8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route

8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route(Part1)

 

Day 1: Cape Town

 

Guests are met upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, or any other location of their choice in Cape Town for the start of their South Africa Tour. From here the day is spent exploring one the world's most beautiful cities. A cable car ride up Table Mountain is first on the agenda. From Table Mountain sweeping views of the entire Cape Peninsula can be enjoyed.

We also visit the world famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens which had its conception when the mining magnate and philanthropist Cecil Rhodes donated the land to the people of South Africa. The garden is home to 4000 of the 18000 species of Flora which are found in South Africa and creates a most remarkable display. The tour then makes its way to the hotel, which is situated on Cape Town's famous Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
Overnight: Portswood
Meals: Lunch , Dinner

 

Day 2: Cape Town

 

Situated in one of the most picturesque valleys of the Cape, the town of Franschoek owes its existence to the first French settlers who worked the Drakenstein Valley. Some time is devoted to exploring the town and its memorial to the French Huguenots, set in a lovely garden before visiting three of the fine wine estates in the Valley, renowned internationally for the exceptional quality of wines these fertile soils produce. All the noble cultivars and classic styles are on show here. From superb whites such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc to the rich reds of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Merlot. During the late afternoon the tour makes its way back to Cape Town.
Overnight: Portswood
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 

Day 3: Cape Town

 

The spectacular Chapman's Peak drive cut into the 650 m high Chapman's Peak leads the tour through the Town of Noordhoek to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. A botanical and scenic delight the reserve is home to several antelope species as well as a great diversity of flowering plants and birds. A highlight is sure to be the walk to the summit of Cape Point , where it is said the stormy waters of the Atlantic are met by the calming influence of the Indian Ocean.
This Cape which has had such a central role in the tales and legends of the ocean was and remains an important landmark situated at the South Western Edge of Africa, proclaiming that this is where the two halves of the World, east and west meet.
The tour traces the Indian Ocean Seaboard on the way back to Cape Town with a visit to Boulders Beach, an attractive secluded haven which comprises a tumble of huge, round rocks on a sandy shore. The boulders are ideal vantage points for watching the antics of the colony of mainland-based African penguins.
Overnight: Portswood
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Overberg

The tour traces the coast from Gordon's Bay , traversing the towns of Rooi Els and Betties Bay on the way to Hermanus. En Route several stops are made at vantage points from where the Southern Right Whale can potentially be spotted . These whales frequent the waters of South Africa's coastline during the months of June to November. They travel approximately 2000 km's from the Southern Ocean to give birth in these waters.
Spotting these graceful mammals regally splashing about is a most rewarding experience. Lunch is enjoyed in Hermanus with its sweeping views of Walker Bay, said to be the best place on the entire coast from which to do Whale watching. After some time spent in Hermanus the tour continues via Gansbay and Bredasdorp to the quaint fishing village of Arniston. The Village takes its name from a tragic shipwreck which occurred in these treacherous waters in 1815. The village is situated a stone's throw from the Southern Tip of Africa and the coastline surrounding it is noted for its bizarre marine erosions of which the most famous is the Waenhuiskrans, an enormous cavern eroded from the cliffs within walking distance of Arniston. After a visit to the Waenhuiskrans we retire to the overnight destination
Overnight: Arniston
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route(Part2)

Day 5: Garden Route

 

After breakfast the tour travels to the Coastal City of Mossel Bay, where we begin our Garden Route tour. It is here where the Portuguese explorer Bartholomew Dias set foot on shore in 1488 and we dedicate some time to visiting the museum which bears his name. The museum stands not far from the Milkwood Tree and fountain which served respectively as a post office and watering hole to sea farers in centuries past. A short drive then brings guests to the George Station where they board the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe. The Choo-Tjoe is the very last of the scheduled South African steam railway services and it plies between George and Knysna daily.
The Choo-Tjoe starts its journey from George and puffs its way through Victoria Bay, over the Kaaiman's River Bridge, through Wilderness and over the Goukamma Valley before descending to Knysna. Some dramatic scenery, which bring to life the grandeur of the garden route, enjoyed by a means of travel which remind one of a gentler and more romantic age, is sure to make this an unforgettable experience. Guests are met at Knysna Station from where they are transferred to the overnight destination.
Overnight: Knysna Quays
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

 

Day 6: Garden Route

 

The Outeniqua Mountains form the barrier which divides the semi arid interior from the lush coastal plains of the Garden Route. The tour crosses this barrier via the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, the Ostrich Capital of the World. The town is situated in the great valley which is known as the Little Karoo, with the Langeberge and Outeniqua ranges forming its boundary to the east and the Swartberge forming its western boundary. Our first stop is the Cango Caves which lie in the foothills of the Swartberge. A great cave system which is amongst the worlds largest and is blessed with elaborate drip stone formations, the highest of which stands 12.6m tall. The caves extend up to about 1600m into the Limestone rich Hills and is a truly impressive sight. Some time for lunch is followed by a short drive to an Ostrich Farm where we focus on the farming of these largest of the Worlds Birds. Great fortunes where built in the heyday of the industry when the feathers where prized fashion accessories. Today the meat with its low fat content is sought after in a world ever more preoccupied by healthy living and the leather is prized raw material in the production of fashion accessories. The brave can even endeavor an Ostrich Ride before we make our way back to the overnight destination.
Overnight: Knysna Quays
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 7: Garden Route

 

After breakfast the tour crosses the Knysna Lagoon by Ferry to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A unique 150 ha private Nature Reserve which encompasses the entire Western Head of Knysna with spectacular views across the Lagoon and the ocean as well as the treacherous passage between the two which claimed many a ship during Knysna's days as an exporter of timber. The reserve is one of South Africa's heritage sights and is one of the highlights of the Garden Route tour. It is home to two of the Garden Route's icons, namely the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa's smallest antelope species. The afternoon brings the tour to Plettenberg Bay where the finest beaches in the Garden Route offer the perfect sunning experience , relaxing in the sun or braving the waves of the Indian Ocean. The tour makes its way back to the overnight destination after a wonderfully relaxing afternoon.
Overnight: Knysna Quays
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 8: Garden Route

 

Guests are allowed a late morning after which they are transferred to George Airport for a flight to Cape Town. Guests are met upon arrival at Cape Town International airport and are assisted in transferring to an international flight back to their country of origin or are alternatively transferred to any location of their choice in Cape Town, after one of our memorable South Africa Tours.
Overnight: None
Meals: Breakfast

8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route(Part3)

Reminders for Travelers

I. Food:

1. Breakfast buffets are usually served at hotels where patrons help themselves to dishes of their choice. It is recommended that you only take appropriate amount for each helping.

2. Chinese and western cuisines are available for lunch and dinner (beverages not included); we have made it a point to strike a balance between different types of cuisines to cater to different travelers' preferences.

3. Electric kettles and water are available at most hotels in South Africa; the fresh tap water available in each guestroom is potable (note that hot water is not safe for consumption).

4. When dinning at restaurants, please do not consume spirits and soft drinks that you have brought along the way. If you must consume the beverage you have prepared, please ask your tour guide to negotiate with the restaurant owners. Please be reminded that the charges for meal arrangements on the itinerary do not include beverages and travelers are required to cover for beverages at their own expense.

 II. Clothing:

1. It is important to remember that the difference in temperature during the day and evening in South Africa is quite drastic. Travelers are reminded to keep a light jacket handy at all times and bring along winter/spring apparel with at least one thermal jacket. Please note that the climate in South Africa is opposite to that in the Northern Hemisphere.

2. Passengers are recommended to carry no more than two bags for their luggage (one large luggage case and one carry-on; it is strongly recommended that the large luggage case be secured with a sturdy lock).

3. Ladies are recommended to travel in flat-heeled footwear; gentlemen may find it more comfortable to wear casual shoes.

4. Please bring along at least one set of formal apparel.

 III. Accommodation:

1. Hotels in South Africa place great emphasis in cleanliness and comfort. Travelers in groups checking into hotels will usually share guestrooms (two guests per room). Individual travelers who prefer not to share rooms are required to cover the additional charges.

2. Generally speaking, hotels in South Africa do not offer toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, towels and etc. For the sake of "hygiene", travelers are strongly recommended to bring their own personal hygiene items. Please note that amenities at different hotels may vary and travelers are recommended to use the showers due to issues of hygiene.

3. Complimentary teabags/coffee may be provided at guestrooms with kettles, but please be reminded that consumption of any items in the fridge will incur additional charges.

4. Please be informed that during your stay at any hotel in South Africa, guests should shower in the bathtub with the shower curtains drawn and placed in the tub to prevent wetting the floor as the water may seep through.

IV. Transportation:

1. Please note that travel on buses may get quite long; travelers who tend to suffer from motion sickness are recommended to have their medications handy.

2. The journey in the tour bus is actually part of the travel experience in South Africa due to the vast landscape and changing sceneries. Travelers are therefore recommended to switch seats in order to appreciate the passing sceneries and sights.

3. During extended journeys on the bus, we will take a short break once every hour/two hours; please refrain from smoking on the bus.

4. Please show your consideration for others; when the tour guide/escort introduces specific sights/scenery during the journey, please extend appropriate courtesy by listening attentively. If you must make conversation for any reason, be sure not to disrupt other fellow travelers.

 V. Others:

1. Be sure to bring your binoculars and sunglasses.

2. Camera film are exorbitantly expensive abroad; be sure to prepare sufficient quantities before the trip.

3. If you have other personal plans or itinerary (i.e. dropping out of the group or not returning with the rest of the travelers), please kindly inform us prior to the trip so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

4. Due to security issues in urban areas of South Africa, we strongly advise against travelers separating from the group during the trip. For your safety, avoid going out alone during evenings.

5. Travelers are advised to bring as few valuable items as possible during the trip to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

6. Be sure not to bring in contrabands such as items made from ivory or endangered species to avoid violation of local laws.

7. Voltage in South Africa is 220V; travelers may bring their own electric spoon/cup for personal use.

8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route(Part4)

Other things to note

I. Making phone calls:

1. Calling home from South Africa: dial 09 + international country calling code + international city calling code (without "0") + the number you wish to call

2. Calling South Africa from Taiwan: dial 002 + 27 + international city calling code (without "0") + hotel number  

II. Tipping:

Tipping is customary abroad; it is not only the most practical way of showing your appreciation for those who serve you but also an international courtesy. However, the size of the tip is entirely up to the travelers to decide. Below are the recommended tips for different occasions.

Item	Tips
Driver, tour guide, escort:	US$ 8 per person per day
Porter:	US$ 1 per piece of luggage
Guest room:	US$ 1 per room

III. Exchange rates and tax return:

1. The currency of South Africa is the Rand (abbreviated as "R"). 1 rand is equivalent to 100 cents.

2. Rand coins come in different denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents and 1/2/5 rand coins were introduced later.

3. Banknotes come in different denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 rand.

※US$ 1≒8 rand (for rough currency conversion only) ※

Travelers making purchases over 250 rand in value will be entitled to file for tax return (the value added tax (VAT) in South Africa is 14%; travelers may receive up to approximately 12% with transaction fees and exchange rates accounted for). Be sure to ask for tax invoices with valid serial numbers (please be reminded that no invoices will be issued for purchases made at flea markets).  

 

IV. Time differences:

1. Six hours behind Taiwan (time in Taiwan - six hours = time in South Africa)

2. Two hours ahead of GMT (GMT +2 hours = time in South Africa)

3. The flight to South Africa will take approximately 13 hours (departing from Hong Kong).

8 Day Cape Town and Garden Route(Part5)

Shopping and dining in South Africa

       South Africa has a capitalistic economy that embraces free trade. Here in South Africa, one may witness the fascinating clash of business practices between people from first world and third world countries. Getting the best deals depends on your bargaining skills. This holds true regardless of where you shop or what you buy in South Africa; be it tariff-free gold or diamond accessories at tourist attractions or large shopping malls, casual shopping along the coasts of Cape Town or even fresh fruits from roadside vendors at mountainous regions veiled by clouds and mists. Monetary transactions are done in South Africa's official currency, the rand, and are based on the current foreign exchange rates; the prices will be reasonable no matter what you buy.

 

You can easily find creative and fashionable accessories peddled by roadside vendors and sold in shops. For example, you will be able to buy artworks sculptured out of soapstone from the merchants hawking along the road (many streets in the busy commercial zones of the city have been transformed to elongated open bazaars) or find samoosa (stuffed pastry) at local food venders. Alternatively, you can find a fascinating assortment of goods such as wallets, belts and books at the flea market. Or if you prefer luxurious items like suitcase made from ivory, you can try your luck at the extravagantly furnished boutiques in the suburbs. In fact, you will easily find the most exotic merchandize you can think of here in South Africa. As for handicraft that symbolize unique local cultures, you will find these at the handicraft village or roadside stalls. The truth is, roadside stalls that offer handmade crafts in rural areas of South Africa serve as one of the better-known features of South African countryside. You would be surprised by the variety of goods you can find at these stalls, including pineapple beer, tablecloths featuring exotic designs, ostrich eggs, glittering bead necklaces, decors made from bottle gourd and so forth.

 

It is useful to remember to ask for tax invoices with serial numbers from store attendants whenever you shop in South Africa (unless you are shopping at flea markets). Though it might be a hassle, you do have to write down your name and address on these receipts in order to apply for tax return at designated kiosks at the airport prior to your departure. You may apply for tax return for any purchase with value over 250 rand and you can ask for the amount to be remitted in US dollars. If you choose to get rand instead, you can also do some last minute shopping of souvenirs before your flight home.

Ideal places to shop

In the city, one will may buy the most luxurious goods ranging from Persian sheepskin coats, crocodile hide wallets, antiques, hand-weaved carpets to exquisitely designed accessories with yellow diamonds and other precious stones. Most tourists find it hard to resist buying unique jewelries, quality leather products and fashionable designer goods while in South Africa. You will only find the latest designs of fashion at apparel stores. What you will not find at fashion boutique stores in urban South Africa are mediocre items that bear signs of cheap and mass-production at a faraway country, because quality and exquisite tastes naturally emanate from these designer labels.

 

        Interior design companies catering to the upper-crust clients in South Africa are inventing brand new styles of ornaments that embody the spirits of Africa with batik fabric featuring bold and vibrant colors, artistic porcelains, decorative candlesticks with vividly colored engravings and so forth. Such lavish adornments make even the most extravagantly furnished estate more elegant. At the Indian markets, where the scent of fragrance fills the entire premise, you will find extremely detailed jewelry made from gold, silver or copper wires by artisans with ancient and sophisticated techniques. Indian markets are also the best places to find oriental accessories, silk saris and different spices. If you are more interested in African arts, handicraft and artwork of various indigenous tribes, antique stores and the flea markets will be your best bet. You can find Cape Dutch, Victorian and Georgian styled furniture, vintage books, old jewelry, maps and antiques. Tourists to South Africa will find everything a bargain. Due to the weakness of the rand, no matter how careless you become with your money in your shopping sprees, it would still be far less than your travel expenses.

 

Delectable cuisines of South Africa

        Authentic South African cuisine took root in the Cape regions and it has been profoundly influenced by Asian, Western and African dietary cultures. Today, more and more traditional African dishes are making their way to the gourmet market around the world to cater to food aficionados worldwide who desire creativity and a change from their normal fare. For starters, you can try Masonja - a dish prepared from the mopani worm. Tshuku is made from deep fried African termites and offers a crunchy texture. Xi Fu Fu Nu Nu is crispy and delicious, but you may be surprised to find out that is prepared from roasted dung beetle maggots. Other noteworthy dishes include FMarog (spinach), Ngwiri (wild potato), Nkoanyi (ground roasted Marula nut), Sternatora (mashed wild potato), Nyama (barbequed meat), Nyoshi (African styled pudding), Grewia (herbal tea), and Xi Mongolwani (Mukatsanii honey). Your African meal would not be complete without a cup of coffee brewed from the roots of Shepherd's Tree! Incidentally, these dishes sure do sound like what you would eat on at a survival camp in the jungle. If you have the opportunity to visit any cultural village in South Africa, you would be able to taste these traditional delicacies while quenching your curiosity and proving your courage. By the way, the Shangaan Tsonga tribe is particularly famous for their preparation of all these dishes.

Malaysian cuisine has the greatest extent of influence on the traditional dishes of South Africa. Renowned for its artistic use of seasonings and condiments, Malaysian dishes call for exquisite use of spices such as chili, legumes, cinnamon, clove and so forth. Common Malaysian seafood in South Africa includes crayfish hors d'oeuvres, Masa|a fish steamed in Dha| sauce and Stokvis Bobotie. Dishes prepared from poultry include curry chicken, spicy yogurt chicken, Tandoori chicken and so forth.

Beef is the principal culinary meat consumed in South Africa, with bobotie being the most popular dish. It is prepared with minced beef or mutton, seasoned with special spices and dried peaches, almond or raisin. The traditional Malay dish reflects the fact that Malaysian chefs have gradually adjusted their traditional style of preparation to incorporate local ingredients produced in South Africa to create new and authentic South African dishes. Alternatively, you can also enjoy tomato curry mutton or the strongly flavored spicy onion curry mutton; these dishes are prepared with numerous condiments and spices such as cinnamon, coriander, aniseed, garlic, clove, curry powder, curcuma, and so forth. In addition, roasted curry meatball is another local favorite dish; the meatballs are stuffed with tomatoes and animal liver.

 

        Common Malaysian vegetable dishes in South Africa are potato and curry. Other vegetables such as onion, celery, cucumbers, carrots and apples may also be added with a variety of seasonings. Samoosa is another common pastry that originated in India. The typical samoosa stuffing includes minced meat, potato, fish, chicken and vegetables. South African's favorite fish includes the Snoek, Kingk|ip, trout and herring. However, they are also fond of cooking game animals in different ways, such as stewed venison, deer fillet, pot-roasted venison, stewed rabbit, steamed ostrich and all sorts of potjiekos.

Potjiekos is a stew prepared outdoors in a round, cast iron pot gently heated over charcoal. One can add a variety of ingredients such as beef, mutton, venison, seafood, guinea fowl and so forth in the pot along with a combination of vegetables. The delicious and fulfilling dish takes little time to prepare. Sosaties is another authentic South African dish that can be prepared by chopping mutton or pork into cubes; the meat is first stuffed with almonds before it is skewered and slowly barbequed. When the meat is done, it is served with corn porridge. Waterb|ommetjiebredie is another stew that is prepared by cooking lamb fillet and waterb|ommetjies (the bud of a flower found in Western Cape) along with other ingredients in water. Bredies is a common South African stew with various vegetables such as tomatoes, green peas, cabbage, cauliflower and so forth in water.

 

Braaivleis (barbecue) has always been one of South African's favorite dishes. It is mainly prepared from boerewors (traditional large sausage made from pork and beef seasoned with spices such as legumes, aniseeds, cloves, garlic and etc) slowly barbequed along with lamb and  steak on barbeque racks outdoor. Braaivleis is usually eaten with thick corn porridge and a special onion sauce, and it tastes absolutely incredible. For those overwhelmed with work for the entire week, there is no better weekend lunch than a serving of roasted lamb leg or mutton dressed in aromatic mint.

From the traditional cuisine perspective, common South African vegetable dishes also include baked boerpampoen (pumpkin), pumpkin chips, dried raisin rice, fried corn, preserved potatoes, stewed bung beans and potato, onion salad, mixed salad of cucumber and beans and so forth. Seasoned jam is another popular delicacy with a wide variety of flavors such as peach, apple, almond, mango, banana or assorted fruits.