An example holiday itinerary in South Africa – perfect for couples
This example self drive itinerary is perfect for those who want to explore the best of South Africa. Whether you’re going as a couple, on your honeymoon or with friends this African country has it all. Below is just a taster, let us tailor make the perfect itinerary for you.
VISIT: Cape Town - Day 1 to 5
Iconic Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Rising up behind the city bowl is unmistakable Table Mountain, source of beautiful views and endless hiking opportunities. Explore the quirky streets of the city centre and discover boutique shops, respected galleries and delectable restaurants, or visit the V&A Waterfront for food with a view.
Then there’s the golden beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, or south along the peninsula to Simonstown, with its naval history, bouldered beaches and more than a few penguins. Add gorgeous sunshine and the warm and welcoming people and you’ve got yourself an outstanding holiday destination!
STAY: The Silo
A unique and ultra-modern structure The Silo has been transformed from a former grain silo into a magnificent luxurious hotel with a dramatic futuristic feel. The hotel is positioned above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), home to an ever-changing series of exhibitions, featuring some of Africa’s most talented artists.
As a brand new addition to Cape Town’s iconic skyline in a prime position on the lively V&A Waterfront, it has astounding all-round views of the harbour, the City Bowl, and Table Mountain.
DISCOVER: Overberg - Day 5 to 8
After you’ve left Cape Town, there’s a beautiful stretch of land with picturesque towns dotted among rolling hills. There are seaside hamlets overlooking white sands and frothy waves as well as stunning wildlife and nature reserves that even the locals don’t know about. This is the Western Cape Overberg region, one of the lesser explored parts of South Africa. It’s a photographer’s dream, there’s wildlife aplenty and, to top it all, you might not see another soul whilst you are there.
STAY: Coot Club
Sitting on the banks of the Klein River estuary, in a 465 hectare private conservation area, backed by the verdant Maanschynkop Mountains, Coot Club is a wildlife haven, with one of the world’s most prolific whale nurseries just off the coast. It’s relaxed, country club style living, where guests can make themselves at home in one of the cosy limestone cottages or contemporary boathouses, whilst dipping in and out of the clubhouse and its convivial restaurant.
There’s also plenty to occupy you – from whale watching to wine tasting and bike riding to kayaking. Plus, you have a dedicated concierge team on hand to organise it all for you.
EXPLORE: The Franschhoek Valley - Day 8 to 10
You’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Europe in this part of South Africa, with this French-inspired village surrounded by unmatched scenery, sun-drenched vineyards and outstanding restaurants. This is Franschhoek, a tiny yet incredible village in the heart of the Winelands, established by French Huguenots in 1688 (the name literally means “French Corner”).
Today, it’s the gastronomic capital of the country and home to Michelin starred restaurants, foraged cuisine, and vineyards with boutique winemakers. Why not enjoy them from the wine tram, an old-fashioned rail car that rattles around the valley and stops at a selection of farms. But remember to take time to enjoy the stunning natural scenery: mountainous Mont Rochelle reserve is the place to walk or hike in style (and admire the breath-taking views), or hire a bike and peddle around the farm paths and trails.
STAY: Babylonstoren Farm Hotel
A stylish farm-to-table retreat set amid eight acres of beautiful gardens, in the heart of the stunning Cape Winelands, Babylonstoren is one of the oldest working farms in South Africa. With sustainability and organic produce top of the agenda, the owners are bringing an elegant and very contemporary twist to the old adage ‘farm to table’. From the award-winning restaurant and vineyard to the home-grown spa, every aspect of a stay here is led by the gardens and hubbub of edible delights within.
And then there’s the cottages; white-washed Dutch gables transformed into sanctuaries of graceful simplicity and sophistication.
VISIT: Kruger - Day 10 to 13
The incredible Kruger National Park is undoubtedly southern Africa’s most well known game reserve, famed for its Big Five sightings and well known for its outstanding variety of wildlife. The enormous private reserves around Kruger – the Sabi Sand and Timbavati to name a couple – are also some of the most wildlife-rich areas in the world, filled with prowling predators. If you only have a few days to dedicate to a safari but want to see as much wildlife as possible, then these are the places for you.
STAY: Dulini Leadwood Lodge
An exclusive and intimate getaway, Leadwood Lodge sits in the fork of the Sand and Mabrak Rivers, in the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve. With just four private suites, this lodge is an excellent choice for a secluded safari. The suites are well placed along the river banks for complete privacy. Classy design incorporates chunky wooden décor with smooth stone interiors, classic thatch and wide expanses of glass to blend and flow with the natural surroundings. You can expect the best hospitality and plenty of decadent touches all round.