Full-Day Swartberg Mountain PRIVATE Tour (including lunch and transfers)

Western Cape , South Africa

Full-Day Swartberg Mountain PRIVATE Tour (including lunch and transfers)

Active

(9 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This full-day guided nature tour of the 27 kilometer Swartberg Pass (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), includes leisure optional scenic walks on the Swartberg Pass offering panoramic views over the Klein and Great Karoo at the "top" of the Pass ( 1568 m above sea level). We also visit the quaint Great Karoo town of Prince Albert and return to Oudtshoorn via the scenic Meiringspoort.

Available options

Swartberg Pass Full-Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

Driver/guide

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

From the Guesthouse we travel north towards the majestic Swartberg Mountains. From the Southern foothills we start our ascend of nearly 900 meters up the Swartberg Mountains via the world renowned Swartberg Pass. The Swartberg Pass, a National monument, has a gravel surface and was constructed by renowned road engineer, Thomas Bain over a 4-year period and opened on 10 January 1888. The dry- stone technique used to construct the pass required extreme manual labour and is as solid as it was when constructed 128 years ago.

Get close to nature and explore the spectacular Sandstone formations dating back more than 300 million years. Feast your eyes on the full splendour of diverse “fynbos” species ranging from various Protea species as well as “cone bush” and “pin cushions”. You may even spot a soaring Verreaux Eagle or Jackal Buzzard while the agility of the “Klipspringer” (small antelope) over the rugged sandstone formations will astound you.
At the summit (“Die Top”) of the Swartberg Pass, we enjoy a panoramic view over the Great-and-Klein Karoo.

You will also be able to enjoy an optional leisure walk before we descend the Swartberg Pass en-route to Prince Albert where we are treated to a light lunch. Departing from Prince Albert, you will be introduced to the arid Great Karoo landscape and its diverse succulents and karroid bush by skirting the northern slopes of the Swartberg Mountains, en- route to Meiringspoort. Time is spent at the 60-meter high waterfall in Meiringspoort, before snaking through the rest of the poort to the peaceful Little Karoo “Dorpie” - De Rust. From here we return to the Hotel / Guesthouse.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• IMPORTANT: You must call +27 824618253 at least 48 hours in advance to arrange your pick-up location and time

About Western Cape

The Western Cape is a stunning province in South Africa known for its diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean to the picturesque vineyards of the Winelands. It's a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering everything from vibrant cities to serene countryside.

Top Attractions

Table Mountain

An iconic flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town, offering stunning views and hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day R380 (Cableway return ticket)

Robben Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Offers a poignant glimpse into South Africa's apartheid history.

Historical Half day R500 (Including ferry and tour)

Cape of Good Hope

The southwesternmost point of the African continent, known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic beauty.

Nature Full day R340 (Entry fee)

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

A stunning botanical garden showcasing the diverse flora of South Africa, set against the backdrop of Table Mountain.

Nature Half day to full day R90 (Entry fee)

Stellenbosch

A charming university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, wine estates, and vibrant student life.

Cultural Full day Varies by activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originally from Durban but popular throughout South Africa.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten

Biltong

Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from beef, game, or other meats.

Snack Contains meat, gluten-free

Cape Malay Curry

A spicy curry made with meat or vegetables, influenced by Malay culture.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains spices

Malva Pudding

A sweet, spongy pudding served with custard or ice cream.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Paragliding Shark cage diving Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic drives

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English
Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

The Western Cape is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Avoid walking alone at night in less safe areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Cape Town Station

By bus

Cape Town Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with routes covering most of the city and nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cape Town City Center Camps Bay Bo-Kaap Hout Bay Constantia

Day trips

Stellenbosch

50 km from Cape Town • Full day

A charming university town known for its Cape Dutch architecture, wine estates, and vibrant student life.

Franschhoek

75 km from Cape Town • Full day

A picturesque town in the Winelands, known for its French Huguenot heritage, wine estates, and gourmet restaurants.

Hermanus

120 km from Cape Town • Full day

A coastal town known for its whale watching, scenic beaches, and wine estates.

Festivals

Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March Cape Town Carnival • March Cape Winelands Festival • December

Pro tips

Visit Table Mountain early in the morning to avoid crowds and clouds
Book tickets for popular attractions, such as Robben Island and the Cape Town Cableway, in advance
Explore the region by car for flexibility and to discover hidden gems
Try local dishes, such as bunny chow and Cape Malay curry, for an authentic culinary experience
Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites