South Africa Route: Cape Town to Kruger and Drakensberg

Explore South Africa's most iconic destinations across 11,127 km, from Cape Town and Table Mountain through the Bo-Kaap Neighborhood to Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains. This comprehensive route includes the Garden Route's coastal towns, wildlife reserves, and national parks showcasing the country's diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Mode
Places
Start
Cape Town
End
Royal Natal National Park
Stops
19
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Cape Town — One of the most picturesque cities in the world, situated where Atlantic and Indian oceans nearly converge.
  2. Bo-Kaap Neighborhood — Vibrant core of the rainbow Nation with brightly painted Cape Dutch homes, nestled along Signal Hill.
  3. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden — Acclaimed botanical garden nestled against Table Mountain's eastern slopes, showcasing indigenous South African flora across 36 hectares of curated landscapes.
  4. Kruger National Park — Vast wildlife reserve spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometers, hosting Africa's iconic Big Five and diverse ecosystems accessible via safari expeditions.
  5. Drakensberg — Northern region attracts visitors with mild climate perfect for hiking and stunning landscapes.
  6. Garden Route — Scenic coastal stretch between Mossel Bay and Storms River featuring lush forests, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs along the Western Cape shoreline.
  7. Blyde River Canyon — One of South Africa's most remarkable natural wonders in northeastern Mpumalanga Province, with the river winding along the escarpment.
  8. Mossel Bay — Starting point of the Garden Route.
  9. Plettenberg Bay — Beautiful beaches and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  10. Table Mountain — Iconic flat-topped mountain rising 1,086 meters above Cape Town, offering panoramic views via rotating cable car and hiking trails across its plateau.
  11. Table Mountain National Park — UNESCO World Heritage site offering outdoor activities and hiking.
  12. Boulders Beach — Home to one of South Africa's most renowned wild penguin colonies within Table Mountain National Park.
  13. Mapungubwe National Park — Stunningly rugged park in northern Limpopo at the confluence of Limpopo and Shashi rivers, bordering Botswana and Zimbabwe.
  14. Union Buildings — Neoclassical government complex in Pretoria housing South Africa's executive branch, notable for its architectural grandeur and symbolic significance to the nation.
  15. Cape Peninsula
  16. Cape of Good Hope — Dramatic headland marking the southwestern tip of Africa, historically pivotal for maritime navigation and offering rugged cliffs overlooking turbulent ocean currents.
  17. Hout Bay
  18. Stellenbosch — Wine valley region near Cape Town.
  19. Royal Natal National Park — Home to Tugela Falls, the second highest waterfall in the world.

Useful for your trip

Timing
Plan at least 5 days minimum to enjoy the Garden Route properly, stopping at multiple attractions along the way.
Where to stay
Stay at least two nights in Plettenberg Bay; one night is insufficient to experience the destination.
Timing
Visit Durban during southern hemisphere winter (June-July) when temperatures are pleasantly in the mid-20s Celsius.
Timing
Visit Hermanus during the whale festival in September for prime Southern Right Whale viewing opportunities.
Tip
Visit Hermanus to view Southern Right Whales from the scenic 10 km clifftop path equipped with telescopes and benches.
Transport
Access Table Mountain summit via the scenic cable car ride that provides stunning views en route to the top.
Tip
Explore Bo-Kaap's brightly painted Cape Dutch homes and cobblestone streets; considered a must-visit in Cape Town.
Tip
Self-drive at Kruger National Park following the Sab and crocodile rivers to spot the Big Five wildlife.
Tip
Hike to the Amphitheater in the northern Drakensberg to explore Ukala Drakensberg Park and Royal Natal National Park.
Tip
Drive Upside Pass in southern Drakensberg to reach Lesotho; stop at Africa's highest pub along the route.
Tip
Climb to Cape Saint Blaze Lighthouse complex for panoramic views of Mossel Bay and the surrounding coast.

Video on this route

Wonders of South Africa | The Most Amazing Places in South Africa | Travel Video 4K

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