South Africa Self-Drive Holidays

Garden Route: Coastal beauty and classic road trip charm

The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most scenic and accessible drives. The official route stretches from Mossel Bay to Storms River, although many holidays begin in Cape Town and continue through the Winelands or along Route 62 before reaching the coast.

Knysna is a lovely base for exploring the lagoon and surrounding forest. Plettenberg Bay brings golden beaches, good restaurants and nearby nature reserves, while Tsitsikamma National Park offers coastal walks, kayaking and the suspension bridges at Storms River Mouth.

There is far more here than a series of overnight stops. Allow at least three or four nights so you can take a boat across Knysna Lagoon, walk through indigenous forest, look for whales and dolphins or spend an afternoon on the beach. Families will also find plenty to do without needing to spend every day in the car.

Self-Drive Safaris: Freedom to explore at your pace

Kruger National Park is particularly well suited to independent exploration. Its network of roads links rest camps, picnic sites, viewpoints and waterholes, with routes clearly marked throughout the park.

Set off early and there is no knowing what might be around the next corner. You could find elephants crossing the road, giraffes feeding beside the car or lions resting in the shade. Sightings feel especially rewarding when you have found them yourself, and you can stay for as long as something holds your attention.

We recommend combining independent days with guided drives. Guides bring expert tracking knowledge and can take you out after dark, when nocturnal wildlife becomes more active.

You can also follow your self-drive with a stay at a safari lodge in South Africa. Leave the car behind for a few days and enjoy twice-daily game drives, good food and time to relax between wildlife encounters.

What to know before you go

Driving: South Africans drive on the left, as in the UK. Main roads are generally easy to follow, but distances are often longer than they first appear.

Choosing your car: A standard car is suitable for most established self-drive routes. A 4×4 is mainly useful for national parks, private reserves and more remote areas with rough or unsealed roads. We will advise you if your planned route requires one.

Collecting your car: The lead driver will usually need to present a valid driving licence and a physical credit card in their own name. The card is used for the security deposit, and many rental companies will not accept a debit card.

Planning your route: Avoid planning journeys after dark and allow more time than the distance alone suggests. Scenic stops, roadworks and wildlife can all slow you down. Download maps before setting off, keep some cash or a bank card available for tolls and refuel before entering quieter rural areas.

Staying safe: Keep the doors locked in towns and never leave luggage, cameras or other belongings visible inside the car. Put everything in the boot before reaching your parking spot and use secure or attended parking where possible.