Cape Town: Garden Route and Addo Elephant Park 6-Day Safari

Travelers seeking a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural highlights will find this 6-day South African safari a compelling choice. Brought to life by Earthstompers Adventures, the tour promises a well-balanced blend of wildlife safaris, scenic drives, and active pursuits. The average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 158 reviews reflects how many have fallen for its authenticity and value.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the variety of activities like canoeing, hiking, and even optional adrenaline thrills such as bungy jumping and skydiving. Second, the diverse scenery—from the coastlines of Hermanus and Mossel Bay to the lush forests of Tsitsikamma and the wildlife-rich Addo Elephant National Park. Third, the local insights and guides—several reviewers praise their guides for knowledge, humor, and genuine care.

A potential consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of traveling in a relatively short period, which means long bus rides will be part of the experience. If you prefer slow-paced, relaxed vacations with lots of downtime, this might feel a touch busy.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity, wildlife spotting, and scenic landscapes. It’s also ideal for those looking to see a broad swath of South Africa’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail.

Key Points

• Active and engaging: Canoeing, hiking, safaris, and optional adrenaline activities keep the trip lively.
• Diverse landscapes: Coastal towns, indigenous forests, mountain passes, and game reserves.
• Authentic experiences: Local wine tasting, ostrich farm tour, and visits to cultural sites.
• Expert guides: Multiple reviewers commend guides for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Good value for money: Accommodation, most meals, and activities included for $788.
• Long travel days: Expect a fair amount of bus time, but with plenty of stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Cape Town to Hermanus and Cape Agulhas

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive from Cape Town along the coast, heading to Hermanus, famous for whale spotting from July to November. You’ll likely spend time walking along the seaside, soaking in the views, or perhaps spotting a whale or two from the shore—a highlight for many travelers.

Later, venturing to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, you’ll stand where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. This spot offers dramatic ocean views and a moment of awe at being at the continent’s tip. The reviews highlight how beautiful and calming this part of the trip is, with travelers noting the stunning coastal scenery.

Day 2: Oudtshoorn and the Ostrich Capital

Traveling via South Africa’s longest wine route, you’ll reach Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo, renowned for its ostrich farms. Several reviews mention the delicious local wines and the chance to learn about ostrich farming, both adding a layer of authenticity and local flavor.

The accommodation here is a working game farm, offering a rustic yet comfortable stay. As the sunset approaches, a tour of the ostrich farm provides insights into this unusual industry, with plenty of photo opportunities. This day exemplifies the tour’s mix of wildlife, scenery, and local culture.

Day 3: Wilderness and Sedgefield

Starting with canoeing in Wilderness National Park, you’ll paddle along the Touw River through indigenous forests—an activity praised for its peacefulness and birdlife. A short hike leads to a waterfall, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.

Later, the group explores Sedgefield, known for its beaches and laid-back vibe. This stop offers a chance to unwind, walk along the coast, or simply enjoy the scenery. Reviewers love the combination of adventure and leisure in this part of the trip.

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Day 4: Knysna, Tsitsikamma, and Onward to Addo

A highlight of the tour is visiting Knysna, home to the famous Knysna Heads, where the river meets the Indian Ocean. The views are stunning and often described as breathtaking.

Next, a visit to Tsitsikamma National Park offers a mix of indigenous forests and rugged coastline. Activities include hiking, crossing suspension bridges, and swimming—reviewers highlight the park’s natural beauty and the variety of options.

In the late afternoon, the journey continues toward the Addo Elephant National Park, where you’ll spend the night before your safari. Many travelers mention the excitement of heading to a Big Five reserve and the anticipation of wildlife encounters.

Day 5: Addo Elephant Park Safari and Return to Wilderness

The morning is dedicated to exploring Addo Elephant National Park, home to around 600 elephants and other wildlife like lions, buffalo, rhinos, and warthogs. The safari is described as a highlight, offering up-close wildlife viewing in a vast 28,000-hectare reserve.

In the afternoon, you’ll head back toward the Garden Route, staying overnight near Wilderness or Sedgefield. Reviewers note the value of seeing so many animals in such a large reserve and the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

Day 6: Mossel Bay and Return to Cape Town

Your last day includes a relaxing stop in Mossel Bay, where you can walk the Cape St. Blaize Trail along the cliffs or visit the Diaz Museum, commemorating the early European explorers.

For thrill-seekers, options like tandem skydiving or sandboarding on the dunes are available—though these activities involve extra costs and early wake-up calls. The trip wraps up with a scenic drive back to Cape Town, with many travelers feeling they’ve seen a diverse, authentic slice of South Africa.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

The reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable guides like Christine, Gareth, and Rochelle, who bring enthusiasm, humor, and local insights that make each stop special. Many mention how guides excel at balancing fun facts with practical advice, making the experience both educational and engaging.

The scenic variety is a major draw. From whale-watching in Hermanus to the stunning Knysna Heads and indigenous forests in Tsitsikamma, the tour offers a visual feast. Reviewers also appreciate the opportunity to see wildlife up close—elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalo—making the safari a memorable highlight.

Accommodation and food receive high praise, with options ranging from backpacker hostels to guesthouses, all described as neat, comfortable, and well-chosen for their locations. Many note the local wine tastings and farm visits as delicious and authentic experiences that enrich the journey.

The value for money is undeniable. For $788, most guests feel they received a comprehensive experience—covering transport, activities, most meals, and lodgings—without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation is a key feature here. The air-conditioned bus covers approximately 2,500 km over six days, which some might find lengthy but is balanced by the stunning scenery and diverse stops. Expect long drives, but also plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, or chat with fellow travelers.

The tour runs every Monday all year round, making it flexible for most schedules. The group size varies but generally includes other backpackers and guesthouse guests, with an average age of around 33. Older travelers up to 65 are also welcomed if they’re fit and healthy, which many reviewers confirm from their positive experiences.

Most activities and meals are included, with a few optional extras like bungy jumping, skydiving, or sandboarding that come at additional costs and require early mornings. Be prepared for some active days involving walking, paddling, and hiking, so comfort with movement is recommended.

Accommodations and Meals

The tour offers a mix of backpacker hostels and guesthouses, often praised for their neatness and local charm. Most breakfasts and dinners are included, with lunches on your own or provided during specific activities. Travelers frequently mention the quality and variety of food, from farm-fresh produce to local specialties.

Important Details

• The tour departs every Monday, all year.
• It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and bus journeys.
• The group tends to be a mix of solo travelers, couples, and friends.
• The cost varies depending on accommodation choices.
• Optional activities like shark cage diving or skydiving are available but cost extra.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 18, people with mobility issues, or those over 65.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This adventure-packed journey is perfect for those craving a balance of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences in South Africa. If you’re comfortable being on your feet, love exploring different environments, and enjoy learning from passionate guides, this tour will likely suit you perfectly.

It offers excellent value for money, especially considering the included activities, accommodation, and transport. You’ll leave with not just photos, but stories—plus a deeper understanding of South Africa’s natural and cultural tapestry.

However, if you prefer relaxing vacations or are less mobile, this might feel a bit fast-paced, and some activities could be less suitable. Still, for most adventurous souls, it’s a well-rounded introduction to one of Africa’s most beautiful regions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention making friends on the tour, and the group dynamic tends to be friendly and inclusive.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts and dinners are included, with some lunches provided during activities. Extra snacks or meals are at your own expense.

What activities are optional?
Options like bungy jumping, tandem skydiving, sandboarding, shark cage diving, and seasonal whale and dolphin watching are available at additional costs.

Is the tour strenuous?
Yes, it’s an active tour with walking, canoeing, hiking, and safari drives. It’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity.

How long are the bus journeys?
Long days are common, with some drives covering several hours. The scenery and stops help make the time enjoyable.

Can I choose different accommodation options?
Yes, the tour offers different accommodation levels, which influence the price. Reviewers say the standard options are neat and comfortable.

Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, scenic drives, or local culture, this 6-day South African safari offers a balanced, authentic experience that’s hard to match in value and diversity.

You can check availability for your dates here: