South Africa: 12-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Tour

The Heads, Durban



Embark on an unforgettable 12-day tour from Cape Town to Johannesburg, traveling through some of South Africa's most scenic coastal towns, game reserves, and other natural wonders.

12-Day South Africa Coastal and Safari Tour from Cape Town to Johannesburg

This 12-day guided tour covers South Africa’s coastal towns, national parks, and natural landmarks, ideal for travellers interested in wildlife, hiking, and cultural experiences.

Highlights

  • See African Penguins at Betty's Bay and taste wine at Benguela Cove
  • Hike in Robberg Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg Mountains
  • Visit Knysna Heads and explore Knysna Waterfront
  • Go on game drives in Kruger and Addo National Parks to see the Big 5
  • Take a Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruise in St Lucia Estuary at iSimangaliso Wetlands Park

Description

Begin in Cape Town, traveling along the coast to Betty’s Bay to view endangered African Penguins, then taste five wines at Benguela Cove before reaching Hermanus, known for whale watching.

Continue along the Garden Route to Knysna, hike in Robberg Nature Reserve with opportunities to spot seals and dolphins, visit Plettenberg Bay beaches, and explore Knysna Heads and the waterfront lagoon.

Travel to Port Elizabeth with a stop at Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest bungy jump (optional, own cost), followed by a game drive in Addo National Park to see elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, buffalo, and other wildlife.

Drive through the Eastern Cape to East London to relax on its beaches, then visit Mthatha and the Nelson Mandela Museum, gateway to the Wild Coast.

Explore the Drakensberg Mountains on a guided hike through one of South Africa’s most notable landscapes.

Arrive in Durban to explore cultural sites, the Golden Mile beachfront, and sample diverse cuisine.

Visit iSimangaliso Wetlands Park for a Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruise in St Lucia Estuary offering wildlife viewing.

Travel through Mpumalanga Province to Kruger National Park, where a full-day safari awaits to spot the Big 5 and numerous other animals.

Tour Blyde River Canyon with highlights including the Three Rondavels, God’s Window viewpoint, and Bourke's Luck Potholes.

Conclude the tour traveling to Johannesburg with stops to explore Mpumalanga Province, finishing around 5pm on day 12.

Includes

  • 11 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • Game drives in Addo and Kruger National Parks
  • Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve and Drakensberg Mountains
  • Wine tasting at Benguela Cove
  • Hippo and Crocodile Boat Cruise in iSimangaliso Wetlands Park
  • Durban city tour
  • Tour of Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and Three Rondavels
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned national parks and reserves
  • Pick up in Cape Town and drop off in Johannesburg

Excludes

  • Meals and drinks not specified
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Bloukrans Bridge bungy jump (optional, own cost)

Important Information

  • A moderate fitness level is required for hiking activities
  • Weather can change quickly; plan appropriate clothing and gear

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Booking tip: Reserve in advance for preferred dates. Bring hiking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The best time to visit is during South Africa’s spring and autumn months for comfortable weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes coastal and safari experiences such as visits to Cape Town, Betty's Bay, Benguela Cove, Robberg Nature Reserve, Knysna, Addo and Kruger National Parks, and a St Lucia Estuary boat cruise.
Yes, the tour includes a boat cruise in the St Lucia Estuary near Durban to see hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
The tour features hikes in Robberg Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg Mountains, suitable for moderately fit travelers.
African penguins can be seen at Betty's Bay, which is part of the tour route along South Africa's coast.
Yes, the itinerary includes wine tasting at Benguela Cove near Cape Town.
Yes, the guided 12-day tour offers a comprehensive introduction to South Africa's coastal scenery, wildlife, and culture, ideal for first-time visitors.
The best time is during South Africa's dry season, typically from May to September, when wildlife is easier to spot on game drives.
The tour starts in Cape Town and ends in Johannesburg, covering several key destinations along the way.
You can book the tour through the official website or authorized travel platforms; check the provider's site for booking details.
Yes, game drives in Addo Elephant National Park and Kruger National Park to see the Big Five are included in the itinerary.

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