SOUTH AFRICAN 4X4 ADVENTURE

After breakfast, the journey begins as we drive our 4×4 vehicles from the hotel towards the captivating Cederberg region in the Western Cape Province. This area is renowned for its remarkable rock formations and San Rock Art, showcasing the heritage of Africa’s earliest inhabitants, the San people.

The approximately 250km trip will take around five hours, encompassing a lunch break. Along the way, we will traverse the awe-inspiring Bainskloof Pass and pass through picturesque towns such as Wellington and Worcester, as well as the breathtaking Breede and Hex river valleys.

Our destination for the night is a private Nature Reserve, where unique rooms built into the sandstone hills provide an immersive bushveld experience. Upon arrival, there will be time to settle in before embarking on an unforgettable evening sundowner trip in the reserve’s game viewing vehicles.

Dinner will be served outdoors in a ‘boma’ amidst towering sandstone monoliths, with food prepared over open fires under the captivating African sky.

The remote and rustic charm of our accommodation marks the true beginning of our African adventure, promising an enchanting experience for all senses.

Continuing our journey from the Cederberg, we will travel east towards Sutherland and a cozy Guest Farm.

The route will lead us through the vast and captivating Great Karoo semi-desert region, showcasing its expansive landscapes, rugged mountains, and blackened terrain of the Tankwa Karoo.

After covering a distance of approximately 300km, we will reach our Guest Farm, located within the Biosphere Reserve in the heart of the Karoo. The area offers the opportunity, subject to conditions, to witness an extraordinary night sky, and nearby lies the Southern African Large Telescope, a 10- metre class optical telescope used for spectroscopy.

The Guest Farm is home to roaming game and cheetah, and we will have our own game drive on well-maintained gravel roads as we approach our accommodation, which operates on solar power.

Continuing our expedition, we will depart from the tranquility of Surtherland and head southeast towards an Outdshoorn based Private Game Lodge. The scenic drive, spanning over 4 hours, will guide us through breathtaking landscapes and mountain passes.

A highlight of the journey is the awe-inspiring Seven Weeks Pass, an 18km stretch of road considered one of the most stunning in South Africa and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival at the Game Lodge, nestled in the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, we will have the chance to relax on the deck overlooking a vast dam surrounded by wildlife or partake in an evening game drive before dinner.

The luxury tented accommodation provides an authentic African ambiance.

Today’s journey takes us through the picturesque valleys of the Swartberg Mountains, as we make our way towards Shamwari Game Reserve, the wildlife highlight of our adventure.

The route will treat us to diverse landscapes, from mountainous regions to expansive vistas under vast skies.

Upon arrival at Shamwari, we will spend two nights at this renowned reserve, which has been consistently recognized as one of the world’s leading game reserves.

The reserve is home to the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhinoceros, and African Buffalo), as well as freely roaming Cheetahs. Shamwari focuses on animal management and species conservation, and we will have the opportunity to explore one of their projects during our stay.

Today offers a day of leisure to explore the remarkable Shamwari Game Reserve.

Our luxurious accommodation at Long Lee Manor provides a stunning view of the expansive plains of Shamwari. Although it may not fit the typical safari architecture, this Edwardian-style lodge exudes elegance while honoring the region’s rich heritage. Long Lee Manor features a rim flow pool and a spa, offering opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

You can spend your free day enjoying the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or participating in an optional visit to one of the reserve’s conservation programs. Additionally, guided game drives present the chance to spot the renowned Big Five.

One week into our adventure and we will leave the splendid surroundings of Shamwari for our next destination the charming town of Knysna.

As we depart Shamwari, we will drive through Port Elizabeth (now known as Gqeberha) and head Northwest to the main feature of the day, the remarkable Prince Alfred Pass, a winding road with breathtaking views. This pass, built by Thomas Bain in the 1850s, leads us to Knysna, renowned for its estuary and the treacherous Knysna Heads.

Our two-night stay will be at a five-star boutique Hotel, a fascinating establishment that was once a turbine-powered power station, now converted into a unique hotel incorporating components of the turbines and factory.

Upon arrival, you will have the evening to explore Knysna. The region is characterized by the unique Fynbos vegetation, which is only found in the Cape regions of South Africa and holds great ecological significance.

Today provides a free day to discover the captivating town of Knysna and its surrounding areas. With its abundance of shops, restaurants, and captivating activities, Knysna offers a perfect setting for exploration.

As it is located in the renowned Garden Route, venturing an hour east or west along the coastline unveils a plethora of additional activities, adventures, and attractions to enjoy.

Additionally, there is an exceptional whale watching tour conveniently located near our hotel.

Today marks the departure from Knysna as we begin our return journey to Cape Town, heading west to yet another breathtaking Private Game Reserve.

Nestled on a 4,200-hectare reserve, this remarkable accommodation includes a 19th-century farmhouse and surrounding lodging. The reserve boasts an array of wildlife, with four of the Big Five species present, including Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, and Rhinoceros. In addition, there are 26 other game species, including Cheetahs, and over 200 bird species.

Upon arrival, we will enjoy a late afternoon game drive, allowing us to delve into the captivating reserve and appreciate the diverse array of Fynbos varieties that adorn the picturesque landscape.
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We will bid farewell to the enchanting Mossel Bay and embark on our journey to our next destination: Franschhoek, the renowned wine capital of South Africa.

This scenic route will lead us across the majestic Langeberg escarpment and passing through the charming towns of Barrydale and Montagu.

We will make a stop at the delightfully quirky roadside Cafe adorned with motoring memorabilia.

Finally, we will arrive at our fabulous Franschhoek Hotel, where our luxurious Villa Suites await, with time to explore this delightful town.

The final day of our African adventure has arrived, offering a plethora of activities to enjoy in the captivating town of Franschhoek.

Whether you choose to indulge in shopping, unwind at charming restaurants and coffee shops, embark on a winery tour with the Tram, or delve into the extensive collection of over 300 cars at the Franschhoek Motor Museum, there is no shortage of options to keep you engaged.

After a lie in and relaxed breakfast, you can spend the morning shopping and having a leisurely lunch before checking out of the hotel. We then drive to Cape Town to drop off the 4×4’s and head to the airport for your flights home. Hopefully with a lifetime of wonderful memories from your African Adventure!