Save this article
Use this article for free on your own website
Republish this article for free on your own website or blog. Or search or browse for more articles that your audience will appreciate. Huge choice available. Ideal for finding quality, free content. Read our publishers guide.
A Guide To Taking A Self Drive Holiday In South Africa
A self drive holiday is always more relaxed with more freedom to do your own thing at your own time. Especially in South Africa where there so many absolute picturesque little towns and the most beautiful coastal roads that will be missed on bus and plane travel.
There is always much more freedom on a holiday when you are driving yourself. In a picturesque country like South Africa, this is a real advantage that lets you see parts of the country not seen on organized tours.
Driving is done on the left in South Africa. The maximum speed limit is 120km/h. Most major roads are in a good condition. Highways with at least two lanes going both sides connect many cities and towns.
You may pass through toll gates on some of these highways that will charge around 110-150 Rand depending on the route. These roads will be top notch as a result and will have regular One Stops.
A One Stop is a highway facility where you can stop for some food, fill your car and freshen up.
There is no requirement to take the toll roads with free roads being available that will get you to the same destinations. These will also pass through some smaller towns and give you a chance to see something different. In general the roads won’t be in as good a condition.
There are few things you have to be aware of while driving on South Africans roads.
South Africans are fairly relaxed about following the road rules, either driving too fast or too slow. Pedestrians cross highways at dangerous spots and some cars may drive at night with weak or no lights.
The taxi industry (mini bus or van taxis) makes this worse as they are forever hurrying from one pick up point to another. They have the tendency to switch on their hazard lights (sometimes they don’t) and suddenly stop in the middle of the road to off load or upload another passenger.
They also have a habit of changing lanes without giving any indication. It’s always good to assume a taxi driver is going to be a poor driver and be prepared to react accordingly.
You should avoid night time driving if you can, especially on rural roads as the roads can be dangerous and animals that have wandered out of their paddocks are common.
Car jackings are also possible. If you think you are being followed, head straight to a police station rather than to your accommodation to shake off the other car.
It is always better to be aware of potential danger situations but most of these are the exception rather than the rule. Driving through South Africa is nine out of ten times a pleasurable experience.