South Africa

2023-12-26

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Durban To Cape Town Road Trip Itinerary

Trip Itinerary: Durban to Cape Town

Embark on an enchanting journey from the sunny shores of Durban, traveling down the exquisite eastern coastline of South Africa. Begin by soaking up the balmy weather and vibrant culture of Durban, exploring its famed Golden Mile and delightful Indian markets. Your next stop, Port Shepstone, offers a quieter coastal experience with outdoor activities set against a backdrop of striking beaches and the warm Indian Ocean.

Continuing to East London, discover the only river port city in South Africa, where sunny beaches and an inviting subtropical climate await. From there, head to the bustling urban retreat of Port Elizabeth, prized for its friendly atmosphere, magnificent wildlife, and historical significance, perfectly positioned at the start of the Garden Route.

Delve into the heart of the Garden Route with a visit to Knysna, a town of unmatched beauty, famous for its lagoon, lush forests, and oyster festivals. Pushing forward, Mossel Bay beckons with history, adventure, and some of the best weather the country has to offer. Revel in the sun-soaked beaches or take a dive with sharks for an adrenaline rush.

The journey leads you to the most southern tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, where the oceans kiss and the horizon stretches into infinity. As you make your way to Hermanus, prepare for the awe-inspiring experience of land-based whale watching, a truly unforgettable spectacle. Finally, conclude your adventure in the majestic city of Cape Town, nestled beneath Table Mountain and rich in history, culture, and stunning vistas that promise to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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Recommended Explorations

1
Durban
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Durban is renowned for its bustling beachfront, called the Golden Mile, where the warm Indian Ocean and beautiful beachfront promenade attract tourists seeking sun, sea, and surf. It is also known for its diverse culture, vibrant markets and a wide array of attractions such as uShaka Marine World and the Durban Botanic Gardens.
2
Port Shepstone
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Port Shepstone is set on the mouth of the Mzimkulu River and is the administrative, commercial, and educational hub of the South Coast. It offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, beautiful coastal scenery, and delightful subtropical climate which make it an appealing stop for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
3
East London
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East London, affectionately called Buffalo City, is South Africa's only river port city and is framed by the Indian Ocean and the Buffalo River. It offers a laid-back coastal charm, a rich cultural history, remarkable beaches like Nahoon and Cove Rock, and attractions such as the East London Museum, home to the coelacanth, a rare fish once thought to be extinct.
4
Port Elizabeth
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Port Elizabeth, known as the 'Friendly City,' offers a wonderful mix of ecotourism adventures, rich cultural experiences, and abundant wildlife. It has beautiful beaches, historical landmarks such as the Donkin Reserve, and is a gateway to the scenic Garden Route and the malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park.
5
Knysna
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Knysna is set along the stunning Garden Route and is famous for its lush forests, azure blue lagoons, and an array of outdoor activities including sailing, kayaking, and fishing. It's also known for the annual Knysna Oyster Festival and the remarkable Knysna Heads, two dramatic sea cliffs guarding the entrance to the lagoon.
6
Mossel Bay
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Mossel Bay is renowned for its moderate climate, golden beaches, and history as a stopover point for the early European explorers. Visitors are drawn to attractions like the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, shark cage diving, and the start of the iconic St. Blaize hiking trail offering panoramic ocean views.
7
Cape Agulhas
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Cape Agulhas is the southernmost point of Africa and a pivotal navigational landmark. It's a place of rugged natural beauty where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, known for its iconic lighthouse and a hotspot for fishing, bird watching, and hiking along its scenic coastline.
8
Hermanus
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Hermanus is acclaimed as one of the best land-based whale watching destinations in the world. From June to December, visitors can witness Southern Right Whales from the shoreline. The town also offers charming markets, art galleries, and has a rich floral biodiversity.
9
Cape Town
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Cape Town is South Africa's most iconic city, famous for its breathtaking scenery, Table Mountain, Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, rich history, cultural diversity, and world-class restaurants and vineyards. The city is a cosmopolitan blend of natural beauty and urban life.

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Tasty Picks

Stay Recommendations

The Oyster Box
The Oyster Box
An iconic hotel in Durban known for its luxurious rooms and the famous lighthouse; offering unique colonial charm with modern amenities.
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Set amidst the trees of an ancient indigenous forest, Tsala provides a unique treetop accommodation experience near Plettenberg Bay.
Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
A boutique hotel in Knysna that was once a power station, now transformed into a quirky hotel with original machinery and architecture.
The Grand Daddy Hotel
The Grand Daddy Hotel
Located in the heart of Cape Town, this hotel features a collection of designer Airstream trailers on its rooftop, complete with a cinema.
Santos Express Train Lodge
Santos Express Train Lodge
A unique stay in a real train parked on the Santos beach in Mossel Bay with all cabins facing the sea and featuring authentic train décor.
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
Set in the Cederberg Mountains, it offers unique cave suites and hut accommodation that blend into the wilderness for an immersive nature experience.