12-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Safari: Garden Route, Drakensberg & Kruger Adventure
Drive the world’s longest wine route, crawl into limestone caves, hike Robberg’s cliff trails and track the Big Five in Kruger on this 12‑day overland loop from Cape Town to Johannesburg. A mix of coastline, mountains and savanna, the trip pairs wildlife highlights with cultural stops like Mvezo and the Mandela Capture Site.
The Experience
Before You Go
Malaria awareness for the northeast
Carry antimalarial medication if visiting iSimangaliso or Kruger—consult a travel clinic and use DEET repellent especially during summer months.
Start game drives early
Wildlife is most active at dawn; be ready for pre-dawn pickups and bring a headlamp and warm layers for open 4x4s.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Use sturdy hiking boots for Robberg and Drakensberg—expect rocky, uneven trails and slick sections after rain.
Respect wildlife and guides
Keep windows closed where instructed, avoid crossing fences and never feed animals—guides manage safety and sightings for a reason.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunset at the lesser-visited eastern Knysna Head viewpoint for quiet lagoon light
- •Short boat trips from St Lucia for shallow-water birding away from the main jetties
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •Hippopotamus
Conservation Note
Many parks on this route balance tourism with anti-poaching and habitat protection efforts; follow guide instructions, avoid single-use plastics, and support community-run initiatives when possible.
The route threads colonial, settler and indigenous histories—from Cape wine routes and ostrich-farming in Oudtshoorn to the Mandela Birthplace at Mvezo and the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha.
Photographer's Notes
- • Knysna Eastern Head lookout
- • God’s Window panoramic platform
- • Robberg headlands on the seaside trail
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Support and grip for coastal cliffs and Drakensberg trails.
Layered clothing + waterproof shellEssential
Temperatures vary from coastal heat to cool escarpments—layers keep you comfortable.
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
Essential for spotting game at distance and watching birds on estuary cruises.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 50)Essential
High UV and open-safari exposure make strong sun protection crucial in summer.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to South Africa?
Yes—routes and accommodations are curated for a range of travelers; guides provide local context and handle logistics, but be prepared for long travel days.
Do I need malaria prophylaxis for this trip?
If your itinerary includes Kruger or iSimangaliso, most doctors recommend antimalarial medication—consult a travel clinic for personalized advice.
Are game drives likely to see the Big Five?
Kruger and private reserves increase your chances, but sightings can't be guaranteed—experienced guides maximize opportunities by reading animal behavior and habitat.
Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
Some parts of the itinerary list wheelchair-accessible options, but game drives and certain viewpoints may have limited access—confirm needs with the operator before booking.
What level of accommodation is provided?
The tour uses a mix of lodges and hotels—details vary by date; expect comfortable, locally representative properties rather than luxury safari camps.
What vaccinations or health precautions are recommended?
Routine vaccines should be current; Hepatitis A, typhoid and malaria consultations are commonly advised—check with a travel health clinic well before departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12 days
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to handle multi-hour safaris, hikes of 4–9 km with some elevation, and several long driving days.
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