How to Spend Four Unforgettable Days in Cape Town and Along the Garden Route
If Cape Town is the crown jewel of South Africa, the Garden Route is its sparkling necklace. This four-day itinerary gives you the best of both worlds: vibrant city life, breathtaking natural beauty, and a taste of the open road. Whether you’re a solo traveler or sharing the adventure, here’s how to make the most of your time.
Day 1: Cape Town’s Icons – Table Mountain and the Waterfront
Morning
Start your day with a ride up Table Mountain—but go early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light. Whether you take the cable car or hike one of the trails (like Platteklip Gorge for the adventurous—be prepared for its steep incline, but also rewarding views), the views from the top are spectacular. On a clear day, you’ll see the city sprawled below, the Atlantic sparkling in the distance, and the Twelve Apostles standing tall. While there are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels are available on and around Table Mountain, the rotating cable cars offer stunning 360-degree views during the ascent and descent so consider taking one either up or down. At the summit you’ll find a café, gift shop, toilet (yes!), and a dedicated area for stargazing.
Lunch
Head to the V&A Waterfront for lunch with a view. Grab a seat at a harborside café and dig into local seafood or a Cape Malay-inspired dish. If you’re feeling fancy, the oysters and bubbly here are top-notch. There is a lot going on in this area (albeit some is quite touristy). Wander through local shops, tour a few museums (like the South African Museum—highly recommended), the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Cape Wheel (a Ferris wheel). There are also various harbor cruises, including sunset cruises and boat trips to Robben Island that depart from this area.
Afternoon
Explore the Two Oceans Aquarium, then wander through the bustling markets and shops at the Waterfront. You’ll find everything from locally crafted jewelry to quirky souvenirs.
Evening
Wrap up your day with a sunset cruise from the harbor. There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon with Table Mountain silhouetted behind you.
Day 2: The Cape Peninsula – From Penguins to Cape Point
Morning
Grab a coffee to go and set out for the Cape Peninsula. Your first stop is Boulders Beach, where you can walk alongside the colony of adorable African penguins in their natural habitat. Watching them waddle along the sand and dive into the waves is an absolute delight. PLEASE maintain a safe distance from the penguins and follow the designated boardwalks.
Midday
Continue down to Cape Point. Hike up to the lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, then head over to the nearby Cape of Good Hope for a photo at the southwestern-most point of Africa. It’s one of those “must do” tourist things. Pro tip: Keep your eyes peeled for ostriches and baboons along the way—they love this windswept coastline.
Lunch
Stop at Kalk Bay on your way back, a charming fishing village with plenty of lunch options. Try fresh fish and chips at the legendary Kalky’s Fish & Chips or sit down for something more refined at one of the harbor-side restaurants.
Back in Cape Town, take a stroll through the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. These colorful houses were originally built for slaves brought to the area from Malaysia, Indonesia, and other parts of Africa. During slavery, these houses were required to be white. However, after slavery was abolished, the residents painted their homes in vibrant colors as a symbol of their newfound freedom.
Evening
Tonight, treat yourself to dinner at Kloof Street House. The eclectic decor, fairy-lit garden, and inventive menu make it a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Start with he Butternut, spinach and feta spring rools. Sometimes combinations are crazy—and sometimes they surprise. This one was a delight. Their bouillabaisse, a seafood stew comes highly recommended, but I have to crown their Chalmar beef as the jewel here—the truffle mash is perfection.
Day 3: Wine, Art, and Gardens in the Cape Winelands
Morning
It’s time for a day trip to the Cape Winelands, starting with Stellenbosch. This historic town is known for its oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, and, of course, world-class wineries. Visit Delaire Graff Estate for its award-winning wines, stunning views, and an impressive collection of South African art.
Lunch
Make your way to Franschhoek, a foodie haven nestled in the mountains. Stop at a vineyard like La Petite Colombe or Le Lude for a memorable meal paired with sparkling wine.
Afternoon
Stroll through Franschhoek’s charming village, popping into galleries and boutiques. If you’re up for more wine tasting, the Franschhoek Wine Tram is a fun and scenic way to explore the area.
Evening
Head back to Cape Town for a relaxed dinner. Try Gold Restaurant, where you can sample flavors from across Africa while enjoying live drumming and dancing.
Day 4: The Garden Route – A Scenic Drive to Remember
Morning
Hit the road early for the Garden Route, South Africa’s most famous stretch of scenic highway. Your destination is Knysna, but the journey itself is the highlight. The route winds through rolling hills, lush forests, and dramatic coastline.
Stops Along the Way
- Mossel Bay: Stretch your legs on the beach or visit the historic post office tree. Here’s the fun story: In 1500 Pedro de Ataide, a ship’s commander on his return journey from the east, left a letter of importance in an old sailor’s boot under a large milkwood tree. In 1501 this letter was found by Joao da Nova, commander of the third East India fleet en route to India. In this way the first Post Office in South Africa was founded. The tree has been declared a national monument and is generally known as the Post Office Tree. Today there is a boot-shaped stone box under the tree that can be used to post postcards and letters.
FUN FACT: There are three white milkwood trees in South Africa that have been declared national monuments, one of which is the ‘Post Office Tree’ in Mossel bay. It is thought to be over 600 years old.
Oh, and plan for a stop at C&P Coffee Roasters in Mossel Bay to sip your favorite brew in their peaceful bonsai garden.
- Wilderness: Take in the views from the Map of Africa lookout or enjoy a quick hike.
- Knysna Heads: Arrive in Knysna in time to see the dramatic cliffs at the Heads, where the lagoon meets the Indian Ocean. Walk down to the Featherbed Nature Reserve, through the arches and out to the beautifully-framed sea.
Lunch and Afternoon
Have lunch at a waterfront restaurant in Knysna, sampling fresh oysters (the town’s specialty). Afterward, take a boat trip on the lagoon or explore the surrounding forests.
Evening
Stay overnight in Knysna or return to Cape Town (a longer drive but doable if you start early).
Tips for the Journey
- Driving: South Africa drives on the left, so take it slow if you’re not used to it. The roads are well-maintained, but keep an eye out for wildlife in rural areas.
- Safety: Stick to main roads and park in secure areas. Avoid driving after dark, especially in remote regions.
- Packing: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a light jacket for cool evenings, and plenty of space on your camera roll (or phone memory) are essential.
A Journey You’ll Never Forget
Four days may not seem like enough time to explore Cape Town and the Garden Route, but the experiences are rich enough to feel like a week. From the penguins of Boulders Beach to the vineyards of Stellenbosch and the open road along the Garden Route, this trip is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring beauty.
Cape Town and its surroundings are waiting to welcome you. What are you waiting for?
From here I’m off on safari. I’ll link the article HERE.
Happy travels!
