I started my Cape Town to Cairo trip by traveling overland from Cape Town to Johannesburg with Baz Bus. If you’re backpacking in South Africa or traveling without a car, Baz Bus can be one of the easiest ways to get around. It’s a hop-on, hop-off backpacker bus that connects popular towns and hostels along South Africa’s most well-known routes.
This post is a backpacking guide to South Africa from Cape Town to Johannesburg, covering the Garden Route highlights and other must-visit stops, including beaches, hikes, wildlife experiences, and backpacker-friendly towns. It also includes my honest Baz Bus South Africa review, tips for choosing the right ticket, and my top hostel and activity recommendations at each stop.
I chose a hop-on, hop-off ticket with unlimited stops from Cape Town to Johannesburg and ended up stopping in almost every place on the route. Check out the map below to see the full list of stops.
Some stops, like Port Elizabeth and Durban, are compulsory overnight stops, but otherwise, you can decide where you want to stay. Here’s a summary of my journey and tips for each place I visited. Also, check out my post the best hostels in South Africa covering hostels along the Baz Bus route!
Table of Contents
Cape Town
Cape Town is a perfect place to start your adventure in South Africa. This city has so much to offer that I spent two months there (and it wasn’t even my first time). I loved the mix of vibrant city life, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures. From hiking up Table Mountain to doing the Lion’s Head sunset hike, there’s always a new view to discover.
The beaches are amazing too—Muizenberg is perfect for learning to surf, Camps Bay offers golden sands, and Sunset Beach gives the best view of Table Mountain. I also enjoyed wandering through colorful neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap, exploring local markets, and trying vegan restaurants around the city. Don’t miss The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens for incredible flora, the lively V&A Waterfront for shopping and food, and Robben Island for a deep dive into South Africa’s history.
For day trips, Cape Point, the Cape Winelands, and penguins at Boulders Beach are must-dos. Staying in hostels made it easy to meet fellow travelers, and hopping between the city’s neighborhoods gave me a real feel for life in Cape Town beyond the tourist spots.
Best Things to Do in Cape Town
Table Mountain (hike or cable car)
Take a cable car or hike up to the Table Mountain.
Table Mountain is Cape Town’s most famous landmark, and for good reason. Even if you’ve seen it in photos a thousand times, the views in real life are unreal. If you’re feeling active, hiking is an amazing experience. If you want something easier (or the weather is iffy), the cable car is still 100% worth it.
Recommended experiences:
- Table Mountain Cable Car (includes a bus ticket too!)
- Table Mountain Guided Hike (nice if you want to hike with a group)
- Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point + Pickup (best “one-day highlights” option)
Bo-Kaap (Cape Town’s most colorful neighborhood)
Visit the colorful neighborhood of Bo-Kaap.
Bo-Kaap is one of the most photogenic places in Cape Town, and it’s such a fun area to explore if you love wandering around with your camera. The neighborhood is famous for its bright, colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and views over the city—every corner looks like a postcard.
But Bo-Kaap isn’t just pretty. It’s also one of the most historic neighborhoods in Cape Town, with a strong Cape Malay cultural heritage. Even if you’re just visiting for photos, it’s worth taking a little time to slow down and actually learn about the area rather than rushing through it.
If you want to understand the history properly, joining a walking tour is the best way to do it (and it’s what I did too).
Recommended experiences:
- Cape Town Walking Tour: Bo-Kaap & City Highlights (best overall option)
- Cape Town: Art, Culture & History Walking Tour (great if you want more storytelling)
- Photoshoot Session: Cape Town Bo-Kaap! (perfect if you want professional photos taken in one of the most photogenic places in Cape Town, without having to ask strangers)
Lion’s Head (sunrise or sunset hike)
Hike up to Lion’s Head to see the sunset.
Lion’s Head is one of the best hikes you can do in Cape Town, and it’s a favorite with both locals and travelers. The trail is short enough to fit into your day, but the views over the city and ocean are absolutely unreal—especially around sunset. The hike usually takes 2–3 hours round trip, and if you don’t want to hike alone, you can find affordable guided hikes to join.
I did the hike at sunset, and it was easily one of my favorite Cape Town moments. The views over the city and coastline are incredible, and watching the city lights start to come on while the sky turns pink and orange is something I’ll never forget.
If you’re planning to hike Lion’s Head at sunrise or sunset, I definitely recommend choosing a guided hike, especially if you’re traveling solo. For sunrise you’ll start the hike while it’s still dark, and for sunset you’ll be coming down when it’s already dark. With the guided hike, you can also select a pickup option if you want it, and they provide flashlights/headlamps for the hike.
Recommended experiences:
- Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hike (great for solo travelers + safety)
Boulders Beach (penguins in Simon’s Town)
Visit the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town.
Boulders Beach is one of the most unique places to visit near Cape Town, and honestly one of the cutest too. It’s home to a colony of African penguins, and it’s one of the easiest places in the world to see penguins up close in the wild. The beach itself is protected by massive granite boulders (which is how it got its name), and the water here is usually calm compared to the open ocean.
The penguins live around the boardwalk area and on the beach itself, and you can watch them waddling between the bushes and the beach like they own the place (and they do!). Boulder’s Beach is also an easy stop to combine with a Cape Point day trip, since they’re both on the Cape Peninsula.
Recommended experiences:
- Cape Point & Boulders Beach Full-Day Experience (best for a full Cape Peninsula day)
- Penguin Watching at Boulders Beach Half-Day Experience (quick and easy option)
- Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point + Pickup (great if you want to fit the highlights into one day)
Cape Point (Cape Peninsula day trip)
Make a day trip to Cape Point.
Cape Point is one of the best day trips you can do from Cape Town. The landscapes out here feel completely different from the city—dramatic cliffs, wild coastline, and ocean views in every direction. Even though many people call it the “southernmost point of Africa,” the actual southernmost point is Cape Agulhas, but Cape Point is still the most scenic and iconic spot to visit.
One of my favorite parts about coming here is the drive itself. The Cape Peninsula is packed with viewpoints and beaches along the way, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to pull over constantly just to take photos. Once you’re at Cape Point, you can walk up to the lighthouse and the views from the top are seriously breathtaking.
If you don’t have a car, joining a full-day experience is the easiest way to see Cape Point without stressing about transport—plus most options combine it with other highlights like Boulders Beach and Simon’s Town.
Recommended experiences:
Muizenberg (learn to surf + colorful beach huts)
Learn to surf in Muizenberg.
Muizenberg is one of the best beach stops around Cape Town—especially if you want to learn to surf. It has a laid-back, local feel, the waves here are usually beginner-friendly, and the long sandy beach is perfect even if you’re just going for a walk.
It’s also one of the most photogenic beaches in Cape Town thanks to the famous colorful beach huts, and the area has a fun little surf-town vibe with cafés and chilled-out spots nearby. If you’ve never surfed before, Muizenberg is a great place to try it for the first time, because there are plenty of affordable surf schools and rentals right on the beach.
Recommended experiences:
St. James Coastal Walk (tidal pools + ocean views)
Walk along the St. James coastal walk and take a dip in these marine pools.
If you’re already staying in Muizenberg, the St. James Coastal Walk is such an easy and beautiful thing to do nearby. The walk runs along the coastline between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, with ocean views the entire way and that classic Cape Town scenery of waves crashing against the rocks.
One of the best parts is stopping at the St. James tidal pools—they’re perfect for a quick dip, especially if you want a calmer swim than the open ocean.
Sunset Beach (best Table Mountain view)
Get the most beautiful Table Mountain view in Sunset Beach.
If you want that classic postcard view of Table Mountain from the beach, Sunset Beach is the place to go. It’s one of my favorite photo spots in Cape Town, because you get the full mountain backdrop, wide open sand, and usually a really peaceful atmosphere compared to the more crowded beaches closer to the city center.
This is also one of the best places in Cape Town to come for—you guessed it—sunset. Watching the sky change colors with Table Mountain in the background is seriously magical, and even if you’re not a photographer, it’s one of those places that just makes you stop and stare for a while.
It’s not the most “swim-friendly” beach because the water can be cold and the wind can be strong, but for views and photos, it’s easily one of the best beaches in Cape Town.
Read more:
The Most Spectacular View in Cape Town
Responsible township tour (Uthando)
Do a responsible township tour.
It’s easy to spend your whole time in Cape Town focusing on beaches, viewpoints, and the more touristy neighborhoods—and honestly, there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’re interested in learning more about the city beyond the postcard version, a responsible township visit is something you can consider.
That said, I think it’s really important to approach it ethically. Not all township tours are run in a respectful way, and I personally don’t support anything that feels like poverty tourism. If you do decide to go, I recommend doing your research and choosing an organization that focuses on community projects, fair partnerships, and long-term impact. I did my township tour with Uthando, a Fair Trade certified non-profit organization, and it felt like a respectful way to learn more while supporting the work they do.
Read more:
Uthando – A Different Way to Experience Townships
Vegan food (and eating out in Cape Town)
Eat delicious vegan food.
Cape Town is one of the easiest places in Africa to find amazing vegan food, and I was honestly so happy about that. Even as a backpacker, it’s pretty easy to eat well here—whether you want a quick smoothie bowl, a proper sit-down dinner, or just something healthy after a long hike.
I tried so many great places around the city, especially in areas like Kloof Street, Gardens, and Sea Point, where there are tons of cafés and restaurants within walking distance. Even if you’re not vegan, Cape Town has a really creative food scene and a lot of spots that offer good plant-based options.
Where to Stay:
Read More:
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Stellenbosch
This picturesque wine region might be one of the most beautiful in the world! While not on the main Baz Bus route, you can get there via a shuttle or day trip from Cape Town. A wine tour is a must and if you are a vegan like me, there are also options for vegan wine tours.
Read More:
Mossel Bay
If you want to try shark cage diving, I recommend stopping at Mossel Bay. I had already dived with great white sharks in Gansbaai, so I skipped Mossel Bay this time. You can also do a day trip from Cape Town to Gansbaai, but if the season isn’t ideal for sharks there, Mossel Bay is a great alternative.
Read More:
Wilderness
Unspoiled beaches in Wilderness.
Kingfisher Trail is a nice and easy hike to a waterfall and if you want you can also go swimming there.
Map of Africa viewpoint
Wilderness is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone who loves pristine beaches. The area is part of the famous Garden Route and is known for its lush forests, rolling hills, and unspoiled coastline. I loved spending time here because it felt peaceful, yet there were plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
The Kingfisher Trail is an easy and scenic hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall where you can take a refreshing swim—perfect for a break from the road. For incredible views and a unique photo opportunity, head to the Map of Africa viewpoint, which offers a panoramic look at the surrounding coastline shaped like the African continent.
Knysna
The Knysna Heads
The Knysna Heads Lookout
The Leisure Island
The Waterfront
The highlight of visiting Knysna is seeing The Heads, a striking pair of sandstone cliffs that guard the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon from the Indian Ocean. There are two viewpoints—Upper Heads and Lower Heads—both offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon, cliffs, and ocean.
I stayed at Jembjo’s Backpackers, which has a laid-back vibe and makes it easy to explore the area. Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around, and you can easily make a day trip to both The Heads and Leisure Island, where you can swim in the calm lagoon waters.
Knysna is also known for its local craft beer scene. If you’re thirsty, don’t miss Mitchell’s Knysna Brewery, where you can sample a variety of locally brewed beers and enjoy the relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Additionally, the town has charming markets, boutique shops, and plenty of hiking trails nearby, making it a perfect stop along the Garden Route.
Where to Stay:
Jembjo’s Knysna Lodge & Backpackers
Plettenberg Bay
Robberg Nature Reserve
This place turned out to be my favorite stop along the Garden Route. Plettenberg Bay has it all: a charming town with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, some of the best beaches along the Garden Route, plenty of sunshine, and easy access to nature.
I loved walking along the wide sandy beaches, watching the waves crash, and spending an afternoon exploring the Robberg Nature Reserve. The reserve has several hiking trails of varying difficulty, all offering breathtaking coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and opportunities to spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and even whales in season.
Read More:
Plettenberg Bay – A Great Spot on the Garden Route
Where to Stay:
Albergo Backpackers
Bloukrans Bridge
This is where you can take the plunge from the world’s highest bridge bungee jump—216 meters of pure adrenaline. I’ve done three bungee jumps before, but I couldn’t resist trying this one. While this spot is a Baz Bus stop, I wouldn’t recommend staying here overnight. Instead, stay in Plettenberg Bay or The Grags/Stormsriver and arrange transportation to the bungee site.
Aside from the bridge and the bungee jump, there isn’t much else to do here, so without a car, it’s not the most convenient place to stay. However, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, it’s definitely worth a day trip for the thrill and the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and river below.
The Grags or Stormsriver
Tsitsikamma National Park
Both The Grags and Stormsriver offer easy access to Tsitsikamma National Park, a must-visit destination on the Garden Route. The Grags has a cool hostel with a laid-back, hippy vibe and a strong connection to nature, perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting fellow backpackers and chilling in a relaxed atmosphere. Stormsriver, on the other hand, is a small town with more amenities, restaurants, and accommodation options, but it can feel a bit soulless and geared primarily toward tourists.
Whichever stop you choose, Tsitsikamma National Park is just a short ride away and offers a variety of outdoor adventures. You can hike scenic trails like the famous Storms River Mouth Trail, walk along the suspension bridge over the river, or try kayaking and zip-lining for a more adrenaline-filled experience. The park is also home to pristine beaches, indigenous forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Jeffrey’s Bay
Jeffrey’s Bay is the surfing capital of South Africa and one of the best places in the world to catch waves. It’s also famous for its surf brand factory shops, including Billabong, Quiksilver, and Rip Curl, which makes it a fun stop even if you’re not surfing. The town has a vibrant backpacker scene, and if you enjoy partying, Island Vibe Hostel is the place to be.
However, if you’re like me and prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, I would skip Island Vibe and choose another hostel. Jeffrey’s Bay has plenty of other great options that are closer to the beach, offer chill vibes, and make it easy to enjoy surfing, exploring local cafés, or just soaking up the laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Port Elizabeth
I wasn’t too excited to visit Port Elizabeth, but since it’s a compulsory overnight stop on the Baz Bus route, I stayed for two nights. The city itself has some charm—you can stroll along the beach, admire the old colonial architecture in the city center, or enjoy a relaxed coffee at a local café.
If you’re willing to travel a bit further, a visit to Addo Elephant National Park is a must. It’s home to elephants, lions, buffalo, and many other animals, and a guided safari is an unforgettable experience.
Tip: book your hostel well in advance if you don’t want to stay at the worst hostel (like I did) because this is a compulsory stop for everyone, so most of the hostels will be fully booked. Choosing a hostel near the beach or the city center will make your short stay more enjoyable and convenient.
East London or Chintsa
Chintsa
If I had to choose between East London and Chintsa, it would definitely be Chintsa. East London has a great hostel right by the beach, but besides that, the city didn’t impress me much (just my opinion).
Chintsa, on the other hand, is a peaceful, sleepy town with a secluded beach that feels like a hidden gem. The hostel I stayed at is surrounded by lush nature, with walking trails and wildlife nearby, and the sea view from the rooms is absolutely breathtaking. It’s the perfect place to unwind after traveling long stretches on the Baz Bus. The vibe here is quiet and relaxed, ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of South Africa’s Wild Coast.
Where to Stay:
Buccaneers Backpackers in Chintsa
Read More:
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Hogsback
You’ll need to arrange a shuttle to get there—just ask Away with the Fairies Hostel, and they’ll give you all the details. Trust me, it’s well worth the journey! Hogsback is one of the most beautiful corners of South Africa, surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, and endless hiking possibilities. The hostel itself has the best view in Hogsback, and you can even enjoy a bath outside while taking it all in. Whether you’re hiking nearby trails, exploring the local fairy-tale-like scenery, or simply relaxing with a cup of tea on the deck, this place is the perfect spot to recharge and soak up South Africa’s magical landscapes.
Where to Stay:
Read More:
Away with the Fairies in Hogsback
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Coffee Bay
The Hole in the Wall
Traditional rondavels
You’ll also need to take a shuttle to get here, but it’s absolutely worth the effort! Coffee Bay is a small, laid-back coastal town with so much to offer. Hike to the Hole in the Wall, an iconic natural rock formation, or explore the surrounding trails for breathtaking coastal views. Immerse yourself in Xhosa culture by visiting local villages, enjoy the unique experience of staying in a traditional rondavel hut, and soak up the relaxed beach life. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, or simply lounging by the ocean, Coffee Bay is full of adventures and unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
Where to Stay:
For laid back atmosphere: Sugarloaf Backpackers
For more action: Coffee Shack
Read More:
10 Pictures That Will Make You Want to Travel to Coffee Bay
Southern Drakensberg
Again, you’ll need to arrange a shuttle to get to Southern Drakensberg, but this place is absolutely worth it! This is one of the most spectacular landscapes in South Africa, with dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and untouched wilderness.
There are numerous hiking trails that all start right from the hostel’s doorstep, ranging from easy walks to challenging full-day hikes. You can spend your days exploring the trails, spotting wildlife, or simply relaxing and soaking in the incredible views. The hostel itself is surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat after a day of adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, a nature lover, or just looking for a quiet escape, this spot is unforgettable.
Lesotho
The Southern Drakensberg is not only stunning in its own right, with towering peaks, lush valleys, and endless hiking opportunities, but it’s also a gateway to Sani Pass and Lesotho. You can choose to make a day trip across the rugged pass, where winding roads lead to breathtaking mountain views and the chance to experience Lesotho’s unique culture, or stay longer to fully explore the area.
Where to Stay:
Read More:
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Umtentweni/Umzumbe/Warner Beach
Umtentweni, Umzumbe and Warner Beach are all charming beach destinations on the outskirts of Durban. I chose to stay at Warner Beach because it was the closest stop to Umkomaas, which is a top spot for diving.
Shark Diving in Umkomaas
Umkomaas is famous for its incredible dives, including the chance to go shark diving without a cage! After my shark cage diving experience in Gansbaai, I had become a little obsessed with sharks, so this was an absolute must for me. If you’re a certified diver, definitely don’t miss it—it was one of the most thrilling and unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. Beyond diving, the area offers peaceful beaches, great surf, and a laid-back coastal vibe that makes it perfect for relaxing between dives.
Durban
The beach in Durban
Earthmother Organics Cafe
Another compulsory overnight stop on the route. Durban is famous for its beaches, warm Indian Ocean, and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy the beach life at the Golden Mile, stroll along the promenade, or try surfing if you’re up for it. Don’t miss a visit to the Durban Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Africa, home to a huge variety of indigenous and exotic plants. For a healthy and delicious vegan lunch, head to Earthmother Organic Café.
Stay at Curiocity Hostel and enjoy their fast Wi-Fi. After struggling to find any reliable connection before coming to Durban, this hostel was a pleasant surprise!
Where to Stay:
Read More:
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Northern Drakensberg
The hike to the Tugela Falls
Tugela Falls
The view from Amphitheatre Backpackers
Just like in the Southern Drakensberg, the landscape here is absolutely breathtaking, with plenty of great hiking trails. Unlike in the Southern Drakensberg, though, most trails start quite far from the hostel, so you’ll need to join a tour or find someone with a car. The hostel organizes trips to Lesotho as well as guided hikes to Cathedral Cove and Tugela Falls. I hiked to Tugela Falls, which at 948 meters are the world’s second-highest waterfalls—a truly unforgettable experience!
Where to Stay:
Read More:
The Best Hostels in South Africa
Johannesburg
The Apartheid Museum
Freefood Vegan Restaurant
The final stop is Johannesburg—a city that doesn’t always have the best reputation for safety, but I still really enjoyed my time there. A must-visit is the Apartheid Museum, where you can learn more about South Africa’s dark history. Don’t miss Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, and make sure to grab some delicious vegan food at Freefood restaurant. The easiest and safest way to get around the city is by Uber.
Where to Stay:
Final Thoughts & Baz Bus Review
There were a few stops I missed, but hopefully this gives you some ideas on where to go if you travel with Baz Bus. South Africa has so much to offer, with endless beautiful places to explore.
Baz Bus makes it easy to get from one destination to another, and along the way, you’ll meet plenty of other travelers. For solo travelers especially, Baz Bus is by far the best way to get around South Africa!
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4 comments
Hey Gabriela! Thank you so much for this informative post!
I have some questions left, I am planning on travelling through Southafrica as a solo female traveler. I myself think especially with the BazBus this is super safe but I hear sooooo many concerns from family and friends!! How do you feel about that? Was meeting other people easy?
In additon to that am I vegan myself and was so relieved to find your blog! Generally did you have any problems with being vegan ? I heard southafrica is a very meat-loving country so I had quite some concerns. What do you think?
Kind regards, and keep up the good work!
Sophia
Hi Sophia! I felt like Baz Bus was the safest option and it’s especially great for solo travelers. Meeting people is super easy when you’re using Baz Bus and staying at hostels 🙂 I didn’t have any problems traveling there as a vegan. When you travel to more rural places though where they don’t have any big supermarkets or vegan-friendly restaurants nearby (Chintsa, Coffee Bay, Southern & Northern Drakensberg), buy some food before taking a bus there. Veganism is a growing trend in South Africa, and especially in Cape Town, you can find so many vegan options. Check out the restaurants mentioned in this post.
Cool thanks! 🙂
How did it go in the hostels with being vegan? Did they make you vegan food or did you usually eat out and cooked yourself?
I will definitely check out that post and try as many of those restaurants when I am there!:)
And how long did you stay in SA and how much money did you spent?
kind regards,
Sophia 🙂
Yes, some hostels offered an option to buy dinner, and usually, it wasn’t a problem to get a vegan meal if I just let them know in advance. But I also cooked a lot because all the hostels usually have a kitchen. BazBus is a door-to-door service so it didn’t matter to carry a bag just full of food ? It was my second time in South Africa and I spent there three months. I can’t say how much money I spent, but it’s a lot cheaper than in Europe anyway.