Cape Town & the Garden Route

Claire Maher on 01 June 2020
Exploring South Africa: From Cape Town, The Garden Route and Amakhala Game Reserve

My recent trip to South Africa was filled with so many incredible moments, it’s hard to capture them all! South Africa is a destination I book regularly from honeymoons to epic family trips so I couldn't wait to experience it myself. I was very fortunate to have been invited by the South African Tourist Board to sample their wonderful country.

Cape Town Days We started in Cape Town; the city welcomed us with open arms. From the bustling markets to the peaceful sunsets over the ocean, each day was a new discovery. Taking the Cable Car up Table Mountain, the views were simply stunning—you could see the entire city and beyond, making every step worth the effort.

Table Mountain - no trip to Cape Town is complete without a visit to Table Mountain, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world. *Top Tip - make sure you book your ticket to Table Mountain for the day you arrive as you have 7 days from this day to use your ticket. Try and visit during clear weather to maximize the views. On the day we landed in Cape Town, we literally dumped our bags at the hotel at 12pm and were up Table Mountain at 1pm. We had clear skies that day, so we grabbed the opportunity and went straight up! The beauty of South Africa is that they are pretty much in the same time zone (give or take an hour or two) so you don't experience any jetlag which means you can start exploring the minute you arrive!

Robben Island - another must see. Take a journey into South Africa's past with a visit to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ferries leave from the V&A Waterfront and include a guided tour led by former political prisoners.

Boulders Beach - Penguin Paradise! We took a trip to Boulders Beach to meet it's most famous residents - African Penguins! *Tip - Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best photo opportunities*

Wining and Dining in Franschhoek Next, we headed to Franschhoek, a charming town in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The air is fresh, and the scenery looks like a painted masterpiece of rolling hills and lush vineyards. We indulged in some of the best meals I’ve had anywhere, paired perfectly with local wines.

Coastal Retreat in Hermanus In Hermanus, the pace slowed, and the atmosphere was relaxed. We spent our days watching whales from the shore—a truly serene experience. The friendly locals made us feel at home with stories and recommendations that enhanced our stay.

Adventurous Days in Knysna Knysna was a blast with its vibrant waterfront and forest adventures. We explored local crafts at the markets and enjoyed fresh seafood, caught right from the waters you look over as you eat.

Safari Experience at Amakhala Game Reserve The trip culminated at the Amakhala Game Reserve, where we stayed in cozy lodges and ventured out on safari drives at dawn. Seeing elephants, lions, and a myriad of wildlife in their natural habitat was awe-inspiring. We were lucky to stay in both Safari Lodge and Bukela Lodge. Would highly recommend!

Every part of this journey was unforgettable, and I’d love to help you experience it too. If you’re thinking about a trip to South Africa, give me a call and let’s chat about making your travel dream a reality.