A 10-Day Adventure Along South Africa’s Western Cape: Journey Through Gqeberha, Game Reserves, and Iconic Cape Town

Embarking on a trip across South Africa’s stunning Eastern Cape and Western Cape regions is like stepping into a world of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unparalleled wildlife experiences. My recent journey through this part of the world was nothing short of extraordinary. From intimate wildlife encounters to relaxing stays in luxurious lodges, every stop along the way added a new layer of adventure.

We began in Port Elizabeth, where the welcoming charm of the Indian Ocean and the relaxed vibe of the city set the tone for the adventure ahead. From there, our group travelled to Shamwari Private Game Reserve, where I had the privilege of seeing the Big 5 up close. The safari experience was unforgettable, and the luxurious accommodations at Bayete Lodge made it feel like a true escape into nature.

Next, we ventured to Addo Elephant National Park, home to vast herds of elephants. The highlight of my stay was at Gorah Elephant Camp, a luxurious tented camp overlooking a busy waterhole, where I witnessed elephants, buffalo, and various game in their natural habitat, while enjoying a morning coffee personally delivered by the wonderful staff at the lodge.

Following this, we made my way to Kariega Game Reserve, where a boat ride along the Kariega River allowed for stunning wildlife sightings, including lions and rhinos, before retreating to Settlers Drift for an evening game drive and a sundowner.

Along the scenic Garden Route, we stopped in Plettenberg Bay, where the peaceful surroundings of Tsala Treetop Lodge provided a much-needed escape.

A few days later, I arrived at the Grootbos Private Reserve, a biodiversity haven tucked between the mountains and the sea, offering an immersive experience in nature’s splendour. From there, it was on to Franschhoek, South Africa’s wine capital, where I savoured award-winning wines and enjoyed curated wine experiences that paired perfectly with the region’s charming French heritage.

The final leg of the journey brought me to Cape Town, where I explored the city’s iconic Table Mountain and bustling waterfront – we even went to a rugby game which was a huge highlight – the atmosphere was electric in the stadium!

My stay at The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel & Spa was the perfect ending to this epic journey—luxurious, tranquil, and surrounded by breathtaking gardens and vineyards. From thrilling safaris to relaxing wine escapes, South Africa’s Western Cape offered a perfect mix of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty.