A Five-Day Western Cape Itinerary

The Garden Route is one of South Africa's most renowned attractions and rightly so. With picturesque towns around every corner, abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery, this is one part of the country that should not be ignored. Follow our five-day itinerary to get an idea of the wonders that can be uncovered in this region and then get to work planning your own trip down this spectacular route.

Day One

The trip starts out by driving through Eden Country that passes through the towns of Albertinia, Stillbaai, Riversdale, Heidelberg and Witsand. Each town has its own unique features, so prepare for a busy day as you go whale watching in Witsand, stop off at the Aloe factory in Albertinia and discover the Khoisan fish traps in Stillbaai. The adventurous can bungee jump off the Gouritz Bridge en route to Mossel Bay to spend the night.

Day Two

Spend your second day in Mossel Bay and choose from a variety of attractions. Take a boat out to Seal Island, go whale watching or head out on a game drive where you can not only meet the big five, but the big seven. For the real adrenalin-seekers, shark cage diving is a must.

Day Three

Leave Mossel Bay behind on day three and drive inland to the fascinating town of Oudtshoorn. Cool off from the desert heat in the startlingly beautiful Cango Caves which take you deep underground into a different world. Once back in the sunlight, you can visit the ostriches, crocodiles and tame cheetahs at one of the town's many farms.

Day Four

After a restful night under the vast night sky in Oudtshoorn, head back to the coast and the small town of Knysna. Drive down to the Knysna Heads in the Featherbed Nature Reserve or peruse the quaint shops and cafes. Drive on to Plettenberg Bay in the evening for dinner and a taste of traditional mampoer.

Day Five

Travel east out of Plett along the N2 highway through the Crags to Tsitsikamma at the mouth of the Storm's River. Here you can spend the day diving or snorkelling or canopying among the tree tops in the Tsitsikamma forest. Finally take the N2 to Port Elizabeth and reluctantly make your way back to your home town.