Family Fun in South Africa

SOUTH AFRICA SELF DRIVE SAFARI

Bring your family and embark on an 11-night, 12-day South Africa self-drive safari that promises adventure and unforgettable memories for everyone! Designed for families, couples, and groups seeking an exciting holiday, this safari invites you to explore the breathtaking beauty of South Africa at your own pace.

Your journey begins when you pick up your SUV hire car at Cape Town Airport. Start your adventure in Cape Town, where you can uncover the secrets of the Mother City—explore the vibrant markets, take a cable car up Table Mountain, or enjoy a scenic stroll along the stunning waterfront. Next, venture into the Cape Winelands, a region known for its picturesque vineyards and charming towns, where you can indulge in wine tasting and sample delicious local cuisine.

From the Winelands, drive along the stunning Whale Coast and the Garden Route, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Stop to visit quaint seaside villages and enjoy various outdoor activities, from hiking trails to beach days.

The adventure culminates in the Eastern Cape, where you’ll experience thrilling Big Five game viewing at a luxury safari lodge. Children are warmly welcomed on this safari, with a host of activities designed to engage and entertain young explorers, ensuring a family holiday that everyone will cherish.

Quick Facts

– Big 5, malaria-free safari at Amakhala Game Reserve
– Self Drive the remarkable Garden Route
– Explore the Cape Flora Kingdom
– Walk the white sand beaches of Plettenberg Bay
– Enjoy award-winning dining and wines in Stellenbosch
– Good quality, luxury hotel and lodges

4 stars

South Africa Self Drive Safari Rates 2025

Average rates

From ZAR74,000

This trip starts in Cape Town and ends at Port Elizabeth Airport. The rate is per person sharing, based on 2 adults travelling, and includes 12 nights of accommodation and an SUV Car hire, with full insurance and unlimited mileage. Individual hotel and safari lodge inclusions are listed in the itinerary.

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Day by Day itinerary

Days 01 to 04 – African Elite Apartment, Waterfront, Cape Town

On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will collect your SUV car rental and head to the V&A Waterfront area in Cape Town. You will spend 3 nights in a luxury, fully equipped apartment in the heart of the Waterfront, complete with secure parking and lovely views. The city is yours to discover, with restaurants and sights to see. 

Your African Elite Apartment comes with 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, dining and lounge area as well as a balcony overlooking the Waterfront. This is a self-catering spot, perfect for families who are looking to set their own pace. 24-hour manned security and secure parking, along with a communal pool complete the set-up in this luxury apartment. 

Spend your days visiting Cape Point and take the kids to see the penguins at Boulders Beach. The V&A Waterfront has the Aquarium, Ferris Wheel, Scratch Patch and more as well as numerous supermarkets, quick meals and fine dining establishments.

Days 04 to 06 – Spier Hotel, Stellenbosch

You will make your way out to the Cape Winelands for 2 nights. Visit award-winning wine farms, many of which have dedicated children’s menus and play areas. The hotel boasts a large contemporary art collection and offers a variety of restaurants and award-winning wines. The village-style hotel – reminiscent of a quaint village – caters to your every need, from rest and relaxation to adventures for kids and adults. The rooms are clustered around six courtyards, each with its own swimming pool. You could spend your entire time on the Spier Wine farm, with bike rides, Segway Tours, walks, Eagle Encounter, Craft Market and more.

Spend 2 nights at the Spier Hotel in a Signature Room, overlooking the gardens and pool, on a bed and breakfast basis. 

Days 06 to 09 – The Robberg Beach Lodge, Plettenberg Bay

After breakfast, you will head onto the N2 highway and to the Garden Route. Your destination is Plettenberg Bay, a 6-hour drive, so be sure to stop along the way at the many wonderful small towns. Plettenberg Bay is a remarkable coastal town, with spectacular views and wonderful white sand beaches. Explore the Garden Route while you stay here, with a trip to Knysna, walk through the forest to the big Yellowwood tree in the Garden of Eden, visit Birds of Eden and Moneyvalley or just relax on the beach. 

Spend 3 nights at The Robberg Beach Lodge in a family room with breakfast daily. The lodge boasts a collection of villas, each with its own pool and dining area.

Days 09 to 11 – Hlosi Game Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve

After breakfast, you will continue your journey along the N2, towards the town of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Along the way stop in Natures Valley, walk across the suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth and perhaps stop to see why Jefferys Bay is such a surfing hotspot. 

The Eastern Cape Safari areas boast numerous reserves, and Amakhala is a wonderful family option, offering a fun safari experience.  The area is malaria-free, and while they do have the Big 5, the leopards are seldom spotted. Enjoy twice daily game drives with knowledgable guides, keeping your eyes open for lion, elephant, white rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, vervet monkeys and several antelope species including greater kudu, eland and the endemic black wildebeest. At certain times of the year, you can enjoy a boat cruise on the Bushman’s River. 

Spend 3 nights at Amakhala Hlosi Game Lodge, a grassland retreat perfect for families. The camp is fenced, which is great for families with small children. Children over the age of 6 are allowed on the game drive, under that age can be discussed on arrival. Each of the family suites has 2 bedrooms, with a lovely deck overlooking the surrounding bush. The main room has a great ensuite bathroom complete with a soaker tub and outdoor shower. 

At the end of your safari, you will return to Port Elizabeth Airport, and drop your hire car off before you depart on your own arrangements. 

Chat to us about your South Africa Self Drive Safari