7-Day Garden Route & Wild Coast Cape Town to Durban Tour

Thinking of discovering South Africa’s coastline without the hassle of planning every detail? This 7-day Garden Route & Wild Coast tour offers a relaxed, organized way to see some of the country’s most iconic spots. We’ve studied this experience closely and found it perfect for travelers who crave authentic scenic beauty, local culture, and a mix of outdoor activities—all with the convenience of guided logistics.

What stood out to us? First, the combination of scenic drives and engaging stops—from wine estates to whale watching—makes the journey feel both luxurious and adventurous. Second, the balance of free time and guided experiences allows for personal exploration, like relaxing at beaches or enjoying optional activities such as Bungy Jumping. Lastly, the inclusive accommodations and breakfast help streamline your trip, making it easier to focus on what matters: the incredible views and local flavor.

The only potential consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of driving—up to 15 hours on some days—so it’s best suited for those who love road trips and are comfortable with long travel days. If you prefer a more leisurely pace with less time in transit, this might feel a bit intensive.

This tour appeals most to adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the diverse coastal regions of South Africa with a trusted guide.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery combined with cultural stops
• Flexible options, including optional Bungy Jumping for thrill-seekers
• Comfortable accommodation and breakfast included, for convenience
• Expertly arranged logistics minimizing planning stress
• Authentic experiences like wine tasting and whale watching
• Long travel days, suitable for travelers comfortable with road trips

Exploring the itinerary in detail

Day 1: From Cape Town to Hermanus via Benguela Cove Wine Estate

The trip kicks off early at 7 am, whisking you along South Africa’s stunning coast. The first highlight is Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, where you get to taste five different top-rated South African wines. This is a fantastic intro to the local wine culture and sets the tone for a leisurely, indulgent journey.

Next, the group heads to Hermanus, a seaside town famous for whale watching. The town’s beaches, like Voëlklip and Grotto Beach, face Walker Bay and provide excellent vantage points for spotting whales in season. The Old Harbour Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s maritime past, with whale skeletons and local fishing history.

This first day is a gentle start, combining scenic views, wine, and coastal charm, and you’ll stay overnight in Hermanus—perfect for unwinding after the drive.

Day 2: From Hermanus to Knysna via Jeffreys Bay

Traveling eastward, the journey takes you to Jeffreys Bay, a legendary surf spot. Here, you’ll stop for lunch and some beach time, soaking in the famous, safe surf beaches known worldwide for their perfect waves. According to reviews, guests love the “beautiful coastal towns” and the relaxed vibe.

From Jeffreys Bay, you’ll head to Knysna, spending two nights in this lush, vibrant town. Knysna is a highlight of the Garden Route, packed with natural beauty and outdoor activities. Reviewers frequently mention the town’s “rich cultural heritage” and “outdoor experiences,” making it a top destination for families and adventure lovers alike.

Days 3 & 4: Discovering Knysna and Plettenberg Bay

On Day 3, the focus is on the Knysna Heads—the dramatic cliffs guarding the estuary. It’s a spot that offers stunning views and perfect photo opportunities. The Knysna Quays Waterfront is the perfect place to unwind, with options for a sunset cruise (not included but available as an extra) or just relaxing at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Day 4 takes you to Plettenberg Bay, renowned for its pristine beaches and wildlife sanctuaries like Birds of Eden and an elephant sanctuary. The day’s schedule seems packed, but reviews highlight how the beaches and nature reserves make Plett a “beautiful coastal city,” and many appreciate the chance to see migrating whales if in season.

Day 5: Adventure at Storms River and the Bloukrans Bungy

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Storms River Bridge, where the optional BLOUKRANS BUNGY EXPERIENCE awaits thrill-seekers. This is Africa’s highest commercial bungy jump—an adrenaline rush you’ll remember forever. Reviewers mention ziplining to the jump point as a fun extra, adding to the adventure.

Later, the tour heads to Port Elizabeth, known for its beaches and wildlife reserves. While this day involves a long drive, it’s an opportunity to enjoy South Africa’s scenic coast and perhaps spot some seabirds or whales if the season allows.

Days 6 & 7: The Wild Coast and Durban

The journey continues along the Wild Coast Route, with stops at Port St Johns, a small town with rugged natural beauty. The coastal and inland travel offers a mix of scenic views and local village visits—an authentic look at South Africa’s diverse communities.

On the final day, after breakfast, the tour heads south to Port Edward, another resort town known for its beaches. From there, it’s a relatively short drive to Durban, where the tour concludes around 6 pm. This stretch offers a relaxed end to a whirlwind week of exploration.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Transport & Group Size: The tour is organized by Africa Top Tours, and it’s a private group experience—meaning your group will be the only participants, adding comfort and flexibility. The transportation is likely vehicle-based, with scheduled pickups, making logistics straightforward.

Accommodations & Meals: Six nights of hotel stays with breakfast included help ease the planning — you won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay or breakfast each morning. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and adventure.

Activities & Optional Extras: Key experiences include wine tasting at Benguela Cove, whale watching in Hermanus, and the Bungy Jump at Bloukrans. The Bungy is optional but highly recommended for adrenaline junkies. Most activities are included, but some extras like sunset cruises or special boat rides are not.

Travel Time & Pacing: Some days involve up to 15 hours of travel, which might sound daunting. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long road trips and open to a more “see-it-all” style adventure.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer described the experience as “a wonderful 7 days on tour,” appreciating the mix of game viewing, hiking, beaches, and local encounters. They emphasized how well the tour balanced sightseeing with relaxation, mentioning the “beautiful coastal towns.”

Another review highlighted the “great time” spent traveling along the coast, enjoying the scenic views and meeting locals. The reviews point out that you’ll see some of the most beautiful spots South Africa has to offer, with guests especially appreciating the stunning vistas from the Knysna Heads and Plettenberg Bay.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-organized adventure that combines scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural stops, this tour is a fantastic fit. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy long drives with plenty of sightseeing stops and are comfortable with some optional adrenaline activities like Bungy Jumping.

Nature lovers will revel in whale watching, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries, while those interested in local wines will appreciate the tastings at Benguela Cove. It also suits families and groups seeking a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 7-day journey offers an immersive experience of South Africa’s coastal beauty and cultural richness. The combination of scenic drives, unique stops like the Knysna Heads, and optional adventures such as Bungy Jumping ensures there’s something for all. The inclusion of comfortable accommodations and breakfasts makes it a great value, especially considering the extensive itinerary.

The tour’s pacing, with long travel days, might not suit everyone, but for those who enjoy a road trip with plenty to see and do, it’s ideal. The reviews confirm that guests come away with unforgettable memories—whether it’s the stunning views or the thrill of jumping from Africa’s highest bridge.

If you’re after a hassle-free, comprehensive tour of South Africa’s coast that promises adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel accommodation for six nights, six breakfasts, transportation, and several key activities such as wine tasting, whale watching, and Bungy Jumping (optional).

How long are the travel days?
Some days involve up to 15 hours of travel, so be prepared for long road trips. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind extended travel times.

Can I skip the Bungy Jumping?
Yes, Bungy Jumping is an optional extra. If you prefer to skip it, you can enjoy the other activities and take in the scenery.

Are meals included aside from breakfast?
No, additional meals are not included, but there are plenty of options available at each stop, especially at waterfronts and beach towns.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While the exact season isn’t specified, whale watching in Hermanus is seasonal, so check specific timing if seeing whales is a priority.

How many people will be in my group?
The tour is designed for a private group, so group size depends on your booking, but it’s not a large bus tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most activities are family-friendly, but consider the long travel days and optional high-adrenaline activities like Bungy Jumping.

What are the accommodation standards?
The tour provides hotel stays with breakfast, focusing on comfort and convenience. Specific hotel details aren’t listed, but reviews suggest they are comfortable.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

This detailed, balanced look at the 7-Day Garden Route & Wild Coast Tour points to an exciting, well-rounded South African adventure, perfect for those who want a taste of everything from wine and beaches to wildlife and adrenaline.