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South Africa · A flexible NxVoy holiday

South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance

A captivating journey through South Africa's diverse landscapes, from the vibrant Mother City to the scenic Garden Route and the historically rich heart of the nation.
Duration
12 nights
Journey
Cape Town → Knysna → Johannesburg
Designed for
Couples
Best time
June
Curated by
Sneha
NxVoy Travel Editor✓ Verified Editorial
OverviewDay by dayPlaces to exploreStaysMake it yoursWhat to budget forGood to know
Shasa
A ready-made idea. A holiday you can change.

Choose your dates, compare live flights and hotels, then add or remove stops and experiences in your draft.

The journey

Embark on a meticulously crafted 12-night odyssey designed for couples seeking an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and serene relaxation across South Africa's most iconic regions. This journey artfully balances exploration with intimacy, allowing you to truly immerse yourselves in each destination.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant embrace of Cape Town, exploring its dramatic coastline and charming penguin colonies, before meandering along the breathtaking Garden Route to the picturesque lagoon town of Knysna. Finally, delve into the profound history and dynamic spirit of Johannesburg, the nation's economic and cultural heartbeat.

NxVoy has curated this itinerary to ensure a relaxed yet engaging pace, providing ample time for both structured discoveries and spontaneous moments, perfectly aligning with a couple's desire for shared experiences and personal reflection.

Signature Moments

What you'll remember

01

Witnessing the charming African penguins at Boulders Beach, a truly unique and heartwarming wildlife encounter.

02

The breathtaking scenic drive along the Garden Route, with stunning coastal vistas unfolding around every bend, creating a shared sense of adventure.

03

A serene boat trip on the Knysna Lagoon, sailing towards the iconic Heads as the sun begins to set, offering a perfect romantic moment.

04

Stepping into Soweto, feeling the vibrant pulse of its history, and gaining a profound understanding of South Africa's journey.

05

The deeply moving and educational experience at the Apartheid Museum, a powerful moment of reflection and learning together.

Your days, your way

Your holiday, day by day

Start with this itinerary. In your draft, change the stops, stays and activities to suit your holiday.

13 days to exploreCustomisable in your draft
Cape TownCape Town

Day 1 · Cape Town

Departure from Mumbai to Cape Town: Your South African Adventure Begins

Your South African adventure commences with an evening departure from Mumbai. Please proceed to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, allowing four hours lead time for international check-in as per policy. This long-haul flight will take you across continents to Cape Town, marking the beginning of your 12-night exploration. Rest on board, preparing for your arrival in the Mother City, where diverse regions await your discovery. The journey is designed for a comfortable transition into your holiday.

Meal notes

Dinner will be served onboard your flight.

V&A Waterfront, Cape TownV&A Waterfront · Cape Town
Photo: Daniel Case / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 2 · Cape Town

Arrival in Cape Town & Atlantic Seaboard Serenity

  1. Morning

    Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and collect your pre-booked standard sedan rental car, which will be your transport for the next four days. Drive to your 4-star hotel to complete check-in. This allows for a smooth start to your South African adventure as a couple.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Ensure your rental car booking is confirmed prior to arrival at CPT.
    • Have your hotel address readily available for GPS navigation from the airport.
  2. Afternoon

    Spend the afternoon settling into your 4-star hotel. This provides an opportunity to unwind after your journey and prepare for the days ahead. Enjoy the hotel's amenities or simply relax as a couple.

  3. Evening

    For your first evening, consider a relaxed dinner at the V&A Waterfront. This historic working harbour offers various dining options and a pleasant atmosphere for couples to enjoy after a day of travel.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • The V&A Waterfront has numerous restaurants; consider making a reservation for popular spots.
    • Parking is available at the V&A Waterfront, convenient for your rental car.
Meal notes

Consider a seafood dinner at the V&A Waterfront to kick off your culinary journey.

Helpful tips for today
  • Ensure your rental car booking is confirmed prior to arrival at CPT.
  • Have your hotel address readily available for GPS navigation from the airport.
  • The V&A Waterfront has numerous restaurants; consider making a reservation for popular spots.
  • Parking is available at the V&A Waterfront, convenient for your rental car.
Boulders Beach, Cape TownBoulders Beach · Cape Town
Photo: Viator

Day 3 · Cape Town

Penguins at Boulders Beach & Cape of Good Hope Exploration

  1. Morning

    Begin your day with a self-drive south from Cape Town to Boulders Beach. Arrive early to observe the colony of African penguins from the designated boardwalks. Boulders Beach is open from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM, providing ample time to enjoy this unique attraction.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Arrive close to the 8:00 AM opening time to avoid peak crowds at Boulders Beach.
    • Wear comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalks at Boulders Beach.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your self-drive journey to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, part of a protected wildlife reserve. Enjoy the scenic drives, picnic spots, and walks. The reserve is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering breathtaking coastal views for couples.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Carry water and snacks, as facilities within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve can be limited.
    • Note the 5:00 PM closing time for the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve when planning your visit.
  3. Evening

    Return to Cape Town after your day of coastal exploration. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps dining at a local restaurant near your hotel or revisiting the V&A Waterfront for a diverse selection of eateries.

Meal notes

Pack some snacks and water for the Cape of Good Hope exploration, as dining options can be limited within the reserve.

Helpful tips for today
  • Arrive close to the 8:00 AM opening time to avoid peak crowds at Boulders Beach.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalks at Boulders Beach.
  • Carry water and snacks, as facilities within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve can be limited.
  • Note the 5:00 PM closing time for the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve when planning your visit.
Table Mountain, Cape TownTable Mountain · Cape Town
Photo: Pavel Špindler / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0CC BY 3.0

Day 4 · Cape Town

A Day for Personal Discoveries in the Mother City

  1. Morning

    Dedicate your morning to independent discoveries, starting with the V&A Waterfront. This vast complex offers shops, restaurants, and an art museum on a historic working harbour. Couples can enjoy browsing or a leisurely coffee by the water.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Allow several hours to fully experience the V&A Waterfront's diverse offerings.
    • Consider visiting early to enjoy a quieter atmosphere before crowds build.
  2. Afternoon

    In the afternoon, ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views of Cape Town and its coastline. This mountain peak offers stunning vistas, creating a memorable experience for couples. Check weather conditions before planning your visit.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pre-book Table Mountain Aerial Cableway tickets online to save time and avoid queues.
    • Weather on Table Mountain can change rapidly; bring layers and check forecasts.
  3. Evening

    Conclude your day of personal discoveries with a relaxed evening. Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Cape Town's many acclaimed restaurants, or simply unwind at your hotel after experiencing the city's sights.

Meal notes

Cape Town offers a vibrant culinary scene; consider trying a traditional South African braai (barbecue) experience.

Helpful tips for today
  • Allow several hours to fully experience the V&A Waterfront's diverse offerings.
  • Consider visiting early to enjoy a quieter atmosphere before crowds build.
  • Pre-book Table Mountain Aerial Cableway tickets online to save time and avoid queues.
  • Weather on Table Mountain can change rapidly; bring layers and check forecasts.
Tsitsikamma National Park, KnysnaTsitsikamma National Park · Knysna
Photo: Original uploader was Conrad88 at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 5 · Knysna

Scenic Splendour: Driving the Garden Route to Knysna

  1. Morning

    Embark on a self-drive transfer from Cape Town to Knysna, a journey of 488 km along the Garden Route, taking approximately 5.6 hours. Plan for fuel and comfort stops along this scenic route, enjoying the changing landscapes as a couple.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Start your drive early to allow for comfort breaks and scenic photo opportunities along the Garden Route.
    • Ensure your rental car has a full tank before departing Cape Town for Knysna.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your scenic drive, arriving in Knysna by the afternoon. Check into your accommodation and take some time to settle in. Knysna is known for its beautiful lagoon, offering a peaceful setting after your journey.

  3. Evening

    Enjoy a relaxed evening in Knysna. Consider a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or find a charming restaurant to dine as a couple. The tranquil atmosphere of Knysna provides a perfect end to your travel day.

Meal notes

Knysna is famous for its oysters; consider trying them fresh from the lagoon.

Helpful tips for today
  • Start your drive early to allow for comfort breaks and scenic photo opportunities along the Garden Route.
  • Ensure your rental car has a full tank before departing Cape Town for Knysna.
Tsitsikamma National Park, KnysnaTsitsikamma National Park · Knysna
Photo: Original uploader was Conrad88 at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 6 · Knysna

Knysna's Lagoon Charms & Iconic Heads

  1. Morning

    Spend the morning experiencing Knysna, beginning at the vibrant waterfront area. Explore local artisan shops and dining options. Consider a boat trip across the lagoon towards the iconic Knysna Heads, which are open 24 hours.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Book a lagoon boat trip in advance, especially during peak season, for the best timings.
    • Explore the shops at the waterfront for local crafts and souvenirs.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your exploration of the Knysna Heads, either by boat or by driving to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the lagoon and ocean. The Knysna Heads are open 24 hours. Enjoy the dramatic geological formations and scenic beauty.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Drive to the Eastern Head for accessible viewpoints and photo opportunities.
    • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the viewpoints at the Knysna Heads.
  3. Evening

    Enjoy a romantic evening in Knysna. Choose one of the many local restaurants for dinner, perhaps with views of the lagoon. Reflect on the day's experiences exploring Knysna's unique natural attractions.

Meal notes

Don't miss the opportunity to try freshly shucked Knysna oysters.

Helpful tips for today
  • Book a lagoon boat trip in advance, especially during peak season, for the best timings.
  • Explore the shops at the waterfront for local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Drive to the Eastern Head for accessible viewpoints and photo opportunities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the viewpoints at the Knysna Heads.
Tsitsikamma National Park, KnysnaTsitsikamma National Park · Knysna
Photo: Original uploader was Conrad88 at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 7 · Knysna

Adventure in Tsitsikamma National Park's Wild Beauty

  1. Morning

    Embark on a self-drive excursion to Tsitsikamma National Park, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Knysna. The park is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Upon arrival, focus on the popular Mouth Trail, offering scenic walks for couples.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Start your drive to Tsitsikamma National Park early to maximise your time in the park.
    • Wear appropriate footwear for walking the Mouth Trail within the park.
  2. Afternoon

    Spend the afternoon further experiencing Tsitsikamma National Park's wild beauty. Enjoy the natural surroundings and perhaps another short walk before beginning your return drive to Knysna. The park offers various viewpoints for couples to appreciate.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pack a picnic to enjoy within Tsitsikamma National Park, as dining options might be limited.
    • Be mindful of the 7:00 PM closing time for Tsitsikamma National Park when planning your departure.
  3. Evening

    After your adventurous day, return to Knysna for a relaxed evening. Consider a quiet dinner at a local eatery or simply unwind at your accommodation. Reflect on the natural splendour experienced at Tsitsikamma National Park.

Meal notes

The restaurant at Storms River Mouth offers good options, but packing snacks and water is always a good idea for hiking.

Helpful tips for today
  • Start your drive to Tsitsikamma National Park early to maximise your time in the park.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for walking the Mouth Trail within the park.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy within Tsitsikamma National Park, as dining options might be limited.
  • Be mindful of the 7:00 PM closing time for Tsitsikamma National Park when planning your departure.
Tsitsikamma National Park, KnysnaTsitsikamma National Park · Knysna
Photo: Original uploader was Conrad88 at en.wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 8 · Knysna

Leisurely Farewell to the Garden Route

  1. Morning

    Enjoy a relaxed start to your day in Knysna. You may choose a final walk along the waterfront, or simply appreciate the lagoon views from your hotel. The Knysna Heads are open 24 hours, offering scenic vistas for a last visit.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Knysna Heads are accessible at any time for panoramic views.
  2. Afternoon

    Spend the afternoon at your leisure. Consider visiting the Knysna Elephant Park or the Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary for a unique experience. Alternatively, use this time to begin packing and preparing for tomorrow's journey.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Pre-book tickets for Knysna Elephant Park or Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary to ensure entry.
  3. Evening

    Have a relaxed evening in Knysna. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local eatery, reflecting on your Garden Route experiences. Ensure all luggage is packed and ready for your departure tomorrow.

Meal notes

Indulge in a final Knysna oyster experience.

Helpful tips for today
  • Knysna Heads are accessible at any time for panoramic views.
  • Pre-book tickets for Knysna Elephant Park or Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary to ensure entry.
Apartheid Museum, JohannesburgApartheid Museum · Johannesburg
Photo: NJR ZA / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 9 · Johannesburg

From Coast to Cultural Heartbeat & Soweto's Soul

  1. Morning

    Begin your journey from Knysna to Johannesburg, a total distance of 1170 km, taking approximately 15.2 hours. Drive your rental car from Knysna to George Airport, a drive of about 1 hour, for your internal flight.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Allow ample time for the drive to George Airport and airport procedures.
    • Confirm rental car drop-off details at George Airport in advance.
  2. Afternoon

    Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, collect your second rental car. Proceed to check into your accommodation, allowing time to settle in after your travel day.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Ensure your second rental car is pre-booked for collection at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).
  3. Evening

    Enjoy a relaxed evening in Johannesburg after your travel. Settle into your new surroundings and perhaps enjoy a quiet dinner. Plan for tomorrow's historical explorations.

Meal notes

Try local street food or a traditional 'kota' (bunny chow) in Soweto.

Helpful tips for today
  • Allow ample time for the drive to George Airport and airport procedures.
  • Confirm rental car drop-off details at George Airport in advance.
  • Ensure your second rental car is pre-booked for collection at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).
Mandela House, JohannesburgMandela House · Johannesburg
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Moongateclimber assumed (based on copyright / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 10 · Johannesburg

Echoes of History: Mandela House & Apartheid Museum Immersion

  1. Morning

    Visit Mandela's House in Soweto, located at 8115 Vilakazi Street, which was Nelson Mandela's residence. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM, offering insights into his life.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Arrive at Mandela's House shortly after its 9:00 AM opening to avoid larger crowds.
  2. Afternoon

    Drive to the Apartheid Museum, a significant site chronicling 20th-century South Africa and the apartheid system. It is open Tuesday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • The Apartheid Museum is closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly.
    • Allow at least 3-4 hours for a thorough visit to the Apartheid Museum.
  3. Evening

    Reflect on the profound historical experiences of the day. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant. Consider an early night to rest after an emotionally impactful day.

Meal notes

A light and reflective dinner after the museum experience is recommended.

Helpful tips for today
  • Arrive at Mandela's House shortly after its 9:00 AM opening to avoid larger crowds.
  • The Apartheid Museum is closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours for a thorough visit to the Apartheid Museum.
Apartheid Museum, JohannesburgApartheid Museum · Johannesburg
Photo: NJR ZA / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 11 · Johannesburg

Urban Exploration at Your Own Rhythm in Johannesburg

  1. Morning

    Enjoy a flexible morning to discover Johannesburg at your own pace. You might visit the Maboneng Precinct, known for its art galleries, studios, and markets, offering a contemporary urban experience.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Check specific market days and hours for the Maboneng Precinct if you plan to visit a market.
  2. Afternoon

    Continue your urban exploration. Consider a City Sightseeing Johannesburg Hop-On Hop-Off Tour for an overview of the city, or visit the Museum of Illusions Johannesburg for a different kind of attraction.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Purchase City Sightseeing Johannesburg tickets online for convenience.
  3. Evening

    Have a relaxed evening in Johannesburg. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps trying a new cuisine. Prepare for your final full day in the city tomorrow.

Meal notes

Johannesburg has a thriving dining scene; consider a restaurant in the upscale Sandton area or the bohemian Melville.

Helpful tips for today
  • Check specific market days and hours for the Maboneng Precinct if you plan to visit a market.
  • Purchase City Sightseeing Johannesburg tickets online for convenience.
Johannesburg Art Gallery, JohannesburgJohannesburg Art Gallery · Johannesburg
Photo: Janek Szymanowski / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 12 · Johannesburg

Last Moments in the Dynamic City of Gold

  1. Morning

    Spend your final full morning in Johannesburg at a relaxed pace. You might choose to revisit a favourite spot from earlier in the trip or simply enjoy the amenities at your hotel.

  2. Afternoon

    Dedicate the afternoon to any final souvenir shopping. Explore local craft markets for unique items or visit larger retail centres for a wider selection of goods.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Research local craft markets for specific opening days and times.
  3. Evening

    Enjoy a farewell dinner in Johannesburg, celebrating the memories made during your South African journey. Relax and ensure all your belongings are packed for tomorrow's departure.

Meal notes

Revisit a favourite restaurant or try a new one for your farewell dinner.

Helpful tips for today
  • Research local craft markets for specific opening days and times.
Apartheid Museum, JohannesburgApartheid Museum · Johannesburg
Photo: NJR ZA / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

Day 13 · Johannesburg

Departure from Johannesburg to Mumbai: Cherished Memories

  1. Morning

    Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast in Johannesburg. Depending on your international flight schedule, drive your rental car to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Confirm your rental car return location and procedure at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).
  2. Afternoon

    Allow four hours lead time for international check-in and customs at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). Complete your check-in and proceed through security.

    Tips for this part of the day
    • Verify your flight's check-in counter and gate information upon arrival at the airport.
  3. Evening

    Board your international flight from Johannesburg to Mumbai, carrying cherished memories of your South African adventure. Enjoy your journey home.

Meal notes

Grab a light meal at the airport before your flight.

Helpful tips for today
  • Confirm your rental car return location and procedure at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).
  • Verify your flight's check-in counter and gate information upon arrival at the airport.
Day 1 of 13

This is your starting plan. Available flights, hotels and activity options are checked when you build your draft.

Find your kind of holiday

Places worth exploring

The well-known sights and a few quieter discoveries. Explore photos and reviews, then shape your days in the draft.

South Africa

Gold Reef City Theme Park

More than 30 roller coasters & thrill rides, an interactive history of gold mining & a 4D theater.

Boulders Beach, Cape Town
Photo: Viator

South Africa

Boulders Beach

Sheltered public bay with a sandy beach & boardwalk, plus free-roaming colony of African penguins.

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Cape Town
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0CC BY-SA 4.0

South Africa

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

Tip of the Cape Peninsula forming part of a protected wildlife reserve with picnic spots and walks.

Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg
Photo: NJR ZA / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0CC BY-SA 3.0

South Africa

Apartheid Museum

Museum chronicling the story of 20th-century South Africa & the now-defunct apartheid system.

Cape Town

Sweet LionHeart

Cake Shop

Locals send people here for their beautifully created custom-made two-tier cakes for special occasions, or their delicious salted caramel vanilla cupcakes with various icing styles.

Cape Town

Reverie Social Table

Restaurant

Locals send people here for the intimate, social dining experience around a chef's personal table, enjoying a 5-course meal with perfectly paired local wines, including tasty oysters.

evening

Cape Town

THE 777 COFFEE ROASTERY

Coffee roastery

Locals frequent this spot for its outstanding coffee quality and tea that relaxes your soul, noting the warm, friendly service and consistent quality food.

mornings, afternoons, or late

Knysna

Maillard Baking Co.

Bakery

Locals send you for the Neopolitan style sourdough pizzas and freshly baked glazed or apricot jam filled donuts, perfect for an early dinner next to the gin distillery.

early dinner

Lion's Head Sunset Guided Hike Experience from Cape Town

Cape Town

Lion's Head Sunset Guided Hike Experience from Cape Town

Entertainment
Platteklip Gorge Guided Hike Experience from Cape Town

Cape Town

Platteklip Gorge Guided Hike Experience from Cape Town

Entertainment
The Official Cape Town City Pass (2, 3, or 5 Days)

Cape Town

The Official Cape Town City Pass (2, 3, or 5 Days)

Others

These are ideas for your trip. Entry, tickets and opening times need checking; only services in your final booking are included.

The route

How you travel

1,658 km on the road, about 20.8 hours of driving in total.
  • Cape Town → Knysna488 km by road · about 5.6 h
  • Knysna → Johannesburg1170 km by road · about 15.2 h

A good place to come back to

Find a stay that feels like you

A little inspiration for where to stay. Your draft shows available hotels, room choices, meals and cancellation terms for your dates.

Cresta Grande Cape Town

Cape Town · 4 nights

Cresta Grande Cape Town

Suggested stay · subject to availability
aha The Rex Hotel

Knysna · 4 nights

aha The Rex Hotel

Suggested stay · subject to availability
Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport

Johannesburg · 4 nights

Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport

Suggested stay · subject to availability

This is your NxVoy holiday

Love the idea. Make it yours.

Pick your dates and who is travelling. Shasa turns this route into a draft with live options for you to compare and customise.

Make the route yours

Ask Shasa to add or remove stops and decide how long you want to stay.

Choose your stays

Compare live hotel and room options that suit your budget.

Find flights that fit

Review flight choices from your home city for your travel dates.

Build your kind of day

Add experiences, swap plans or leave time to explore on your own.

Shasa AI
From inspiration to your own holiday

Review what is available and the full price before checkout. Building a draft does not make a booking.

Plan with the full picture

What to budget for

What this sample holiday is built around. Your selected flights, stays and activities determine the final price and inclusions in the draft.

In this holiday plan

  • International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Cape Town, returning from Johannesburg
  • Accommodation: 12 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels across Cape Town, Knysna, and Johannesburg, promising comfort and elegance.
  • Rental Car: Self-drive vehicle for seamless exploration in Cape Town and Knysna (4 days), and for Johannesburg (5 days) – a standard sedan with unlimited mileage for your freedom.
  • Activities: All essential entrance fees for Boulders Beach, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Tsitsikamma National Park, a guided Soweto tour, Mandela House, and the Apartheid Museum.
  • Food Buffer: An allocated budget for meals, allowing flexibility in your dining experiences.
  • All applicable taxes and service charges, for a transparent and hassle-free experience.

Plan for these extras

  • −South African E-Visa fees
  • −Internal flight from George (GRJ) to Johannesburg (JNB)
  • −Personal expenses and incidentals
  • −Comprehensive travel insurance
  • −Fuel for rental cars
  • −Tolls and parking fees
  • −Gratuities for guides and drivers

A little preparation goes a long way

Good to know

Useful details to help you decide, with the finer points confirmed for your own trip.

When to goJune
Local currencySouth African Rand (R)
Your starting price₹1,40,700

per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.

Local know-how
  • Be aware that some scenic drives, like Red Hill, have steep roads and sharp turns requiring caution, and parking near popular viewpoints can be difficult in residential areas.
  • For unique dining experiences like Reverie Social Table or popular spots like The Melting Pot, reservations are advisable, and you might find alternative seating like a rooftop if booked.
  • When exploring outdoor spots, be prepared for strenuous hikes, potential wind, and consider bringing a blanket and snacks for picnics; bicycle rentals are available at places like the Promenade.
  • Be aware that while some viewpoints like Margaret's are an easy 50m walk from parking, others like Spitzkop have rough, steep roads, and Knysna Heads involves steep walks.
  • If traveling with pets, Steenbok Nature Reserve is very dog-friendly, offering paved walks and providing poop bags and bins.
Everyday costs to consider
  • Johannesburg: Expect affordable prices for fresh produce at places like Siyakhana Garden, but be wary of specific food stalls at markets that some reviewers found overpriced.
When is the best time to visit Cape Town, Knysna, Johannesburg?

June

How many days is South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance?

13 days and 12 nights, across 3 destinations.

Which places does South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance cover?

Cape Town, Knysna, Johannesburg. The day-by-day plan on this page shows exactly how the nights are split and how you travel between them.

Where will we stay?

Cresta Grande Cape Town (Cape Town, 4 nights); aha The Rex Hotel (Knysna, 4 nights); Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport (Johannesburg, 4 nights). These are suggested stays. In your draft, compare available hotels and choose your rooms, meal plans and cancellation terms for your travel dates.

What are the lesser-known things to do in Cape Town, Knysna, Johannesburg?

Sweet LionHeart — Locals send people here for their beautifully created custom-made two-tier cakes for special occasions, or their delicious salted caramel vanilla cupcakes with various icing styles.; Reverie Social Table — Locals send people here for the intimate, social dining experience around a chef's personal table, enjoying a 5-course meal with perfectly paired local wines, including tasty oysters.; THE 777 COFFEE ROASTERY — Locals frequent this spot for its outstanding coffee quality and tea that relaxes your soul, noting the warm, friendly service and consistent quality food.; Maillard Baking Co. — Locals send you for the Neopolitan style sourdough pizzas and freshly baked glazed or apricot jam filled donuts, perfect for an early dinner next to the gin distillery.; Bao Wow Knysna — Try the phenomenal pork belly bao, Korean fried chicken kimchi rice, or the amazing Chicken rice bowl; they also have highly recommended vegan creations..

What are the must-see highlights of Cape Town, Knysna, Johannesburg?

Gold Reef City Theme Park; Boulders Beach; Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve; Apartheid Museum; Mandela House; Maboneng Precinct.

Who is South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance best suited to?

Couples seeking a rich tapestry of experiences, from coastal serenity and scenic drives to profound cultural immersion and vibrant city exploration.

Can this trip be customised to my dates and travellers?

Yes. Choose Customise this holiday, add your dates and travellers, and open your Shasa draft. Ask Shasa to add or remove stops, compare flights and hotels, and adjust activities before booking. Our travel experts can also help on WhatsApp.

How much does South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance cost?

From ₹1,40,700 per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.. This is a starting price. Choose Customise this holiday to enter your dates and travellers, compare available options in your draft and review the updated total before checkout.

What's included in this 12-night itinerary?

International return economy class flights from Bengaluru to Cape Town, returning from Johannesburg; Accommodation: 12 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels across Cape Town, Knysna, and Johannesburg, promising comfort and elegance.; Rental Car: Self-drive vehicle for seamless exploration in Cape Town and Knysna (4 days), and for Johannesburg (5 days) – a standard sedan with unlimited mileage for your freedom.; Activities: All essential entrance fees for Boulders Beach, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Tsitsikamma National Park, a guided Soweto tour, Mandela House, and the Apartheid Museum.; Food Buffer: An allocated budget for meals, allowing flexibility in your dining experiences.; All applicable taxes and service charges, for a transparent and hassle-free experience.. These describe the sample holiday. Review the inclusions of your chosen flights, stays and activities in the draft before booking.

What is not included in South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance?

South African E-Visa fees; Internal flight from George (GRJ) to Johannesburg (JNB); Personal expenses and incidentals; Comprehensive travel insurance; Fuel for rental cars; Tolls and parking fees; Gratuities for guides and drivers.

How do I book South Africa's Coastal Gems & Cultural Heart: A 12-Night Romance?

Choose Customise this holiday and tell Shasa your departure city, dates and travellers. Review the draft, choose your available flight and hotel options, and adjust the itinerary. Check the final price and each service's booking terms before continuing to checkout. Creating a draft does not make a booking.

Do I need a visa for Cape Town, Knysna, Johannesburg?

Visa requirements depend on your passport, residence and destinations. Ask a NxVoy travel expert about the documents, timing and any visa-service charges for your trip before booking.

Starting price
₹1,40,700
per person, twin-share. Includes return flights and all stays. Ground transfers quoted with your itinerary.
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Curated by Sneha
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Incredible IndiaIncredible India
TAFITAFI
ADTOIADTOI
ATOAIATOAI
ATTOIATTOI
ABTOABTO
TOAITOAI
GTAAGTAA
FOTOFOTO
IATTEIATTE
ETAAETAA
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Gujarat TourismGujarat Tourism
Haryana TourismHaryana Tourism
Telangana TourismTelangana Tourism
Karnataka TourismKarnataka Tourism

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From, per person₹1,40,700