13-Day Essence Tour
- 2 -26
- 12+
- 29+
- 11
Available: 4–5★ or 5★
What's Included
- 12 Nights in Handpicked Luxury Accommodation
- All Meals – Breakfasts, Lunches & Dinners
- Vegetarian Options Available
- All Transfers, Taxes, Gratuities & Entrance Fees
- Local Wines & Beverages with Meals*
- 4 Wine Tastings
- 2-Nights Big 5 Safari (5 Star) + Game Drives
- Guided Fynbos Bush Walk (optional activity)
- Whale & Dolphin Watching Boat Trip
- Knysna Boat Cruise with Oyster Tasting
- Robben Island Boat Trip & Tour
- 1 Fine Dining Evening with Wine Pairing
- Bottled Water & Air-Conditioned Touring Vehicle
Excluded
- Flights, optional extras, minibar, and additional alcohol.
- Spa treatments & massages at Game Reserve (optional extra)
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS (AVAILABLE ON REQUEST)
Pre-Tour Hotel Stay – Arrive early with a night at the same luxury hotel near the V&A Waterfront.
Post-Tour Extension –Add extra nights at the final hotel to relax or explore further.
Flight Assistance –We can assist with international or domestic flight bookings. Flights are not included.
FOOT NOTE
- Bottled still/sparkling water with lunch & dinner
- *Lunch: 2 drinks | Dinner: 3 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic, set menu)
- No alcohol for under 18s
- Fitness: Leisurely – short walks, vehicle access
- Not suitable for wheelchairs or walking aids
Map
Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to Cape Town
“People who love to eat are always the best people.” — Julia Child
Airport Transfer
From the moment you arrive in Cape Town, we prioritise your safety, comfort and convenience, ensuring a seamless start to your holiday. We will greet you at the arrival gates and escort you to your hotel where you will get a chance to settle in and rest.
Leisure Time at Hotel
Leisure time at your hotel on Kloof Street, with the option to explore its cafés, boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
Bo-Kaap Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap neighbourhood through a leisurely guided walking tour. Renowned for its colourful houses, cobblestone streets, and celebration of the Cape Malay heritage, Bo-Kaap offers a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse culture.
Welcome Dinner
Savour a memorable evening enjoying a local traditional dinner. During the meal, we’ll share the itinerary for the rest of the tour, leaving you eager to experience all that lies ahead.
Two-night stay near the Waterfront
Enjoy an unforgettable two-night’s stay in Cape Town, just a short distance from the iconic V&A Waterfront.
Day 2 – Tip to Table
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” — Virginia Woolf
Table Mountain Experience with VIP Fast-Track Access
We will enjoy an effortless visit to Table Mountain with our VIP Fast-Track Access, allowing us to bypass the regular queues and ascend directly via the Aerial Cableway.
Cape Peninsula Tour
Scenic drive from Table Mountain going past Green Point, Sea Point, Camps Bay, Hout Bay, Kalk Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Boulder Beach, Cape Point Nature Reserve and more.
Visit Boulders Beach, home to a thriving colony of African penguins
We then go on to visit Boulders Beach. This picturesque spot is home to a thriving colony of African penguins, offering visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and observe these charming birds in their natural habitat.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
We will stop at one of the area’s esteemed seaside seafood restaurants, where fresh catches and scenic views promise a fun and relaxed time. Here, you’ll enjoy Cape Town’s famous deep-fried fish and chips — a true local favourite and part of our maritime heritage.”
Visit Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope
Our next stop is Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, which are two of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. It offers visitors magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes, rich history, and diverse ecosystems. When visiting, you can enjoy 360° panoramic views from the Cape Point Lighthouse and see the Cape of Good Hope, the most south-westerly point of Africa.
Cape Point Vineyard Dinner and Wine Tasting
Our last stop of the day is Cape Point Vineyards, where we will indulge in a wine tasting accompanied by a delectable cheese and charcuterie platter.
Day 3 – Vinyards, Villages & Sunset
“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” – Anon
Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate
We will start our day with a scenic drive to Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate, known for its Indian runner ducks – a suitable, eco-friendly alternative to using pesticides.
Stellenbosch Walking Tour and Leisure Time
We will continue our journey with a step back in time with a Stellenbosch walking tour that reveals the town’s rich history and architectural charm. Wander through oak-lined streets and explore the well-preserved Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian buildings at your own leisure.
Blaauwklippen Wine Estate Lunch and Wine Tasting
We continue with a visit to Blaauwklippen Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of their award-winning wines perfectly paired with local delicacies. The experience culminates in a leisurely lunch, showcasing seasonal flavours and the estate’s warm hospitality.
Scenic drive from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek
The route offers rolling hills, vineyards, and quiet country roads framed by mountain views. It’s a peaceful drive between two of South Africa’s most beloved wine towns.
Leisure Time in Franschhoek
Leisure time at your hotel, with the option to explore the town’s cafés, boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
Fine Dining Experience in Franschhoek
Experience fine dining in Franschhoek, where contemporary South African cuisine meets world-class wines in an elegant setting overlooking the Franschhoek valley.
Two nights stay in Franschhoek
Day 4 – A Taste of Franschhoek
Franschhoek Walking Tour and Leisure Time
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Franschhoek, exploring its rich French Huguenot heritage, historic architecture, and charming streets lined with boutiques and galleries. Learn about the town’s winemaking tradition and cultural landmarks.
A Taste of Tradition: South African Table Experience
Enjoy a warm and interactive dining experience that celebrates South Africa’s rich culinary heritage. Seated around a shared table, you’ll explore the stories behind each dish in a multi-course lunch that blends traditional flavours with contemporary flair. The experience includes a curated wine tasting and pairing, thoughtfully selected to complement the meal and enhance each flavour along the journey.
Hotel Arrival, Leisure and Sunset Moments
Arrive at your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to relax and refresh. Later, gather for sundowners and light snacks at the hotel, a perfect way to unwind as the day comes to a close.
Day 5 – Whales & Coastal Wonders
“The only thing I like better than talking about food is eating.” — John Walters
Scenic drive to Hermanus
We will start our day with a scenic drive from Franschhoek to Hermanus along Route 45, winding through a mountain pass and passing Theewaterskloof Dam.
Abalone Farm Tour & Tasting Experience
Discover one of South Africa’s hidden coastal delicacies with a behind-the-scenes tour of a working abalone farm in Hermanus. Learn about the sustainable cultivation of this sought-after marine species and its importance to local culture and cuisine. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll explore the production process from hatchery to harvest, followed by a tasting of tender, locally prepared abalone — a true taste of the ocean.
A Taste of the Coast – Old Harbour Lunch Experience
Enjoy a relaxed seaside lunch overlooking the iconic Old Harbour in Hermanus. This coastal dining experience offers a selection of locally inspired seafood dishes, including fresh abalone, prawns, and West Coast mussels. With sweeping views of Walker Bay, it’s the perfect setting to savour the ocean’s bounty while soaking in the charm of Hermanus’s historic waterfront.
Hermanus Hotel Arrival and Leisure Time
Check in and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the Hermans before Dinner.
South African Heritage Dining Experience
Enjoy an authentic taste of South African heritage in a charming, historic setting in the heart of Hermanus. This traditional dinner features beloved Cape classics such as bobotie, karoo lamb, and fresh line-caught fish, prepared with local flair. Set in one of the town’s oldest fisherman’s cottages, the experience blends warm hospitality, rich flavour, and coastal character in every bite.
Two Nights Stay in Hermanus
Day 6 –The Spirit of Hermanus
Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trip
We will start our day by hopping aboard for a exciting boat ride along the Whale Coast! Spot southern right whales (in season: June–November), playful dolphins, and more, with expert commentary from your marine guide. A must-do for ocean lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Light Lunch at an Iconic Hermanus Restaurant
We will continue with a light lunch at an iconic Hermanus restaurant before enjoying leisure and exploration time.
Leisure and Exploration Time
You’ll have time to enjoy some leisure exploring the streets of Hermanus, browsing its shops and markets, before heading back to the hotel.
Dinner and Wine Pairing in Hermanus
We will Savour a multi-course dinner paired with exceptional local wines, showcasing the flavours of the Cape in a stylish coastal setting.
Day 7 – Southernmost Tip & Ostriches
The only thing I like better than talking about food is eating.” — John Walters
Scenic drive to Tip of Africa Cape Agulhas
We will start our day with a scenic drive through open farmland and past the historic town of Bredasdorp on your way to the southernmost tip of Africa.
Stand at the Southernmost Tip of Africa Cape Agulhas
We will take in the rugged beauty where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet and mark our place at the edge of the continent – Cape Agulhas.
Iconic Route 62 Experience
We’ll journey along the iconic Route 62 – a scenic road through mountain passes, vineyards, and charming towns like Montagu and Barrydale – en route to Oudtshoorn for an overnight stay.
Montagu Wines and Cheese Tasting Lunch
You will enjoy a wine tasting accompanied by an artisanal charcuterie board, boasting locally sourced ingredients, before continuing our journey.
Traditional Ostrich Tour
We will experience the charm of the Traditional Ostrich Farm Tour, where you’ll get up close with the world’s largest birds at one of Oudtshoorn’s oldest working ostrich farms. Learn about the history, farming practices, and fascinating biology of these incredible creatures through an engaging, guided tour.
Oudtshoorn Hotel Arrival and Leisure Time
Check in and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the hotel’s facilities before the evening’s Karoo Dinner Experience.
Karoo Dinner Experience
We will enjoy an authentic Karoo dinner experience, where traditional South African hospitality meets hearty, home-style cuisine. Nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, this rustic gem offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking views. Feast on slow-cooked Karoo lamb, Potjiekos, Roosterkoek, and other regional favourites, all prepared with time-honoured recipes and local ingredients. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of culture, flavour, and the soulful spirit of the Karoo.
One Night Stay in Oudtshoorn
Day 8 – Cango to Coast
Eating well is a form of self-respect and joy shared with others.” – Anon
Cango Cave Experience
We delve into an awe-inspiring subterranean world at the Cango Caves, a geological wonder nestled in the Swartberg Mountains. On a guided tour, we’ll marvel at the intricate limestone formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and vast caverns bringing the caves’ history to life.
Scenic Drive from Oudtshoorn to the Outeniqua Pass, Wilderness and Sedgefield
Knysna Boat Cruise with Oyster tasting to the Heads
Upon arrival we set off on a memorable Knysna boat and oyster tour that takes you across the tranquil Knysna Lagoon and out toward the dramatic Knysna Heads. As part of the experience, indulge in a guided oyster tasting, where you’ll learn about the cultivation process and savour freshly harvested local oysters, paired perfectly with a glass of white wine.
Leisure time exploring the Knysna Waterfront
Scenic drive to George hotel
George Hotel Arrival and Leisure Time
Our scenic drive continues to George, where we will check in and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the hotel’s facilities before the evening’s Gourmet Dinner Experience.
Gourmet Dinner Experience
Experience a distinctive dining experience that fuses refined cuisine with an interactive, learning-focused atmosphere. As a training ground for the South Cape Hospitality Academy, it provides aspiring chefs with the platform to demonstrate their skills in a real-world culinary setting.
One Night Stay in George or Wilderness
Day 9 & 10 – Mountain Rail & Wildlife Safari
Champagne and oysters: because some indulgences are just necessary” – Anon
Embark on a Power Van ride through the Outeniqua Mountains
We hop aboard the Outeniqua Power Van in George for a truly unique rail experience through the breathtaking Outeniqua Mountains.
Two-Night Stay at a Premier Big 5 Private Game Reserve
We will stay at a 5-star private reserve spanning 11,000 hectares, home to the Big 5 and set in the heart of the Garden Route. Your experience includes two daily game drives (four in total), plus optional activities: a guided Fynbos Bush Walk (complimentary) or an indulgent Bush Spa treatment (available at an additional cost, charged to your account).
Day 11 – Wine, Mountains & Farewell
“Gin and tonic: because no great story ever started with someone drinking water” – Anon
Local Family Vineyard – Wine Tasting & Lunch
Your will enjoy a relaxed wine tasting and lunch at a charming family-owned vineyard, where generations of winemaking come to life through warm hospitality and scenic surroundings.
Back to Cape Town via Route 62
We continue along the iconic Route 62, passing through Worcester and down the dramatic Du Toitskloof Pass, with sweeping mountain views as we make our way back to Cape Town.
Hotel Arrival and Leisure Time
Check in and enjoy some free time to relax before the evening’s Braai Dinner (BBQ) Experience.
Braai Dinner (BBQ) Experience in Hout Bay
We will spend your final evening in the coastal town of Hout Bay with a contemporary take on South Africa’s most cherished culinary tradition — the braai (BBQ). Watch as organic, grass-fed meats like Karoo lamb are expertly wood-fired and smoked, showcasing deep, authentic flavours of the land. Set in a stylish yet rustic space, the experience is complemented by boutique wines, local craft beers, and warm Cape hospitality.
It’s more than a meal — it’s a celebration of culture, connection, and the rich heritage of South African cooking.
Two Nights Stay in Cape Town
Day 12 – From Cell to Celebration
“A farewell meal is never just about the food; it’s about the memories shared before parting ways.” – Anon
Robben Island Boat Tour
Begin with a scenic ferry ride across Table Bay, offering stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. On Robben Island, take a guided tour of the island and its historic prison, where Nelson Mandela was once held.
Diamond Experience with Light Lunch
Delve into the fascinating history of diamonds, uncovering the stories and craftsmanship behind these brilliant gemstones. You will also get to sample what the locals call ‘savouries’.
Hotel Arrival and Leisure Time
Check in and enjoy some free time to relax before the evening’s Farewell Dinner.
Farewell Dinner
Our last night
is spent celebrating our time together and the fun we have had at Spiced
restaurant. The air will be filled with the rhythm of live tunes as plates of
vibrant, expertly crafted dishes delight the palate. For the brave, the evening
ends with dancing that brings everyone together in laughter and celebration. It
will be a farewell rich in memories, leaving a warmth that will linger long
after the music has faded.
Day 13 - The Last Leg
A Final Cape Town Breakfast
Optional activities for late departures: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Airport Transfer
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Related Tours
Available: 4–5★ or 5★
Available: 4–5★ or 5★*
Available: 4–5★ or 5★
Available: 4–5★ or 5★*
Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer — and food is the most delicious way to experience it.
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