Road Tripping South Africa

Road tripping South Africa is one of the best ways to see the country, and my one-week drive along the southern coast started the moment I landed in Cape Town. South Africa’s roads are excellent, you can use your own licence if it is in English, and cars drive on the left. Here is how my trip began, plus what you should know before renting a car in South Africa.

Arriving in the Mother City

I emerged from the aircraft onto the tarmac in Cape Town at 11 in the morning, bleary-eyed after a 10-hour flight. A cold breeze and cloudy sky welcomed me to the Mother City.

Every impression I had about this African country started vanishing as I stepped out of the airport terminal.

I rented a car from Avis Car Rental . If you want to make the most of your visit, I suggest driving the N2, which takes in the famous Garden Route, between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

I was enthralled to see what the Mother City really was. Every turn and every street had its own charisma, and the people were the friendliest I have ever met. It was a great start to my one-week trip along the southern coast of South Africa.

Renting a Car in South Africa: What You Should Know

Where to Rent a Car

South Africa has large vehicle hire fleets run by international and local rental companies. Most are represented at the main airports and in most city centres.

You can generally pick up a vehicle in one city and drop it off at a branch in another, subject to a fee.

Driver’s Licence

Any valid driver’s licence is accepted in South Africa, provided it bears the holder’s photograph and signature and is printed or authenticated in English.

Keep Left, Pass Right

South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road, so cars are right-hand drive, with the gear shift operated by the left hand. All distances, speed limits and speedometers are in kilometres.

Driving Around South Africa

South Africa has excellent road infrastructure, which makes driving around the country a great way to enjoy its stunning scenery.

Tipping Car Guards and Petrol Attendants

When you park on the street, people will often walk up to you and say “your car will be taken care of”. It means they will keep an eye on it while you are away, which they do. In return, they expect a tip of between 2 and 5 ZAR.

At fuel stations, an attendant will offer to clean your windscreen and expect a tip at your discretion, usually between 2 and 5 Rands.

What Are “Robots”?

Traffic lights are called “robots” in South Africa. Don’t be alarmed: these are traffic lights, not programmed mechanical people.

Tips Along the Road

• Switch on your headlights so other drivers can see you more easily.
• All national roads have petrol stations with restaurants, restrooms and shops along the route. Use them to freshen up on long drives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in South Africa with a foreign licence?

Yes. Any valid licence is accepted as long as it has your photo and signature and is printed or authenticated in English.

Which side of the road do they drive on in South Africa?

The left. Cars are right-hand drive and distances are measured in kilometres.

How much should I tip car guards in South Africa?

Car guards and petrol attendants usually expect between 2 and 5 Rands.

Can I drop off a rental car in a different city?

Generally yes, at a branch in another city, subject to a fee.

Conclusion

With great roads, friendly people and stunning scenery, road tripping South Africa is hard to beat. Pick up a car in Cape Town, keep left, carry some small change for tips and enjoy the drive along the southern coast.