Eastern & Western Cape 4x4 Camping Adventure
10 Nights
From $3,658 USD
Tour Highlights:
Stunning mountain passes
Rugged wilderness and wildlife
4* accommodation throughout
Eastern & Western Cape 4x4 Camping Adventure
Roam rugged terrains on a thrilling 4x4 camping adventure through Eastern & Western Cape's diverse landscapes and wildlife wonders.
Journey Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 14-night 4x4 camping adventure through the diverse landscapes of South Africa. Begin your journey in the historic town of Swellendam, where you'll spend two nights immersing yourself in its rich history and quaint charm. From there, venture into the natural wonders of Baviaanskloof, staying at a secluded mountain lodge for two nights surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Next, experience thrilling wildlife encounters at Shamwari Private Game Reserve for three nights, actively participating in conservation efforts and gaining a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem.
Journey onwards to The Crags in Plettenberg Bay for two nights filled with outdoor activities amidst nature's embrace. Rejuvenate in Montagu, renowned for its hot springs, rock climbing, and fine wines, over a two-night stay, immersing yourself in its tranquil beauty and adventurous spirit.
Conclude your safari 4x4 camping adventure in Cape Town, the Mother City, where you'll spend three nights exploring its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and stunning coastal scenery. This South African journey seamlessly blends history, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes, all from the comfort of your 4x4 vehicle.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Upon your arrival, our team will be there to greet you and ensure a smooth rental car collection process. Opt for a GPS unit for added convenience in navigating the diverse terrains ahead. Once your vehicle is checked, paperwork completed, and luggage loaded, you'll be all set to embark on your unforgettable off-road adventure.
Timeless Charm in Swellendam
-
Your Accommodation
On Day 1, Swellendam - a charming town steeped in history where time seems to have gracefully slowed down - welcomes you to its captivating embrace. Separated from the Cape colony in 1743, this town holds a unique place in South African heritage, marking the last outpost of colonial influence before the vast expanse of the "dark continent" to the east. It was in Swellendam that the savvy Barry and Nephew brothers carved their path to prosperity in 1822. They ingeniously harnessed the waters of the Breede Rivier as a vital means of transporting goods, going so far as to establish their very own private bank.
Today, Swellendam retains its frontier character, and the Victorian colonial architecture from its golden days is a living testament to its history. While agriculture remains a cornerstone of the town's economy, tourism thrives. As the largest town in the region, Swellendam offers a splendid base for exploring wine, hiking, cycling, and embracing the "unplugged" way of life.
Nestled just 5 kilometers from Swellendam's town center, at the foot of the majestic Langeberg mountains in the historic Hermitage valley, you'll discover Fazenda (self-catering). This idyllic retreat is a haven that seamlessly marries seclusion with convenience. Fazenda boasts a range of accommodations, each one offering unparalleled mountain views and the promise of a luxurious and private escape.
During your stay, you'll find yourself in the Forest Cottage, a serene and spacious haven where glass sliding doors frame uninterrupted views of the mountains and nature. The cottage's interior is a tribute to simplicity, adorned with natural wood and stone. It features a walk-in shower, a king-sized bed draped in Egyptian cotton linen, and an indoor fireplace to create cozy evenings. The well-equipped kitchenette includes an induction cooking plate, microwave, small fridge, and a Nespresso coffee machine for your convenience.
Your home away from home:
Fazenda
fazendaswellendam.co.za
Hermitage Valley, Swellendam
Tel +27 83 446 1123 -
Your Travel Time
-
Your Activities
Beyond the enchanting confines of Fazenda, the Swellendam area extends a warm invitation to further adventures. Explore the Marloth Nature Reserve, where hiking trails reveal breathtaking vistas. Enjoy canoeing or partake in exhilarating waterskiing on the Buffeljags Dam, or opt for a guided tour with Hermitage Horse. For nature enthusiasts, the region is a veritable paradise, adorned with wildflowers and fynbos, where diverse wildlife, including the endangered Bontebok, Cape Mountain Zebra, baboons, and even the elusive Leopard, grace the landscape. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 200 species of birds, from Waterfowl to Knysna Woodpeckers.
Before your journey concludes, be sure not to miss the opportunity to visit Rothman Manor, a heritage five-star hotel right in the heart of town, boasting its own miniature game reserve. Additionally, the Marloth Nature Reserve promises a splendid outing, perfect for hiking and taking in the majestic vistas that Swellendam has to offer.
-
Your Food
For dinner, indulge in the sumptuous simplicity of Tredici or savor the culinary delights at Field & Fork.
Tredici embodies the philosophy that "more is better," offering homely artisan baking, fresh local produce prepared with passion, and a blend of local Cape Dutch, chic French, and warm Italian styles. Whether you stop for a quick bite, a dinner with friends, or a special occasion, Tredici guarantees generosity and genuine smiles.
Alternatively, Field & Fork is a Fine Dining Restaurant that derives its name from the culinary vision of bringing locally sourced quality produce from the field to your table. Located in Swellendam’s heritage area as part of the Drostdy Museum, this restaurant is steeped in history and oozing character, bringing you modern flare with panache. The menu is small and changes often but caters to all palates, with wines sourced locally from award-winning wineries, matching the excellence of their food.
Meal Inclusions: Self-Catering
Secluded Mountain Escape
-
Your Accommodation
On the morning of Day 2, you’ll embark on a 414-kilometer, 5.5-hour journey down the R62 to Sederkloof Lodge (B&B). As you drive, you'll encounter historic mountain passes, vast mountain ranges, vineyards, and serene streams, providing a glimpse of South Africa's natural beauty.
The route takes you through Oudtshoorn and De Rust via the N12, followed by a turn onto the R341 to the N9. Continue your journey on the Vaalwater / Baviaanskloof gravel road, through the Nuweklook Pass, until you reach the entrance to Sederkloof Lodge just beyond Babes' Farm Shop.
Upon your arrival at the mountain lodge, you'll complete a standard indemnity form, and check-in at the main lodge. This central area features a fully equipped kitchen, a bar, a pool, and a deck with WiFi access.
Sederkloof Lodge, a 4-star retreat on the Sederkloof farm owned by Thys and Alice Cilliers, offers six mountain chalets and a communal lodge with a pool deck. These chalets, secluded luxury stone-and-glass hideaways, perch on the edge of a gorge, providing privacy and unobstructed views.
Your home away from home:
Sederkloof Lodge
www.sederkloof.co.za
GPS: -33.55364342538378, 23.980086238618952
Tel +27 87 700 4334 -
Your Travel Time
5.5-hour journey down the R62 to Sederkloof Lodge.
-
Your Activities
The lodge's essence revolves around savoring the tranquillity of the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site. A short walk from the chalets, the main lodge provides panoramic views of the Baviaanskloof mountains. Your stay includes breakfast, affording flexibility for your lunch and dinner arrangements.
To deepen your connection with the Baviaanskloof's rich biodiversity, explore Sederkloof's hiking trails and learn from the "Biodiversity Info" section. Don't miss out on the recommended Langrug and Smitskraal self-drive trips.
-
Your Food
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Wildlife Wonderland at Shamwari
-
Your Accommodation
Begin your journey on Day 5 after a hearty breakfast at Sederkloof Lodge, as you set out on a scenic 4.5-hour drive covering 327 kilometers to reach the renowned Shamwari Private Game Reserve (DLB&B). Your route will lead you along the R332 before transitioning onto the R342, and after traveling approximately 40 kilometers, you'll make a left turn, with the grand entrance to Shamwari just 150 meters ahead. The name "Shamwari," meaning "my friend" in the Shona language, reflects the warmth and hospitality that awaits you.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve, situated in the heart of Eastern Cape, spans an impressive 25,000 hectares of malaria-free terrain and is home to Africa's famous Big 5 – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffalos. Shamwari represents a significant conservation success story. This reserve has successfully rehabilitated the land to its natural biodiversity, reversing nearly 300 years of human impact. It is now celebrated as a Protected Environment, demonstrating the fruits of patience, expertise, and substantial investment.
During your two-night stay at Shamwari, you'll reside at Bayethe Tented Lodge, a luxurious accommodation option within the reserve. These stone-walled and thatch-roofed lodges offer spacious decks with stunning views of waterholes, providing prime wildlife-watching opportunities. Each tent features modern amenities, including air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, private plunge pools, and viewing decks.
Your home away from home:
Shamwari Private Game Reserve
www.shamwari.com
GPS: -33.400075, 26.184499
Tel +27 (0) 42 203 1111 -
Your Travel Time
4.5-hour drive covering 327 kilometers.
-
Your Activities
Your days at Shamwari will be filled with thrilling activities, including guided game drives, bush walks for an up-close encounter with nature, and the chance to immerse yourself in the region's rich flora and fauna. For the bird enthusiasts, the malaria-free Eastern Cape offers excellent birding opportunities. The lodge follows a daily itinerary that includes wake-up calls, game drives, meals, and optional spa treatments, ensuring a balance of adventure and relaxation in this captivating, malaria-free environment.
-
Your Food
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Country Charm in The Crags
-
Your Accommodation
On Day 7, your journey begins with a 3-hour, 286-kilometer drive heading southwest. As you hit the N2, anticipate a scenic ride that will lead you to your next destination: Redford House (B&B) in The Crags, Plettenberg Bay.
Redford House, a charming four-star historic country guest house, occupies a unique position at the foothills of the Tsitsikamma mountains, within its very own 50-acre nature reserve. Located just 20 kilometers from Plettenberg Bay in an area known as The Crags, this guest house is a highly sought-after destination due to the stunning mountains, lush forests, and pristine beaches that define this region. Furthermore, it provides convenient access to the various tourist attractions in Plettenberg Bay, Nature's Valley, and Storms River.
Upon your arrival, you'll be greeted by your gracious hosts, Colleen and Clive, who are known to possess a touch of South African hospitality royalty. Clive's background as the former head of the medical team for the Springboks, South Africa's national rugby team, means that you'll have the chance to hear intriguing stories during your breakfast conversations. In a country where rugby is practically a national religion, anyone associated with the sport is held in high regard. Colleen, on the other hand, holds a Ph.D. in psychology but put her career on hold to nurture their four children and create the delightful haven that Redford House has become today.
Your accommodations will be in Noble House, a charming residence that Colleen and Clive built for themselves while they lovingly restored the farmhouse, which was in ruins when they acquired it. Noble House offers two generously sized bedrooms and an even more spacious lounge, ensuring your comfort during your stay.
Your home away from home:
Redford House
www.redfordhouse.co.za/home.html
12 Redford Rd, The Crags
Tel +27 (0)76 9071019 -
Your Travel Time
3-hour, 286-kilometer drive heading southwest.
-
Your Activities
During your stay, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities. Test your skills in a game of tennis against Colleen, whose backhand is known to be quite formidable. Alternatively, take advantage of the on-site amenities, including boating on the lake and a refreshing swim in the pool.
Be sure to take the opportunity to discover the nearby points of interest. Redford House offers a convenient central location, granting effortless access to a range of attractions, including Monkeyland, The Elephant Sanctuary, Birds of Eden, Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, Bramon Wine Estate, The Barn Theatre, and the Kurland Polo.
-
Your Food
For dinner, you have two appealing options: relish in-house meals prepared by Joanna, the skilled housekeeper, or make a short drive to the nearby Kurland Hotel, known for its exceptional dining in front of a grand fireplace.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Rustic Farm Cottages in Montagu
-
Your Accommodation
Nestled in the heart of Montagu in the Western Cape, Olive Stone Farm is a delightful retreat. The farm's unique character shines through its rustic architecture, welcoming ambiance, and meticulous attention to detail. What was once a piece of land adorned with olive trees has been transformed into a thriving working farm, offering self-catering cottage accommodation. These cottages, Olive Cottage, Stone Cottage, and Farm Cottage, are constructed entirely from locally sourced stone, giving them a charming and cozy feel. Each cottage, whether you opt for a super king or twin bed, boasts luxurious linen and its very own private natural plunge pool, perfect for those sunny Karoo days.
The cottages are thoughtfully equipped with fully equipped kitchens, including a gas oven and stove for a truly off-the-grid experience. You'll find both indoor and outdoor showers, along with basic locally produced soaps and creams, a vanity kit, towels, and a hairdryer for your convenience. No matter the weather, Olive Stone Farm Cottages ensure your comfort with ceiling fans, fireplaces, electric blankets, and gas heaters. As a recent addition, all three cottages now feature their very own hot tubs.
Your home away from home:
Olive Stone Farm Cottages
olivestonefarm.co.za
Church street, Montagu
Tel +27 83 271 0244 -
Your Travel Time
After a scenic 4 hours and 20-minute drive on Day 9, covering 378 kilometers from Redford House, you'll find yourself at Olive Stone Farm Cottages (B&B) in Montagu.
-
Your Activities
Montagu, a town with a rich history, was named after John Montagu, the former secretary of the Cape Colony. Previously known as Agter Cogman's Kloof, this town sits at the confluence of the Keisie and Kingna rivers. The town, founded in 1851 on the farm "Uitvlugt," is renowned for its hot mineral springs and picturesque mountains. It's also an agricultural hub, where orchards and vineyards flourish, and local herbs are cultivated. North of the town lies the farming area of 'Koo,' famous for its high-quality apples, pears, apricots, and peaches.
Recreation opportunities abound in Montagu. The nearby rock formations make it a major rock climbing destination, with popular crags such as Legoland, The Steeple, and Bad Kloof. The 1,266-meter high Bloupunt peak overlooks the village and offers various hiking trails, kloofing, and mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. In Montagu, you can fully embrace local culture by savoring fresh fruits, indulging in rejuvenating hot springs, and stargazing under pristine night skies. Explore the town's heritage at Joubert House, Montagu's oldest townhouse, where you'll find a captivating collection of toys and dolls from a bygone era. Wine connoisseurs will appreciate Montagu's proximity to renowned Robertson wineries like Van Loveren, Weltevrede, Excelsior, Bon Courage, and Springfield. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities to observe a variety of avian species.
-
Your Food
For breakfast, treat yourself to a breakfast basket delivered right to your cottage (for a small fee). It includes a delicious selection of fruit, yoghurt, muesli, cold meats, cheese, butter, jam, croissants, and orange juice. The views of the surrounding mountains and secure parking right next to your accommodation add to the appeal.
When it's time to satisfy your taste buds, Montagu welcomes you with a delightful variety of dining options. At The Barn on 62, you can enjoy exceptional flat whites amidst charming gardens, and they offer an array of gins to explore. 22 Church Street keeps things fresh by adjusting their menu to the season's finest ingredients, while The BluVines District is your go-to spot for delectable apple crumble. Don't forget to check out Die Boord/The Orchard, The Rambling Rose, and Charlestons at the Montagu Country Hotel ... they're famous for serving up mouthwatering traditional Karoo dishes.
Moreover, Montagu's strategic location means you're within easy reach of numerous restaurants and winery eateries in the Robertson area. This opens up a world of culinary possibilities, allowing you to savor a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Journey's End
-
Your Accommodation
As your extraordinary 4x4 safari adventure with us comes to an end, we hope you've had a fantastic journey filled with unforgettable experiences. On this last day, you'll enjoy one last delightful breakfast at Olive Stone Farm before heading back to Cape Town. Just a friendly reminder that you'll need to drop off your rental vehicle at the rental office at Cape Town International Airport before 11 am.
We can't wait to welcome you back for more safari adventures in the future. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable trip!
Your home away from home:
-
Your Travel Time
-
Your Activities
-
Your Food
Where to next?
Let’s plan your journey
Enquire now and our Travel Expert will get back to you within 24 hours or Whatsapp to start chatting.
START PLANNINGExplore Our Favorite Journeys
Here are some of our best-selling holidays - pick your adventure…
per person
sharing for 8 nights
per person
sharing for 7 nights
Need more Inspiration?
Explore more of our tailor-made Southern Africa adventure travel journeys curated by our Travel Experts.
VIEW ALL TRIPSContact Us
Exceed House
Springfield Office Park
Belleville, Cape Town
7450
Cell / WhatsApp +27 72 136 9096
Email: travel@whereitallbegan.co.za
About
Where It All Began is committed to crafting active adventures that not only thrill but also preserve the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Southern Africa.
Our mission is to provide sustainable adventure travel experiences that connect travellers with off the beaten track experiences in this diverse region through cycling, hiking, sailing, diving, off-roading and other low-emission methods of travel.
Through responsible tourism practices, we aim to leave a positive impact on local communities and ecosystems, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and cherish the places where it all began.
Ethos
Our logo is an image of a skull found in the Rising Star Cave System in Gauteng, South Africa in 2013. It was named ‘homo naledi’, meaning ‘human of the stars’.
The cave system has so far given rise to the remains of over 15 individuals, making it the largest hominid fossil remains site ever discovered.
Travelling to Southern Africa is truly a return to the source of humankind, to Where It All Began.
