From Cape Town to Gqeberha: The ultimate itinerary for South Africa’s Cape regions

Posted on October 23, 2024 by Design News in Travel

South Africa’s Cape regions, encompassing the Western and Eastern Cape, are a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. From the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town to the serene landscapes of the Garden Route, these provinces offer a diverse range of activities that cater to every type of traveller.

Outdoor enthusiast? Take your pick of numerous natural wonders. Wildlife lover? A Big Five safari will tick all your boxes. If you’re interested in history and culture, the Cape has no shortage of memorable sites, and, if you live to eat, you will find some of the finest restaurants on the continent.

Get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime with this bucket list of experiences starting in Cape Town and ending in the Eastern Cape with a safari at one of the best destinations in the country: Lalibela Game Reserve.

Trek to the top of Table Mountain

No trip to Cape Town is complete without a visit to Table Mountain. Take the cable car or hike to the summit for panoramic views of the city, coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. There’s a reason this iconic landmark is one of the 7 Wonders of Nature!

Swim with penguins at Boulders Beach

Just a short drive from Cape Town, Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to a unique colony of African penguins – an endangered species – who welcome visitors to their beach. These adorable creatures waddle and swim among humans in the clear, calm waters of the sheltered beach that is surrounded by the large boulders which give it its name.

Go wine tasting in the winelands

The Western Cape’s winelands are renowned for their world-class wines, superb restaurants and stunning scenery. Spend a day touring the vineyards, sampling exquisite wines and enjoying gourmet dining at historic estates. The warm hospitality and picturesque landscape make it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.

Spot whales in Hermanus

Just under two hours’ drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching. Between June and November, southern right whales migrate here to calve and mate. The town’s cliffs offer spectacular vantage points for spotting these majestic creatures, or you can take a boat tour for a more intimate encounter.

Get up close and personal with great white sharks in Gansbaai

Gansbaai, a coastal town just farther along the coast from Hermanus, is renowned as one of the world’s premier destinations for shark cage diving. In ‘Shark Alley’ adventure seekers can experience the thrill of coming face to face with great white sharks in their natural habitat.

Journey through the Garden Route

Stretching along the southern coast of the Western Cape and including scenic stops like George, Wilderness, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, the Garden Route takes you through some of South Africa’s most picturesque settings. From the lush forests of Tsitsikamma National Park to the serene lagoons of Knysna, the Garden Route is dotted with charming towns, pristine beaches and adventure opportunities like bungee jumping the Bloukrans Bridge, hiking the Robberg Peninsula , kayaking the Kaaimans River and horse riding in Kurland Park.

Surf in Jeffreys Bay

Often referred to as ‘J-Bay’, Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape is best known for its spectacular surfing spots that offer some of the longest waves on the planet, attracting surfers from around the globe. Try your hand at surfing and learn at one of the many surf schools in the area, or put your surfing expertise to the test alongside other enthusiasts.

Experience a safari adventure

While you may recognise the Kruger National Park as a popular safari destination, the often-overlooked Eastern Cape offers exceptional Big Five experiences with some added benefits. Not only is this region a short flight from Cape Town, making it more easily accessible, but it is malaria-free and boasts a spectacular diversity of flora and fauna. Lalibela Game Reserve, just an hour outside Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), is a conservation-first Big Five reserve with six luxury lodges that cater to every kind of safari dream – from family-friendly to five-star romance.

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, the Western and Eastern Cape offer something for everyone, promising an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful parts of the world.