Inspirational self-drive & safari family holiday to South Africa
A fun-filled family road trip adventure combining all that South Africa's Cape province has to offer, all while staying in 5-star accommodation. This route is well-traveled and for good reason, it is known for being one of the world's most scenic drives, where the landscape dramatically changes with every stop. In Cape Town you will explore the city from your base at The Mount Nelson, a historic institution in the city and pinnacle of sophistication.
Enjoy cable car trips up iconic Table Mountain and seeing penguins at Boulders Beach. Then head to the picturesque winelands area to the exquisite Babylonstoren Farm for yet more fun-filled family activities. From here make your way towards the scenic Garden Route to the ostrich capital of Oudtshoorn along the famous Route 62. Then escape to the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay to The Plettenberg Hotel. With views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax after a day of nature-based activities in the area. Cap off this family adventure in the Eastern Cape staying at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge in the private Kwandwe reserve. Fully immerse yourself in nature and enjoy day and night game drives in search of the Big 5.
Starts - Catch your overnight flight from JFK to Cape Town International
4 nights - The Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa
2 nights - Babylonstoren Farm Hotel, Winelands, South Africa
2 nights - Rosenhof Country House, Oudtshoorn, South Africa
4 nights - The Plettenberg, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
3 nights - Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Ends - Transfer to Port Elizabeth for your international flight home
At a glance
South Africa
15 Nights
City
Beach
Safari
Scenic
Tailormade itineraries
Every Mahlatini trip is tailored to your exact travel wishes—no readymade tours or set departures. Get in touch with our experts to start creating your bespoke itinerary.
Guide Price
Low Season from {: 10500|toCurrency :} per person
High Season from {: 13200|toCurrency :} per person
Includes flights from JFK
Price per person based on a family of 4
Itinerary Details
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Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including international flights and all transfers.
Includes
Accommodation as specified
Meals as specified
Drinks (excluding premium brands) at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
All scheduled safari activities offered by Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Car hire, group C car (Toyota Corolla or similar) including full cover, unlimited km and taxes
National Parks and conservation entry fees
Private safari vehicle
Private guide
GPS with your car hire
Itinerary based on a family of 4 with 2 children aged between 3 and 12 years
Carbon-offsetting with One Tree Planted
Conservation donation to Save the Rhino
Community project contribution with Uthando
Excludes
Gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Additional activities not offered as scheduled by Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Visas and visa fees where relevant
Petrol and additional driver's fee
Beverages with the exception of Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
Indulge your passions
ACTIVITIES
This sample trip offers countless adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most and we will curate your perfect itinerary.
Big 5 Safari
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat Trip
Guided Walking Safari
Night Drive
Ocean Safari
Helicopter Flights
Hot Air Balloon Flights
Quad Biking
Scenic Flights
Shark Diving
White Water Rafting
Conservation Experience
Cultural Experience
Canoeing/Kayaking
Cycling
Fishing
Golf
Hiking
Horse Riding
Snorkelling/Scuba Diving
Water Sports
Kids Club
Kids Bushcraft
Food Experiences
City Sights
Natural Wonders
Wellness/Spa
Wine Tour
Enriching encounters
ICONIC WILDLIFE
Whether you want to tick off the Big Five or encounter specific safari species and sea creatures on your safari and coastal stay, our expert guides reveal the typical wildlife sightings to expect on this sample trip.
Zebra
Wildebeest
White Rhino
Rock Hyrax
Ostrich
Pangolin
Orca
Lion
Leopard
Humpback Whale
Hippo
Great White Shark
Elephant
Crocodile
Cheetah
Cape Fur Seal
Buffalo
Brown Hyena
Bottlenose Dolphin
Black Rhino
Baboon
African Fish Eagle
Giraffe
Aardvark
Aardwolf
African Penguin
Southern Right Whale
Sample itineraries
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari, a milestone celebration, a soul-stirring retreat, or simply looking to travel well and with purpose, these itineraries offer a starting point for what’s possible. As a top tour operator in the world, as recognised by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller, we will guide you on how to shape the ultimate expedition.