South Africa: 12-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Tour

A Complete Guide to the 12-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Tour in South Africa

Traveling through South Africa in just over a week and a half might sound ambitious, but this 12-day tour takes you from Cape Town’s stunning coastlines to Johannesburg’s bustling streets with plenty of natural wonders, wildlife, and cultural insights along the way. Designed for those who want an immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail, this journey offers a carefully curated mix of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation.

What we love about this tour? First, the diversity of experiences — from spotting African Penguins at Betty’s Bay to game drives in the Kruger Park, there’s a real sense of adventure at every stop. Second, the inclusion of wine tasting at Benguela Cove and the scenic hikes in Robberg Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg Mountains adds a delightful touch of South Africa’s renowned flavors and landscapes.

One consideration? The tour covers a lot of ground, so travelers need to be comfortable with a moderate level of activity and some long driving days. It’s best suited for those who thrive on varied experiences and enjoy exploring both nature and city life in a compact schedule.

If you’re eager to see South Africa’s highlights in a well-organized package, this tour is a fantastic fit. It appeals most to travelers who want a balance of wildlife safaris, scenic vistas, and cultural stops without the stress of organizing each leg.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines wildlife, landscapes, city tours, and cultural visits.
• Diverse experiences: Game drives, hikes, boat cruises, and wine tastings.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Value for money: Price includes accommodation, many activities, and park entrance fees.
• Active participation: Requires moderate fitness for hikes and some physical activities.
• Travel flexibility: Options to reserve & pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring South Africa on a 12-Day Adventure

This tour offers an excellent snapshot of South Africa’s most iconic sights within a manageable timeframe. Starting in Cape Town, the journey quickly pulls you into the country’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and wildlife spectacle. It’s a well-balanced mix—perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to experience the country’s diversity.

Day 1: Coastal Wonders and Wine Tasting

The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive along the coast, a hallmark of South Africa’s breathtaking shoreline. Visiting Betty’s Bay to see the endangered African Penguins is a highlight. These charming birds waddle about in their natural habitat — a delight especially if you love wildlife. Following this, you’ll visit Benguela Cove wine estate for a tasting of five different wines, giving you a taste of South Africa’s globally renowned vino.

Afterward, the tour heads to Hermanus, famous for whale watching. Although the actual whale season varies, the town itself offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great way to ease into the trip while soaking up some coast’s charm.

Day 2: The Garden Route and Knysna’s Highlights

Traveling along the famed Garden Route, you’ll reach Knysna, one of South Africa’s most picturesque towns. The day’s highlight is hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve — coastal trails that reveal dramatic cliffs, seals, dolphins, and panoramic ocean views. The rugged coastline is a magnet for photographers and nature lovers alike.

You’ll also visit the iconic Knysna Heads, where the lagoon meets the sea—perfect for photos or a quick boat ride. The charming Knysna Waterfront offers shops, cafes, and a chance to unwind after the day’s adventures.

Day 3: Wildlife Encounters in Port Elizabeth and Addo Park

Next, it’s a bit of an adrenaline boost with a stop at Bloukrans Bridge—the world’s highest bungy jump at 216 meters (optional, at your own cost). For many, it’s a bucket-list thrill. Then, the focus shifts to wildlife with a game drive in Addo National Park, where you have a good chance to see the Big 5 — elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.

The added benefit: the tour’s inclusion of entrance fees and guided game drives makes this a straightforward, value-packed experience. You’ll also see other animals like zebras, kudus, and impalas, which round out the safari experience.

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Day 4-5: East London and Nelson Mandela’s Eastern Cape

From Port Elizabeth, the journey continues to East London, where you might find the beaches pristine and perfect for a brief rest. Moving inland to Mthatha, the tour pays homage to South Africa’s history with a visit to the Nelson Mandela Museum, a meaningful stop that gives context to the nation’s struggles and triumphs.

Day 6: Hiking in the Drakensberg

The towering Drakensberg Mountains are a highlight for hikers and nature lovers. The terrain offers breathtaking views, with trails suitable for those with moderate fitness. Here, you’ll find a mix of rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and, if lucky, some of South Africa’s unique birdlife.

Day 7: Durban’s Vibrant City Life

In Durban, the tour slows down to explore the lively Golden Mile, a beachfront promenade lined with cafes, markets, and cultural attractions. It’s an excellent spot to grab some local cuisine, listen to street performers, or just relax and watch the Indian Ocean roll by.

Day 8: Wetlands and Up-close Wildlife

Traveling north to iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, the tour introduces you to its rich biodiversity. The highlight is the Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in St Lucia Estuary, where you’ll get close to some of Africa’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Day 9-10: Kruger National Park Safari

Heading into Kruger National Park, the tour ramps up the wildlife excitement. The full-day safari offers plenty of opportunities to spot the Big 5 and many other animals like giraffes, zebras, and kudus. The guide’s expertise is crucial here, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.

The park’s vastness means you’ll see a wide variety of animals, and the early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for sightings. It’s a safari experience that’s hard to match in terms of access and diversity.

Day 11: Blyde River Canyon

The tour’s penultimate day explores the Blyde River Canyon, often called one of the largest green canyons in the world. Highlights include the Three Rondavels, resembling traditional African huts, and God’s Window, which offers panoramic views of the lush landscape below. Also included is a visit to the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a geological marvel carved by millennia of river erosion.

Day 12: Return to Johannesburg

The final drive takes you through Mpumalanga Province toward Johannesburg, with some stops to explore local sights. The tour concludes around 5 pm, leaving you with a rundown of both natural beauty and urban vibrancy.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This package offers 11 nights’ accommodation, mostly in comfortable hotels with breakfast included — an easy start to each day. Many activities are covered, including game drives, hiking, and boat cruises, along with wine tasting and park entrance fees. The tour also arranges pickup in Cape Town and drop-off in Johannesburg, removing the stress of logistics.

Not included are meals and drinks outside planned activities — so if you want to explore local cuisine beyond hotel options, budget accordingly. Also, the world’s highest bungy jump at Bloukrans is optional and at your own expense.

Travel Style and Pace

The tour moves at a lively pace, balancing activities with travel time. Expect some long drives—especially between Johannesburg and the coast—and a mix of guided and free time. The group size is private, so you’ll have a more personalized experience, and the guide is fluent in English, ready to answer questions about local life and wildlife.

How Good is the Value?

At $3,501 per person, the price reflects an all-inclusive experience with a lot of highlights, particularly the safaris and guided hikes. When you consider the cost of individual park entries, accommodations, and activities, it’s a solid deal for a comprehensive South African adventure. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the included experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours but want a sense of freedom with optional activities like bungy jumping. If you’re interested in experiencing South Africa’s diversity—from coastlines to wildlife reserves—without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is a strong choice.

However, be ready for some physical activity, especially hikes, and long driving days. It’s best for those who can handle moderate activity levels and are curious about South Africa beyond the usual tourist spots.

The Bottom Line

This 12-day tour offers an engaging, well-rounded introduction to South Africa’s highlights. It combines scenic drives, wildlife safaris, cultural stops, and outdoor adventures, all within a manageable schedule. The tour’s guides are well-informed, adding depth to each experience, and the included activities provide excellent value.

For travelers who want to see the Big 5, taste South African wines, and explore breathtaking landscapes — all with a comfortable level of planning taken care of — this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those eager for a balanced, authentic glimpse of South Africa’s vibrant natural and cultural tapestry without the stress of organizing every detail themselves.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers 11 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, game drives in Addo and Kruger parks, hiking activities, wine tasting, boat cruise in iSimangaliso Wetlands, city tours in Durban, and excursions to landmarks like Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Potholes. Pickup in Cape Town and drop-off in Johannesburg are also included.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks outside of the specified activities are not included. You’ll need to budget for additional meals, especially if you want to dine at local spots or explore South Africa’s vibrant cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour is private and can accommodate a range of ages, a moderate level of fitness is required for activities like hikes and game drives. It’s best for travelers comfortable with some physical activity and longer travel days.

What is the tour’s group size?
It’s a private group, meaning you’ll have a personalized experience with your own guide, rather than a large bus. This allows for flexibility and more tailored interactions.

Do I need to be a good hiker?
Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve and the Drakensberg Mountains is part of the experience, but routes are generally moderate. You should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and prepared for some physical exertion.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later.

What is the weather like during the tour?
Weather varies across South Africa, so be prepared for changes. Packing layers and rain gear is advisable, especially for mountain hikes and coastal areas.

Are there options for optional activities?
Yes, such as the bungy jump at Bloukrans Bridge, which is at your own cost if you choose to participate.

How do the accommodations vary?
The tour’s accommodation ranges from average to very good, providing comfortable bases after busy days. Exact details depend on availability at the time of booking.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, especially since it’s a private experience. Solo travelers will find it easy to join and enjoy the personalized attention.

In essence, this tour offers a well-crafted, authentic taste of South Africa’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture, all while keeping logistics manageable. It’s a fine choice for anyone wanting a thorough, engaging journey that balances adventure with comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: