Example trip

Adventure and comfort on the Garden Route

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Highlights

Water activities, safari, traditional cuisine, urban culture, hiking, beaches

Location

Zuid-Afrika

Budget

from € 2.250,- p.p. excl. flight tickets

A lesser known stretch of the Garden Route

The world famous Garden Route in South Africa. By now almost everyone has heard of it. This iconic route is often praised as the most beautiful in the country, and rightly so. But while most travellers follow the well known highlights, we choose a different path. Our angels and their little ones have gone before you to scout out the true gems. Places where you really get to know the land and its people and where you are a guest in a sustainable and respectful way. Because who better than our children to show what authentic travel should look like?

Especially for families with young children we have created a unique journey that combines the best of both worlds. On the one hand no long days in the car but short, manageable distances. On the other hand no crowded tourist hotspots but small scale and characterful stays chosen carefully for their atmosphere, comfort and child friendliness. This way the trip stays fun for both big and small.

Your adventure begins and ends in vibrant Cape Town. A perfect start and finish to a family trip where relaxation and adventure flow together effortlessly. This route offers endless wonder for both kids and their parents. Naturally we have also selected the loveliest spots for you to enjoy South African wines while the little ones continue exploring. Discover below which places we have chosen for a journey where you as parents can enjoy the Garden Route with complete ease and genuine meaning.

Garden Route

You can take three weeks for this trip, but it also works perfectly in ten to fourteen days if you want to combine it with our Eastern Loop or the Western Cape.

Day 1

Arrival

Welcome to South Africa and welcome to Cape Town, the Mother City. What makes Cape Town so special? It simply has it all. With its lush greenery and its dramatic setting against Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Alongside the vibrant city life you will find white sandy beaches, colourful flower fields and impressive mountains. There is plenty to do. From relaxing on the beach to enjoying long lazy meals on sunny terraces, hiking up Table Mountain or visiting the penguins in Simonstown.

Day 2 - 3

Cape Town

Time to soak up everything that makes Cape Town so special, from culture to nature, from food to history. This city has so much to offer that one day is never enough to see all the highlights.

A drive along Chapman’s Peak is an absolute must. This world famous coastal road offers spectacular ocean views and leads you to the dramatic landscape of Cape Point, where you can spot wildlife and take in the breathtaking panorama at the southwestern tip of Africa.

A township tour is a powerful way to experience daily life in local communities and learn about the resilience and hospitality of the people who live there. With all these possibilities your adventure in this beautiful city is far from over.

Day 4 - 5

Elgin Valley

The route takes you over Sir Lowry’s Pass with beautiful views of the coast and the mountains. This area is famous for its vineyards, apple orchards and fresh mountain air. A wonderful place to unwind. The drive takes about one and a half hours.

Day 6 - 8

Hermanus/Stanford

Next stop: Hermanus. This beautiful coastal town is a paradise for nature lovers. Spot countless whales that visit the bay during the season from June to November, hike through the mountains, wander along the beach or follow the Hermanus Cliff Path. End your day with a drink at one of the cosy restaurants and bars Hermanus has to offer. Our favourites? Dutchies and Bientang's Cave.

Day 9 - 10

Swellendam

Swellendam is a charming little town with a long history. It has more than fifty heritage sites, most of them built in classic Cape Dutch architecture. Whether you are here for adventure or simply to relax and enjoy the warm hospitality of this farming community, you will quickly understand why travellers from all over the world have never really left Swellendam behind. The town is beautifully tucked between the Langeberg Mountains and the Breede River.

Day 11 - 12

Klein Karoo

Welcome to the ostrich epicentre of South Africa, the Little Karoo. The Little Karoo is a spectacular valley stretching 350 kilometres and almost completely surrounded by mountains. It is only forty to sixty kilometres wide, sandwiched between the towering Swartberg mountains to the north and the vast Langeberg and Outeniqua ranges to the south. This is a place to experience life Charlie’s Travels style. We not only offer a true Charlie’s Braai Class where you learn to braai like a local, but also the Charlie’s Field School where you discover everything about the area while walking through this unique landscape.

Day 13 - 14

Gondwana Game Reserve

Safari time. You stay at Gondwana Game Reserve near Mossel Bay, in a beautiful lodge with breathtaking views over the valley and the Outeniqua mountains. A large pool, stylish lounge, cosy bar, excellent kitchen and a lovely veranda with an even lovelier view. Gondwana Game Reserve has it all. From here you head into the bush for a series of exciting game drives. The famous Big Five lives in this area, but you will also spot many other classic African animals such as giraffes, hippos, cheetahs and zebras.

Day 15 - 16

Baviaanskloof

Time to step off the beaten track of the Garden Route. Onward to Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve, two hundred kilometres of untouched and rugged mountain landscape. In this breathtaking reserve you can enjoy beautiful hikes with incredible views at every turn, not to mention the unique flora and fauna. Baviaanskloof is beloved by locals and thankfully still off the radar for most travellers. A must see for all nature and adventure lovers.

Day 17 - 19

Tsitsikamma

Today you drive from Baviaanskloof to the lush forests and rugged coastline of Tsitsikamma. You can choose to take the spectacular Prince Albert Pass along the way, a winding gravel road through dense forest. Stop at the iconic Angie’s G Spot for a coffee or beer and a chat with the locals. The drive takes about four to five hours depending on your route.

In Tsitsikamma you enter a completely different world. Dense forests, high cliffs and the wild Indian Ocean. Here you can walk across the famous suspension bridges, go ziplining through the rainforest, kayak on the Storms River or simply enjoy the fresh sea breeze and dramatic views.

Day 20 - 21

Addo Elephant Park/Port Elizabeth

Onward to Addo Elephant National Park. This park was founded in 1931 as a refuge for the eleven remaining African elephants in the area. A mission that turned out to be very successful, because today at least 450 elephants live in Addo. Other animals you may encounter here include buffaloes, rhinos, antelopes, lions and hyenas. You can also spot African penguins and the rare gannets here.

Day 22

Going home

All good things come to an end, and so does this beautiful adventure through South Africa. Fully recharged you pack your bags and board the plane home. With a healthy glow on your cheeks you settle into your seat, close your eyes and drift off, replaying all the incredible moments you experienced. Once you open your front door again you are filled with inspiration and an overload of unforgettable memories. Untouched nature, abundant wildlife, inspiring people and vibrant cities. You now have enough stories to share around the fireplace with family and friends. Welcome home. One adventure finished, another chapter of rich experiences gained.

Interested in this example trip?

Schedule a free consultation and we will immediately get to work on making your preferred trip completely to your liking. See you soon in South Africa?

What our travellers say about us

     
 
 
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   Auralie Blauwbloeme 
 35 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a fantastic trip through Namibia with two families with teenagers. The trip was fully planned according to our wishes and tailored to the composition of the group. The personal approach, the communication, the preparation… everything was top-notch. Our next trip to Africa will be with Charlie's Travels again!

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   GoeVerhaal. 
 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked our honeymoon to Namibia with this organization, and how fantastic was it? We received clear information beforehand, they used a detailed app, and we received thoughtful messages before and during the trip to check in. Truly an organization with a heart for the mission of showcasing the beauty of Africa. When we looked into the organization further after the trip, we understand why. Thank you for everything! We didn't feel like just a number, received incredibly quick answers to questions before and during the trip, and received a beautiful, customized itinerary where everything was perfectly arranged everywhere on-site. You gave us the trip of a lifetime ❤️ Best regards and see you again! Laura and Arne

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   Wolfeew 
 286 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been to Africa with Charlie's multiple times – Kenya, Uganda, and most recently to Angola: Friendliness and rawness personified, a delightful mix of pure Africa and Portuguese influences. Beautiful, untouched nature, tranquility, and fantastic people. From desert to jungle, from canyons to waves crashing against the rugged coast – what a country. It's wonderful to be taken under Charlie's wing!

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   Tessa Tuk 
 324 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Last October, I went on a pioneering trip to Malawi with Charlie's Travels, and it turned out to be a unique experience. The moments that stuck with me the most are the beautiful hike through Nyika National Park, where we camped in the middle of nature and zebras walked past our tent in the morning; and the evening we all dove into a local pub and danced the night away with the locals. The paradisiacal Likoma Island and the car rides through the stunning African landscape, with spontaneous stops at local bars along the way, are also memories that will stay with me for a long time. Malawi is called 'the warm heart of Africa,' and that is exactly how it felt. It was amazing to discover this country with Charlie's Travels and a wonderful group of people. Highly recommended!

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   Saskia Looijen 
 345 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a fantastic experience to go pioneering in Malawi with Charlie's Travels. Truly the warm heart of Africa, with very friendly and open people. Malawi is a country with so many different things to do. We explored the lesser-known north: hiking in Nyika National Park with stunning views over colorful hills, an exciting boat trip across Lake Malawi, and beach vibes and lots of beautiful birds on Likoma Island. There are also beautiful bays and hidden spots along Lake Malawi. The roads are getting better but offer challenges here and there, which is highly recommended for the more adventurous traveler. The setup and organization by Charlie's Travels were excellent, always flexible and tailored to everyone's wishes.

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   Jonna Kouwenberg 
 345 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our trip through Malawi was truly fantastic. Charlies Travels arranged everything for us down to the last detail. The encounters along the way with the approachable and friendly locals will stay with me forever. Although it is not yet very touristy, the accommodations we visited are truly beautiful and well worth it. If you really want to discover Africa and experience an authentic adventure, Charlies Travels is highly recommended.

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   Olaf 
 376 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked our first trip to Africa with Charlies and can recommend them 100%. Our trip to Kenya was unique, especially our stay in the Mount Souswa area. Charlies was always available and made everything possible for us. Not only the customers but also the people who work for Charlies are treated with respect. Thank you, Charlies Travel, we'll be back!

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   C B 
 438 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We took a wonderful trip through Uganda with our 15 and 14-year-old kids via Charlie's Travels. Everything was arranged perfectly and the execution was amazing. The communication before and during the trip (thanks Em!) was top-notch, and the trip itself was top-notch: accommodations, activities, food: top-notch! Our driver/guide Zack was the best we could have wished for. Are you going to Uganda? Ask if he can be your driver/guide: a very good driver, calm, friendly, and helpful! We can only speak highly of it and definitely recommend booking an Africa trip through Charlie's Travels. And Uganda is beautiful; we understand why it is called the Pearl of Africa.

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