Embark on an unforgettable 13-day family journey through South Africa, combining city discovery, coastal adventure and an exciting wildlife safari. From Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain to the beaches and forests of the Garden Route and the Big Five plains of the Eastern Cape, this itinerary delivers fun, culture and connection for all generations.
Start your adventure in Cape Town, where cable cars, penguins and panoramic views await. Continue along the Garden Route to Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, exploring nature reserves, lagoons and beaches. Conclude with a malaria-free safari at Amakhala Game Reserve, where game drives and family-friendly lodges offer the perfect finale to your South African adventure. With private transfers, flexible activities and handpicked stays, this itinerary is designed for comfort, variety and memories that last a lifetime.
Based on 2 adults and 2 children.
Arrive in Cape Town and transfer privately to your hotel at the V&A Waterfront. Unpack and relax after your flight. With its restaurants, shops and sea views, this area makes an ideal base for your family’s first few days in South Africa.
Overnight: The Portswood Hotel – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Explore Cape Town on a guided morning tour visiting the Castle of Good Hope, the colourful Bo-Kaap district and the Company’s Gardens. Ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views, then enjoy the afternoon at leisure exploring the Waterfront or nearby beaches.
Overnight: The Portswood Hotel – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Set out on a full-day family adventure along the Cape Peninsula. Visit Hout Bay and take an optional boat trip to see the resident seals. Continue to Cape Point Nature Reserve and the Cape of Good Hope, then stop at Boulders Beach to meet the famous colony of African penguins.
Overnight: The Portswood Hotel – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Spend a relaxed day exploring Cape Town at your own pace. Families can enjoy a day at the Two Oceans Aquarium, a beach picnic in Camps Bay, or a visit to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Overnight: The Portswood Hotel – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Depart Cape Town and journey through the scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. Stop along the way at farm stalls and mountain viewpoints before arriving at your elegant country retreat.
Overnight: Rosenhof Country House – Luxury Room, Bed & Breakfast
Discover the dramatic Cango Caves with their vast limestone chambers and stalactite formations. Afterwards, visit a working ostrich farm for a fascinating look at these giant birds and the region’s rich farming heritage.
Overnight: Rosenhof Country House – Luxury Room, Bed & Breakfast
Drive through the Outeniqua Mountains to Knysna, where lagoons and forests meet the Indian Ocean. Take a family-friendly excursion to Featherbed Nature Reserve for scenic walks, wildlife viewing and breathtaking coastal views.
Overnight: The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa – Luxury Room, Bed & Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Knysna’s vibrant waterfront, art galleries and cafés. Families can visit Monkeyland, Birds of Eden or spend time on the beaches of nearby Plettenberg Bay.
Overnight: The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa – Luxury Room, Bed & Breakfast
Spend the day at leisure with optional excursions such as whale watching (seasonal), kayaking on the lagoon, or visiting local craft markets.
Overnight: The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa – Luxury Room, Bed & Breakfast
After breakfast, continue along the Garden Route to the Eastern Cape for your safari experience. Check in at Hlosi Game Lodge and prepare for your first afternoon game drive in a malaria-free reserve teeming with wildlife.
Overnight: Hlosi Game Lodge – Luxury Family Suite, Fully Inclusive
Enjoy two full days on safari with morning and afternoon game drives led by expert rangers. Children can join the Junior Ranger programme while adults relax with sundowners overlooking the plains. Spot lions, elephants, rhinos and giraffes before sharing stories around the evening campfire.
Overnight: Hlosi Game Lodge – Luxury Family Suite, Fully Inclusive
After a final morning safari and breakfast, transfer to Port Elizabeth Airport for your flight home or onward connection.
Browse our other destination itineraries and blog posts for insider tips, personalised recommendations, and advice on avoiding tourist traps – helping make every journey smoother, smarter, and more memorable.
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