Following the Garden Route in South Africa you will experience high mountains, beautiful beaches, taste the best wines? all within a week

Day 1: Arrive at Port Elizabeth. PE is the ideal beginning, as after flying the entire night, this beautiful town with its unhurried pace, is both soothing and energizing at once; a prelude to the scenic road trip ahead. Hire a car here for the entire road trip. Explore The Boardwalk (casinos, eateries and shopping area), and the beaches. Stay at the stylish Courtyard suites

DAY 2: Drive to Shamwari Game Reserve (approximately two hours). A holiday in Africa is not complete without an encounter in the wild, and after the beaches of PE the green of this huge private game reserve is just right. Go for a thrilling midnight game drive, and of course an early morning one. And hope to spot the Big Five. Stay at Luxury villas at Shamwari.

DAY 3-4: Set off on the Garden Route drive. First stop: Knysna, which is one of SA's most popular holiday towns. Take a sunset dinner cruise on the lagoon. Must-do: a ride on the quaint Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe train. Next afternoon, drive to Plettenberg Bay (30min) and go for an ocean safari. Proceed to Wilderness (1 hour away) a quiet town, and have a tranquil evening on the beach.

DAY 5: Drive to Outdshoorn, an extremely scenic drive. Visit the ostrich farm (eat, ride or buy ostrich-related stuff!). Post lunch; visit Cango Wildlife Ranch, especially if you are with kids. Drive to George airport, fly to Cape Town.

DAY 6-8: Explore Cape Town and the surrounding Cape Winelands. Cape Town's mall, Victoria Waterfront, will keep shopaholics busy. You can take half-day trips to Seal Island or to Boulders Beach for same penguin watching. On the last day, fly to Jo?burg, and onward.

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