South Africa with Quin Gable

Dates

Oct 15–23, 2023

Group Size

10–18 Travelers

Duration

9 days, 8 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

South Africa, while it sits at the edge of the planet, it is the starting point to one of the world’s most extraordinary adventures. The tip of the continent, where Africa either begins or ends. Whether you fancy diving with great white sharks, hopping on game drives in search of lions, or simply chilling on powdery beaches surrounded by jagged mountains, your journey in South Africa will open your mind to infinite new adventures.
$3,495USD
$3,595USD
Oct 15–23, 2023
9 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Quin Gable
Quin Gable

Quin is currently doing solo van life all across the United States with her two cats, Atlas & Otto. She is a huge adventure lover who is known for her educational travel videos online from all over the world. Her overall goal is to encourage everyone to explore this beautiful world. You can follow her adventures at @QuinGable.

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Trip Activities

  • Penguin Paddle Kayak

  • Cape Peninsula Tour

  • Table Mountain Aerial Cable Car

  • Cape Canopy Zipline Tour

  • Stand-up Paddleboard

  • Monkeyland Monkey Safari

  • Birds of Eden Sanctuary Visit

  • Snorkeling with Seals

  • Robberg Coastal Hike

  • Big 5 Sunset Safari Game Drive

  • Morning Safari Game Drive

  • Cango Caves Tour

  • Wine Tasting

Optional Activities*

  • Shark Cage Diving

  • Meerkat Sunrise Safari

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food & alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to South Africa! Settle in and get ready for an incredible week.

Airport Transfer

45 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Cape Town International Airport (CPT), between 8 am and 5 pm.

dinner

6:30 P.M.: Included welcome dinner and drumming, at GOLD Restaurant, menu is African Fusion all dishes are served to the table. Please note drinks to be paid for separately on your own.

Old Bank Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Cape Town

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Day 2

Info

Rise and shine. Today you will have a full-day tour of Cape Town with your fellow Travelers.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Penguin Paddle Kayak

2 Hours

8:30 A.M.: Grab a life jacket, a paddle and hop on a kayak to explore the bay. You won’t be alone as you will be accompanied by the tuxedo-wearing, waddle walking, local African Penguins. You may also see seals and perhaps even a dolphin or two. Please pack a change of clothes and extra towel as you'll be heading to the Cape Peninsula immediately after this activity. (~2 hours). Note: 220 lbs weight limit.

Cape Peninsula Tour

5 Hours

Immediately after kayaking, you’ll visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. The nature reserve boasts a scenic terrain that is home to zebras, baboons, elands, and ostriches, along with over 250 different species of birds (~3 hours).

Table Mountain Aerial Cable Car

1 Hour 30 Mins

4:30 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.: The day concludes with a visit to the top of Table Mountain by aerial cable car. Up top, you’ll have a bird’s eye vista over the Mother City along with Robben Island lying sleepily in Table Bay (~1 hour).

Old Bank Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Cape Town

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Day 3

Info

Today you will wave goodbye to Cape Town and say hello to the open road as you begin your epic road trip along the Garden Route, a 190-mile stretch of coastline.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer to Zipline Tour

1 Hour

07:00 A.M.: Early morning transfer to Elgin, where the Zipline adventure awaits. (~ 1 hours 20 minutes).

Cape Canopy Zipline Tour

4 Hours

8:30 A.M.: On the zipline, you will fly through the valley, zipping past waterfalls, high above the treeline (~4 hours). Note: 264 lbs weight limit.

Transfer to Hermanus

1 Hour

Transfer to Hermanus (~1 hour).

Windsor Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Hermanus

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Day 4

Info

The morning is free to relax on the beaches of Hermanus. If you are feeling adventurous, there will be an optional activity offered where you can go shark cage diving. In the afternoon, your road trip continues along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay.

Transfer (for Optional Activity)

1 Hour

6:10 A.M.: Transfer to the Optional Shark Cage Diving activity.

Shark Cage Diving (optional)

4 Hours

7:00 A.M.: On this experience, you will meet one of nature’s most feared predators, the great white shark. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or not, shark cage diving can be done by all without any diving certifications necessary (~5 hours).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer

1 Hour

1:00 P.M.: Transfer to Plettenberg Bay witth rest stops for restroom and shopping as well. (~06:30HS)

Bayview Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Plettenberg Bay

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Day 5

Info

Today is all about wildlife so don't forget to bring your camera, you'll be making plenty of new friends.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Stand-up Paddleboard

2 Hours

9:00 A.M.: Hop on a stand-up paddleboard and make your way downstream (~2 hours). Important Note: Please pack a change of clothes and extra towel as you'll be heading to the Safari immediately after this activity.

Monkeyland Monkey Safari

1 Hour

12:00 P.M.: In your monkey safari, you will be able to see over 550 primates of various species like capuchin monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, gibbons, and howler monkeys (~2 hours).

Birds of Eden Sanctuary Visit

1 Hour

Immediately after visiting the Monkey Safari, you will visit the Birds of Eden Sanctuary, home to 3500 birds of 220 species. The sanctuary is also a rescue center where previously caged birds can now live a life of free flight in a habitat as large and natural as possible (~1 hour).

Snorkeling with Seals

1 Hour 30 Mins

3:00 P.M.: Situated close to the shore in shallow waters that protect the marine area from the currents of the southern Indian Ocean, you will find a colony of 6000 seals sunbathing near the rocks. Swimming with these curious and friendly animals offers the ultimate human/animal interactive experience (~1 hour).

Bayview Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Plettenberg Bay

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Day 6

Info

You will start your day with a leisurely sea cliff hike in Robberg Nature Reserve. Your road trip continues and you will ride to Albertinia where you will arrive at a game lodge.

Robberg Coastal Hike

2 Hours

6:30 A.M. to 7:30 A.M. (guide will inform you). You will lace up your hiking boots and head for a morning hike in Robberg Nature Reserve. It’s a leisurely 2 mile hike but with some dramatic views of sea cliffs and sandy beaches. Distance: 2 miles / Duration: 1.5 hours / Difficulty: Easy

Transfer

1 Hour

Departure time may vary depending on group preference. Transfer to Garden Route Game Lodge (~2 hours & 20 minutes).

Big 5 Sunset Safari Game Drive

2 Hours 30 Mins

Starts prior to Sunset (Guide will inform you): You will embark on a guided open vehicle safari in search of the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and the African buffalo. Along with the wildlife, the nature reserve is a tranquil setting to view the African sunset. Important Note: When you pack please make certain to pack comfortable shoes when participating in the hiking, and warm jacket for the game drives (~2 hours to 2.5 hours).

dinner

Included dinner at the game lodge

Garden Route Game Lodge (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Albertinia

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Day 7

Info

Trip Photo 1
Morning Safari Game Drive
1 / 1

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Morning Safari Game Drive

3 Hours

Guide will inform you on start time: This morning you will embark on a guided open vehicle safari in the reserve in search of the Big 5: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and the African buffalo. Important Note: When you pack please make certain to pack comfortable shoes when participating in the hiking, and warm jacket for the game drives (~2 hours to 2.5 hours).

Transfer

1 Hour

10:00 A.M.: Transfer to Oudtshoorn. (~1 hour and 30 minutes).

Cango Caves Tour

1 Hour

3:00 P.M.: Visit the Cango Caves. Surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, you will weave and crawl through narrow passages and exciting tunnels (~1 hour).

Oudtshoorn Inn (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Oudtshoorn

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Day 8

Info

This morning you will make your way back to Cape Town along the picturesque Route 62, stretching across the Western and Eastern capes.

Meerkat Sunrise Safari (optional)

3 Hours

Starts at Sunrise (Guide will inform you): If you feel like getting up extra early this morning, there will be an optional Meerkat Sunrise Safari organized. This unique wildlife experience will have you in the bush at sunrise, coffee in hand, as curious meerkats emerge from their burrows to warm up in the morning sun (~2 hours).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer

1 Hour

10:00 A.M.: Transfer to Wine Tasting en route back to Cape Town (~2 hours and 50 minutes).

Wine Tasting

45 Mins

2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. (time may vary): Along with stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, South Africa also boasts world-class wines. En route back to Cape Town.

Transfer

1 Hour

Transfer to Cape Town.

dinner

6:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. (depending on arrival time back to Cape Town). Included farewell dinner at a Shoreditch Restuarant, set menu, please note drinks to be paid for separately on your own.

Old Bank Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Cape Town

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Day 9

Info

All good things must come to an end! You'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Your breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

45 Mins

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.