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Beyond the borders of Cape Town lies a world of natural wonders waiting to be explored, offering a perfect blend of nature and the region’s renowned wine. This captivating full-day trip is designed to fulfill the top two items on any Cape visitor’s bucket list: wine and wildlife!
Wine enthusiasts and nature lovers will be enthralled by this tasting adventure through the picturesque Cape Winelands and the semi-arid Southern Karoo Highlands. Prepare for a unique one-way tram journey through the Franschhoek wine valley, indulging in the finest wines of the region. But that’s not all; your day continues with an exhilarating wildlife encounter at an acclaimed Game Reserve, just a short 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town.
Escape the hustle of Cape Town as you embark on a vine-hopping journey through the fertile Cape winelands, culminating in a sunset 4×4 safari amidst untamed animals.
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your Cape Town or Stellenbosch accommodation. A scenic 90-minute drive leads you to the charming town of Franschhoek, where you’ll board a vintage-style railway tram. Sip on world-renowned wine from the surrounding vineyards as you travel through the rolling vineyards to reach Rickety Bridge winery. Here, indulge in a standard wine tasting, savoring three of their finest wines. An open-air wagon, pulled by the farm’s tractor, will transport you from the station platform to the tasting center, revealing the inner workings of a working winery. In warmer weather, enjoy alfresco wine tasting overlooking the vineyards and the majestic Wemmershoek Mountains, while cooler days call for tastings around cozy wood-burning fireplaces.
As lunchtime approaches, continue your journey inland to another winery en route. After a brief rest, proceed to your safari destination, arriving just before golden hour. Prepare for a magical 2 to 3-hour sunset game drive led by a knowledgeable game ranger.
Relax and soak in the splendor of the diverse wildlife and natural Karoo beauty, with opportunities to capture the majestic Big 5 legends. Your game ranger will share fascinating insights about the surroundings and the animals, making the experience truly memorable. As the sky paints itself in hues of yellow, orange and red, the animals become more active, allowing for better spotting opportunities as the heat of the Karoo cools down.
The Game Reserve provides a taste of safari adventure for both locals and visitors to the Western Cape. This easily accessible 4×4 game drive offers a thrilling alternative for those unable to travel to the more distant Kruger National Park, Garden Route or African safaris.
Your return to Cape Town will be well after sunset, leaving you with memories of an extraordinary day filled with wine, wildlife, and wonder.
