South Africa Self Drive Safari: 17-Day Malaria-Free Adventure Through Cape Town, Garden Route & Addo Elephant Park
detail informations
A Brief Description
12 Days / 11 Night
Embark on an extraordinary 12-day Western Cape wine tour Safari that unveils the magnificent wine heritage of South Africa’s most celebrated viticultural regions. This carefully crafted self-drive adventure allows you to discover world-renowned wineries, charming wine estates, and breathtaking landscapes at your own leisurely pace. From Cape Town’s urban sophistication to the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch, each destination promises exceptional wine experiences and unforgettable memories in the heart of South Africa’s wine country.
Days 1-3: Cape Town – Gateway to Wine Country
Begin your Western Cape wine tour safari in the spectacular Mother City, where urban culture meets wine tradition. After airport collection and vehicle pickup from central Cape Town, explore the city’s diverse attractions.
Cape Town Wine Tour Highlights:
- Discover local wine bars and tasting rooms in the city center
- Experience hop-on-hop-off bus tours connecting major wine districts
- Drive the scenic Chapman’s Peak coastal route with ocean views
- Visit Cape Point, Africa’s southwestern tip with stunning vistas
- Explore V&A Waterfront’s wine shops and specialist stores
- Encounter African penguins at Boulders Beach
- Hike Table Mountain trails or take the rotating cable car
- Relax on pristine beaches including Camps Bay and Clifton
Days 4-5: Hermanus – Coastal Wine Paradise
Journey to picturesque Hermanus, a charming coastal destination famous for exceptional wine routes and seasonal whale watching opportunities.
Hermanus Wine Experiences:
- Explore the renowned Hemel en Aarde Valley wine route
- Visit 17 boutique wine farms producing cool-climate varietals
- Enjoy wine tastings paired with gourmet cuisine at estate restaurants
- Witness Southern Right whales during migration season (July-November)
- Take leisurely beach walks along pristine coastline
- Hike through nearby nature reserves with mountain views
- Play championship golf at two scenic local courses
Days 6-7: Robertson Wine Valley – Hidden Gem Discovery
Continue along the famous Route 62 to Robertson Wine Valley, a less touristy wine region offering authentic South African wine culture and exceptional value tastings.
Robertson Valley Wine Adventures:
- Stay directly on a working wine estate surrounded by vineyards
- Experience authentic wine farming lifestyle and hospitality
- Discover family-owned cellars producing award-winning wines
- Enjoy estate-grown cuisine in beautiful garden settings
- Explore limestone soil terroir producing distinctive white wines
Days 8-9: Tulbagh – Historic Wine Heritage
Travel to tranquil Tulbagh, nestled in the scenic Breede Valley, where generations of winemaking families continue traditional viticulture practices.
Tulbagh Wine Heritage Experience:
- Visit family-owned estates with multi-generational wine legacies
- Experience authentic Cape Dutch architecture and wine cellars
- Enjoy accommodation with private wine cellars and on-site dining
- Taste heritage varietals from vines planted decades ago
- Explore the peaceful valley setting with mountain backdrops
Days 10-11: Stellenbosch – Heart of South African Wine
Conclude your Western Cape wine tour in legendary Stellenbosch, the internationally acclaimed epicenter of South African wine production and university town atmosphere.
Stellenbosch Wine Capital Experience:
- Discover over 200 wine estates within easy driving distance
- Experience walk-in tastings at most prestigious wineries (no appointments needed)
- Dine at award-winning restaurants featuring local wine pairings
- Stroll oak-lined streets of this historic Dutch colonial town
- Stay in authentic Old-Dutch style guesthouse accommodation
- Choose self-guided exploration or professional guided wine tours
- Visit world-class wine estates producing internationally recognized vintages
Day 12: Departure – Farewell to Wine Country
Complete your unforgettable Western Cape wine tour with final morning in wine country before returning your rental vehicle at Cape Town International Airport for departure.
Comprehensive Package Inclusions:
✅ Boutique Accommodations – 12 nights in carefully selected wine country guesthouses and lodges
✅ Meals as Specified – Breakfast and selected dinners featuring local cuisine
✅ Premium Rental Vehicle – Toyota Corolla or similar sedan with manual transmission
✅ Complete Insurance Coverage – Total waiver, unlimited kilometers, GPS navigation
✅ Professional Support – 24/7 assistance throughout your wine tour
✅ Travel Documentation – Detailed itinerary with driving directions and wine route maps
✅ Mobile Access – Travel app with offline itinerary access
✅ Financial Protection – Coverage by guarantee fund for peace of mind
Additional Expenses:
❌ International and domestic flights (bookable separately)
❌ Wine tastings and cellar door fees
❌ Meals not specified in itinerary
❌ Travel and cancellation insurance
❌ Fuel costs and vehicle bond (refundable)
❌ Park entrance and conservation fees
❌ E-toll charges and one-way fees
❌ Personal expenses and gratuities
❌ Airport meet and greet services
Essential Western Cape Wine Tour Tips
Best Time to Visit:
- March-May: Harvest season with vibrant autumn colors
- September-November: Spring blooms and mild temperatures
- June-August: Whale watching season in Hermanus
Wine Tasting Etiquette:
- Most Stellenbosch estates welcome walk-in visitors
- Tasting fees typically range from R50-150 per person
- Designated driver services available for wine tours
- Purchase wines directly from estates for best prices
Driving Tips:
- Minimum age for car rental is 18 years
- Manual transmission vehicles included (automatic upgrades available)
- GPS navigation provided for easy wine route discovery
- Road conditions excellent throughout Western Cape wine regions
Accommodation Highlights:
- Stay at working wine estates for authentic experiences
- Small-scale properties ensure personalized service
- Eco-friendly operations supporting local communities
- Safe locations in prime wine country settings