cities in South Africa.  Together, Umhlanga and Umdloti form the Sugar Coast of KwaZulu-Natal.  Umhlanga is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa.  There were 1.2 million visitors in 2015 which generated a GDP of R20-billion. In 2016, the tourism chairman Peter Rose said “I can confidently say that within the next five years you will not recognise uMhlanga,” Residents of Umhlanga have mixed feelings about the changes such as that it is losing its village appeal while they appreciate the new infrastructure and increased property values.  This 3-star hotel in Durban is your gateway to golden beaches, lush surroundings and the exhilaration of holidaying in an idyllic part of South Africa.  If you want stunning views overlooking the KwaZulu-Natal coast, look no further than Protea Hotel Durban Umhlanga.  Our modern hotel in centrally located in the heart of uMhlanga Rocks, situated 18 km from King Shaka International Airport, just a few minutes from the beach and 10 minutes to Durban city center.  The hotel offers friendly service, comfortable accommodations and most of the hotel’s 260 modern rooms feature breath-taking sea views, and are all elegantly and stylishly furnished.

Chintsa – East London
LODGE:  INKWENKWEZI PRIVATE GAME LODGE

Chintsa is a village in the Wild Coast region of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa.  It is situated 38 km north-east from East London, at the mouth of the Cintsa river.  There are two resort areas catering to tourists interested in sea fishing to the east and west of the river.  The village is in Xhosa country.  It has a laid-back atmosphere with low-cost accommodation and unspoilt white sand beaches in Chintsa East, backed by forested dunes, lagoons and rivers Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, South Africa, offers Big Five safaris, game drives, hiking, quad biking, canoeing and bird watching.  Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve near East London is home to the Big Five wildlife – Elephant, Lion, and Buffalo, Rhino and the elusive Leopard as well as many other fascinating animals both big and small including the rare White Lion.  Due to its unique position adjacent to the coast, guests can also spot a Southern Right Whale along these shores in season.  At this malaria-free Eastern Cape game reserve in South Africa, luxury safari tented accommodation is offered in Inkwenkwezi Bush Camp and Valley Camp.  The Restaurant at Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve boasts high thatched roofs and an elevated timber viewing deck with views of the Indian Ocean and the South African bush. Enjoy an elegant African dining experience complemented by authentic African décor.  The Sunset Lapa is the perfect spot to enjoy a sundowner drink while watching stunning sunsets.

Addo – Eastern Cape
LODGE:  ZUURBERG MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

Addo lies in a beautiful part of the world, surrounded by contrasting dense thickets of Spekboom, open grassy patches and the odd wooded kloof, making this an ideal overnight destination.  Visit the Addo Elephant Park. When staying at this Lodge, you can expect an unforgettable stay.  Zuurberg Mountain Village is a 150 year old haven of historical delight situated high up on the Zuurberg Pass in malaria-free Addo.  We are an exclusive mountain top Hotel, set in 160 hectares of indigenous vegetation with breath-taking views of the famous Addo Elephant National Park.  A mere one hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth we offer our guests nature, wildlife and tranquillity in the most majestic African setting.

Tsitsikamma – Garden Route
LODGE:  TSITSIKAMMA VILLAGE INN

The Tsitsikamma National Park habitat is a rocky coastline rising sharply through Afromontane forests to fynbos on the higher ground.  Tsitsikamma is a ramblers dream.  12 Trails take you into an enchanting world of tangled bush, dominated by forest giants such as the Outeniqua yellowwood, bastard ironwood and stinkwood.  The principal trail at the Tsitsikamma National Park is the Otter Trail (48km), regarded as Southern Africa’s finest coastal walk.  The trail leads west from the Storms River mouth to Nature’s Valley, crossing a landscape of lonely beaches, rocky shores, tumbling mountains bisected by rivers and ravines, and gentle plateaus covered by leucadendron, ericas and proteas.  It offers the Otter Trail, Birdlife and the Storms River itself.  Tsitsikamma is an adventure paradise with many trails.  Another popular attraction can be reached after a short walk into the famous Tsitsikamma forests.  The Big Tree, so-called as it is an incredible 36.6m tall with a circumference of 9m, is a must see.  If you like forest adventures, a canopy tour is in order.  Here visitors can zip line from tree to tree through the forest over giant ferns.

Knysna – Garden Route
HOTEL:  PROTEA MARRIOTT KNYSNA QUAYS HOTEL

The town is a popular destination for both tourists and senior citizens entering retirement, especially among the British and former expatriates due to the year-round warm climate.  Recently, the town has also become a preferred destination among golfers, as the town boasts several world class golf courses, including Pezula Golf Course, Simola Golf Course and the well established Knysna Golf Course situated on the lagoon.  It is near the towns of Plettenberg Bay and George, where there are airports.  Knysna is also home to Mitchell’s Brewery although the company no longer brews beers in the town.  The forest, rivers, estuary, and ocean surrounding the town are dotted with hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.  Hikers, runners, kayakers, swimmers, and fishermen are known to be particularly fond of Knysna.  One of the best hotel sites in South Africa, the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays enjoys a spectacular outlook of the popular coastal town of Knysna.  The hotel is nestled in the heart of the Garden Route and offers you a unique GUEST experience with premium accommodation accentuated with scenic beauty and natural surrounds.  Renowned as the perfect holiday destination, the hotel is set on the Knysna Quays Waterfront with the lagoon at your doorstep.  This stylish property is suited to both leisure and business travellers alike with sheer comfort assured.  Facing the warm Indian Ocean through the Knysna Heads, the hotel offers a tranquil stay in spacious rooms overlooking the magical Knysna lagoon, historical train station and the Knysna town.

Oudtshoorn – Klein Karoo
LODGE:  DE DENNE COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE

Oudtshoorn is home to the world’s largest ostrich population, with a number of specialized ostrich breeding farms, such as the Safari Show Farm and the Highgate Ostrich Show Farm.  Bhongolethu is a township 10 km (6 mi) east of Oudtshoorn. Derived from Xhosa, its name means “our pride”.  Oudtshoorn is the busy, vibrant commercial centre of the Little Karoo.  It is synonymous with superior ostrich related merchandise, feathers, art, culture and the renowned Cango Caves.  This modest Karoo town has transformed over the years to become a flamboyant and cosmopolitan town with unique character.  Oudtshoorn is the jewel on Route 62, longest wine route in the world, a paradise for outdoor lovers.  With so many ecological, geographical and botanical assets, the Klein Karoo is one of nature’s greatest masterpieces.  Breathtaking mountain ranges surround this beautiful town, which provide endless opportunities for adventure, contemplation and rejuvenation, with sunshine almost every day of the year.  Once a year, in March and April, it kicks up its heels when the Klein Karoo Art Festival, a whirl of entertainment, theatre, art and craft, comes to town.  With its great variety of interesting curio shops that specialise in ostrich products, excellent restaurants and accommodation to suit every taste and budget, the town itself is rich in culture, with museums, galleries and historic buildings at every turn.  In June Oudtshoorn hosts a large ‘Youth Festival’.  The town bills itself as ‘The Ultimate Destination. This Country Guest House is situated on a working ostrich and Alfalfa farm and offers tranquility, spectacular views and soul touching moments. many activities include bird watching, scenic walks, stargazing, environmental and farm tours where you can experience the ostrich chicks hatching.  Activities also available in the area to enjoy is the Sunrise Meerkat Tour, Cango Caves, feeding the elephants and visiting Highgate Ostrich Farm.  De Denne Country Guesthouse is perfectly situated for a day visit to the surrounding towns of Prince Albert, Mossel Bay, Calitzdorp (The Port Capital) and Knysna. Perfect for romantic getaways or family fun time, with modern amenities and old-world charm.

Mouille Point / Bantry Bay – Cape Town
HOTEL:  LA SPLENDIDA HOTEL OR THE PRESIDENT HOTEL – Bantry Bay – clients can choose

Perched between the ocean and the mountain, with a national park as its heart, there is nowhere like Cape Town.  Cape Town, the Mother City”, is the oldest city in South Africa and has a cultural heritage spanning more than 300 years.  The unique topography of the region makes it easy to orientate oneself as long as you remember that with Table Mountain behind you and Robben Island before you, you are facing north, looking across Table Bay and up the west coast of Africa.  It is in Cape Town that the Rainbow Nation really covers the spectrum.  Between beautiful Cape Dutch homesteads, traditional dancers with painted faces performing in the streets, the smell of spicy Malay cooking and the taste of a well-made wine, this city will fill your senses.  Cape Town offers top attractions from Table Mountain which you can access via Cable Car OR Hiking, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Boulders Beach with Penguins, Robben Island, Cape Point and many more.  You will also have a chance to visit the wonderful Winelands of Stellenbosch.  Sidewalk cafés, the expansive Atlantic Ocean and a bustling promenade set the scene where La Splendida is found, in Mouille Point.  This region is incredibly trendy and forms part of Cape Town’s upmarket Platinum Mile.  The hotel is ideally suited to its surrounding environment as it similarly exudes a fashionable look and modern feel.  La Splendida’s prime location, moments away from Cape Town Stadium, Green Point Park and the V&A Waterfront, add to the hotel’s appeal and the convenience it offers guests.  Although surrounded by much excitement, the hotel maintains a peaceful, seaside atmosphere.

OR Located in Bantry Bay between the vibrant city and the Atlantic Ocean, the President Hotel welcomes you to Cape Town and all its breathtaking sights, thrilling activities and inspiring experiences.
Sophisticated luxury and personal service come standard, while local style, authentic artwork and innovative design set us apart as the most-loved destination hotel in the Mother City.

NOTE:   Optional Add On’s & Room Upgrades –  Available at an Additional Costs – see day to day info below.

DAY 1:  PROTEA MARRIOTT UMHLANGA HOTEL – Umhlanga – DURBAN

On arrival – collect rental vehicle and transfer to hotel.   Car Rental.  Leisure.  Discover the taste of a traditional Durban “bunny chow”, consisting of a hollowed out loaf of bread filled with curry.  Enjoy this flavorsome dish as your host explains its origins and history within the Durban Indian community.  

• Included:  BB
• Option/Add On:  Car Rental

DAY 2:  INKWENKWEZI PRIVATE GAME LODGE – Chintsa – EAST LONDON

Travel south into the heartland of the Xhosa people and on to Chintsa, a little piece of paradise with 15km (9.3 mi) of beach.  Enjoy a beach walk.  PM Game Drive and Dinner included @ the Lodge

• Included:  DBB + PM Game Drive

DAY 3:  INKWENKWEZI PRIVATE GAME LODGE – Chintsa – EAST LONDON

Leisure Day.  Embrace your adventurous side and cycle or jump on the bus to Mama Tofu’s Xhosa Village for an inspiring cultural experience.   Enjoy a Beer Tasting by visiting the local craft brewery Emeraldvale to taste real home-brewed ale.  AM or PM Safaris included at the Lodge.  Dinner @ the Lodge included

• Included:  DBB + AM or PM Safari Game Drive

DAY 4:  ZUURBERG MOUNTAIN VILLAGE – Addo – EASTERN CAPE

Today, cross many unique valleys and continue on to the Addo Elephant National Park – (Entrances own cost) a unique wildlife area.  Enjoy a wildlife safari drive in your own vehicle.  Listen to the wild sounds of Africa while enjoying a sundowner (cheers!).  Dinner @ the Lodge – included.  

• Included:  DBB

DAY 5:  TSITSIKAMMA VILLAGE INN – Tsitsikamma – GARDEN ROUTE

Afternoon visit to Tsitsikamma National Park.  Visit the Big Tree, Hike Otter Trail – (all entrances at own cost).  Dinner Included @ Local Marilyn’s 60’s Diner.

• Included:  DBB

DAY 6: TSITSIKAMMA VILLAGE INN – Tsitsikamma – GARDEN ROUTE

Walk Suspension Bridge.  Maybe enjoy Bungi Jump at Bloukrans from the arch of Africa’s biggest bridge.  Do Beer & Cheese Tasting included at Lodge.  Dinner @ the Lodge included.

• Included:  DBB + Beer & Cheese Tasting
• Option/Add On:  Bungi Jump at Bloukrans

DAY 7:  PROTEA MARRIOTT KNYSNA QUAYS HOTEL – Knysna Waterfront – GARDEN ROUTE

Travel further west to the town of Knysna, famous for the Knysna Lagoon and the “Heads”.  Enjoy a Sunset Cruise to the Heads on John Benn – included.

• Included:  BB + Sunset Cruise on Knysna Lagoon

DAY 8:  DE DENNE COUNTRY GUEST HOUSE – Oudtshoorn – KLEIN KAROO

Continue to Oudtshoorn – Visit Highgate Ostrich Farm Tour – included & continue to Cango Caves & enjoy lunch there (own account).   Continue to lodge and enjoy Dinner @ the Lodge – included.

• Included:  DBB + Ostrich Farm Tour

DAY 9:  LA SPLENDIDA HOTEL – Mouille Point – CAPE TOWN OR  THE PRESIDENT HOTEL – Bantry Bay – clients can choose

Early Departure to Cape Town via Stellenbosch.  Enjoy a Wine Tasting & Pairing at Lanzerac in Stellenbosch (own account).  Continue to Town.   You can explore the city on the Hop on Hop off Red Bus City Tour.  

• Included:  BB

DAY 10:  LA SPLENDIDA HOTEL – Mouille Point – CAPE TOWN OR  THE PRESIDENT HOTEL – Bantry Bay – clients can choose

Visit Cape Point; Boulders Beach, maybe get a chance to swim with the penguins.  Enjoy a walk in Kirstenbosch Gardens (entrances own cost).  

• Included:  BB

DAY 11:  LA SPLENDIDA HOTEL – Mouille Point – CAPE TOWN OR  THE PRESIDENT HOTEL – Bantry Bay – clients can choose

Leisure day.  If you want to enjoy a trip up Table Mountain Cable Car or take a boat trip to Robben Island.   If you looking for something more adventurous, try out Paragliding.   Dinner @ City Grill in V&A Waterfront included.

• Included:  DBB
• Option/Add On:  Paragliding

DAY 12:  DEPARTURE DAY – Cape Town

Visit the V&A Waterfront before departure via Bloubergstrand for Postcard photos of Table Mountain and continue to Cape Town International Airport.  Drop Car.  Depart

• Included:  BB

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

•  Accommodation as stated (or alternative if not available – this will be communicated to the clients)
•  Breakfast daily
•  7 x Dinners
•  2 x Game Drive at Inkwenkwezi Lodge
•  1 x Cheese & Beer Tasting in Tsitsikamma
•  1 x Sunset Cruise on Knysna Lagoon
•  1 x Highgate Ostrich Farm Visit

PACKAGE EXCLUDES:

•  Porterage – not included
•  Transport (Car Rental available to add on / as Option)
•  Flights back & from your Hometown
•  Medical Insurance (for clients own account)
•  Visa’s (clients need to arrange where needed themselves)
•  Service Fees at Restaurants / Lodges not included for staff
•  Entrances at own costs (as indicated on the day to day information)
•  Meals not included in itinerary (see day by day)
•  Drinks not included in itinerary (see day by day)

OPTIONAL ADD ON’s:  Available on various days of the Tour (See Day to Day) at Additional Costs.