For an in-depth taste of this enthralling country, we recommend this simplified itinerary, incorporating wildlife and beaches, all wrapped up in some spectacular scenery but without too much moving around.
Arrive in to Cape Town after your overnight flight and transfer to your chosen accommodation for 4 nights. Having collected your hire car, spend the next few days exploring this stunning peninsula at your own pace; drive out to Cape Point, stopping at Boulders Bay en-route to see the penguins; take the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain; visit the Winelands or enjoy spotting whales at Hermanus (June - November) - all are within easy reach for a day trip.
After your time in the Cape, drive east to the Garden Route (approx. 5 - 6 hours drive) where you will spend 4 nights at Knysna or Plettenberg Bay. Explore the wild coastline, tranquil lagoons and indigenous forests, as well as visiting local animal sanctuaries such as Birds of Eden, The Elephant Sanctuary and Monkeyland - all guaranteed to be a big hit with little adventurers!
Continue your journey to the Eastern Cape (approx. 4 - 5 hours drive) and complete your South African adventure with a 2 or 3 night 'Big Five' Safari. Babies and toddlers are welcome to join the daily game drives, which take place at dawn and dusk - the best time to spot lion, elephant and other animals from the open 4WD vehicles. If some adult-only time appeals, a nanny is on hand to look after little ones.
After this unforgettable finale, drive back to Port Elizabeth (approx. 90 mins), return your hire car and take your flight to Johannesburg, connecting with your overnight flight home. For a slightly more relaxing pace, you might prefer to break the flights up with a few nights in the Winelands.