Compare Kruger & Cape Town Short Break by Plane by Intrepid Travel vs Cape Town & the Coast by Great Value Vacations

Day 1 Johannesburg / Greater Kruger National Park

Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. Your adventure starts very early this morning to get you to Kruger for a late lunch. You'll arrive in the Greater Kruger National Park in the afternoon and after some time to settle in, you'll head off on a 3-hour game drive in open 4WDs through a private game reserve. Enjoy the thrill of spotting impalas, zebras, giraffes and lions among the brush. Half way through the safari, stop for drinks at one of the waterholes before continuing the game drive into the early evening. Tonight, why not get to know your fellow travellers a little better in the intimate lodge setting?

Day 2 Greater Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa and is home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog. This morning you'll rise early, heading into prime game viewing areas to catch a glimpse of some of the Big Five. Have breakfast at one of the picnic spots then continue through the park – game viewing, bird watching and stopping off at the various waterholes. Leave the park in the late afternoon and return to the lodge for an evening of relaxation.

Day 3 Greater Kruger National Park

Today is another full day of exploring Kruger National Park. Head out on game drives, look out for your favourite animals, soak in the atmosphere and excitement of a safari and take as many photos as your heart desires! Tonight, you'll spend another evening at your lodge. Why not relax around the fire, listening to the night sounds of Africa after dinner.

Day 4 Greater Kruger National Park

Spend the day at the lodge at your leisure today or take part in the optional drive along the Panoramic Route, viewing the Drakensberg Escarpment – some of the most stunning scenery South Africa has to offer awaits. The sights on this drive can include God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and some of the magnificent waterfalls within the Blyde River Canyon.

Day 5 Johannesburg

Rise early this morning and head out on a morning bush walk. Guided by a qualified nature guide, you'll learn about nature's finer details like bird, tree and spoor identification. Transfer back to Johannesburg in the early afternoon. There's plenty of time to stop and explore along the way and take in the amazing views at the viewpoint over the Blyde River Canyon and the Three Rondavels. When you arrive, you'll be dropped at the Holiday Inn Rosebank where you'll spend the night. The hotel has a restaurant and bar, and is also located next to the Mall of Rosebank.

Day 6 Cape Town

Check-out of the hotel after breakfast today and transfer to the airport. Fly to Cape Town and when you arrive, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Cape Town's stunning coastline, dominating mountain and modern cityscape makes it one of Africa's most appealing cities for visitors. With vineyards on its doorstep, adventure activities around every corner and plenty of restaurants and cafes to while away the time, this is a very easy city to spend time in. You have a free afternoon here, so maybe take a stroll around the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, laze on one of the city’s popular beaches or sample your first taste of authentic South African cuisine while watching the sun set over the bay.

Day 7 Cape Town - Walking Tour & Cape Point Peninsula

Today, you'll drive along the peninsula and see the many natural highlights of the area before retracing 350 years of Cape Town’s history on a two-hour walking tour of the city. Starting on the Atlantic Seaboard, take in natural sights like Maiden's Cove, Sentinel Lookout and the Cape of Good Hope in Table Mountain Nature Reserve. Look out for local wildlife, walk up to the old lighthouse at Cape Point and see the place where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Carry on to Simonstown, the home of the South African Navy, and to Boulders Beach to see the African penguins. See the prison where Nelson Mandela spent six years of his life then learn about the history of apartheid as you arrive into Cape Town's centre. Gain valuable insight into the effects of racism and discrimination on the lives of modern-day South Africans. See historical sites like the Castle of Good Hope (the oldest existing colonial building in South Africa), significant slavery sites such as the Iziko Slave Lodge Museum, the District Six Museum and the parliament buildings where apartheid laws were made and later repealed. End the day with a photo stop in Bo-Kaap.

Day 8 Cape Town - Winelands

Spend a full day travelling through Cape Winelands, visiting both old and new estates for a taste of the region’s best wines. You'll start off in the Fairview Estate for a wine and cheese tasting. On the slopes of the Paarl Mountain, this working farm is world-renowned for its wines, artisanal cheeses and the iconic goat tower. After, visit the Groot Drakenstein prison where Nelson Mandela was released in February 1990. Then, it's into the hills to Franschhoek. The view of the valley from here is lined with rows of manicured vineyards. Soak up the scenery and enjoy a glass of the region's finest from Rickety Bridge in the La Cabriere Estate. You can take the chance to lunch at the estate’s gourmet restaurant or visit one of the village’s many cafés instead. This afternoon you'll visit the college town of Stellenbosch to wander the boulevards and town center before heading to your final activity – a cellar tour at Hidden Valley Estate, which sits on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. You'll also indulge in a chocolate and wine pairing experience to elevate your time here. Later, return to the city for a free evening.

Day 9 Cape Town

Today is a free day in Cape Town to explore at your own pace. Maybe hit the beach for a full day of relaxation in the sun or hop on the revolving cable car and set off on one of the hundreds of hiking trails that criss cross Table Mountain to its summit. You could even strap on a harness and abseil down! Alternatively, you could head to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were detained or take in the atmosphere of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Tonight, unwind in the evening with an optional group dinner and another few glasses of the region’s best vino.

Day 10 Cape Town

Today is another free day to enjoy this great city. Perhaps take the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour around Cape Town or take a kayaking tour in the morning of the city's gorgeous oceans.

Day 11 Cape Town

Your adventure comes to an end today. There are no activities planned for the final day and you can depart the accommodation at any time after check out. Additional accommodation can be booked if you’d like to extend your time in Cape Town, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Day 1 Welcome to Cape Town!

As your plane floats down to land, peek out at the majestic mountains and deep blue waters that await you below! Upon arrival in Cape Town International Airport (CPT), you will be welcomed by a friendly travel representative who will shower you with tips, directions, and suggestions.

Next, pick up your rental car and take off! Take a scenic drive along the sparkling coast, then settle into your luxurious hotel.

Unpack, then spend your first afternoon frolicking around the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Treat yourself to some delicious seafood at any of the Waterfront's seaside restaurants, browse through local craft shops, and listen to the lively beats of street drummers. To finish off an amazing first day, take an unforgettable sunset ride on the giant Ferris Wheel that sits at the center of the Waterfront - talk about incredible views!

Day 2 Cape Town

Wake up to blue skies, mountain views, and sea air! After an energizing breakfast, head to nearby Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where you'll suddenly feel tiny in the shadow of towering trees and soaring mountains. Take tons of priceless photos as you walk through vast greenery and become surrounded by rare, brightly-colored flora and fauna.

Put on your bravest face and walk across the amazing tree canopy walkway! If time allows,frolic through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap! This former township, nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill, is a quaint neighborhood filled with proud residents and rich history. Take tons of eye-catching photos in-front of the vivid brightly-colored homes!

In the afternoon, grab your camera and fill your backpack with water-bottles and snacks - it's time to hike Lion's Head! On this easy-intermediate hike, experience some of the most amazing views Cape Town has to offer. Gaze out at the horizon and watch the blue ocean meet the shore beneath Table Mountain. Feel immersed in lush vegetation, say hello to some friendly wildlife, and feast your eyes on a once-in-a-lifetime sunset.

Day 3 Cape Town

Spend your morning walking along the trendy restaurant-lined streets near Camp's Bay Beach. Grab a bite at a cute seaside cafe, then take a stroll on the sand. Look right and see bright blue ocean, then look left and see a majestic backdrop of Table Mountain.

Hop in the car and spend the afternoon exploring Cape Town's extraordinary outskirts. Drive through beautiful Hout Bay, then make your way to Simon's Town. Pull over, stretch your legs, and wander along quaint shop-lined streets. 

Be sure to stop at Boulder's Beach and take tons of photos with some friendly locals - penguins, of course! Boulder's Beach is home to a large colony of African Penguins, and they're there all year-round. Watch them bask in the sun and swim in the cool waters in front of you!

Spend your last night in Cape Town unwinding at a trendy bar on Kloof Street.

Day 4 Cape Town - Stellenbosch

Wave goodbye to the cobalt coast, for now. Embark on a scenic journey through the mountainous countryside to South Africa's picture-perfect wine region: Stellenbosch!

Upon arrival, settle into your elegant hotel and wander around its gorgeous grounds. Take a walk into town and explore charming Church Street! Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the fabulous restaurants in the area.

Day 5 Stellenbosch

Say "cheers" to an exciting day of exploring South Africa's world-renowned wine region! Visit any of the area's countless wineries and treat yourself to a tasting, or two. 

Be sure to try South Africa's signature red: Pinotage! Sip its smooth, slightly smokey flavor - it might be your new favorite!

Day 6 Stellenbosch - Hermanus

Head to Hermanus today and get ready for a whale of a time! Drive down the Western Cape until you reach the bright blue waters of South Africa's - and perhaps the world's - whale watching capital.

This beautiful beach town is populated with Southern Right Whales, species of sharks, and other marine wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled!

Tonight, treat yourself to a beachfront meal at any of Hermanus' cliffside restaurants!

Day 7 Hermanus

Enjoy an energizing breakfast, then lace up your sneakers and head to Fernkloof Nature Reserve! Hike gorgeous cliffs and feast your eyes on spectacular sea views. More breathtaking beauty awaits at Walker Bay! Sit and stare out at the vast ocean and watch majestic whales swim on by.

Day 8 Hermanus - Knysna

Hit the road and embark on a journey along the sparkling southern coast. On your way to Knysna, consider stopping at picturesque Mossel Bay for lunch. Then, continue onto Knysna and check-in to your beautiful hotel.

Day 9 Knysna

Ah, wake up in paradise! Rejuvenate with a tasty breakfast, then grab your camera and head to Knysna Heads. This postcard-worthy spot boasts dramatic cliffs and deep turquoise waters that are so beautiful you won't believe they're real. From the Heads, explore the rest of Garden Route National Park and discover the beauty of the wilderness.

In the afternoon, check out the bustling Wild Oats Farmer's Market. Try delicious foods, learn about Knysna's culture, and mingle with some friendly locals. After you finish your snacks, make your way to breathtaking Brenton on Sea or Buffalo Bay and relax on the warm sand of the glistening beach. 

If time allows, drive through the magnificent Prince Alfred's Pass. Feel awe-struck by jaw-dropping mountain-scapes, hidden waterfalls, and endless greenery.

Day 10 Knysna - Kariega Private Game Reserve

Breathe in the salty sea air as you enjoy a pleasant breakfast, then head for the brush. Today's the day to let your wild side roar!

Explore the lush grounds of the malaria-free reserve, then indulge in a delicious dinner at the main lodge. Get a good night's rest - excitement awaits tomorrow!

Day 11 Kariega Private Game Reserve

Wake up in the wild! Enjoy breakfast, then put on your best safari hat and get exploring. Take tons of photos on your first safari drive of the day, then break for a yummy lunch. Roam around the gorgeous grounds of the reserve, then get ready for round two. Spot lions, elephants, leopards, and more!

After an exciting day, indulge in a delicious dinner back at the lodge. Then, cozy up and get a good night's sleep.

Day 12 Kariega Private Game Reserve

What's a better way to spend your last day in South Africa than on Safari? Enjoy the day and try to spot all of the Big 5 and more! Get that selfie with a giraffe and hear the roar of a nearby male lion.

Spend your last dinner reflecting on the success of your magical South African journey. 

Day 13 Depart South Africa

Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and take one last scenic drive to the airport. Drop off your rental car and fly from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg, then board your connection home. Spend your flight scrolling through priceless photos and dreaming about your next adventure.