15 Day Cape to Eastern Cape Safari Self Drive Itinerary

Cape Town is South Africa’s second-largest city and the capital of the Western Cape province. Affectionately known as the “Mother City,” it was the first city founded during South Africa’s colonial period. The city’s cultural richness reflects influences from Indonesian, French, Dutch, British, and German settlers, shaping its architecture, language, cuisine, and winemaking traditions. Today, Cape Town is a vibrant, unique city where history comes alive.

Things to Do

Cape Town offers endless ways to enjoy your stay. Here are some of our personal highlights:

Scenic Helicopter Flights
See Cape Town from the skies! Take a private or shared helicopter flight over the stunning Cape Peninsula and enjoy sweeping views of beaches, mountains, and the city, with Table Mountain as the perfect backdrop. Flights are weather-dependent.
helicopterscapetown.co.za

City Tour on a Red Double-Decker Bus
Explore Cape Town at your own pace on an open-top bus, combining sightseeing with walking tours. Highlights include Parliament, City Hall, the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and Company’s Garden. Don’t forget your camera!
citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town

Constantia Winelands
Just 15 km from the city, the Constantia wine region is Cape Town’s “home vineyard.” Discover its hidden wine routes and learn about South Africa’s oldest wine-producing region. Our top pick: a wine tasting at historic Groot Constantia.
grootconstantia.co.za

Westside Adventurers Hiking Group
Join locals and tourists for daily hikes around Cape Town. Westside Adventurers also offers fun activities like karaoke, bowling, and theater visits.
westsideadventurers.co.za

Table Mountain – Hike or Cable Car
Take in breathtaking views of Cape Town and the ocean with a hike or a relaxing cable car ride. During peak season (October–March), we recommend the Fast Track cable car to skip long queues. Table Mountain is a must-see for every visitor!
tablemountain.net

Classic Cobra Car & TukTuk Tours
Drive along the Cape’s stunning coastline in a classic Cobra car or take a fun TukTuk tour of scenic local routes.
capecobrahire.com | hakunamatuktuk.co.za

Township Tours – Uthando
Support social initiatives while exploring local communities. Uthando offers customized tours that fund projects focused on HIV awareness, substance abuse prevention, and support for women and children.
uthandosa.org

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Nestled on Table Mountain’s eastern slopes, Kirstenbosch preserves South Africa’s unique flora, including Fynbos and Protea species. Enjoy 6,000+ plants, scenic walks, and summer concerts. Free guided tours run Monday–Friday at 10:00, 11:00, and 14:00 (approx. 90 min).
sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenboch

E-Bike Tours & Cycling Adventures
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings by e-bike—perfect for longer rides and scenic routes.
ebikecapetown.com

Beaches
Cape Town boasts some of the country’s best beaches—surf, sunbathe, or stroll along pristine sands.
insideguide.co.za/cape-town/best-beaches

Shopping in Cape Town

• Victoria & Alfred Waterfront + The Watershed (waterfront.co.za)

• Tribal Trends (capetownccid.org/explore/shop/tribal-trends)

• Baraka Gifts & Decor (barakashop.co.za)

• The Collective, Hout Bay (thecollectivehoutbay.co.za)

Markets:
Find fresh organic produce, street food, local art, and live music at:

• Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock (theoldbiscuitmill.co.za)

• Oranjezicht City Farm Market (ozcf.co.za/market-day)

Dining in Cape Town

Fine Dining:

• FYN Restaurant (fynrestaurant.com)

• Pier Restaurant (pier.restaurant/food)

• La Colombe at Silvermist (lacolombe.co.za)

Stylish & Trendy Spots:

• Willoughby & Co (Sushi, willoughbyandco.co.za)

• TANG (Japanese, tanghospitality.com)

• Dorp Hotel Restaurant (dorp.co.za)

• Grand Africa Café & Beach (grandafrica.com)

• Bilboa (bilboa.co.za)

• Ramenhead (by FYN team, ramenhead.co.za)

• Belly of the Beast (bellyofthebeast.co.za)

• The Strangers Club (Breakfast, thestrangersclub.co.za)

Bo-Kaap Cooking Tours
Learn about South African culture through its cuisine.
bokaapcookingtour.co.za

Bars & Nightlife:
insideguide.co.za/cape-town/bars

Reservations Tip: For top restaurants in Cape Town and the Winelands, book 1–2 months in advance via dineplan.co.za. Some require a deposit, deducted from your meal.

Insider Tip

First Thursdays: On the first Thursday of every month, art galleries across Cape Town stay open until 9 PM. Locals stroll along Bree Street and Church Street with a glass of wine, enjoying the relaxed, year-round atmosphere.
www.first-thursdays.co.za

On the third Thursday of each month, the event moves to studios, galleries, and museums along Roeland Street, Buitenkant Street, and Harrington Street.

Franschhoek, meaning "French Corner," was founded in 1688 by Huguenots who fled persecution in France due to their Protestant-Calvinist beliefs. The French settlers found a new home at the Cape, significantly boosting the quality of South African wine production. The Huguenot Memorial in Franschhoek commemorates these immigrants, who gave their names to many places and families in the region. Families such as Du Toit, De Villiers, and Le Roux are common in South Africa, especially around Franschhoek. The town offers a French-inspired atmosphere along the Main Road, with stylish cafés, French restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.

THINGS TO DO:

• Wine tasting at one of the many wineries, including the Wine Tram (www.winetram.co.za).
• Visit Babylonstoren & take a garden tour – also, check out the new tour at the historic working farm Soetmelksvlei and visit the wine museum (www.babylonstoren.com).
• Hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
• E-bike tour through the Franschhoek Winelands with wine tasting and lunch: (www.vinebikes.co.za/franschhoek-bicycle-wine-tour/).

RESTAURANT & WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:

The 17 Best Restaurants in Franschhoek in 2025: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/franschhoek-restaurants/

• Le Lude Estate, near the Huguenot Memorial – excellent cuisine (www.lelude.co.za).
• Boschendal, especially for the picnic (www.boschendal.com).
• La Petite Colombe (Top 10 South Africa, www.lapetitecolombe.com).
• Le Chêne (www.lechene.co.za/restaurant).
• La Motte (www.la-motte.com).
• Grande Provence (www.grandeprovence.co.za).

OUR TIPS:

Franschhoek Village Market - Every Saturday, 09:00h - 15:00h, Address: 29 Huguenot St, Franschhoek, 7690 (www.franschhoekvillagemarket.co.za)

"Life is too short to drink bad wine" (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe). Thanks to its Mediterranean-like climate and winter rains at the Cape, some of the best South African wines come from the southwestern region of the country. The rich, fertile soil along the Breede River and especially in the areas of Somerset West, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl have made the region world-famous for its wines. Today, South Africa exports 420 million hectoliters of wine to more than 120 countries. The wine sector provides 300,000 jobs, with approximately 160,000 employees coming from previously disadvantaged social backgrounds. South Africa is also a global leader in environmental protection and sustainability. Most wineries in the area offer daily wine tastings and cellar tours. Of course, you can also buy wines directly from the estates. Many of these estates also have excellent restaurants and offer picnic facilities.

THINGS TO DO

• Wine Tasting at one of the numerous wineries
• Wine Tram through the Winelands (Hop on Hop Off Tour with various lines)
• Visit the towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl & Tulbagh
• Guided Bike Tour through the Winelands
• Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (near Stellenbosch)
• Picnic at Boschendal Farm
• Hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve

RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS

• Rust en Vrede (www.rustenvrede.com)
• De Vrije Burger (www.bertusbasson.com)
• The Fat Butcher (www.fatbutcher.co.za)
• Rykaart's (www.rykaarts.co.za)

WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS

• Jordan Wine Estate & Restaurant (www.jordanwines.com)
• Stark-Condé Wines (www.stark-conde.co.za)
• Delaire Graff Estate (www.delaire.co.za)
• De Morgenzon (www.demorgenzon.co.za)
• Waterford Estate (www.waterfordestate.co.za)
• Bartinney Wine Estate (www.bartinney.co.za)

For more restaurant recommendations on wine farms, visit Inside Guide:
www.insideguide.co.za/cape-town/wine-farm-restaurants

OUR TIPS

Our recommendation in the Elgin Valley - near Grabouw: The Railway Market in Elgin. Art Deco meets Victorian style elements here. Held every weekend in former apple storage sheds, the market offers a fantastic selection of stalls including food, drinks, jewelry, clothing, art, live music, and ceramics.

Opening Hours: Saturday 09:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Elgin Railway Market: Oak Avenue, Elgin, 7180 (www.elginrailwaymarket.co.za/)

Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, was founded in 1679 and is best known for its picturesque vineyards and around 120 wineries. Surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains, the town offers visitors a breathtaking backdrop. The historic old town is characterized by oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch buildings, featuring distinctive white houses, pointed gables, and tall doors. Stellenbosch University is one of the country’s most prestigious universities, attracting over 30,000 students annually.

THINGS TO DO

• Winetasting at the surrounding wineries (20 best wine farms: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/stellenbosch-wine-farms/)
• Cycling through the vineyards (Bike tour with wine tasting: https://www.adventureshop.co.za/stellenbosch-tours/guided-bike-tour/)
• Stellenbosch University’s Botanical Garden
• Rupert Museum, Stellenbosch Village Museum
• Strawberry picking at Mooiberg Strawberry Farm
• Vine Hopper: (6 Wineries, https://vinehopper.co.za/)
• Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (www.dylanlewis.com/garden/visit-the-garden)

RESTAURANT AND WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Rust en Vrede (www.rustenvrede.com)
• De Vrije Burger (www.bertusbasson.com)
• The Fat Butcher (www.fatbutcher.co.za)
• Rykaart's (www.rykaarts.co.za/)
• Jordan Wine Estate & Restaurant (www.jordanwines.com)
• Stark-Condé Wines (www.stark-conde.co.za)
• Delaire Graff Estate (www.delaire.co.za)
• De Morgenzon (www.demorgenzon.co.za)
• Waterford Estate (www.waterfordestate.co.za)
• Bartinney Wine Estate (www.bartinney.co.za)
• Tokara Restaurant (https://www.tokara.com/tokara-wine-estate/tokara-restaurant/)
• Capensis Wines (https://www.capensiswines.com/za)
• Rainbow's End Wine Estate (https://rainbowsend.co.za/ )

Located about 50 km east of Cape Town, in the Hottentots Holland Mountains, lies Paarl. It is South Africa's second oldest industrial city, and one of the oldest settlements in Cape Town's hinterland. The region is home to both small wineries and vast wine estates, with a long history of viticulture. Some of the estates are over 300 years old, and many still feature traditional Cape Dutch houses on the older wine farms.

However, Paarl offers more than just great wines. The town center has all the shops you need for daily essentials, and tourists can visit the Afrikaans Language Museum. In 1875, Paarl was the site where the Afrikaans language was officially declared, making the city a stronghold of Boer culture. The ideological foundations of apartheid have their roots in Paarl. Just outside the town, on a hill, stands the Afrikaans Language Monument, offering both insight into the history of the Boer language and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

THINGS TO DO

• Afrikaanse Taalmuseum & -monument
• Du Toit’s Kloof Pass
• Limietberg Nature Reserve
• Wine tastings
• Mountain biking
• Hiking in Limietberg Nature Reserve

RESTAURANT AND WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS

• Noop (www.noop.co.za)
• Knus Karoo Kombuis (www.knus.co.za)
• Cattle Baron (www.cattlebaron.co.za)

• Laborie (www.laboriewines.co.za)
• Nederburg Wines (www.nederburg.com)
• Glen Carlou (www.glencarlou.com)

Located along the well-known Route 62 in South Africa’s beautiful Klein Karoo, the charming town of Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world. It is surrounded by numerous ostrich farms and the golden arid landscape of the Karoo. Visitors can enjoy the locally produced wine and port; sample ostrich meat and biltong; learn about the ostrich feather boom at the C.P. Nel Museum; and visit the world-renowned Cango Caves, the largest cave system in Africa featuring ancient rock formations and sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. Other popular activities include: mountain biking, paragliding, horse riding, and taking a day trip to the quaint town of Prince Albert over the scenic Swartberg Pass.

Winding from the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town to the Karoo town of Oudtshoorn, Route 62 weaves through a chain of charming small towns and some of South Africa’s most captivating scenery. Known as the longest wine route in the world, it leads travellers past fertile valleys and lush vineyards that contrast strikingly with the rugged semi-desert of the Klein Karoo. Towering mountains, glistening rivers, and tranquil farmlands frame the road at every turn. Highlights along the way include the renowned Winelands of the Breede River Valley, the majestic Swartberg Mountains, the Cango Caves, and ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn, as well as the fruit orchards of the Langkloof Valley.

Easily accessible, picture-perfect and filled with interesting local attractions, Barrydale is a stunning Garden Route destination between the Overberg and Klein Karoo regions of the Western Cape. This picturesque village with a wonderful climate is home to abundant fruit orchards, excellent vineyards and numerous gardens. Stroll among orange, apricot and fig trees, or paint the bright multicoloured scenes of the landscapes in Autumn. Sample the town’s famous brandies and wines, or browse the fascinating shops and art galleries in the town’s centre. Travellers seeking a restorative holiday will delight in the labyrinth, peace pagoda and heritage garden, and the chance to soak away stress at the Warmwaterberg hot springs nearby. Other highlights include a fantastic Quad Biking facility with breathtaking views and the option to pick peaches along the way.

Serving as the gateway to the arid wilderness of the Great Karoo, the little South African heritage town of Prince Albert is surrounded by an oasis of magnificent mountains, fresh sparkling water, lush gardens, vineyards, and fruit orchards. This Karoo gem is home to beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings. It is a popular place in which to relax in the sun and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the town or appreciate the spectacularly clear and star-filled night sky to the rare sound of silence. Visitors can discover ancient fossils, visit a working moonshine distillery at the Fransie Pienaar Museum, enjoy a historical walking tour through the town, and drive along the edge of the harrowing 19th-century Swartberg Pass for dramatic mountain views. Other popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and botanical excursions.

Plettenberg is located about 30 km from Knysna and was named after Governor Joachim van Plettenberg, who placed the bay under the administration of the Dutch East India Company in 1778. The town was primarily used as a port for shipping timber. Later, a whaling station was built here, but it ceased operations in 1920. Today, the bay is home to a variety of dolphins year-round and, with its stunning beaches, is a popular holiday destination for South Africans.

THINGS TO DO

• Visit Tsitsikamma National Park
• Bungee jump from the highest bridge in the world: www.bloukransbungy.com
• Ziplining through the national park with Canopy Tours: www.africanyon.com
• Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary (www.monkeyland.co.za)
• Stand-up paddling or kayaking on the Keurbooms River
• Diving with seals (https://perfectpaddles.com)
• Whale watching boat cruise (www.oceanadventures.co.za)

RESTAURANT TIPS

• Zinzi Restaurant (www.zinzi.hunterhotels.com/)
• Emily Moon (www.emilymoon.co.za/dining-at-emilys/)
• Nguni Restaurant (www.nguni-restaurant.co.za)
• Barrington Craft Beer Brewery (https:/www.barringtonsplett.co.za/)

OUR TIPS

For nature lovers: Hiking along the Robberg Peninsula (www.capenature.co.za/reserves/robberg-nature-reserve) or Mountain bike hire in Storms River Village: https://igniteyouradventure.co.za/rent-a-bike/
Wine tasting & tapas at Bramon Wine Estate (www.bramonwines.co.za/)

Welcome to the Garden Route, one of the most beautiful coastal regions and roads in the world! The Garden Route promises an unforgettable mix of stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and rich culture.

Start in Mossel Bay, a charming coastal town rich in history and boasting impressive views of the Indian Ocean. At the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, you can delve into the fascinating history of South Africa's discovery.

Next, head to Wilderness, where the beauty of the sea meets majestic mountain landscapes. Its pristine beaches and lagoon area create a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Enjoy leisurely walks along the coast.

George, the business hub of the Garden Route, is the perfect base for exploring the region. With its pleasant climate and the world-famous Fancourt Golf Course, George is a haven for golf enthusiasts. Discover the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains for more adventures.

In Knysna, you'll find a picturesque lagoon framed by the majestic Knysna Heads. Take a relaxing boat trip on the lagoon, savor fresh seafood at cozy waterfront restaurants, and explore the Featherbed Nature Reserve for breathtaking views of the area.

For adventurers and nature lovers alike, the Tsitsikamma National Park is a must-visit. The Suspension Bridge Walk at Storms River Mouth offers spectacular views of crashing waves and rugged cliffs.

Toward the end of the Garden Route, you'll arrive in Jeffreys Bay, a surfer's paradise. Perfect waves draw surfers from around the world, but even non-surfers can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and endless sandy beaches.

Relish the diversity of this region as you journey from one captivating stop to the next, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Garden Route Attractions: Seven Wonders Not To Miss: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/garden-route-attractions/

The picturesque coastal area around Wilderness is renowned for its pristine beaches, fascinating natural beauty, and diverse wildlife. With the Garden Route National Park nearby, Wilderness offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and canoeing. Coastal hikes and the opportunity to see animals like zebras and hippos are special highlights. The relaxed atmosphere and a variety of restaurants and shops make Wilderness a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

THINGS TO DO

• Visit the Wilderness National Park
• Hiking in the National Park. www.sanparks.org/parks/gardenroute/camps/wilder-ness/tou-rism/hiking.php
• Guided canoe tour along the coast:(https://eden.co.za/)

RESTAURANT TIPS

• Joplins Steak Bar (www.m.facebook.com/joplinswilderness)
• Serendipity Restaurant (www.serendipitywilderness.com)
• Oysters R Us (www.oystersrus.co.za)
• Ilali Restaurant (www.ilalirestaurant.co.za)
• Hallo Coffee (www.facebook.com/Hallocoffee.sunshine)

OUR TIPS

Three-day canoe tour between Wilderness and Sedgefield: Canoeing is a popular activity here due to the rivers' gentle currents and the lakes' small waves. A highlight is the three-day canoe tour between Wilderness and Sedgefield, which can be booked through the park office. Participants stay in basic campsites. The park administration provides only the guide, beds (without bedding), and huts. Guests must bring their own food, sleeping bag, weather-appropriate clothing, camping stove, and drinks. Reservation is essential: (eden.co.za)

Knysna is a charming small town on the Garden Route, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and waterskiing. Surrounded by dense forests, a lagoon, and mountains, Knysna offers a perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts. The town also boasts a vibrant arts and crafts scene. The top attractions are the Knysna Heads, a narrow passage to the lagoon where many ships have sunk, and the Knysna Forest, renowned for its biodiversity and majestic tree species.

THINGS TO DO

• Sunset cruise on the lagoon (www.magiclagooncharters.co.za)
• Visit the art galleries and craft markets in Knysna
• Brenton-on-Sea Beach and Noetzie Castles
• Whale watching tour (www.oceanodyssey.co.za)
• Stand-up paddling on the lagoon (www.oceanodyssey.co.za)

RESTAURANT TIPS

• Freshline Fisheries (http://freshlinefisheries.co.za/)
• Sirocco Restaurant (www.sirocco.co.za)
• île de païn – authentic artisans (www.iledepain.co.za)
• East Head Café (www.eastheadcafe.co.za/)
• Cruise Café (www.knysnafeatherbed.com/cruise_cafe.htm)

OUR TIPS

• Wild Oats Community Farmers' Market every Saturday, 7:30 am - 12 pm (www.wildoatsmarket.co.za/)
• Stroll through the small waterfront and enjoy oysters afterward (www.oystersonline.co.za/)

The Tsitsikamma National Park, a true paradise in South Africa, reveals the majestic beauty of nature in all its splendor. This breathtaking reserve is located on the country's south coast, stretching along the coastline and into the inland. The landscape is a mix of dense, evergreen forests, rushing rivers, dramatic cliffs, and secluded coves, forming an unparalleled ecosystem. The Tsitsikamma National Park is widely known for its spectacular coastal views, characterized by towering cliffs and crashing waves. Hiking trails wind through the lush forest, offering fascinating insights into the native flora and fauna. The characteristic Fynbos plants thriving here lend the landscape a colorful splendor, attracting nature lovers from around the world.

A highlight of the park is the Otter Trail, one of South Africa's most famous long-distance hiking trails. This multi-day hike follows the coastline, passing by spectacular viewpoints and idyllic coves. The Storms River Mouth, a prominent feature in the park, is famous for its suspension bridge spanning the raging river, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Tsitsikamma National Park also offers a wealth of activities for adventure enthusiasts, including kayaking, zip-lining, and snorkeling. Adventurers can tackle the wild waters of the Storms River or explore the coastal regions to discover the underwater world. With its rich biodiversity, impressive coastal scenery, and diverse recreational opportunities, the Tsitsikamma National Park is a place that captures the beauty and fascination of nature in all its facets. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the sublime wilderness, listen to the roar of the waves, and be enchanted by the overwhelming natural scenery.

THINGS TO DO
Here you will find an impressive variety of recreational activities catering to every taste and adventure level!

• Ziplining in the National Park (approx. 2 hours) (www.canopytour.co.za/locations/tsitsikamma)
• Bungee Jump from the highest bridge in the world! (with Zipling and Sky Walk) (https://bloukransbungy.activitar.com/services/5097)
• Blackwater Tubing (www.blackwatertubing.net)

Running along the abundant Sundays River, just outside the Eastern Cape’s Port Elizabeth, the idyllic Sundays River Valley is an extraordinary area boasting several unique towns and attractions. Among numerous game reserves and nature parks, the famous Addo Elephant Park provides a wonderland of magnificent scenery and an abundance of wildlife including all members of the Big Five. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities along the river, including fishing, canoeing, and boat trips, and in the neighbouring dunes, try their hands at sandboarding. The area produces delicious, sweet citrus fruit, and in October, the valley is filled with orange blossoms. The 'Wildfees' brings Sundays River Valley to life in June with a celebration that includes concerts, wildlife expos, and stalls. Make sure to visit the popular Nanaga Farm Stall for its famous pies and deli items.

Located in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, the Addo Elephant National Park is a notable sanctuary known for its rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Originally established in 1931 to protect the last eleven remaining elephants in the region, the park has since evolved into a diverse ecosystem that hosts a wide variety of animal and plant species.

The park's main attraction is undoubtedly its elephants, which roam the expansive plains in impressive herds. Today, the park is home to over 600 elephants, making it one of the best places in the world to see these majestic animals in the wild.

In addition to elephants, the park provides habitat for a variety of other animals, including lions, buffaloes, rhinos, leopards, zebras, warthogs, and various antelope species. This diversity makes Addo Elephant National Park a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park's landscape is equally impressive, featuring dense forests, open grasslands, river valleys, and arid plains. These varied habitats offer visitors picturesque views and a deep appreciation of the region's natural beauty.

To enhance wildlife viewing and nature experiences, the park offers well-maintained roads, hiking trails, and designated viewpoints. Guided game drives, both self-driven and with professional guides, allow visitors to explore the heart of the park and witness its fascinating wildlife up close. Beyond being a prime spot for wildlife observation, Addo Elephant National Park plays a crucial role in the conservation of endangered species and the protection of natural environments. The park is actively involved in habitat preservation and restoration, supporting research and education to raise awareness about conservation.

Addo Elephant National Park is not only a haven for wildlife but also a beacon of conservation efforts, ensuring the protection and sustainability of its diverse ecosystems for future generations.

An important safety notice for the Addo region:

The tourism authority has been advocating for safer routes for years and emphasizes the importance of avoiding the R335 through Motherwell Township. Tourists are advised to use alternative routes, such as continuing on the N2 towards Paterson, which takes about 20 minutes longer but is safer. Avoid using Google Maps if it directs you through Motherwell Township near Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).

Located between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown and just east of Addo Elephant Park, the Amakhala Game Reserve is the perfect place to enjoy Big Five Safaris. Featuring spectacular topography created by the Bushman’s River, the reserve is home to a huge array of animal species - besides the big five, visitors can also spot cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, plenty of antelope species, and many other smaller interesting animals.

Amakhala is also inhabited by prolific birdlife (the majestic African Fish Eagle is a particular highlight), and idyllic boat cruises provide a delightful way to see this. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of fantastic game drives, guided walks, and horse trails. Just outside the park, there are plenty of attractions to discover, including the Amakhala Craft Centre, and the Bushman Sands Golf Course and Health Spa.

Port Elizabeth, also known as "PE," is a charming coastal city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Renowned for its stunning beaches like Humewood Beach, the city invites visitors to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. The historic Donkin Reserve with the Donkin Lighthouse and Pyramid offers insights into colonial history. The diverse culinary scene reflects the multicultural population, while the bustling port adds economic significance. With its beaches, culture, and commerce, Port Elizabeth is a charming coastal city that attracts visitors with its unique flair.

THINGS TO DO:

• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum
• City tour of Port Elizabeth for approximately 2 hours (www.afroventures.co.za/activities/port-elizabeth-city-tour).
• Shopping at Baywest Mall

OUR RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS:

• De Kelder Restaurant (www.dekelder.co.za)
• MUSE (www.muserestaurant.co.za)
• Ginger - The Restaurant (www.ginger-restaurant.co.za)

ANKE'S TIPS:

The Good-night Market: Every last Thursday of the month, you can enjoy a culinary feast and purchase artisanal souvenirs at the Good-night Market. The