South Africa - Featured Trips

Enjoy the unexpected pleasures of the Breede River Valley and Klein Karoo along Route 62, a scenic inland route which links the harbour cities of Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Route 62 is a shorter, more interesting and uncrowded alternative to the N2 highway, and greatly affects the economy of smaller towns and communities which have been beautifully preserved. You will soon discover that the area offers the visitor an adventure, both in the physical sense, and visually, with a kaleidoscope of scenic experiences. The Robertson Wine Valley is one of the Western Cape's best kept secrets and the region produces some of South Africa's finest wines.

This itinerary is ideal for second time visitors, who have already experienced the Garden Route and Cape Winelands and are looking for a different experience. The ideal traveller prefers the freedom to explore sights and attractions at their own pace, have a sense of adventure, and appreciate the charm and quirkiness of small town culture. Accommodation offered is a mix of mid-range farm-style country houses, a luxury safari lodge and an intimate coastal guesthouse, and the itinerary can be tailored to accommodate families with children.

The safari location is selected for the beautiful setting, diverse ecosystems and variety of game, although not a Big Five experience. What makes the game experience at Samara also interesting is their Cheetah Conservation project.

On arrival at Cape Town airport, collect your rental car (based on Group B - Toyota Yaris 1.4 Sedan or similar with Super Cover) and make your way through the Hugenot Tunnel along the scenic Route 62 to the Robertson Wine Valley. Distinctive blends from all the noble cultivars and classic styles may be sampled and most farms readily welcome visitors for wine tasting.

Overnight at the historic Jan Harmsgat farm (FTTSA accredited) established in 1723, and indulge in an authentic country ambience and history. Overnight at Jan Harmsgat Country House - Standard room on BB basis.

Travel through the spectacular Robertson Valley. The Sauvignon Blancs, Chenin Blancs and the new Ruby Cabernet wines of the region are legendary. An excellent choice of small roadside lunch stops is available at Barrydale. Vegetation gradually changes to dry Karoo semi-desert shrub, followed by an unbelievable drive through mountain canyons and onwards to Oudtshoorn, South Africa's ostrich capital.

Your accommodation is at a working ostrich farm just outside the town of Oudtshoorn. Overnight at De Zeekoe Guest Farm - Luxury room on BB basis.

Oudtshoorn is situated between the majestic Swartberg and Outeniqua Mountains and an ecological hotspot where 3 plant biomes converge. The regions slogan is 'Come for the Sun' and the climate is mild, even in mid-winter. Explore the surrounding areas with a variety of activities and attractions to choose from, including the world renowned Cango Caves, various ostrich farms, Meerkat Magic, birding and hiking. Overnight at De Zeekoe Guest Farm - Luxury room on BB basis.

Make your way through the winding mountain passes deeper into the Karoo towards the town of Graaff Reinet. A heart stoppingly beautiful African setting awaits you at the award winning Samara Private Game Reserve. The 70,000 acres of private Karoo bushveld offers breathtaking and far reaching views, 4 Biospheres, dramatic mountains, complex and diverse eco-systems.

The lodges offer exceptionally elegant accommodation with outstanding service and Karoo cuisine. Overnight at Samara Game Reserve - Mountain Retreat on FB basis plus two game drives.

Explore the reserve through their wide range of available activities, including day & night game drives, guided nature walks, cheetah tracking on foot, excursions to view ancient Koi San rock art paintings and star gazing. Families with children should request further information about Samara's AardvARK special children's programme. Overnight at Samara Game Reserve - Mountain Retreat on FB basis plus two game drives.

After your last morning game drive you will continue to the coastal town of Cape St. Francis, a quaint and picturesque seaside village. The area is known for its sunny summers, long sandy unspoilt beaches and clear blue sea. Your accommodation (FTTSA accredited) is situated in a 600 hectare conservancy only minutes away from beaches and restaurants. Overnight at The Dunes Country House on BB basis.

Visit nearby beaches, enjoy guided and/or self-guided nature walks, bird-watching, do the unique nightly frog safaris, star gazing, dolphin & whale watching (in season), river & canal cruises, horse riding or a day trip to nearby game reserves. Or just relax and enjoy a magical moonlit massage at the Dunes Bush Spa. Overnight at The Dunes Country House on BB basis.

Travel along the coast or N2 Highway to Port Elizabeth. Drop your hired car off at Port Elizabeth airport in time for your flight back to Cape Town.

As with all our itineraries, this trip can be fully tailored to suit your own unique requirements and interests. We can add and/or change destinations and activities. We would recommend adding to the start of this trip our Cape Town Art & Culture City Tour (5 days) to make this into a full 2-week itinerary.

If you would like to explore more of the Karoo and enjoy further exciting activities, please check out our Stay Another Day suggestions below. All of these options create jobs & social upliftment and are as environmentally friendly as possible. They are also carefully chosen for their sustainability and many are FTTSA accredited.

Stay Another Day - Western Cape
Stay Another Day - Garden Route

£1,200 per person sharing in Low Season (generally May-Aug)
£1,270 per person sharing in High Season (generally Jan-Apr & Sep-Dec)

Prices based on min of 2 people travelling and Peak Season supplements may apply.

* This itinerary is available with an International Flight. Prices vary according to date of departure so please contact us for an exact quote. BAOBAB Travel is an ATOL bonded tour operator (ATOL 9168)

Terms and Conditions apply. Price is subject to availability and subject to change due to currency fluctuation.

8 nights accommodation on mixed board basis
9 days car hire Group B (Toyota Yaris 1.4 or similar) with Super Cover (nil excess)
3 days safari at Samara
internal flight (Port Elizabeth - Cape Town)

Meals and activities not stated in itinerary
Items of a personal nature
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Visa cost
* International British Airways flight incl. airport taxes and fuel surcharges