19 days – South Africa Camping Safari along the West Coast, Karoo & Garden Route

The SANParks Overseers Mountain Cottage is a uniquely positioned cabin with breathtaking views, located at the very top of the mountain in Table Mountain National Park. It is accessible only by foot via a scenic hike from Constantia Nek, which takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Visitors must contact the Platteklip Wash Houses before arrival to arrange transport services. Luggage transport is available from the Constantia Nek parking area, but all guests must hike up and down the mountain as no shuttles or vehicle permits are provided.

There are no meal services, so guests must bring their own food. However, a fully equipped kitchen is available for use. This remote accommodation offers a truly immersive mountain experience for those seeking adventure and solitude.

With a crystal-clear river, stunning birdlife, and breathtaking mountain landscapes, Mount Ceder offers activities for every taste and fitness level. Explore the wilderness with majestic viewpoints, spring flowers, mountain biking, and scenic hikes, or dive into the region’s rich history and culture.

Discover ancient rock art along the Sevilla Rock Art Trail, journey over the Pakhuis Pass to visit C. Louis Leipoldt’s grave, and explore historical sites like the Ou Tronk Museum. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Velskoendraai Padstal, or indulge in rooibos tea at the House of Rooibos.

For adventure seekers, the Algeria Waterfall, Welbedacht Cave, and the challenging Gabriel’s Pass hike offer incredible views. Iconic landmarks like Wolfberg Arch, Sneeuberg, and The Stadsaal Caves provide unforgettable trekking experiences, while The Elephant Rock Art showcases the area’s ancient heritage.

Unwind with a wine tasting at Cederberg Wines, and as night falls, experience the wonders of the universe at the astronomical observatory—a perfect way to connect with nature and the cosmos.

Namaqualand – A Hidden Wildlife and Floral Paradise

Zoom in with your camera lens, and you’ll discover that Namaqua National Park is teeming with wildlife and birds. From elusive small predators like the African wild cat, caracal, and bat-eared fox to charming creatures like rock hyraxes, duikers, and meerkat families, the park offers a hidden world of fascinating species. While you won’t find big game like elephants or lions here, as in Kruger or Hluhluwe, Namaqua rewards those who take the time to observe its rich biodiversity.

Beyond its wildlife, Namaqualand is famous for having one of the richest bulb flora ecosystems of any arid region in the world. Namaqua National Park is one of the best places to witness this natural spectacle, especially during the flower season, when the landscape transforms into a vibrant sea of color.

For those exploring the park with a 4×4, the Caracal Route offers an adventurous drive through valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes. Hikers can enjoy the 3 km Korhaan Trail and 5 km Skilpad Trail, both stunning during flower season. The 6 km coastal trail is another gem, where you might spot dolphins and whales along the way. While there are no dedicated MTB trails, bringing a bike is still an option for an off-road adventure.

Birdwatching – Look Out for the Oystercatcher

Namaqua National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to species like the Verreaux’s Eagle, Kori Bustard, Namaqua Sandgrouse, and Spotted Eagle Owl. The African Black Oystercatcher, listed as ‘threatened’ on the Red Data List, is a major highlight for bird enthusiasts. Despite its name, this striking red-beaked, red-eyed bird rarely eats oysters and can often be seen along the coastal stretch between the Groen and Spoeg Rivers.

Whether you’re drawn by wildlife, the world-famous spring flowers, or the serene coastal beauty, Namaqua National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Augrabies Falls National Park – A Surreal Landscape of Waterfalls and Wilderness

About 120 km west of Upington in the Northern Cape, Augrabies Falls National Park feels like a landscape from another planet. While the thundering Augrabies Falls are the main attraction, the park is also home to unique wildlife and plant species adapted to the arid environment, fascinating rock formations, and exciting outdoor adventures.

Activities in Augrabies Falls National Park:

Visit the Augrabies Falls – Witness the powerful cascade of the Orange River, plunging 56 meters into a dramatic gorge.

Climb Moon Rock – Hike up this massive granite dome for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the park’s surreal landscape.

Admire the Gorge – Stand at viewpoints overlooking the deep, rugged canyon carved by the relentless force of the river.

Drive the Hartmann’s Loop – A scenic route where you can spot springboks, klipspringers, and giraffes amid the rocky terrain.

Go Rafting – Experience an exhilarating river rafting adventure on the Orange River (available through local operators).

Book a Guided Night Drive – Discover the park’s nocturnal wildlife, including aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, and leopards, under the starlit sky.

Augrabies Falls National Park is a hidden gem that offers a mix of dramatic scenery, adventure, and wildlife, making it a must-visit destination in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

This journey from Augrabies Falls Rest Camp to Karoo National Park takes you through some of South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. The day begins early as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the rugged rock formations of Augrabies Falls. After one last look at the thundering waterfall, you set off around 7 AM for a long but rewarding 750-kilometer drive.

The first leg of the trip takes you south on the N14 to Upington, a 1.5-hour drive through the stark beauty of the Northern Cape. In Upington, a green oasis along the Orange River, you can stop for a hearty breakfast and coffee at a local café while refueling for the journey ahead.

Continuing south on the N10, the landscape shifts as you enter the Karoo’s vast plains. The vegetation becomes sparse, with low-lying hills and signature Karoo shrubs scattered across the horizon. By midday, you reach Prieska, an ideal place for lunch and a short break before continuing deeper into the Great Karoo.

From Prieska, you take the N12 toward Victoria West, where the scenery grows even more dramatic. The endless Karoo vistas stretch to the horizon, occasionally interrupted by isolated farmhouses or a herd of springboks roaming in the distance. Victoria West is a great spot for a quick refreshment and perhaps a taste of South Africa’s famous koeksisters at a local bakery.

The final stretch leads you to Beaufort West, the gateway to Karoo National Park. By late afternoon, you turn off toward the park, where the majestic Nuweveld Mountains dominate the skyline. As you arrive at the Rest Camp, the Karoo greets you with its serene silence, broken only by the occasional call of a jackal or the sight of grazing springboks near reception.

After checking in, there’s just enough time to watch the sunset from your veranda, as the Karoo’s colors shift into deep reds and purples. The journey has taken you from the thundering Augrabies Falls to the tranquil vastness of the Karoo, showcasing two vastly different yet equally mesmerizing South African landscapes.

A Day at Leisure in Karoo National Park – Top Things to Do

Spend the day exploring the rugged beauty of Karoo National Park, where vast landscapes, unique wildlife, and fascinating plant life await.

Start your adventure with a scenic drive along Klipspringer Pass, a breathtaking route that offers panoramic views of the park’s dramatic rock formations and valleys. For a longer game-viewing experience, continue along the 45 km Potlekkertjie Loop, where you might spot black-backed jackals, steenboks, red hartebeests, gemsboks, kudus, elands, and the rare Cape mountain zebra. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the park’s elusive lions.

Pack a picnic and take a break at Doornhoek Picnic Spot along the Potlekkertjie Loop, or relax at Bulkraal along the Lammertjiesleegte route, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the Karoo’s open landscapes.

For those interested in flora, the Bossie Trail is a must. This short interpretive walk introduces you to the rich diversity of succulents and other Karoo vegetation, including aloes, crassulas, the thorny klapperbossie, num-num shrubs, and boegoe karoo. The park is unique in that it encompasses both the Nama-Karoo and Grassland biomes, making it an ecological treasure trove.

Whether you choose to explore by car, hike through the landscapes, or simply soak in the vast, open wilderness, Karoo National Park offers a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.

Travel to Addo Elephant National Park – Time for Wildlife!

As you journey toward Addo Elephant National Park, prepare for a thrilling adventure through one of South Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Beyond the typical activities like game drives, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, the area offers even more exciting ways to explore its natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

For a unique safari experience, try the horseback safaris, which offer a different perspective of the park’s wildlife as you ride through the landscape. The Tree Dassie Trail is a beautiful hiking route that takes you through diverse ecosystems, allowing you to get closer to the park’s natural beauty on foot.

For the more adventurous, there’s the 45 km 4×4 Off-road Trail between Kabouga and Darlington, which is rated level 2-3. This trail is not only a thrilling ride through varied terrain but also holds historical significance from the Anglo-Boer War, offering a blend of adventure and history. The landscape along the route is spectacular, with sweeping views and unique wildlife sightings.

Of course, don’t miss out on Addo Elephant’s organized game drives, where expert guides lead you through the park to spot elephants, lions, buffalo, and more. These guided safaris provide incredible insights into the animals’ behavior and the park’s diverse ecosystem.

Addo offers something for everyone, from adventurous off-road trails to peaceful wildlife watching, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable safari experience.

A Free Day at Addo Elephant National Park – An Unforgettable Safari Experience

Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest national wildlife park in South Africa and offers an extraordinary safari experience. This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic elephants, but you’ll also find lions, buffaloes, black rhinos, spotted hyenas, leopards, various antelope species, zebras, and over 400 bird species.

What makes Addo Elephant National Park truly unique is that it is the only park in the world where you can see the Big Seven. This means that with a bit of luck, you can spot not only the Big Five (elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos) but also the southern right whale and the white shark off the coast of Algoa Bay.

During your visit, you’ll be amazed by the extensive knowledge of the park’s expert guides, who will enhance your experience through exciting four-wheel-drive safaris, thrilling horseback excursions, and breathtaking night game drives. Addo is particularly renowned for its large herds of elephants, which you will encounter at various points throughout the park.

This park is the perfect getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, offering not only an opportunity to see incredible wildlife up close but also a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of South Africa’s wild heart.

Travel to Storms River – Adventure Meets Nature

Storms River Camp, nestled in the stunning Tsitsikamma National Park along the Garden Route, offers an unforgettable combination of adventure and natural beauty. This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with spectacular hiking trails such as the famous Otter Trail, a challenging five-day coastal trek, or the shorter Waterfall Trail, which leads to a breathtaking waterfall. The Mouth Trail is another highlight, taking visitors to the iconic suspension bridge over the mouth of the Storms River – a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

For those seeking adventure, kayaking and lilo trips take you deep into the Storms River Gorge, offering a thrilling way to explore the landscape. Snorkeling and diving allow you to discover the rich marine life of the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area. If you’re looking for something even more exciting, the Canopy Tour lets you glide through the tree tops of the indigenous rainforest, offering a unique perspective of the park’s lush environment.

If relaxation is more your style, there’s plenty of that too. The tidal pools along the coastline are perfect for observing marine life up close, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins or whales, especially between June and November. At the end of the day, enjoy a stunning sunset over the ocean as the waves crash against the rugged coastline.

Storms River Camp is a place where nature and adventure seamlessly blend, offering something for every traveler to experience. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful moments in nature, this destination is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

A Free Day to Explore Tsitsikamma

The Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of adventure and breathtaking nature. It is home to the world-famous Otter Trail, one of South Africa’s most spectacular multi-day hikes, along with many other scenic walking routes for all fitness levels.

For those who love water adventures, there are plenty of options. You can go diving or snorkeling in the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area, explore the Storms River Gorge by kayak and lilo, or experience the thrill of tubing down the river. Between June and November, you might be lucky enough to spot whales along the coastline, while dolphins can often be seen playing in the waves year-round.

Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled day or a chance to reconnect with nature, Tsitsikamma offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Travel to Wilderness – A Tranquil Coastal Escape

After leaving Storms River Camp, your journey continues to Wilderness, a charming village along the Garden Route, known for its vast beaches, lush forests, and peaceful lagoons. This natural paradise offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

One of the main highlights is the Wilderness National Park, where you can wander through dense forests, cross wooden bridges over gentle streams, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. The Half Collared Kingfisher Trail is a must-do, leading to a hidden waterfall deep in the forest. For those who love water activities, kayaking on the Touw River offers a serene way to explore the landscape, while paragliding from the dunes provides a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the coastline.

The endless sandy beaches invite long, peaceful walks, while surfers and swimmers enjoy the rolling waves. Birdwatchers will find paradise in the protected wetland areas, home to a variety of rare and colorful species.

After a day of exploration, there’s no better way to unwind than at one of the cozy cafés or oceanfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean. Wilderness is the perfect retreat, offering untouched natural beauty, adventure, and pure relaxation.

A Free Day in Wilderness – Explore at Your Own Pace

Wilderness offers countless ways to enjoy its natural beauty and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Take a hike along the Half Collared Kingfisher Trail, where you’ll wander through lush forests and cross wooden bridges, leading to a hidden waterfall. If you prefer being on the water, grab a canoe and paddle along the tranquil Touw River, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

For stunning panoramic views, visit the Map of Africa Viewpoint, where the winding river forms a natural shape resembling the African continent. Thrill-seekers can experience paragliding, soaring high above the coastline with spectacular views of the ocean and rolling hills.

If you feel like exploring beyond Wilderness, take a 20-minute drive to George, a charming town with great shopping, history, and local culture. While you’re there, stop for a coffee break at Elvis Brew, a local favorite.

Of course, no visit to Wilderness is complete without a walk along its stunning beaches. Whether you want to swim, surf, or simply relax and watch the waves, the endless coastline offers a perfect place to unwind.

From Wilderness, you continue your journey to De Hoop Nature Reserve, one of South Africa’s most beautiful nature reserves, located along the rugged coastline of the Western Cape. This 34,000-hectare reserve is known for its pristine beaches, vast sand dunes, fynbos vegetation, and impressive cliffs with panoramic ocean views.

One of De Hoop’s main attractions is whale watching. Between June and November, southern right whales migrate to this coast, and from the high dunes, you can often see them up close. For hikers, the famous Whale Trail offers a five-day trek along spectacular cliffs and beaches. Shorter walks, such as the Koppie Alleen Trail, also provide stunning views of the ocean and wild coastline.

Beyond whales, De Hoop is home to an abundance of other wildlife. The reserve is one of the best places to spot zebras, bonteboks, and elands in a fynbos landscape. Birdwatchers will also be delighted, with over 260 bird species, including the rare blue crane.

For relaxation, De Hoop offers stunning untouched beaches and dunes where you can picnic or swim in crystal-clear rock pools. Mountain biking and kayaking on De Hoop Vlei, a tranquil lagoon teeming with birdlife, complete the adventure.

De Hoop Nature Reserve is a unique destination where rugged wilderness and serene tranquility come together, making it the perfect place to experience nature in its purest form.

Day at leisure, here are some tips:

Explore the Marine Reserve

Cruise De Hoop Vlei on a boat trip

Book a birdwatching experience with a qualified field guide in search of 260 bird species

Visit the official Cape of Good Hope

Take a break at Two Oceans Restaurant

Discover Platboom Beach

Day at leisure.

Tip: Wild Food Foraging Excursion

Join wild food expert Roushanna Gray for a half-day tour or weekend workshop, exploring and sustainably foraging unique ingredients from the ocean and fynbos landscape.

Winter focus: Wild food foraging (indigenous plants, herbs, flowers, and vegetables).

Summer focus: Coastal foraging (edible seaweed, invasive mussels, and other coastal treasures).

After gathering your finds, head to the Veld & Sea Glasshouse in Cape Point, where you’ll help prepare drinks and a three-course meal using your harvested ingredients. Learn about their medicinal properties and preservation techniques. Participants also receive follow-up notes and recipes to take home.

Group size: 10 – 25 people.
Seasonal options: Spring wildflower workshops, pop-up dinners, and adventure weekends at other locations.

📞 Contact: +27 72 234 4804
📧 Email: veldandsea@gmail.com

Departure Day

Drive to the 4×4 rental depot and return your rental vehicle. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

✈️ Extension available upon request!