Embark on an unforgettable safari journey as you explore the stunning Garden Route of South Africa! From Knysna to Kariega you'll experience an exciting blend of what South Africa has to offer. From witnessing sunrises accompanied by Giraffes to watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean's horizon on pristine beaches.  

Welcome to South Africa! 

After landing in George you'll head off to the first stop on your golf safari, Knysna. The amazing views of the trip waste no time presenting themselves as you travel along the iconic Garden Route. You'll see a stellar combination of world-class beaches, lagoons and indigenous forests mixed towns rich with local culture, and of course a spectacular ocean view the whole way. 

After arriving in Knysna, you'll settle in for the next two nights at the Simola Country Club and Spa

Wake up in luxury at the Simola Country Club and Spa. While on your walk to breakfast, take note of the uninterrupted views of the estuary, famous Knysna Heads and the Indian Ocean beyond, the Knysna River valley or the Outeniqua Mountains. 

After a breakfast the elegant club house you'll play your first round of golf for the trip. Simola serves as the perfect course to start you off. The 18-hole, par 72 Championship Course designed by the Golden Bear has many aspects that play in its favour. One of only three Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses in Africa, the course meanders along the impressive landscape high atop Simola hill. Unique to coastal courses, the wind is rarely a factor here, while it has often been said that the incredible views will make it hard to keep your head.

After completing a thrilling round, you'll have the rest of the day at your own leisure. You can take advantage of the wonderful hotel amenities, like the world-class spa, or you can go out explore the excitement of Knysna.

For your final day in Knysna we highly encourage you to experience the thrill, beauty, and wonder of the area. One of the most notable attractions is the Knysna Elephant Park, established in 1994 as the first facility in South Africa to house and care for orphaned African elephants. Over the years, the park has nurtured and raised more than 40 elephants, providing guests with the opportunity for up-close and personal interactions with these magnificent creatures.

For relaxation and leisure, Brenton on Sea provides a tranquil retreat with its pristine beaches and stunning coastal views. Whether you're sunbathing, walking along the shore, or watching paragliders soar overhead, Brenton on Sea is the perfect spot to unwind.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Featherbed Nature Reserve, a privately-owned sanctuary situated on the Western Head of Knysna. Accessible only by ferry, the reserve is a pristine piece of paradise teeming with indigenous flora and fauna. Guided tours ensure visitors can explore the reserve while minimizing impact on the environment.

Whether you're marveling at elephants, soaking in panoramic views, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Knysna promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Your time in Knysna has come to an end, but the height of your adventure is only getting started. You'll literally be elevated as you arrive to your lodging for the next two nights at the Tsala Treetop Lodge.

The enchanting charm of Tsala is simply irresistible for those who seek exclusivity, exquisite cuisine, romance, and adventure. Offering, stunning views, secluded forest surroundings, unique architectural design, and exceptional personal service. During your stay you'll have access to a range of fantastic facilities, including the opportunity to soak up the sun, shop, read, enjoy a glass of wine, or socialize on our deck while sharing stories of their Garden Route adventures.

A new day at Tsala brings on an exciting arrange of options for experiences and there is truly something for everyone. For those looking to see wildlife checkout Monkey Land. On the guided safaris you can expect to see a variety of primates, ranging from the Gibbons of Asia to the Lemurs of Madagascar. The knowledgeable rangers will tell you about these fascinating mammals as you encounter them roaming free in the forest. They also point out, identify and explain the many wonders of life in the forest, from the rich diversity of bird life to the intricate workings of the forest itself.

For those looking explore out on the water, Set sail aboard a luxury yacht for a sunset cruise through the Knysna Heads, while enjoying a glass of South African sparkling wine and a seafood platter. An experienced crew will take you sailing on the famous Knysna Lagoon in the Garden Route. Sailing out past the Heads and towards Buffalo Bay witnessing incredible rock formations, caves, pelagic birds, whales and dolphins unique to this internationally acclaimed Eden.

And for those who just want to relax, head to the beach. Plattenberg is home to 12 miles of picturesque Indian Ocean coastline features pristine, unspoilt sandy beaches. Plett’s beaches have been nominated 5 years in a row for the award for Africa’s top beach destination. Boasting six premier “Blue Flag” status beaches, including Robberg 5, Lookout Beach, Keurboomstrand, The Dunes, The Singing Kettle and Nature’s Valley.

The next stop on your journey takes you further up the coast to St. Francis Bay. You'll be checking into the Sands at St. Francis. opens onto a private deck with stunning views of the beach and infinity pool below. The luxury upstairs room offers an extra outdoor shower and Jacuzzi in its deck, from where spectacular sunsets can be enjoyed. for the next two nights. Like all areas along the Garden Route, there is much to do. See an activity guide here

Come dinner time, seafood lovers are in for a real treat. Head over to Clive's Chokka Block Restaurant and experience the best calamari in the world! If squid isn't your fancy Clive's still offers an exceptional menu and great views overlooking the bay.

Another day in St Francis Bay brings on another round of golf. This time the St. Francis Bay Golf Club will serve as host. The course has been fashioned on an incredible piece of estate that overlooks the ocean. The par 71, of moderate length provides a challenge and breaking par on this “thinking” course is going to prove to be a challenge. 

Spend the rest of the day at your own leisure there is plenty to explore. But simply watching the sunset on the beach right outside your room can be the perfect way to spend your day.

The final destination of your trip is the incredible Kariega Game Reserve. Situated on South Africa’s malaria-free Garden Route, the reserve spans across 11,500 hectares of pristine Eastern Cape wilderness and is home to the famous Big 5 as well as a multitude of African wildlife including hippo, giraffe and zebra. The reserve is also a paradise for birdlife, including resident and migrant birds.

Enjoy an afternoon game drive and enjoy a wonderful culinary experience at the reserve's restaurant, overlooking the untamed beauty of the estate.

The final day before your departure is set to end the trip on a high note. Depart for an early morning game drive or perhaps a river cruise. In either case the morning views at Kariega are unmatched. Return to your lodge for a late, but hearty breakfast/brunch. Later in the day take your pick of either a bush walk, a spa treatment, have a swim, or just relax or siesta.  As evening draws, depart for an evening game drive and sundowners. Return to the lodge for your final dinner in either the boma or the restaurant and reflect on the incredible memories you've made on your journey. 

Travel back along the Garden Route to return to George for your flight home. Please reach out to info@distincte to arrange any additional experiences or special accommodations.