The Cape Highlights Self Drive
Road trip one of South Africa's most scenic routes. This is truly a showcase of the Cape in all its glory. See Cape Town's famous sights, taste the region's wines, get up close and personal with sharks and whales, enjoy nature-based activities on the Garden Route and end off with a Big 5 safari. South Africa really is a one-stop holiday destination. Self-drive doesn't have to mean a compromise on luxury accommodation. 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.
In the Cape Winelands you will be perfectly positioned in the Franshhoek Wine Valley at Leeu Estates, an exclusive 5-star boutique hotel offering fine dining and exquisite gardens. At Grootbos Forest Lodge enjoy panoramic views of mountain and sea in a luxurious pristine paradise showcasing the splendour of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the incredible marine life of the southern tip of Africa. In the scenic Garden Route region, you will be based at The Plettenberg Hotel, the ultimate South African seaside escape, and your safari will take place at Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge. Fully immerse yourself in nature and enjoy day and night game drives in search of the Big 5.
Day by Day summary
- Starts - Catch your overnight flight from JFK to Cape Town International
- 4 nights - The Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa
- 2 nights - Leeu Estates, Winelands, South Africa
- 2 nights - Grootbos Forest Lodge, Hermanus, South Africa
- 3 nights - The Plettenberg, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
- 3 nights - Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa
- Ends - Transfer to Port Elizabeth for your international flight home
At a glance
- South Africa
- 14 Nights
- City
- Beach
- Safari
- Scenic
Tailormade itineraries
Every Mahlatini trip is custom created 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
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Highlights
- At-your-own pace road-trip adventure
- The finest South African wine and cuisine
- Malaria-free Big 5 safari experience in a private reserve
- Luxurious hotels in pristine settings
- The chance to go shark-diving and whale-watching
Day-by-day
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
- International flights as specified
- Accommodation as specified
- Meals as specified
- Drinks (excluding premium brands) on safari
- All scheduled safari activities offered by the camps or lodges
- Car hire, group B car (Toyota Yaris or similar) including full cover, unlimited km and taxes
- One way drop off fee for hire car plus GPS
- Carbon-offsetting with One Tree Planted
- Conservation donation to Save the Rhino
- Community projects contribution with Uthando
Excludes
- Gratuities
- Personal travel insurance
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Petrol
- Beverages with the exception of all inclusive hotels
- Additional activities not included as scheduled at hotels, lodges or camps
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.
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Big 5 Safari
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4WD Safari
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Birdwatching
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Boat Trip
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Guided Walking Safari
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Night Drive
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Ocean Safari
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Whale Watching
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Helicopter Flights
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Hot Air Balloon Flights
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Quad Biking
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Scenic Flights
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Shark Diving
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White Water Rafting
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Conservation Experience
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Cultural Experience
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Canoeing/Kayaking
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Cycling
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Fishing
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Golf
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Hiking
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Horse Riding
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Snorkelling/Scuba Diving
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Water Sports
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Kids Club
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Kids Bushcraft
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Food Experiences
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Photographic Safari
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City Sights
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Natural Wonders
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Wellness/Spa
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Wine Tour
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.
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Zebra
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Wildebeest
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White Rhino
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Rock Hyrax
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Ostrich
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Pangolin
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Orca
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Lion
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Leopard
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Humpback Whale
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Hippo
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Great White Shark
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Elephant
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Crocodile
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Cheetah
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Cape Fur Seal
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Buffalo
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Brown Hyena
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Bottlenose Dolphin
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Black Rhino
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Baboon
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African Fish Eagle
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Giraffe
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Aardvark
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Aardwolf
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African Penguin
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Southern Right Whale
TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From majestic wildlife to out of this world natural wonders, cultural melting pots and enchanting beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is thrilling. Unsure where to visit? Whether it’s a bucket-list adventure, a milestone celebration or simply a much-needed escape, experience the joy with this inspiring selection of favorites.
- Bespoke itineraries
- Flights and transfers included
- Best rates guaranteed