City icons, coastal drama & world-class vineyards
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Destinations: Cape Town – Hermanus – Franschhoek – Stellenbosch
Travel Style: Scenic self-drive | Wine & culture | Nature & coast
Best for: First-time South Africa visitors, couples, friends, slow luxury lovers
A Curated 6-Day Western Cape Journey by Shishi Footsteps 🍷🐋
This thoughtfully designed 6-day South Africa itinerary is perfect for travellers who want big highlights without rushing, combining vibrant cities, dramatic coastal scenery, whale encounters, and some of the finest wine regions in Africa.
Begin in Cape Town, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, framed by Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. Explore historic neighbourhoods, lush botanical gardens, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets at the V&A Waterfront.
Travel along the coast to Hermanus, famous for its laid-back charm and exceptional whale watching, before heading inland to the elegant wine towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, where heritage, gastronomy, and vineyard views take centre stage.
This is a self-drive experience, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace—carefully curated by Shishi Footsteps to ensure every day feels special.
What’s Included
- 5 nights accommodation (hand-picked boutique and premium options)
- Daily breakfast
- Rental car for the full duration
- Selected experiences and tastings as outlined
- Personalized travel guidance from Shishi Footsteps
- 24/7 support while travelling
Not Included
- International flights
- Visas and travel insurance
- Fuel
- Lunches and dinners (unless stated)
- Private guide (available on request)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town 🇿🇦
Welcome to the Mother City
Arrive at Cape Town International Airport and collect your rental car. Your journey begins with a scenic drive into the city, where mountain views, ocean air, and vibrant energy immediately set the tone.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed walk around the V&A Waterfront, known for its harbour views, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Overnight in Cape Town
Accommodation options:
- Comfort: City Lodge V&A Waterfront
- Boutique: Cape Heritage Hotel
- Premium: The Bay Hotel
Day 2: Cape Town Exploration & Sunset Champagne Cruise 🌄🥂
Today is dedicated to discovering Cape Town’s diverse highlights. Popular options include:
- Table Mountain (weather permitting)
- Bo-Kaap’s colourful streets and Cape Malay heritage
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Coastal drives to Camps Bay or Hout Bay
In the afternoon, visit Kirstenbosch, one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset champagne cruise from the V&A Waterfront—an unforgettable way to experience Cape Town from the water.
Overnight in Cape Town
Day 3: Coastal Drive to Hermanus & Vineyard Views 🚗🐋
After breakfast, drive along the scenic coastline toward Hermanus (approximately 2 hours). This charming seaside town is internationally known for land-based whale watching during the season, as well as its relaxed atmosphere and coastal walking paths.
Later, head to Benguela Cove Wine Estate for a nature walk paired with wine tasting, where sweeping lagoon views meet award-winning wines.
Overnight in Hermanus
Accommodation options:
- Comfort: Whale Coast Ocean Villa
- Boutique: Grand Lux Boutique Manor
- Premium: The Marine Hermanus
Day 4: Penguins, Passes & Franschhoek Wine Country 🐧🍾
Depart Hermanus after breakfast and journey inland to Franschhoek, with scenic stops along the way.
Highlights may include:
- Stony Point Nature Reserve, Betty’s Bay, home to an African penguin colony
- Views over the impressive Theewaterskloof Dam
Arrive in Franschhoek, a historic town known for its French heritage, gourmet cuisine, and exceptional wines. Enjoy a guided walking tour, followed by a Méthode Cap Classique tasting at L’Ormarins and a visit to the Franschhoek Motor Museum.
Overnight in Franschhoek
Accommodation options:
- Comfort: The Lab Franschhoek
- Boutique: Rickety Bridge Manor House
- Premium: Le Petit Manoir
Day 5: Stellenbosch & Return to Cape Town 🍇🏛️
Today, drive through the scenic Helshoogte Pass to Stellenbosch, the heart of South Africa’s wine industry.
Explore the historic town centre on foot, admire Cape Dutch architecture, and enjoy time at one of the surrounding wine estates.
Later in the afternoon, return to Cape Town for your final evening. Celebrate the journey with a memorable dinner overlooking the city or ocean.
Overnight in Cape Town
Day 6: Departure or Extend Your Journey ✈️
After breakfast, drive to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight.
Would you like to extend your adventure? This itinerary pairs beautifully with:
- A luxury safari experience
- The Garden Route
- A beach escape along South Africa’s coast
Shishi Footsteps will tailor the next chapter for you.
Why Travel with Shishi Footsteps?
- Specialists in curated, experience-led African travel
- Hand-picked stays and authentic activities
- Flexible, tailor-made itineraries
- Personal planning support from start to finish
- Thoughtful journeys designed to leave lasting footprints