11-Day Luxury Garden Route Honeymoon - Whales and Safari

• Clients collect their self-drive vehicle at the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Travel to Hermanus

You will begin your journey at Cape Town Airport. You'll pick up your rental car and set off towards the charming coastal town of Hermanus. The coastal drive treats you to spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Midway, you'll make a lunch stop at Houw Hoek Cafe, where you can indulge in delicious country-style cuisine and fresh produce.

You will be arriving in Hermanus, famous for whale watching, you can explore its galleries, cafes, and coastal paths. If time allows, consider an optional whale-watching cruise or a stroll along the famous Cliff Path for a chance to spot these majestic creatures.

The day concludes with your arrival at Mosaic Lagoon Lodge, a tranquil oasis nestled by the lagoon. As the sun sets, you'll relish the lodge's serene ambiance, marking the start of your Hermanus retreat. You will enjoy a sumptuous dinner overlooking the lagoon, immersed in the tranquility of your surroundings, and reflecting on the beauty of the day's journey.

Main Destination:

Hermanus (Whales)

Accommodation:

Mosaic Lagoon Lodge

• Luxury lodge located near Hermanus (Whales)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Full-Day at Hermanus

You will savor a complete day at Mosaic Lagoon Lodge in Hermanus, where the rhythm of nature guides your journey. You will awaken to the lagoon's gentle melodies and enjoy a leisurely breakfast amid tranquil surroundings. You can shape your day as you wish: venture into Hermanus town to stroll along the Cliff Path, spot whales from the shore, and explore the Old Harbour Gallery or Lemm's Corner Market. Alternatively, you can stay within the lodge's embrace, choosing from guided nature walks, lagoon cruises with playful dolphins, kayaking, or exhilarating quad biking through dunes. You will indulge in a secluded picnic or soothing spa treatments, all while being surrounded by pristine landscapes. You can opt for a whaleboat trip with Southern Right Charters to witness these majestic creatures. The night unfolds with a star-studded sky over the lagoon, casting an enchanting spell as you retire to your luxurious haven, filled with the memories of a day beautifully lived.

Main Destination:

Hermanus (Whales)

Accommodation:

Mosaic Lagoon Lodge

• Luxury lodge located near Hermanus (Whales)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Travel to De Hoop Nature Reserve

Today marks your arrival at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, nestled in the eastern and most exclusive sector of De Hoop Nature Reserve. This coastal haven is undeniably one of Africa's most magnificent reserves, graced with extraordinary beauty and secluded tranquility.

You will approach De Hoop Reserve via the Potberg Gate, a further 13 km drive leads to the Lekkerwater car park. Here, a meeting awaits, and our 4x4 Land Rovers transport you to the lodge itself. Welcome drinks are served on the beach, initiating connections with fellow guests, guides, and hosts. Our wines, sourced locally, each narrates a distinct story, embodying the essence of "local is lekker."

As the night unfolds, indulge in a delectable dinner beneath the stars on the deck or in the main area, followed by fireside tales. As you slip into slumber, lulled by the crashing waves, the day concludes, marked by the harmonious symphony of nature.

Main Destination:

De Hoop Nature Reserve

Accommodation:

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

• Luxury lodge located inside De Hoop NR

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Full-Day in De Hoop Nature Reserve

You will embark on a day of discovery in the embrace of Lekkerwater Beach Lodge. You can opt for a guided fynbos walk or wander freely along the shoreline and rolling landscapes, revealing De Hoop's rich biodiversity. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts around 1,500 plant species, some found nowhere else.

You will have a delightful lunch at the main area, which spotlights locally sourced cuisine and wines. In the afternoon beach explorations await, with chances to witness dolphins and whales—a spectacle De Hoop is renowned for. Southern right whales and migrating humpbacks grace the coast from July to November. Throughout the year, dolphins and bait fish captivate from your doorstep.

Weather permitting, a memorable beachside dinner beckons, enjoyed braai-style beneath the stars. You will relish the tranquil rhythm of waves as you dine with your toes in the sand.

Main Destination:

De Hoop Nature Reserve

Accommodation:

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

• Luxury lodge located inside De Hoop NR

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Full-Day at De Hoop Nature Reserve

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge extends another day of enchantment within one of South Africa's most splendid and secluded coastal destinations. Amidst this tranquil haven, an array of captivating experiences await your embrace. You'll delve into guided marine explorations and intertidal zone walks, uncovering thriving rock pools and hidden caves. You'll embark on guided fynbos and nature walks, unveiling the intricate ecosystems of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep watch year-round for dolphins gracefully gracing the waves and, from July to November, be captivated by the presence of Southern right whales and migrating humpbacks. You'll immerse yourself in one of the world's most remarkable hot tubs with an awe-inspiring view, and embark on a journey through the area's fascinating history. As day turns to dusk, embrace the mesmerizing transition with beach sundowners, a serene celebration of nature's beauty. As the day winds down, you'll enjoy dinner and a peaceful night.

Main Destination:

De Hoop Nature Reserve

Accommodation:

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

• Luxury lodge located inside De Hoop NR

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Travel to the Garden Route

You will be embarking on a new day's adventure, bid farewell to the enchanting beauty of De Hoop, and set your sights on Tsala Treetop Lodge, a haven nestled amidst the lush forests of the Garden Route. The journey unveils a tapestry of landscapes as you leave the coastal charm behind and traverse toward the heart of nature's embrace. You will wind your way through scenic routes, relishing the changing vistas and vibrant towns that grace your path. You will stop in Knysna for lunch at the Waterfront.

Upon arrival at Tsala Treetop Lodge, you'll step into a world of enchantment. You'll settle into your luxurious treetop suite and savor the views that stretch out before you. As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in the lodge's warm ambiance, and choose to enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the lodge restaurant. The night falls softly, promising the serenity of the forest to accompany your dreams.

Main Destination:

Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)

Accommodation:

Tsala Treetop Lodge

• Luxury lodge located near Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Full-Day at Plettenberg Bay

You will experience a day of exploration at Tsala Treetop Lodge, cocooned within the verdant Garden Route. You can choose your path.
Venture into ancient forests, tracing hidden trails and encountering diverse flora and fauna. Alternatively, journey to coastal Plettenberg Bay, where golden beaches, lively markets, art, and ocean adventures await. Animal sanctuaries offer heartwarming encounters with rescued wildlife, from elephants to majestic big cats. For wine enthusiasts, local vineyards beckon with tasting experiences against scenic backdrops.

As the sun retreats, you will return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner, fusing local ingredients with culinary finesse. The night envelops you in the treetops, a symphony of nature accompanying your reflections on the day's wonders. You will embrace the promise of fresh discoveries on the horizon.

Main Destination:

Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)

Accommodation:

Tsala Treetop Lodge

• Luxury lodge located near Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Travel to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

You will embark on a captivating journey from the coastal allure of Plettenberg Bay to the untamed wilderness of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, where your destination is the esteemed Great Fish River Lodge. Leaving behind the golden shores and lively ambiance of Plettenberg Bay, the drive guides you through a landscape metamorphosis, unveiling the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape's wild heart. The drive takes approximately 5 hours.

You will be arriving at Kwandwe, the lodge welcomes you with open arms, offering luxurious accommodations that seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment. If there is time you can enjoy a game drive before sundown. As the sun's embrace gives way to dusk, gather for a delectable dinner that masterfully marries African flavors with culinary creativity. With the night sky sparkling overhead, anticipate thrilling wildlife encounters and the tranquility that the African bushveld bestows.

Main Destination:

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Best Time To Visit January to December (All year)

High Season October to April (High season rates)

Best Weather Sep to Apr (Warmer nights and mornings)

Wildlife in Kwandwe GR

GiraffeCommon

White RhinoCommon

BuffaloCommon

ZebraCommon

WildebeestCommon

Black RhinoOccasional

Show more

ElephantOccasional

LionOccasional

CheetahOccasional

HippoOccasional

HyenaOccasional

LeopardVery Rare

Wild DogNone

Accommodation:

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

• Luxury+ lodge located inside Kwandwe GR

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Full-Day at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

You will experience a full day of awe-inspiring activities within Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. You will begin your morning with an exhilarating game drive, led by expert rangers and trackers, in pursuit of the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife. You will immerse yourself in the reserve's details during guided bush walks, gaining insights into its diverse flora and fauna. You will engage in the rhino conservation experience, witnessing the veterinary team's work firsthand. You will connect with local communities, visit schools and clinics, and explore community projects supported by Kwandwe.

You will cruise along the Great Fish River, spotting birdlife and wildlife by the water's edge. You will gain an understanding of Kwandwe's conservation efforts and wildlife research programs. As the sun sets, you'll embark on an evening game drive for captivating nocturnal wildlife encounters. You will conclude the day with stargazing, embracing the vast African sky's celestial wonders.

Main Destination:

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Accommodation:

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

• Luxury+ lodge located inside Kwandwe GR

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Full-Day at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

You will embrace another day of exploration in Kwandwe Private Game Reserve with a plethora of captivating activities from the Kwandwe website. You will engage in early morning game drives and guided bush walks to encounter diverse wildlife and delve into the reserve's ecosystem. Birding enthusiasts can partake in dedicated excursions, while the rhino conservation experience offers a firsthand look at Kwandwe's preservation efforts.

You will connect with the local community, cruise the Great Fish River, and relish afternoon relaxation, be it spa treatments or absorbing the serene surroundings. As the sun sets, you will embark on another evening game drive and conclude the day with stargazing. You will return to the comforts of your lodge for a dinner blending local flavors with culinary finesse, serenaded by the symphony of the wilderness under the African night. Anticipate yet another day of adventure and discovery.

Main Destination:

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Accommodation:

Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge

• Luxury+ lodge located inside Kwandwe GR

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Travel to Port Elizabeth

You will leave the captivating experience of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve behind as you start the last part of your journey. You will drive towards Port Elizabeth Airport (2 hours), traversing roads that offer scenic views and a hassle-free journey. Once you arrive at the airport, you will return your rental car and complete the required procedures. As you board your departing flight, you take with you the treasured memories of your adventure-filled holiday, the landscapes you've explored, and the stories you've gathered along the way.

Main Destination:

Port Elizabeth (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• Clients return their self-drive vehicle at the airport.