13 Day Safari – Cape Town to Johannesburg

Introduction

Travelers seeking an immersive journey through South Africa will find this 13 Day Safari from Cape Town to Johannesburg a compelling choice. With a stellar 5.0-star rating based on 11 reviews, it’s clear many have enjoyed the mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences packed into this trip.

What we love most? The chance to spot the Big Five at Kruger, the diversity of landscapes from the Drakensberg Mountains to coastal towns, and the convenience of having accommodations and activities pre-arranged. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour covers a lot of ground, making it ideal for active travelers or those eager to see as much as possible. If you love wildlife, scenic drives, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour might be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combining wildlife safaris, scenic stops, and cultural sights.
• All accommodation included, making planning easier and more comfortable.
• Expert guides with extensive local knowledge enhance the experience.
• Diverse landscapes from vineyards to mountains and beaches.
• Value for money considering the number of major attractions and included activities.
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and nature.

A Closer Look at the 13-Day Itinerary

This privately guided tour is designed for those who want to see South Africa’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. The trip balances wildlife encounters with cultural visits and scenic drives, making it a well-rounded experience.

Day 1: The Wine Route and Oudtshoorn

Your journey kicks off on the famous R62 Wine Route, renowned as the longest wine route in the world. Expect to cruise past rolling vineyards, quaint towns like Worcester, Robertson, and Montagu, and indulge in wine tasting at a local winery — a lovely way to start your adventure. Reviewers have appreciated the “beautiful vineyards” and the chance to sample some good South African wines right from the outset.

Next stop is Oudtshoorn, known for its ostrich farms and stunning landscape. The visit includes a guided tour of a wildlife ranch, which gives insight into the local fauna. This stop offers a mix of rural charm and wildlife education, with free admission to the ranch allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

Day 2-3: Knysna and Plettenberg Bay

The tour continues to the charming coastal town of Knysna, famous for its Knysna Heads — dramatic cliffs guarding the entrance to the lagoon. Expect to explore beaches, forest trails, and learn about the area’s cultural heritage. The Knysna Quays adds a lively, waterfront vibe to your experience. Reviewers mention the “iconic” Knysna Heads and the area’s natural beauty as highlights.

On Day 3, the adventure takes you to Robberg Nature Reserve, a must-see for hikers and nature lovers. You can choose between 1, 2, or 4-hour hikes, each revealing the breathtaking cliffs, prehistoric rocks, and diverse flora. This site is recognized as a World Heritage Site, and visitors often comment on its stunning views and the chance to spot ocean life and fynbos.

Later, in Plettenberg Bay, you’ll relax on sandy beaches, taking in scenic ocean views and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the “beautiful setting” and the opportunity to unwind after days of travel.

Day 4-5: Wildlife and Coastal Towns

A brief but thrilling stop at Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world’s highest bungy jump (optional, at around $50). For adrenaline junkies, this is a bucket-list moment; those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can skip it.

From there, the tour heads to Addo Elephant National Park for a game drive. As South Africa’s third-largest reserve, it’s regarded as a prime Big Five location. Expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and other wildlife, often with expert guides pointing out hidden animals and sharing insights about their behaviors. Reviewers rave about the chance to see elephants up close and mention the “big 5” sightings as a highlight.

Day 6-7: Cultural Heritage and Mountain Views

Following the wildlife safari, the journey takes a cultural turn with visits to Mvezo, Nelson Mandela’s birthplace, and the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha — a chance to learn about South Africa’s struggle for freedom. These stops are appreciated for their educational value, with guides providing meaningful context.

Next, the tour explores Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site, both iconic landmarks. The falls are described as “majestic,” and the Mandela sculpture and museum offer a deeper understanding of the nation’s history. The Drakensberg Mountains provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for overnight stays, with plenty of hiking opportunities.

Day 8-10: Mountain Adventures and Coastal Delights

Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains is a definite highlight, with some trails offering challenging ascents and spectacular vistas. Many reviewers mention the peaks’ snow-capped beauty in winter and the lush flora.

Post-hike, the tour moves to Durban, where a city tour covers the promenade, Victoria Market, botanic gardens, and city hall, giving a taste of urban South Africa. Then it’s off to iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, with an optional hippo and crocodile boat cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary. Reviewers love this boat safari for its close-up views of hippos and crocodiles, describing it as a “must-do” experience.

Day 11-12: The Game Reserve and Safari

The journey through Mpumalanga leads to the famous Kruger National Park, where the biggest wildlife spectacle awaits. A full day in an open 4×4 with a qualified guide offers excellent chances for spotting the Big Five: lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. The reviews consistently mention how memorable and exciting these safaris are, with many noting the abundance of animals and the knowledgeable guides who help identify them.

Day 13: Final Stop and Return

The trip concludes with a scenic drive through Mpumalanga, passing local villages and rural scenery, before heading back to Johannesburg. The entire experience offers a thorough snapshot of South Africa’s natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and history.

What Makes This Tour Worth Considering?

Exceptional Guides and Well-Organized Travel

The consistent praise for guides, especially their local knowledge and friendly approach, makes a difference in creating a seamless experience. Reviewers mention guides like Tim, who “knows the trip like the back of his hand,” helping travelers navigate the itinerary smoothly.

Balance of Wildlife, Scenic Drives, and Cultural Sights

This tour isn’t just about seeing animals; it offers a layered experience that includes scenic coastal towns, mountains, and cultural landmarks such as Nelson Mandela’s birthplace and the Mthatha museum. The inclusion of wine tasting on the R62 and visits to iconic sites like Howick Falls add variety.

Comfortable Accommodation and Convenience

For a cost of around $3,463 per person, accommodation is included for 12 nights, with breakfast each morning. This setup alleviates the typical stress of coordinating lodging, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying each stop.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Activities

Highlights like the Robberg hike, hippo boat cruise, and the chance to see the Big Five in Kruger are not just tick-the-box moments—they offer real, memorable engagement with South Africa’s natural and cultural environment.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Given the extensive itinerary, this trip is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long days on the road and early starts, especially during safari days. Some reviews note that communication about accommodations prior to the trip could improve, but once underway, the organization appears to be smooth.

The bungy jump at Bloukrans is optional, which is good to know for anyone wary of heights or tight on extra cash. Because the tour covers a broad geography, travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, from mountain mists to coastal humidity.

The Sum Up

This 13 Day Safari from Cape Town to Johannesburg offers an impressive balance of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, cultural insights, and relaxing coastal stops. The inclusive approach to accommodation and activities simplifies planning, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle.

It’s especially suited for those who value knowledgeable guides, diverse landscapes, and authentic adventures like safaris, hikes, and boat cruises. The consistent praise from previous travelers, citing memorable wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery, underscores the value of this tour for anyone eager to explore South Africa in depth.

While it requires some stamina and an openness to a packed schedule, the variety of experiences and expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment for adventurous travelers looking to see the best of South Africa in just over a week and a half.

FAQ

Is accommodation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides accommodation for 12 nights with breakfast included, ensuring a comfortable stay at each location.

Can I opt out of activities like bungy jumping?
Absolutely. Bungy jumping at Bloukrans Bridge is an optional extra, costing around $50, so you can choose to skip it without impacting the rest of your itinerary.

What wildlife might I expect to see at Kruger?
The safari at Kruger often results in sightings of elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and kudus, with many reviewers mentioning how abundant and close-up these animals are.

How long are the drives between destinations?
Expect long travel days, such as the eight-hour journey through Mpumalanga to Kruger, but these drives are considered part of the adventure, offering scenic views and local insights.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though the extensive travel and early mornings might be less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, considering the scenery and wildlife, you might find favorable weather during South Africa’s spring and autumn months, with winter providing snow-capped mountain views.

What makes this tour stand out from other South African safaris?
With a strong focus on diversity—covering coastline, mountains, cultural sites, and wildlife—along with expert guides and well-organized logistics, it offers a comprehensive and authentic South African experience.