2 Day South African Wildlife Tour with 4x4 Safari from Cape Town
Description
Go wild in the Western Cape on this Oudtshoorn overnight safari from Cape Town. Travel off the beaten track to see South Africa's wildlife and immerse yourself in nature. Visit Botlierskop Reserve at the start of the coastal Garden Route and Buffelsdrift in the Klein Karoo, both offering perfect backdrops for an African wildlife experience. Enjoy guided 4x4 drives at two private reserves and the chance to see orphaned elephants roaming freely (optional extra with cost). Overnight in Oudtshoorn about five hours drive from Cape Town. Accommodation is subject to the option selected during booking: Budget option stay at Uthando Hostel, or Comfort guesthouse option stay at 88 Baron van Reede, or Luxury option stay at Buffelsdrift. This tour is led by a local qualified tour guide & game rangers during safaris. An ideal introduction trip for anyone that visits Cape Town with limited time to see wildlife in a natural reserve setting, without expense of heading up north for African safaris.
Tour Options
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Select hotel pickup from any address within 5km of central Cape Town or Stellenbosch town (available if booked at least 2 days before departure). Pickup service starts up to 90 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on your location and the day's pickup route. Your exact pickup time will be confirmed during check-in about 1 day before the tour.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Daily drive time: about 4 to 6 hours / in total 900 km distance route. This packed, fast-paced itinerary is filled with many of the best highlights of the region and ideal for the young-at-heart traveller that wants to explore this vast region with limited time available.
- Day 1: Botlierskop to Oudtshoorn > Botlierskop Private Game Reserve 4x4 safari (±2 hours) > Accommodation Overnight stay: Dorm/Saver Own Room> Uthando Backpackers 3*Comfort> 88 Baron van Reede Guesthouse 4*Luxury> Buffelsdrift
- Day 2: (Breakfast) Buffelsdrift Game Lodge bush 4x4 drive (±1,5 hours) + optional extra cost Elephant Observation in nature - Travel along Route 62 - Arrive back in Cape Town from about 8-9pm.
- The exact itinerary is subject to change and may, on occasions, run in reverse order
- The exact arrival time in Cape Town on day 2 cannot be guaranteed as it is subject to weather and traffic conditions
- If you do not have plenty of time in South Africa, this tour is ideal for customers who can't visit Kruger National Park - but Kruger area has a more authentic safari experience indeed.
- According to availability at time of booking, accommodation will be in the mentioned hotel or in one of a similar standard and star rating
- Upgrade accommodation fees cannot be refunded if cancelled less than 8 days before the tour departure date.
- The tour operator already pre-booked space at all optional activities for the group and you can simply decide on the first day of the tour if you'll partake. Optional activities can only be paid on the tour directly to the supplier. Optional activities are subject to weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
- Personal comprehensive travel insurance is excluded and recommended
- The bush/game drive vehicle used are an especially adopted open-roof converted jeep or truck.
- Please do not book a flight for the departure date and/or last day of this tour. Pickup or drop-off times can't be guaranteed and is subject to traffic, season or group's addresses.
- Accommodation stay packages will overnight in different properties, each listed in the itinerary. Backpackers are usually far away from guesthouses / lodges.
- Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to book in Dorm room packages
- Children between 8 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult and book in a private room
- Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian options are available on request and food allergies can also be informed on tour. We don't cater for or guarantee availability of more specific special diet options (like: vegan, halal, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.) - please esnure to plan and budget for your own alternatives. Payment for meals can be made by credit/debit card on tour or your guide can take you to the nearest ATM to draw cash on tour.
Reviews(287)
I wish I could give 15 stars! This was an incredible trip and TK was the perfect guide; he hosted us as if we were visiting family! He picked us up promptly at our hotel in Cape Town, before the sun even came up. He was a safe and courteous driver for the 5+ hours to Oudtshoorn and a comfortable conversationalist, on so many topics, which really helped pass the time on two days of long drives. He had bottled waters for us, stopped at charming, clean and comfortable stops along the way so we could buy snacks and souvenirs and have a comfort break. He shared his power bank and charging cable when my battery ran down from taking way too many photos of the beautiful scenery along the way. He was efficient, attentive to details and made sure we had prompt and excellent service at each stop. He was knowledgeable about the areas we passed through and South African history so we learned a lot! The tour itself was incredibly beautiful, both exciting and peaceful. The safari guides at Buffelsdrift and Botlierskop were knowledgeable, dedicated and wonderfully interactive and responsive, answering all of questions with interesting facts and context. Taura and Innocent were great drivers on the bouncy outback roads. You could see their determination and commitment to maximizing the number of wildlife views we had. They worked well with fellow guides to communicate sightings. They gave us all the time we needed to enjoy being near a host of animals, sitting quietly with the engine off till our hearts were full! We couldn't believe how close we were able to view and photograph the animals and we learned so much about each group. Sometimes it was just wonderful to bask near the animals, in the glow of the sun. We were also thrilled with the elephant experience at Buffelsdrift and highly recommend that! The trainers were personable and took excellent photos and videos of us feeding the elephants. We learned so much about these amazing animals there. We stayed overnight in one of the luxury tents at Buffelsdrift which was fantastic, so comfortable and well appointed! Since it was fall and the weather had been cooler, it was a chilly experience but the heat in the tent and the heated mattress cover made it so cozy. It was truly an awesome experience to sit on the back porch of the tent, overlooking the watering hole and the animals and birds who chatted to each other, under the breathtaking colors of the setting African sun. The dining room was so elegant and the food was fantastic at both dinner and breakfast! Great service, too. The lunch the next day at Botlierskop was also delicious and beautifully prepared. The trip back with TK was even more relaxed than the day before and he continued to be the consummate host! He was unflappable, interesting, and excited about our wonderful experiences. We still miss him and our time in South Africa's amazing nature!!
❤️ We think this might be one of the longest love letters ever written to a safari tour... and it was an absolute pleasure to read. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us in such wonderful detail. Such a memorable journey: from the breathtaking landscapes, close-up wildlife sightings and the peaceful moments spent overlooking the waterhole from your luxury canvas tent. These are exactly the kinds of memories we hope our travellers take home with them. We're especially delighted to know that guide TK helped make the experience extra memorable. His passion for his homeland, attention to detail, and genuine care for guests are qualities we're incredibly proud of, and we've already shared your kind words on to him. We're also pleased to pass your praise on to the teams at Buffelsdrift and Botlierskop, whose passion and dedication helped make your wildlife experiences so memorable. Also remember, your adventure creates a positive impact too. Just by joining this tour, you've supported our #tour2Cchange initiatives, with a portion of your tour fee helping fund community and conservation projects supported by our non-profit, 2Cchange. By exploring regions like the Garden Route and Klein Karoo, you're also helping support local livelihoods and tourism-dependent communities along the way. Thank you for choosing to explore South Africa with us. We hope the memories, photographs, and stories stay with you for many years to come... and that one day we'll have the opportunity to welcome you back for another African adventure. - Benita & Team Hotspots2C
The 4* tent room was nice . I didn’t know that this tour paid for our dinner so that was a bonus for us. The long hours drive (about 6 hours) was a torture for me. Also the Botlierskop does not have any lions to see. Maybe they have the lions and they kept it somewhere but the tour guide didn’t take us to see the lions.
We're glad you enjoyed your Luxury Safari Glamping Canvas Tent stay at Buffelsdrift and that the surprise dinner was a welcome bonus. Some winter departures occasionally include a complimentary dinner as part of a seasonal package offered by the lodge - a little extra treat for guests travelling during the quieter season. We appreciate your comments regarding the driving time. The best wildlife experiences are rarely found on the city's doorstep, so this tour ventures further into the Garden Route and Klein Karoo region, where the wilder scenery and safari experiences make the journey worthwhile. Travel distances and estimated driving times are outlined in the tour information and itinerary. Botlierskop is home to lions and several other iconic African species, including members of the Big Five, but wildlife sightings are never guaranteed as the animals roam freely throughout the reserve. That's all part of the safari adventure... you never quite know what you'll spot on a game drive, and that's what makes every safari truly unique. Thank you for choosing to explore South Africa with us, we'd love to show you more of our beautiful country if you ever visit again, - Benita Stroebel - Product Manager Hotspots2C tours
This was a phenomenal experience! Big G who led our group is extremely knowledgeable, considerate, and kind! I would let him take us anywhere! We had success at the two safaris with seeing many animals. With limited safari options in the area, this was fantastic. I would highly recommend booking this!
When travellers say, "I'd let him take us anywhere," then you know this guide is doing something right! We're thrilled to hear that Big G helped make your wildlife safari adventure such a memorable one. There's something special about heading out in search of wildlife and then being rewarded with fantastic sightings. Having two separate game drive experiences also increases the chances of encountering a wider variety of animals, with each safari offering its own unique surprises. Thanks again - your journey booked with us also helped make a difference through our #tour2Cchange initiatives, supporting community and conservation projects along the way as a portion of all tour funds are donated towards bringing about positive changes in the regions we visit. Thank you for choosing to explore South Africa with us and for recommending the experience to future travellers. We hope to welcome you back for another wild adventure someday! - Benita & Team Hotspots2C
It was an amazing experience! Denver was such nice guy and good driver. We had a really good time on the tour!
Thank you; we truly love receiving such fantastic feedback and really appreciate your support and recommendation of our popular 2 Day South African Wildlife Tour. We’re so happy to hear you had an amazing experience and that guide Denver made it even more special with his friendly and professional approach. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to him. By joining this tour, you’ve also supported our #tour2Cchange initiatives; contributing to local community and conservation projects along the way. You can read more about the positive impact a portion of your tour fees supports by visiting the /change page on our website. Thanks for choosing to tour South Africa with our trips that matter, Benita & Team Hotspots2C
We made the reverse circuit to what described the itinerary. It was worth it because it was the best for the end. Buffelsdrift was frustrating. The Ranger knew very little. Some animals were fed in mangers, more like an open-air zoo. We didn't stop at the Lodge, but it was worth it, as we went to dinner at a restaurant right next to the guesthouse, Ebony and Ivory, with delicious food. The next day the Safari was as expected, loose animals, a knowledgeable and helpful “Ranger” and a 3 hour hunt. By the level, Botlierskop really “saved” the program from Safari. Maybe it would be the case to eliminate Buffelsdrift, going straight to Botlierskop and the next day go to a better quality reserve Safari, closest to Cape Town.
We truly appreciate your personal insights. Thanks for sharing this feedback to us and future travellers reviewing which safari tour to select. As per itinerary guidelines; our tours may occasionally run in reverse or different order due to operational logistics, and we’re glad this worked in your preference this time. We’re sorry to hear that the Buffelsdrift wildlife viewing experience did not meet your expectation. This experience is presented as a 'bush-drive': focusing more on smaller wildlife, birdlife, insects, and plant life within a smaller Klein Karoo region reserve, where sightings of larger animals can be less frequent. The second safari takes place in a larger, more natural reserve, where there is a higher chance of spotting a wider range of larger animals, including most members of the Big Five, and we’re pleased to hear this was a highlight for you. We do include both safari styles to showcase the diversity of South Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. By joining us, you’ve also supported our #tour2Cchange initiatives, contributing to local community and conservation projects along the way. A portion of each of our tours sold is used to support a cause to bring positive change in the regions we travel. Feel free to browse our social media and website to find out more. We value your feedback and will share it with our partners as we continue to refine our product and guest experience. Kind regards, Benita Stroebel + Team Hotspots2C
I was disappointed with Safari. I did the 2-day program. The location of the first day was extremely disappointing. It seemed like another go to a zoo. The animals are fed and exposed as in a zoo and are few. On the second day the experience was better, the guide was better prepared, the vehicle was newer and more comfortable and we were able to see more animals. The reserve is much larger and the animals live loose as in nature. I thought the second day experience was valid.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback; we truly appreciate your personal and honest review, and we’re sorry to hear that the first day did not meet your expectations. The tour's itinerary includes two different animal viewing experiences, each offering a unique setting and way to explore the region's wildlife. One day we visit a smaller reserve (with smaller fenced camps) and is described as a “Bush Drive,” focusing more on finding smaller wildlife, birdlife, and the region’s flora. In smaller reserves supplement feeding is sometimes needed out of the rain season, as animals are unable to migrate to other areas in search of better food. We understand that preferences can vary and we feel it's important to show both options. We’re pleased to hear that the second safari in a larger reserve was the front-runner highlight for you. Thank you again for your feedback; we will share your comments with our safari partners as we always aim to continue improving our tour's overall guest experience. Kind regards, Benita + Team Hotspots2C
Dylan Curtis was the best! High energy and very positive! Great experience and the safari’s were AWESOME! Never stop believing in yourself Dylan!!!! -⚡️
What a great review -thank you for sharing! It’s wonderful to hear Dylan’s energy and positive vibe added so much to your tour experience, and that the safaris were a big standout highlight for you. We’ll definitely passed on your kind and motivating words to him. By booking this tour, you’ve also supported our #tour2Cchange initiatives, contributing to local community and conservation projects along the way. Thanks for choosing a responsible trip that aims to make a positive difference in the region we explore. Always keep exploring, from Benita + Team Hotspots2c
This trip was fabulous. We had a great tour guide that showed us so many picture taking moments. See lots of animals. Def gotta do the elephant sanctuary. That was my favorite part of the trip. Feeding them.
Thank you so much for your amazing 5-star review of this wildlife tour! Super excited to know you had such a fantastic time and enjoyed all those picture-perfect moments along the way. And yes — seeing the elephants during the Elephant Observation activity is such a highlight to see them as they roam freely in their natural habitat... something truly special indeed. Thanks for traveling with us, and as you know your trip also supports our #tour2Cchange initiatives, helping give back to local communities and conservation as we travel along South Africa. Hope to see you again for another adventure soon, - Benita & Team Hotspots2C
This was an extraordinary trip, very nicely organized and a great experience.
Thank you so much for your kind 5-star review. We’re so pleased to hear that you found the 2Day Wildlife & Safari tour exceptional and well organized, and that it was such a great experience overall. Feedback like this truly means a lot to our team and the guides who work hard to make every journey memorable. Thank you as well for choosing to travel with us. Your booking also plays a part in supporting our #tour2Cchange initiatives, where a portion of each tour helps contribute to local community and conservation projects through our non-profit, 2Cchange. It’s always wonderful to know that travelling together can make a positive difference beyond the tour itself. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in South Africa in the future. Always keep exploring, -Team Hotspots2C
This was a good 2 day tour. I really enjoyed visiting the game reserves; both safaris were really great experiences and felt like positive ecotourism. The Hlangana hotel was also very comfortable and I would definitely recommend staying there! Our guide Paul was very approachable and drove well. Overall, I really enjoyed it but going into it I didn't realise how much driving this involves. It was 1200 or so km in 36 hours so it's a lot of minibus time and sitting down. That was ok because the bus was cool and comfy!
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience of your recent 2Day Wildlife & Safari tour. We’re so glad you enjoyed visiting the game reserves and felt the safaris were positive ecotourism experiences - that’s exactly the kind of meaningful wildlife encounter we aim to create. It’s wonderful to hear that you found the Hlangana Hotel comfortable and that our guide Paul made the trip even better with his approachable personality and smooth driving. We’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to him. We also appreciate your note about the driving. Covering approximately 900 km over 36 hours is indeed a fair bit of time on the road, but it allows us to share some of the most stunning parts of our country with our guests in a short amount of time. It’s all part of making the journey as memorable as the destinations! Your trip also supports our #tour2Cchange initiatives, helping fund local community and conservation projects along the route. If you’d like to see the difference your journey helps make, you can explore our 2Change page. Thank you again for your recommendation - we’d love to welcome you back for another adventure soon! Greetings, Hotspots2C
