Community Based Tourism: Take to South Africa’s wild southern coast while meeting local communities
Reynolds TravelFollow the coastal trail to Cape Town on an adventurous 14-day adventure along the Garden Route and Wild Coast of South Africa. Hit up all the region’s hotspots – elephant spotting in Addo Elephant National Park, hiking in the Lesotho Highlands, meeting local Xhosa communities in Cintsa, and two fun-filled nights in Cape Town. Get a sprinkling of safaris thrown in with penguins, creating a whole South African smorgasbord.
Itinerary
Garden Route Adventure
Day 1: Durban
Sawubona! Welcome to South Africa. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:00 pm. If you arrive early, explore Durban’s golden beaches or visit the uMhlanga Lighthouse. For dinner, consider heading to Florida Road for Bunny Chow or fresh seafood – your group leader will have great recommendations.
Day 2: Drakensberg
Leave Durban and head inland toward the majestic Drakensberg mountain range. Stop at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site en route to learn about South Africa’s iconic leader. Arrive at your lodge in Drakensberg, where you can unwind in the thatched-loft lounge, enjoy the pool, jacuzzi, barbecue, or fire pit.
Day 3: Drakensberg
Enjoy a scenic hike through the Drakensberg, Southern Africa’s highest mountain range. Known locally as the “Barrier of Spears,” it offers dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable views – perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Day 4–5: Lesotho Highlands
Cross into the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, often called the ‘Kingdom in the Sky.’ Pass by Golden Gate Highlands National Park, known for its striking sandstone formations and wildlife like elands and zebras. Explore Lesotho’s mountain landscapes and hiking trails over two days.
Day 6–7: Wild Coast / Cintsa
Travel to South Africa’s stunning Wild Coast and the peaceful seaside town of Cintsa. This region is home to the Xhosa people, known for their rich tribal traditions. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy time to relax before dinner.
Day 8: Addo Elephant National Park
Journey to Addo Elephant National Park, a conservation success story that began with just 11 elephants and now protects over 450. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and spot elephants, Cape buffalo, black rhinos, antelope, and the rare flightless dung beetle.
Day 9: Garden Route / Tsitsikamma National Park
Wake early for another game drive in Addo before heading along the scenic Garden Route to Tsitsikamma National Park. This lush coastal reserve features dramatic forests, rugged coastline, and abundant wildlife. Visit a local activity centre to explore options for tomorrow.
Day 10: Tsitsikamma National Park
Spend a free day immersed in the natural beauty of Tsitsikamma. Choose from various hiking trails to explore the Storms River Mouth, waterfalls, and maybe spot dolphins, baboons, or southern right whales (seasonal).
Day 11: Garden Route / Oudtshoorn
Travel inland through the Karoo to Oudtshoorn. Stop in Knysna to explore the lagoon town, then visit the Cango Caves and learn about their history and formations. Continue to Oudtshoorn, once the ostrich feather capital of the world.
Day 12: Cape Town
Rise early to observe wild meerkats, part of the 'Shy 5', in their natural habitat. Afterward, drive to Cape Town, your home for the next two nights. Spend the evening enjoying views of Table Mountain or dining at one of the city’s many vibrant restaurants.
Day 13: Cape Town
Visit Boulders Beach to see the famous colony of African penguins. The rest of the day is free for you to explore – perhaps take the cable car (or hike) up Table Mountain, visit Robben Island, or relax with local wine along the waterfront.
Day 14: Cape Town
Your journey ends after breakfast. If you'd like to extend your stay in Cape Town, additional accommodation can be arranged – just let us know when booking.
Included services
- Accommodation
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation
Excluded services
- Flights and anything not mentioned
Recommended travel period: June 2025 - December 2025
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Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center -
Image source: Reynolds Travel Lufthansa City Center
Lufthansa City Center