South Africa's Southern Coastline

The Garden Route! of South Africa encompasses many coastal towns along the south-western coast of the Western Cape. It spans from Hermanus (whale birthing haven) in the west to Plettenberg Bay’s in the east. The Garden Route natural assets (just for starters) will have you questioning ever wanting to leave this idyllic spot! With miles of pristine beaches to choose from, it’s no wonder that lazing on the beach is so popular with visitors, but for those that manage to pry themselves away, there are charter boat cruises, hiking, canoeing, and abseiling to choose from, to name but a few. Another attraction well worth a visit is the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, the world’s only multi-species free-roaming primate sanctuary.

Featuring rolling oceans, white sandy beaches, blue skies, and spectacular mountain ranges! Here you can find indigenous fynbos, ostrich antics, and lots of local hospitality. Sun-drenched orchards, pin-drop-silent forests, sweeping in-land lakes, and bird-eye passes add to the mix.

Beach junkies are spoiled for choice. Stilbaai’s assets include treasures from the Stone Age and the Khoi people. Mosselbay and Albertinia share the pleasure of bungee jumping thrills with Plettenberg Bay. Mosselbay prides itself on offering the diverse experience of game viewing and that of stringing a hammock along beaches that serve up the world’s second-most temperate climate.

ACTIVITIES
Leap into paragliding oblivion at the Wilderness or embark on Mosselbay shark cage diving shenanigans. Try the bungi jump from the Gouritz River Bridge, which is flanked by Albertinia and Mosselbay.

* Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

The Elephants are all orphans rescued from culling operations in the Kruger National Park, except for Thandi who was born in the park. The Knysna Elephant Park provides these elephants with the best board and lodging and their diet is scientifically supervised by veterinarians. The elephants have free range of the 60-hectare camp on which there is plenty to eat, some big trees to rub up against and two large dams for bathing and drinking.

At night the elephants are housed in a boma. The Elephants are fed a high protein porridge and black wattle branches at night. Their stalls are lined with sawdust providing a comfortable bed for them to sleep on. In the morning they are fed the high protein porridge and move onto the first dam for a drink of water.
Their stalls are cleaned and prepared for the evening. The baby elephants, Bulelo, Malaika and Jabari are bottle-fed on baby milk formula with added vitamins and minerals on demand throughout the day and the night. They each have to have a minder that stays with them constantly. The elephant minders are some of Africa’s most qualified keepers and they keep a watchful eye on the herd.

The present KEP herd numbers ten – the largest domesticated matriarchal herd in the country. KEP style of management offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with our elephants, on elephant terms. Responsible and educational interactions allow guests to appreciate the awe-inspiring presence of these animals, but still give the elephants the space and freedom to choose where they want to move, what they want to eat and who they want to interact with. There are no fences to spoil the close encounter and our environment encourages elephants to exhibit natural behaviours.

For twenty years, the Park’s primary objective has been to offer elephants in the need the chance of a new and better home; and have worked tirelessly to achieve this goal.

ACTIVITIES
Elephant experiences include Daily Guided Tours (departing from reception every 30 minutes), as well as Breakfast Picnic Walks in the morning and Elephant Walks in the afternoon.

Welcome to the Plettenbergbay, located in the heart of the  Garden Route! The 200 km stretch of coast connecting Mossel Bay to the Storms River Mouth is commonly referred to as the Garden Route in reference to its beguiling diversity of wide sandy beaches, lovely lakes and lagoons, shady evergreen forests, and protea-studded slopes. Lined with family-friendly beaches, it is also ideally suited to hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts

With a quirky attitude and a uniquely African feel, it's located on the banks of the Bitou River in Plettenberg Bay. The hotel comprises sixteen exquisitely appointed lodge suites featuring rare artefacts and found items collected from the length and breadth of Africa and beyond. Each suite is set in an indigenous garden with magnificent views of the river, mountains, and wetlands beyond. Eight suites boast uninterrupted river views from high wooden decks, whereas two are set a little further back and have both private courtyards and their own raised decks, affording views of the surrounding bush and the river in the distance.

ACTIVITIES
A selection of activities is offered: spectacular birdwatching, canoes are available for a gentle paddle upriver. There are also a few walking trails in the vicinity of the lodge and along local farm roads. A 2km walk takes you to the Keurbooms marshland where the Keurbooms River meets the sea.

Nearby, you can explore the towns of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, with shops, markets, restaurants, and delis galore, and beaches, lagoons, and rivers offering a relaxing place to swim or a busier spot for adventure.

A warm welcome awaits arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance is followed by a 20-minute road transfer to your accommodation.

* Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

Oudtshoorn, often called the "Ostrich Capital of the World," is a fascinating destination known for its unique wildlife and rich history. A visit to one of the local ostrich farms offers an up-close look at these impressive birds, where you can learn about their breeding, feathers, and even try riding an ostrich. The town's history is also tied to the ostrich feather industry, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the region’s past.

Just a short drive from Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves offer an awe-inspiring underground experience. These vast limestone caves, with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, are among South Africa's most famous natural attractions. Visitors can explore various cave chambers, from the easy-to-navigate sections to more adventurous, tight spaces. With its combination of wildlife, history, and natural wonders, Oudtshoorn is a must-visit for travelers seeking unique experiences.

Oudtshoorn, often called the "Ostrich Capital of the World," is a fascinating destination known for its unique wildlife and rich history. A visit to one of the local ostrich farms offers an up-close look at these impressive birds, where you can learn about their breeding, feathers, and even try riding an ostrich. The town's history is also tied to the ostrich feather industry, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the region’s past.

Just a short drive from Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves offer an awe-inspiring underground experience. These vast limestone caves, with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, are among South Africa's most famous natural attractions. Visitors can explore various cave chambers, from the easy-to-navigate sections to more adventurous, tight spaces. With its combination of wildlife, history, and natural wonders, Oudtshoorn is a must-visit for travelers seeking unique experiences.

Best whale watching location in the world!

Wedged between the mountain and the sea, the quaint hamlet of Hermanus has been rated by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as one of the twelve best whale watching locations in the world, and it is often regarded as the heart of the whale route.

Abalone Guest Lodge offers luxury accommodation for travel, business, or leisure and is located on Siever's Point, a landmark seafront position midway between the town centre and Hermanus' beautiful Blue Flag beaches. Hermanus is only 1.5 hours drive from Cape Town.

It is easily accessible from the main road and is a unique whale watching location due to the well-known scenic cliff path to the front. For your convenience, there is a restaurant, sauna, treatment room, and gym. We look forward to welcoming you to our tastefully decorated en-suite accommodation, which provides every luxury as well as breath-taking views of the ocean and mountains.

Explore the captivating allure of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyard-covered hills intersect with historic charm, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey of wine tasting at world-renowned estates, indulge in gourmet dining that harmonizes with the local flavors.  Stroll through oak-lined streets adorned with Cape Dutch architecture.

Surrounded yourself with  a serene and breathtaking landscape, that seamlessly marries the old-world elegance with the vibrancy of South African wine culture.

Visit various wineries in and around the stunning Stellenbosch area. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch on the way. This is the Cape wine lands!

*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

Coommanhuijs Hotel is the ideal destination from which our guests can explore the heart of South Africa's Wine Country, Franschhoek, and Paarl, or take a trip to Cape Town to enjoy visits to Table Mountain, Cape Point, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the peninsula, and the many other attractions offered by the Western Cape.

Built in 1713, it was one of the first grand residences located in the heart of historic Stellenbosch and is now surrounded by the town’s many stylish shops, galleries, and museums.

The beautifully restored Manor House has yellowwood and stinkwood doors, sash windows, and yellowwood ceilings. The rooms in the Manor House, as well as the newly built rooms, overlook a heated pool and a walled courtyard. Guests can enjoy meals from the Provençal kitchen and dine at leisure with a glass of fine Cape wine in the courtyard or in the intimate restaurant.

ACTIVITIES
Explore historical Stellenbosch – you are guaranteed to fall in love!

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Visit the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront!  Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain, in the heart of Cape Town's working harbour, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become South Africa's most visited destination. Set against a backdrop of magnificent sea and mountain views. Two Oceans Aquarium, boat trips, Robben island, arts, crafts, curios and more!

*See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics. Spend the day at the V&A Waterfront and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure.

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Explore the captivating allure of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyard-covered hills intersect with historic charm, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey of wine tasting at world-renowned estates, indulge in gourmet dining that harmonizes with the local flavors.  Stroll through oak-lined streets adorned with Cape Dutch architecture.

Surrounded yourself with  a serene and breathtaking landscape, that seamlessly marries the old-world elegance with the vibrancy of South African wine culture.

Visit various wineries in and around the stunning Stellenbosch area. Enjoy wine tasting and lunch on the way. This is the Cape wine lands!

*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics

Located right in the heart of Camps Bay! One of the world’s most desirable destinations and a hip hub where you can find stylish restaurants, cool bars, and little shops.

Offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Azamare is located just 2 minutes’ drive from Camps Bay Beach, 5-minute walk of nearby restaurants. Table Mountain is only 3.1 miles away, and the V&A Waterfront is 6.2 miles away

Guests can enjoy a full English breakfast in the morning. Complimentary wine and snacks are provided every evening in the lounge and by the pool. Free WiFi is available in all areas..

ACTIVITIES
You will be picked up from the doorstep for your privately guided daily Cape Town tours, including the Cape Point & Peninsula tour, Stellenbosch, Franschoek Wine Lands Tour, Table Mountain, and pretty much anything else your heart desires. Many superb restaurants are located all around the hotel, all within walking distance. This is a restaurant paradise!

A warm welcome awaits arrival at the airport! Please be on the lookout for your driver with your name sign. Baggage assistance is followed by a 40-minute private road transfer to your luxury guesthouse overlooking stunning Camps Bay!