South Africa

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South Africa

This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the ‘Rainbow Nation’, South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures.

Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches of Cape Town; enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sample some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands.

Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town.

Above all else, its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.

Regions:

Cape Town, Cederberg, Central Drakensberg, Greater Kruger National Park, Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Namaqualand, Panorama Route, The Waterberg Biosphere, Welgevonden Game Reserve

Travel Styles:

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Regions

  • Cape Town

    Cape Town

    Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans, situated between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a…

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  • Cederberg

    Cederberg

    The Cederberg is a region of wild, dramatic valleys situated just 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town, between Citrusdal and Clanwilliam. Lined with citrus orchards and surrounded by magnificent mountains, the jaw-dropping scenes here become even more spectacular at sunset…

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  • Central Drakensberg

    Central Drakensberg

    The Central Drakensberg is home to some formidable peaks including Monk’s Cowl, Giant Castle Peak and Champagne Castle. The range rises to over 3000 metres in height and offers inspiring views and spectacularly scenic hikes. Known to the Zulus as…

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  • Greater Kruger National Park

    Greater Kruger National Park

    Situated in the Limpopo Province and bordering the Kruger National Park in northeastern South Africa, the Greater Kruger National Park is known for its abundant free-roaming wildlife, fascinating birdlife and is home to the renowned Big Five, which includes lion,…

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  • Johannesburg

    Johannesburg

    Johannesburg is one of Africa’s largest and most vibrant cities. It is an economic powerhouse in Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. This bustling city offers a wide range of activities, attractions and plenty to do in and around…

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  • Kruger National Park

    Kruger National Park

    Stretching over more than two million hectares, the famous Kruger National Park is one of the world’s largest game reserves and a truly remarkable destination. Owing to its exceptional size, visitors are able to experience fantastic diversity – from changing…

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  • Namaqualand

    Namaqualand

    Stretching for over 1000 kilometres along South Africa’s scenic West Coast, the Namaqualand is known for its stark, arid beauty. Once a year in early Spring, the Namaqualand landscape explodes into a kaleidoscope of colour. The dusty plains are transformed…

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  • Panorama Route

    Panorama Route

    Connecting the Lowveld and the Drakensberg, and sandwiched between the Kruger National Park and the Highlands Meander, the historical Panorama Route is a scenic drive in the Mpumalanga Province. The route features sensational views of natural wonders including fascinating rock…

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  • The Waterberg Biosphere

    The Waterberg Biosphere

    Situated amidst the towering Waterberg Mountains in the Limpopo Province, the Waterberg Biosphere, as the name suggests, serves as a water reservoir for the region. Renowned for its rugged beauty, the landscape is characterised by low-lying mountain ranges and escarpments,…

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  • Welgevonden Game Reserve

    Welgevonden Game Reserve

    Situated in the Waterberg District of South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Welgevoden Private Game Reserve stretches over 36 000 hectares of mountainous terrain cut by deep valleys. It is home to the ‘Big Five’, abundant antelope, over 250 bird species, and…

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Travel Information

Electricity

Plug Type: M Voltage (V): 230 V *A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.

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Banking

Currency Local currency: South African Rand Symbol: R ISO code: ZAR Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Rand) Banking Card Transactions: Widely accepted…

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Cuisine

Food and water safety: Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities Ice: Yes within major cities Meat:…

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Climate

Annual rainfall: Varies widely, Cape Town (winter rainfall, 515 mm), Johannesburg (summer rainfall, 713 mm) Average temperature: Varies, Cape Town 17°C,…

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Transport

Air: Main International Airports: Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), Durban (DUR) Domestic Airports: Numerous across the country Road: Driving…

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Dress

It is recommended to travel as light as possible as space is limited in the rear of the rental vehicles. Soft sided bags are easier to pack away than hard…

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Featured Tours

Reviews

  • Was really impressed with services provided by Drive Botswana. We spent 46 days and drove 6,000 miles (10,000 km) in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia. If planning a trip to southern Africa, I highly recommend working with Drive Botswana.

    Randy S

  • We travelled 30 days from Joburg to Cape Town through Botswana and Namibia. We were given a perfect description of every day – where to fill up petrol, food and cash – what to see on the way. THANKS!

    Sarah P

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Electricity

Plug Type: M Voltage (V): 230 V *A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
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Banking

Currency Local currency: South African Rand Symbol: R ISO code: ZAR Subunit: Cent (1/100 of a Rand) Banking Card Transactions: Widely accepted (VISA/Mastercard more widely accepted than AMEX) ATMs: Yes Banking Hours: Weekdays: 09:00 – 15:30 Weekend: Saturdays: 08:30 – 11:00 Public Holidays: Closed
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Cuisine

Food and water safety: Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities Ice: Yes within major cities Meat: Yes within major cities Local cuisine: South African cuisine is diverse and flavorful, featuring dishes like biltong (dried, seasoned meat), bobotie (spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping), and boerewors (farmers' sausage). The culinary scene includes a strong tradition of barbecuing, known locally as "braai." Drinks: Notable local drinks include Rooibos tea. Tipping: Tipping is accepted and indeed encouraged (where the service warrants it!) for game guides and camp staff. In restaurants whilst not mandatory it is expected that you will give a gratuity. The preferred currency for tips is South African rands or US dollars.
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Climate

Annual rainfall: Varies widely, Cape Town (winter rainfall, 515 mm), Johannesburg (summer rainfall, 713 mm) Average temperature: Varies, Cape Town 17°C, Johannesburg 15.5°C Summer: Average highs: 28°C (Cape Town), 26°C (Johannesburg) Average lows: 16°C (Cape Town), 15°C (Johannesburg) Winter: Average highs: 18°C (Cape Town), 17°C (Johannesburg) Average lows: 8°C (Cape Town), 4°C (Johannesburg) Best time to visit: The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September for wildlife viewing, as animals are more concentrated around water sources. For beach holidays, mid-December to March is ideal, especially in Cape Town.
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Transport

Air: Main International Airports: Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), Durban (DUR) Domestic Airports: Numerous across the country Road: Driving on the: Left Tar roads: Yes, well-maintained in most areas Gravel roads: Yes, especially in rural areas Drivers must carry their driver’s licence at all times. International photocard licences are accepted for vehicle rental however if not written in English a certified written translation is required. If the licences is not in English or a photocard then you will need to have an international driving permit.
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Dress

It is recommended to travel as light as possible as space is limited in the rear of the rental vehicles. Soft sided bags are easier to pack away than hard suitcases. Pack some clothing in your hand luggage just in case your suitcases are delayed. Clothing The summer months call for loose, cotton (or similar) clothing to keep cool. At night to protect against insect bites it is advisable to wear long sleeves and trousers, especially during the rainy season when insects are more active. Remember to bring your swim wear as many lodges have swimming pools. Don't forget to bring adequate protection from the sun with a squashable sun hat and sunglasses essential as well as suncream and lip balm. In winter the days are warm, often exceeding 20°C, but at night the temperatures drop, especially in the desert areas, occasionally dipping below 0°C so make sure you pack some warm jumpers for the cold mornings and evenings. When in wildlife areas try to avoid wearing bright clothing - khaki or similar colours are preferred although avoid wearing military camouflage. Footwear For camping it is advisable to wear adequate footwear and socks, especially at night, because of scorpions and insects. Open sandals or flip-flops are useful for wearing at other times. If you are doing any walking safaris or hiking remember to bring a pair of comfortable walking boots as well.