Road Trip Your Way Through South Africa To Experience An Authentic Holiday Experience

South Africa, a land full of adventures, geological marvels, and exotic wildlife, attracts many travelers who wish to enjoy the treasures of Africa. South Africa has everything from geographical marvels like the Drakensberg mountains, the tropical grassland (Savannas), and the Kalahari desert to the largest mammals in the world. 

Driving Your Way Through The South African Wonders

South Africa is the perfect country for a road trip; however, before you plan one, you must have the information you need to ensure its success.

Find A Good Car Rental Service

When traveling in a distant land, you need a reliable car. Car rental in South Africa is available online, but you must read the review before you finalize the deal. Check how the company manages the billing; the payment will be made hourly or based on the kilometers traveled. 

Also, check if the car owners have received any sort of warranty from the original manufacturers. If the car breaks down while driving, the manufacturer may cover the cost of repairs and replacements if the car has some sort of warranty. If you do not want to drive all the way through the country, you may also hire a driver.

Chalk Out The Route

When driving in an unknown land filled with uncertainties, you cannot start without knowing the details of the route you will take. So, take a physical or digital map and mark the main locations you want to visit. Then, chalk out the shortest and safest path that connects each location.

 While chalking out the paths, it is essential that you speak with the locals so that you know about the condition of the roads and how safe they are. It is equally important that you encounter a petrol pump or a gas station every ten or twenty kilometers. Also, if the car you are renting has insurance, make sure you rent a car that has insurance to cover sudden emergencies like towing. 

Traffic On The Left Hand Side Of The Road

If you are used to driving on the right-hand side, you may find it difficult to drive in South Africa. However, you will become comfortable after some time. If you do not want to drive for long hours across varying geographical terrains, then you may hire a local driver.

Know The Traffic Rules

If you live in any Western country, the traffic rules will not be very different, but in South Africa, there is something known as the four-way stop rule. According to this rule, whichever vehicle arrives at the junction of the four roads, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way.

Off-Roading Through Game Reserves

Some National parks, like the famous Kruger National Park, allow tourists to go off-roading within the National Park. However, when you wish to drive in a national park, you must be well acquainted with the rules of the game reserve. So, you may not be allowed to drive in core areas; you may not be allowed to blow the horn in a way that might disturb the animals, etc. In such cases, it is best to partner up with a local tourist guide who can guide you through all the rules and regulations. 

Stock Up On Essential Supplies

If you plan to drive across the length and breadth of South Africa, it is essential that you stock up on supplies. So, make sure that you are well stocked with snacks and other edible stuffed foods, especially canned food. Do not forget to carry your sunscreen lotion, binoculars, and mosquito repellants, as well as a portable tent so that you can rest overnight if the situation demands. Also, don’t forget to update your playlist so that you do not get bored when you have been behind the wheel for long hours.

Final Words

You can enjoy a fun and adventure-filled drive in South Africa, but you must be well prepared to face the local climate and follow the country-specific rules and regulations. It is best to hire a car from a reputable rental company and practice driving on the left-hand side if you are not used to it. It is always advisable to hire a local tourist guide who can accompany you throughout the journey so that you can communicate with locals and adhere to local laws, which is not a problem. It is equally important to plan your route and stock up on all the essentials so that your journey is smooth and memorable.