Why Not Hit the Road and Drive Yourself Around South Africa

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.

Each toll road has an alternative road with no toll fees. Some people prefer the alternative roads to see more of the smaller towns and places you will miss when taking the highways. It will all depend on the time you have available to reach the next destination. These alternative roads aren't always as well maintained as the major roads and driving will be slower.

There are few things you have to be aware of while driving on South Africans roads.

When it comes to road rules South African citizens are not very law abiding. People drive either too fast or too slow. Pedestrians cross highways in a dangerous way or at night when they are not visible. Old dilapidated cars drive around with no lights or one very weak headlight barely visible after dark. Road rage is sometimes a problem but mainly during peak traffic on the city roads.

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.

Changing lanes without indicating is also a habit of them. The best is to expect a taxi to do something totally stupid and you will be fine.

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.

You should always be aware of the potential dangers but they are the exception and not the rule. For the majority of people on a driving holiday in South Africa, the trip will be nothing but a good experience.