Cape Coastal & Garden Route: 9-Day Road Trip from Table Mountain to Tsitsikamma
A nine-day road trip that stitches Cape Town to the Garden Route with game drives, coastal cliffs and high-adrenal side trips. Expect scenic drives, wildlife mornings in Addo, and optional bungy or zipline thrills in Tsitsikamma.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book high-adrenal activities in advance
Bungy jumps and zipline slots are limited—reserve ahead of time to secure preferred time windows.
Carry local cash for small vendors
Padstals, small markets and some reserves accept cash only—keep small bills handy for quick purchases.
Layer for coastal and inland shifts
Temperatures swing from cool coastal wind to hot Karoo afternoons—pack a windproof and a sun layer.
Respect wildlife viewing distances
On game drives and at penguin colonies, use boardwalks and let animals set the pace to avoid disturbance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early morning seal-watching boat at Hout Bay for quieter views of Duiker Island
- •Padstal and craft stops along Route 62 (Barrydale area) for local preserves and Karoo snacks
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •African penguin
Conservation Note
Addo Elephant National Park began as an elephant sanctuary and now balances tourism with habitat protection; Tsitsikamma and adjacent marine areas are managed to protect coastal forests and reefs.
The Cape of Good Hope area marks centuries of maritime navigation since European explorers like Bartolomeu Dias; inland towns like Oudtshoorn grew wealthy on 19th-century ostrich farming.
What to Bring
Lightweight daypackEssential
Holds water, camera, layers and snacks for hikes and game drives.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Useful for short coastal hikes, the Tsitsikamma suspension bridge and cave tours.
Sun protection (hat + SPF)Essential
Coastal glare and inland sun can be intense—protect skin and eyes during drives and outdoor stops.
Compact rain shell
Coastal weather can change quickly—keeps you dry during seaside walks or light rain.
Common Questions
Is the Table Mountain cable car included?
Yes — a Table Mountain cable car voucher is included, though closures for maintenance can occur in winter months; hiking routes remain open.
Are game drives guided and will I see the Big Five?
The tour includes a guided game drive in Addo and optional 4x4 drives at Botlierskop; sightings are likely but not guaranteed as wildlife is free-roaming.
What level of fitness is required for optional activities?
Most optional activities require only moderate fitness; cavern adventure tours or bungy jumping have specific restrictions—check age and health limits before booking.
Is airport pickup provided?
Yes — the tour includes airport or hotel pickup within Cape Town and Stellenbosch on the arrival day as specified in the itinerary.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 days
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level—able to climb short trails, walk cave chambers and tolerate multi-hour drive days.
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