3 Day South Africa Tour Packages

South Africa itineraries for 3 days

Compiled by

NadineSouth Africa travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Days in South Africa, incl. Cape Town and Garden Route

  A 1270km route connects 6 major South African destinations. The program features Big Five safari, world's highest bungy at Bloukrans (216m), and Cango Caves, with nights at Sedgefield backpackers enjoying traditional dinners.

  

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  • Day 1

    Cape Town to Sedgefield (450 km)

    Start your journey at 6 AM to avoid Cape Town's morning traffic. The 5-hour drive east on the N2 takes you through Swellendam, one of South Africa's oldest towns. Plan for an afternoon safari at a private game reserve. Remember to wear neutral colors and bring a jacket since open vehicles can get cold. One visitor shared: "The views driving around were amazing!" If you're interested in more adventure, try the canopy tour through the treetops (seasonal availability). End your day in Sedgefield, where you can unwind at beautiful Myoli Beach.

    
  • Day 2

    Garden Route Adventures

    Visit Sedgefield's popular Saturday morning farmers market by 8 AM to browse local crafts and foods while they're fresh. You can spend your morning either walking with elephants (R695) or exploring the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary (R320). The afternoon brings you to Bloukrans Bridge for the world's highest commercial bungy jump at 216 meters. Skip heavy meals before jumping and wear shoes that won't slip off. Not jumping? Take the bridge walking tour for incredible views. Spend your evening relaxing on the beach in Sedgefield when the water is usually warmer.

    
  • Day 3

    Oudtshoorn and Route 62 (600 km)

    Your final day starts at the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn. Pick between the standard tour or the more challenging adventure tour. If small spaces make you nervous, the standard tour is your best bet. You could also visit the Endangered Wildlife Sanctuary instead. The 7-hour drive back to Cape Town follows Route 62 through the Klein Karoo. Stop to explore unique towns like Barrydale along the way. Depending on traffic and your group size, you'll reach Cape Town between 5 PM and 10 PM.

    

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• 3 Days in South Africa's Garden Route, incl. Cape Town and Oudtshoorn

  A 1300km route links Cape Town, Oudtshoorn's Cango Caves, Wilderness National Park's canoeing spots, and Botlierskop Private Game Reserve's Big 5 safari drives.

  

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  • Day 1

    Cape Town to Oudtshoorn (450 km)

    Leave Cape Town early (between 6-8 AM). Be ready at least 15 minutes before pickup since guides stick to strict schedules. You'll drive the scenic Route 62 through the semi-desert Klein Karoo region. In the afternoon you'll explore the impressive limestone formations of the Cango Caves. Tip: Bring shoes with good grip for the slippery cave floors and pack a light jacket since it's cool inside.

    
  • Day 2

    Wilderness National Park & Sedgefield (400 km)

    Start your day with an optional elephant nature walk that many travelers call a trip highlight. Your main adventure will be canoeing through the peaceful waters of Wilderness National Park. If you're feeling brave you can try bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge, the world's highest bungee bridge. Spend your evening in relaxed Sedgefield and try one of the local beach restaurants. One guest said: "Kayaking was fun, caves interesting and wildlife too. Landscape just beautiful."

    
  • Day 3

    Botlierskop Game Reserve & Return to Cape Town (450 km)

    Your final morning features a 4x4 safari at the malaria-free Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Look out for the Big 5 plus giraffes, zebras and various antelope species. If weather permits you might get a short guided bush walk. Important note: Don't book evening flights on the last day because traffic and weather can affect your return time to Cape Town.

    

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• 3 Day South Africa's Winelands Itinerary, incl. Stellenbosch and Hermanus

  Cyclists traverse 140km through South Africa's scenic routes. The path leads from Stellenbosch through Franschhoek and Botrivier to Hermanus, featuring Helshoogte Pass, Theewaterskloof Dam, and Hemel en Aarde Valley's trails.

  

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  • Day 1

    Stellenbosch to Franschhoek (45-50km)

    Leave Stellenbosch early before it gets too hot. You'll cycle over Helshoogte Pass where you'll need good tires for the off-road parts. A recent visitor shared: "The trails through Banhoek Conservancy were challenging but rewarding - keep your camera handy for spotting Eland in the morning hours." Stop for coffee at Boschendal Estate before riding the vineyard trails to Franschhoek. Make sure to bring extra water and sunscreen since the open sections get very hot between 11 AM and 3 PM.

    
  • Day 2

    Franschhoek to Botrivier (60km)

    You can choose to climb Franschhoek Pass in the morning or get a lift to the starting point. The route follows Theewaterskloof Dam on gravel roads with some loose patches to watch out for. In the afternoon you'll arrive at Botrivier's wine estates. You'll stay right among the vineyards and enjoy a traditional South African braai for dinner. If you're cycling in winter bring warm clothes since mornings can be close to freezing.

    
  • Day 3

    Elgin to Hermanus (35km)

    The last day gives you the most diverse scenery from farmlands to the well-kept trails of Hemel en Aarde valley. The route finishes with a nice downhill ride into Hermanus with views of the ocean. The drive back to Stellenbosch along Clarence Drive takes about 2 hours. Plan any Cape Town transfers for after 5 PM to avoid traffic. This shorter day lets you go whale watching in Hermanus (best from June to December) or fit in one last wine tasting.

    

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