35 days – Self Drive South Africa (Johannesburg – Cape Town)

Welcome to South Africa! Upon arrival you will be met by the driver and he will take you to your accommocation for a first night in South Africa.

After breakfast you will be taken back to the airport, where you will pick up the rental car and start your adventure.

The Leshiba Venda Art Lodge is your next stop — it’s a cultural and wilderness experience set against the dramatic backdrop of the Soutpansberg Mountains in the far north of South Africa’s Limpopo Province. Combined with the adjoining Leshiba Wilderness Reserve, this destination offers a rare mix of rich Venda culture, artistic creativity, and pristine African bushveld.

The adjoining Leshiba Wilderness Reserve spans thousands of hectares of pristine landscape, including:
rolling plains
riverine forests
sandstone formations
bushveld valleys
dramatic viewpoints
The terrain is spectacular and unspoilt, and the reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffe, kudu, zebra, impala, bushbuck, and many bird species. Big predators like lions are not resident here, making it ideal for relaxed walking safaris and nature drives.

Today you travel into the lush mountain region of Magoebaskloof, known as the Land of the Silver Mist. This cool, green escarpment offers a refreshing change of scenery, with deep indigenous forests, sparkling rivers and scenic mountain passes.

Your lodge is tucked away among the forests, offering peace, fresh mountain air and beautiful views. Spend the afternoon exploring the area at your own pace: walk through ancient Afromontane forests, visit the impressive Debengeni Waterfall, or enjoy local flavours at nearby craft farms and cafés.

For those seeking more adventure, optional activities include forest canopy tours, mountain biking, fly-fishing for trout, or guided nature walks in the Woodbush Forest Reserve — home to rare bird species such as the Cape parrot and Narina trogon.

End the day relaxing on your veranda or by the fire, surrounded by the sounds of the mountain and the soft mist rolling in. Magoebaskloof is the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of South Africa’s northern Drakensberg.

Today you arrive at Shindzela Tented Safari Camp, nestled within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park. This eco-friendly, solar-powered camp offers an authentic bush experience where you feel completely immersed in the African wilderness.
Spend your day exploring the surrounding reserve on guided game drives, spotting wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos — the famous Big Five. Take time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush from your luxury tent, where comfort meets adventure.

In the evening, gather around the campfire for a traditional African dinner under a star-filled sky, while listening to the nocturnal calls of the wild. Shindzela is the perfect base for connecting with nature and enjoying the magic of Africa’s untamed landscapes.

Today you travel to Bambuu Lakeside Lodge in Hazyview, located along the famous Panorama Route. The lodge sits on a private game reserve, offering stunning views of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the world’s only green canyons, and iconic landmarks such as God’s Window.
Spend the day hiking in the surrounding bush or embark on a safari drive in Kruger National Park, with the Phabeni Gate just 25 km away. After your adventures, return to the lodge to relax with a cooling swim in the infinity pool or a sundowner on the deck, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at the lodge while watching the African sky turn into a star-studded canvas — a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

It’s time to cross the border to Swaziland. Your stay is in a rondavel in the Mlilwane Nature Reserve. You will experience that Swaziland has a very different atmosphere compared to South Africa and the people are extremely friendly and helpful. Candle factories, artisan markets, nature reserves, bike rides and walking routes, plenty to do!

Travel to Big Skies Ubunye, a small, welcoming lodge nestled in South Africa’s wilderness. Surrounded by tranquil landscapes and expansive views, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Activities include guided bush walks, wildlife and birdwatching, mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the campfire under a star-filled sky. For those seeking adventure, explore the nearby rivers and forest trails, spotting hippos, flamingos, and diverse birdlife.
Enjoy the lodge’s relaxed pace, local-inspired meals, and immersive experiences, combining comfort with authentic outdoor adventure.

Timer for safari again. Enjoy the next 2 days in a different setting of SA, and try and find the big 5 again!

Stay at Hluhluwe Bush Camp, a rustic, eco-friendly lodge located near the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve. Surrounded by African bushveld, the camp offers a peaceful base for wildlife adventures.
Activities include morning and evening game drives to spot elephants, rhinos, lions, and giraffes, guided bush walks, and birdwatching. Relax in the evenings around the campfire, listening to the sounds of the wilderness.
The camp provides a truly immersive safari experience, combining close encounters with wildlife and the serenity of nature.

After the safaris it’s time for the sea. Go to Sea-Rendipity Guesthouse, a stylish and welcoming retreat. This cosy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding dunes.

Spend the day exploring the Wilderness National Park, canoeing on the Touw River, hiking scenic trails, or simply relaxing on the long, unspoilt beach. In the evenings, unwind on the guesthouse veranda or enjoy dinner at one of the charming local restaurants nearby.

Stay at Sani Lodge & Cottages, a charming, eco-friendly lodge tucked away at the foot of the Southern Drakensberg. Surrounded by rolling green hills and dramatic mountain peaks, this lodge is the perfect base for exploring one of South Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas.

Spend your days hiking breathtaking trails in the uKhahlamba–Drakensberg World Heritage Site, visiting hidden waterfalls, or joining a guided trip up the legendary Sani Pass into Lesotho. For a slower pace, relax in the tranquil gardens, enjoy fresh farm-style meals, or learn about local Basotho culture through community-based activities.
A peaceful, nature-rich retreat ideal for walkers, adventurers, and mountain lovers.

Perched high in the Northern Drakensberg, Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge offers breathtaking views over the Amphitheatre, one of South Africa’s most dramatic mountain formations. This cosy, rustic lodge is the ideal base for hikers and nature lovers seeking fresh mountain air and spectacular landscapes.

From the lodge, set out on iconic trails such as the Tugela Falls hike, the Sentinel Trail, or simply wander along high plateau paths where you may spot bearded vultures soaring overhead. After a day outdoors, return to warm hospitality, hearty meals, and panoramic sunset views from the terrace.

A peaceful and scenic mountain hideaway perfect for travellers looking to explore the Drakensberg’s most famous viewpoints and hiking routes.

You will fly from Johannesburg to Port Elisabeth – or Gqeberha in local language.

Here you will spend the night in the lighthouse. Situated near the historic Cape Recife Lighthouse on the rugged shores of Port Elizabeth, Cape Recife Lighthouse Luxury Villa offers an exclusive seaside escape where modern comfort meets unspoiled coastal beauty.

As evening falls, relax on your deck with a glass of wine while the lighthouse casts its gentle glow over the shoreline.
A serene, stylish retreat perfect for travellers who want privacy, luxury, and front-row access to South Africa’s wild, dramatic coast.

Wake up to the sound of waves as the Indian Ocean stretches endlessly before you, and enjoy private, elegantly designed spaces that open onto sweeping ocean views.

Hidden above a dramatic waterfall gorge and surrounded by dense ferns and indigenous forest, The Fernery Lodge offers a serene and stylish base for exploring the wild beauty of the Tsitsikamma. Discover the region’s famous suspension bridges, coastal walks, and lush hiking trails.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the lodge’s beautiful gardens, enjoying the tranquillity of the indigenous forest, or taking part in nearby adventures like zip-lining, kayaking, and mountain biking. Return to the lodge just in time for sundowners overlooking the ravine, followed by a cosy dinner beside the fireplace.

A peaceful retreat blending comfort, nature, and adventure—perfect for travellers wanting to experience the very best of the Garden Route’s forested heart.

From Tsitsikamma you will travel on to Knysna.

Set in a peaceful, leafy suburb of Knysna, Stannards Guest Lodge offers a warm and welcoming retreat along the iconic Garden Route. From here, you’re perfectly placed to explore the best of Knysna — the famous Heads, Featherbed Nature Reserve, bustling waterfront, and tranquil forests.

Spend the afternoon cruising the lagoon, discovering craft boutiques, or hiking through indigenous woodlands. Return to the lodge to unwind by the pool or enjoy a quiet moment in the garden before heading out to Knysna’s excellent restaurants for dinner.

Hidden at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountains, Prince Albert offers a peaceful Karoo escape filled with charm, history and slow-country living. Explore the beautifully preserved town with its Victorian cottages, art studios and olive farms, then journey along the iconic Swartberg Pass for unforgettable mountain scenery. Taste award-winning local produce, from olives and cheeses to boutique wines, and meet the friendly locals at the lively Saturday market. As night falls, step outside to witness some of South Africa’s clearest skies, where the Milky Way glows bright above the desert plains. Prince Albert is the perfect stop to relax, explore nature and experience authentic Karoo hospitality.

Hermanus is a village on the coast of South Africa best known for the annual visit of the Southern Right Whales (usually between August – December) who stay in the bay to give birth to their calves.

Hermanus now also has its own wine route, with 17 wine farms where you can taste wine. At some of them you can also enjoy delicious food! A nice walk on the beach or in the mountains is also one of the options, no need to get bored here!

Franschhoek is a beautiful picturesque village in the middle of the Cape Winelands. Visit the penguins in Betty’s Bay along the way.

Go for a wine tasting or lunch at one of the many wine farms, browse the many galleries in the main street and enjoy the great restaurants in this beautiful place! And don’t forget to look around every now and then and absorb the beauty in this environment!

For a great sunset we can recommend La Roca restaurant at Dieu Donne!

Stellenbosch is located in the heart of the Cape Winelands. It is a pleasant student city, where you can taste delicious wine at one of the more than 200 wineries. You can go to many without an appointment! Stroll through the streets of this cozy village and enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature!

The coming days are free to spend in the metropolis of Cape Town! Visit Table Mountain, Robben Island and Cape-Point. But there are also many lesser known sights that are absolutely worthwhile.

Robben Island will be booked for you on one of the days

This is your last day. Drive back to Cape Town airport, where you hand in your rental vehicle (with full tank), in time for your flight back home.