Traveling the Route 62 from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn is a journey through the heart of South Africa’s countryside, offering a more scenic and laid-back alternative to the N2 highway. This iconic route winds through charming towns, dramatic mountain passes, and the sprawling vineyards of the Klein Karoo and Cape Winelands. Along the way, you’ll pass through places like Montagu, Barrydale, and Calitzdorp, each with its own small-town charm, farm stalls, and local wineries. The landscape shifts from lush valleys to arid semi-desert, leading you into Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world, nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. It’s a beautiful, off-the-beaten-track road trip full of character and photo-worthy stops.

Visit Cango Caves. The Cango Caves, located near Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape, are among South Africa's most renowned natural wonders. This extensive cave system stretches over 5 kilometers, though only a portion is open to the public. The caves are adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, offering visitors a glimpse into a subterranean world of towering limestone formations.

Visit Cango Ostrich Farm. Visiting the Cango Ostrich Show Farm in Oudtshoorn offers an engaging experience to learn about and interact with these remarkable birds. Located in the picturesque Schoemanshoek Valley, the farm is conveniently situated 14 km from Oudtshoorn on the main route to the renowned Cango Caves.

Overnight in Oudtshoorn area

Game safari in Botlierskop Game Reserve. Embarking on a safari at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve offers an immersive experience in South Africa's rich wildlife and natural beauty. Located between Mossel Bay and George along the scenic Garden Route, this 4,200-hectare, malaria-free reserve is home to over 26 animal species, including the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and cheetah—as well as more than 200 bird species.

Visit and tour Knysna Heads. Visiting the Knysna Heads offers a captivating experience, combining natural beauty, rich history, and diverse activities. These two towering sandstone cliffs frame the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon, leading out to the Indian Ocean.

Visit Robberg Nature Reserve for hiking. Robberg Nature Reserve, located near Plettenberg Bay along South Africa's scenic Garden Route, offers a range of hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. The Gap Circuit, approximately 2.1 kilometers in length, is the shortest trail and takes about 30 minutes to complete, providing stunning ocean views and a glimpse of a mudstone cleft. For those seeking a more extensive experience, the Point Circuit is a 9-kilometer loop that typically requires 4 to 5 hours, traversing diverse terrains including rocky coastlines and sandy beaches, and offering opportunities to observe local wildlife such as seals and various bird species. It's advisable to check tide times before embarking on the Point Circuit, as certain sections can be inaccessible during high tide.

Visit Plettenberg Bay and the beaches. Plettenberg Bay, nestled along South Africa's Garden Route, is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The area boasts pristine golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and lush surroundings, making it a haven for beach lovers. Lookout Beach offers great views of the ocean and is perfect for sunbathing or surfing, while Nature’s Valley and Robberg Beach provide quieter spots to relax or enjoy scenic walks. Whether you're into water sports, beachcombing, or just soaking up the sun, Plettenberg Bay's beaches offer something for everyone.

The drive along the Garden Route from Plettenberg Bay to Port Elizabeth offers one of the most scenic coastal journeys. Starting in Plettenberg Bay, the route takes you through lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful beaches, making it perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Along the way, there are places offering hiking trails and serene spots for relaxation. Further along, you’ll pass through Storms River, where you can experience adventure activities like bungee jumping or a peaceful walk along the famous Storms River Mouth. As you approach Port Elizabeth, the route transitions to expansive sandy beaches, including Jeffrey’s Bay, known for its world-class surfing conditions. Once in Port Elizabeth, you can explore its vibrant coastal attractions, rich wildlife, and historic sites, including Addo Elephant National Park, just outside the city. This drive is a memorable mix of stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and tranquil beach stops.

Visit Port Alfred. Port Alfred, located along South Africa's Sunshine Coast, is a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and diverse activities. Relax on the Beaches Enjoy the golden sands and warm waters of Kelly's Beach, a Blue Flag beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. For a more secluded experience, explore Kidd's Beach, perfect for leisurely walks and shell collecting.

Travel to East London. East London, located along South Africa's Eastern Cape, offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities. The city is renowned for its unspoiled beaches, such as Nahoon Beach, a favorite among surfers and sunbathers, and Gonubie Beach, known for its scenic boardwalk and family-friendly atmosphere. Overnight in East London

Visit Mvezo area, birthplace of Nelson Mandela, see monuments erected in honor of Nelson Mandela. Mvezo is a small village in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, renowned as the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, the country's first democratically elected president. Born on July 18, 1918, Mandela's early life in Mvezo significantly influenced his journey toward becoming a global icon for peace and reconciliation.

Visit Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha. Travelers can also visit the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha, which provides a comprehensive overview of Mandela's life and the broader context of South Africa's liberation struggle. This museum serves as a gateway to understanding the profound impact of Mandela's leadership and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation in South Africa.

Overnight in Mthatha

Travel to Drakensberg Mountains. Hiking. Visit the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic peaks and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy world-class hiking trails that wind through lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and ancient San rock art sites. Overnight in Drakensberg.

Visit Mandela Capture Site. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site, located near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, marks the location where Nelson Mandela was arrested on August 5, 1962, an event that led to his 27-year imprisonment. The site features a striking sculpture by artist Marco Cianfanelli, composed of 50 steel columns that, when viewed from a specific angle, align to form Mandela's profile. This powerful artwork symbolizes the multifaceted nature of Mandela's legacy and the unity of diverse elements coming together to create a whole.

Visit Howick Falls. Howick Falls, located in the heart of Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a stunning natural waterfall where the Umgeni River plunges approximately 95 meters (311 feet) into a pool below. The Zulu people refer to the falls as "KwaNogqaza," meaning "Place of the Tall One."

Travel to Durban, 3rd larges city in South Africa. Spend night here.

Durban City Tour. Durban offers a variety of attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some highlights: Victoria Street Market Located at the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets, the Victoria Street Market, affectionately known as "The Vic," is Durban's oldest market. With over 200 vendors, it offers a vibrant mix of African and Indian cultures. Visitors can explore stalls selling traditional African artwork, Indian spices, seafood, bags, brassware, and traditional clothing. Durban Beachfront Promenade Stretching approximately five miles from North Pier to Blue Lagoon Park, the Durban Beachfront Promenade is the longest in sub-Saharan Africa. It's a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and leisurely walks, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Along the promenade, you'll find various eateries and entertainment options, making it a lively destination for both relaxation and recreation.

Visit Isimangaliso Wetlands Park. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, located on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. The park spans approximately 3,280 square kilometers and features a variety of landscapes, including coral reefs, sandy beaches, coastal dunes, lakes, swamps, and wetlands. Overnight here.

Visit St Lucia Estuary for a Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise. Embark on a Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in the St. Lucia Estuary, located within South Africa's iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 2-hour guided tour offers close encounters with the estuary's abundant wildlife, including approximately 800 hippos and 1,200 Nile crocodiles, as well as a diverse array of bird species.

Travel through Mpumalanga and Mbombela to Kruger National Park. Traveling to Kruger National Park is a scenic and exciting journey through the province of Mpumalanga, known for its lush landscapes, dramatic mountain passes, and charming towns. En route, pass through Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), the provincial capital and a convenient gateway to the southern entrance of the park. The drive offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, citrus farms, and forested valleys, making the journey just as memorable as the destination. As you enter Kruger, prepare for unparalleled wildlife viewing, with chances to spot the Big Five and countless other species in one of Africa’s premier game reserves.

Full day safari in Kruger National Park. Spend a full day on safari in Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Begin at sunrise with an early morning game drive, when animals are most active — you might spot lions on the hunt, herds of elephants heading to the river, or elusive leopards in the trees. As the day unfolds, explore different ecosystems, from open savannas to dense bushveld, guided by expert rangers who share insights about the park’s flora and fauna. Enjoy a scenic picnic brunch at one of the park’s designated rest camps, listening to the sounds of nature all around you. In the afternoon, continue your wildlife adventure, with chances to see rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and abundant birdlife before returning to camp at sunset, your camera full and your spirit stirred by Africa’s wild heart.

Visit Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Bourkes Luck Potholes, Three Rondavels and Lisbon Falls. Embark on a breathtaking tour of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest and most lush green canyons in the world. Your journey begins at God’s Window, where a short walk leads to dramatic viewpoints overlooking the Lowveld stretching far into the horizon — on a clear day, you can see as far as Mozambique. Continue to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, where centuries of swirling water have carved intricate cylindrical rock formations at the meeting point of the Treur and Blyde Rivers. Marvel at the towering Three Rondavels, enormous round rock formations resembling traditional African huts, perched above the canyon cliffs. Wrap up your scenic day at the stunning Lisbon Falls, Mpumalanga’s tallest waterfall, plunging 94 meters into a lush ravine — a spectacular finale to this iconic Panorama Route experience.

Travel in Mpumalanga and Mbombela. Travel to Johannesburg to end the 12 day tour. As your 12-day adventure draws to a close, travel through the beautiful landscapes of Mpumalanga, soaking in the last views of misty mountains, rolling hills, and rural villages. Pass through Mbombela (Nelspruit) one final time — a vibrant city surrounded by tropical fruit farms and the gateway to Kruger — before beginning your journey back to the city. The road to Johannesburg takes you through a blend of countryside and urban edges, with the golden Highveld plains unfolding as you approach South Africa’s largest metropolis. Arrive in Johannesburg, the “City of Gold,” where your unforgettable journey from Cape Town to Kruger ends — rich in memories, landscapes, and experiences that capture the heart of South Africa.