Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer/Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town

A review of the Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer/Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town

If you’re looking for a day packed with diverse experiences in Cape Town, this tour offers an enticing mix of wildlife encounters, culinary tastings, and scenic views. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the consistent 5-star ratings and detailed reviews make it clear this is a well-loved choice for visitors seeking variety and authentic South African flavors.

What I love about this experience? First, the small-group size guarantees a more intimate and personalized vibe. Second, the combination of a game drive and tastings means no time wasted—you’re covering wildlife, local culinary delights, and beautiful vistas in one day. Third, the logistics are thoughtfully handled, with round-trip transport from Cape Town making it incredibly convenient. The potential downside? It’s a full day, so if you’re not a fan of long outings or early mornings, it’s worth planning accordingly. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife, good food, and scenic stops, especially those who prefer guided experiences over DIY planning.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to just 7 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Round-trip from central Cape Town makes logistics hassle-free.
• Variety of Stops: From wildlife safaris to olive and beer tastings, the day is diverse and engaging.
• Not Included: Lunch and alcoholic beverages are extra, but numerous options are available at stops.
• Expert Guide: The owner-driver provides informative commentary and takes care of all the details.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to see iconic wildlife, taste local products, and enjoy scenic coastal views.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day kicks off early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup, which is a huge plus—no need to worry about navigating or arranging transport. The air-conditioned Ford Tourneo Custom feels spacious and comfortable, and the driver/guide, Ian, has earned praise for his punctuality, friendliness, and extensive knowledge. From the start, the emphasis on seamless logistics sets a positive tone, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the ride.

As you head towards the West Coast, Ian shares insights about Cape Town’s history and landscapes, stopping along the way for some excellent photo opportunities. Expect to pass notable landmarks like the CTICC and scenic beaches en route to your first stop.

Darling Olives: A Tasting and Learning Experience

The first major stop, Darling Olives, is a highlight for food lovers. Here, you’ll get a 30-minute tasting session that showcases the farm’s extensive range of products, including extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), garlic-infused oils, jams, pastes, and even olive chocolates. The tasting is guided, so you learn about the different varieties and production methods, making this more than just a snack stop.

Guests consistently mention how enjoyable and informative this stop is—reviewers loved the variety, with one saying, “I really enjoyed the olive tasting, our first!” The farm produces high-quality products, and sampling them fresh is a true delight. Plus, the opportunity to shop for gifts or souvenirs adds to the value.

Darling Sweet: A Sweet Finish to Lunch

Post-olive tasting, the tour continues to Darling Sweets for a quick dessert. This little shop crafts homemade toffees in various flavors, and tasting them is free. Reviewers often mention how delicious and well-packaged the toffees are—great for gifting. It’s a sweet and satisfying way to cool down after the olive experience, and it lends a local, homemade touch to the day.

Scenic Stop at Bloubergstrand

Next, you’ll visit Bloubergstrand, which offers arguably one of the most spectacular views—especially of Table Mountain across Table Bay. The brief 10-minute stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. During summer, this spot becomes a kite-surfing hub, adding a lively, colorful backdrop to your visit.

Many reviewers comment that this view alone makes the trip worthwhile. It’s a quick stop that balances the day’s busy schedule, giving you that postcard-perfect shot of Cape Town’s iconic skyline.

Darling Brew: Beer Tasting and Lunch

The highlight for beer lovers? Darling Brew, Africa’s first carbon-neutral brewery. Established in 2010, this award-winning microbrewery serves a wide range of brews, from traditional lagers and ales to IPAs and darks. Each beer is named in honor of an endangered species, adding a meaningful touch.

Here, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour visit, including lunch at the brewery’s outdoor or indoor seating area. Although not included in the price, reviews rave about the quality and variety of beers—reviewers mention that tastings are quite generous, with some sampling four different brews for roughly 1 CAD each. The brewery’s modern, eco-friendly approach and excellent flavors make it a favorite stop, especially for those interested in local craft beer scenes.

Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve: Wildlife Encounter

The pièce de résistance is the Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve, a 1600-hectare preserve home to iconic African animals like lions, buffalo, white rhinos, giraffes, and more. The 3-hour safari is led by a knowledgeable ranger, with many guests saying they saw around 97% of the animals during their drive.

Reviewers laud the safari for its well-maintained vehicle, comfortable seating, and the chance to see animals in a semi-wild setting. While the reserve doesn’t have elephants or hippos, the variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, wildebeests, and reedbucks, keeps the experience exciting. The highlight? Being close enough to observe animals and even holding meerkats—something reviewers say is a must-do.

Wrapping Up the Day

The tour winds down with a final relaxed stop at Blue Peter, a beachfront spot where you can enjoy drinks with panoramic ocean views. Some reviewers mention ordering pizza to go—a casual, tasty way to end the day. The trip concludes with drop-off back at your hotel, making it an effortless full-day adventure.

What Makes This Tour Special and Why It’s Worth It

The tour’s small-group size (max 7 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, allowing for extra stops and flexible pacing. The thoughtful itinerary balances wildlife, food, and scenic views, giving you a well-rounded taste of Cape Town and its surroundings.

The guide, Ian, is frequently praised for his friendliness, punctuality, and knowledge, turning what could be a standard sightseeing day into something more engaging and educational. Reviewers note he’s attentive, sharing interesting facts about the areas visited and even taking photos to capture the memories.

The value is another strong point. While the tour costs around $228 per person, the wide range of experiences—game drive, olive and toffee tastings, beer and wine sampling—adds up to a fulfilling day. The fact that transport, water, and some snacks are included means you’re not worrying about extra costs until you sit down for lunch, which is a flexible, on-your-own choice.

Practical Considerations

Being a full 9-hour day, travelers should be prepared for an early start and a busy schedule. The included hotel pickup and drop-off are huge conveniences, especially if you’re staying centrally in Cape Town. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, and don’t forget sunscreen or a hat for the scenic stops.

While lunch and alcohol are extra, the stops are spaced out well, so you have options at each location. Many guests recommend the brewery’s food and beers, and the olive farm shop offers a tempting selection for souvenirs. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s worth noting that lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and drink enthusiasts who enjoy tasting local specialties and learning about regional produce. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the safari and the chance to see iconic animals in a semi-wild setting. Those who prefer guided tours with a personal touch will find Ian’s attentive hosting a standout feature.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a full-day, diverse itinerary with minimal planning hassle—ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and culinary discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within Cape Town, making it very convenient for visitors.

What is the tour duration?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Lunch and alcoholic beverages are not included, but there are multiple stops where you can purchase food and drinks.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is capped at 7 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience and flexibility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended since much of the day involves outdoor activities and scenic stops.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You are likely to see zebras, giraffes, rhinos, lions, buffalo, cheetahs, and more, depending on the safari’s wildlife activity.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour is designed as a fixed itinerary, but the guide’s attentiveness to your interests and the small group size allow for some flexibility on the day.

Final Thoughts

This Cape Town day tour offers a well-rounded experience combining wildlife, flavorful tastings, and scenic vistas, all wrapped in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The small-group setting, expert guide, and thoughtfully structured stops make it a standout option for travelers wanting an authentic taste of the region without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a foodie, or simply eager to see the Cape’s stunning coastline and landscapes, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments. It’s especially great for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, education, and leisure, all wrapped into one seamless package.

If you love discovering new flavors, spotting iconic animals, and soaking up breathtaking views, this is one Cape Town experience that’s hard to beat.