A question we often get: is it safe to travel in South Africa? It's totally understandable to wonder about this. What’s good to know is that all accommodations are secured. There’s often 24/7 security or the places are monitored with cameras and fenced off. You’ll feel safe and at ease without feeling locked in.

You always have your own bathroom, so no hassle with shared facilities. Each room is nicely furnished and has everything you need for a comfortable night. After a day full of adventures on the road, it’s great to have your own little spot to relax.

Each accommodation has its own charm and amenities. You'll stay in a cozy room with a private bathroom, where you can enjoy a great shower and relax. In most locations, a hearty breakfast is ready for you every morning – vegetarian options are available, so feel free to mention this in advance. From fresh fruit and yogurt to eggs and toast: you'll start the day well-fed.

Some accommodations have a pool where you can cool off during the day after a long ride in the South African sun. Others feature a cozy lounge or terrace where you can unwind in the evening with a glass of wine. Wifi is available almost everywhere, so you can easily upload your photos and stay in touch with home.

Most accommodations are located in nature or in charming coastal towns, so you're always surrounded by beautiful environments. In some places, you can enjoy views of the ocean, mountains, or bush right from your room. In the evenings, it becomes truly magical in some spots when the sun sets and the stars come out.

One of the highlights of your trip is the overnight stay in a luxury glamping tent. This isn't just any tent; it's a spacious safari tent with a real bed, beautiful decor, and yes, a private jacuzzi. You'll be sleeping in the heart of nature, but with all the comfort you could wish for.

The glamping site is in a stunning location, overlooking the lush mountainous surroundings. During the day, you can enjoy the peace and nature around you, and in the evening, you can relax in the jacuzzi under the starry sky. The warm water, the fresh outdoor air, and the sounds of nature make it an experience you won't forget anytime soon.

Of course, you’ll have your own bathroom and all the amenities you need. It's the perfect mix of adventure, luxury, nature, and comfort.

During your trip, you'll also stay in vibrant towns like Hermanus and Jeffreys Bay. Here, you'll spend the night in small-scale hotels or guesthouses located right in the center or within walking distance of the main attractions. Convenient, because this way you can easily find a restaurant or bar in the evening.

In Hermanus, known as one of the best places in the world for whale watching, you’ll be within walking distance of the ocean. In just 100 steps, you’ll find yourself on the famous Cliff Walk Path. With a bit of luck, you might even spot whales from the shore during the right season. It’s just a 10-minute walk to the town center, where you’ll discover cozy restaurants and shops perfect for browsing.

Jeffreys Bay is the surfer's paradise of South Africa. You’ll be close to the beach, where you can admire surfers or take on the waves yourself. It has a laid-back vibe with nice cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy dinner in the evening.

In Cape Town, breakfast isn’t included with your accommodation, but that’s part of the fun. The city is bursting with great breakfast spots and coffee shops. You’ll be staying in the lively Sea Point area, where you can find all sorts of cool restaurants and bars.

One of the highlights of your trip is staying near the wildlife parks. In Tsitsikamma National Park, you'll sleep in a lodge right in the heart of nature, surrounded by stunning forests and the sound of the wind through the trees. The park is known for its dramatic coastline, deep gorges, and ancient woods. You'll be in a place where you can truly feel nature – in the morning, you'll wake up to the sounds of birds and the fresh scent of the forest.

In Addo, you'll stay in a cozy B&B with a pool, just 15 minutes from the entrance of Addo Elephant National Park. This is perfect because you can head into the park early in the morning for the best chance of spotting wildlife, and then return to your accommodation in the afternoon to relax by the pool.

When you say wine, you say Franschhoek. This famous place in the wine region near Cape Town is our favorite spot for wine tasting. You'll find beautiful wineries with Cape Dutch architecture, dozens of vineyards stretching up to the mountains, and a charming center where you can enjoy great food.

You'll stay in a cozy accommodation close to the vineyards with a view of the mountains surrounding Franschhoek. It's easy to grab an Uber to the surrounding wineries to wrap up your trip in style in South Africa.

A question we often get: is it safe to camp in South Africa? It's understandable to wonder about this. The good news is that all campsites are secured and fenced. You definitely won't feel trapped, but there is usually a gate with 24/7 security at the reception. Friendly people keeping an eye out day and night. If there's no security, the campsite is monitored by cameras and secured with a fence.

You don’t have to worry about big wild animals. Lions and elephants stay in the game parks, not at the campsites. Baboons and monkeys might occasionally wander onto the grounds. They're mainly interested in your sandwiches and chips. So, never leave your stuff or food lying around, because baboons are smarter than you think and love to raid an unattended tent. Keep everything safe in your car and you won't have any trouble.

Most campsites are nestled in nature: by a lake, next to a river, or surrounded by palm trees. In some spots, you can hear the birds chirping in the morning, while in others, you can dip your toes in the water. As soon as you unzip your tent, you're right in the middle of nature and often treated to a stunning view.

In the evenings, the campsites become magical. With minimal light pollution, you can see the starry sky like you've probably never seen before. On clear nights, there's a good chance you'll spot the Milky Way, an impressive band of stars stretching across the entire sky. Just remember to bring earplugs, as crickets can be quite loud at night. For some travelers, it's a soothing sound of nature, while for others, it's a reason to pop those earplugs in.

Along the way, you'll sleep twice right by the sea. You'll hear the wind rustling against the tent fabric, the calm and rhythmic sound of the ocean crashing on the beach, and sometimes you might even hear seals playing in the distance. It's a lovely sound to drift off to sleep with.

In just a few meters, you'll be at the ocean. In Hermanus, one of the best places in the world for whale watching, you'll stay next to a tidal pool. This is a naturally formed pool created by the rocks in the ocean, sheltered from the big waves. You can start your day with a refreshing dip in the clear sea water, surrounded by sea anemones and little fish. And if you're lucky, you might spot whales swimming by from the beach during whale season. Tip: watch the sunrise from the tidal pool for a perfect start to your day.

When you say wine, you say Franschhoek. This famous place in the wine region near Cape Town is our favorite spot for wine tasting. You'll find stunning wineries with Cape Dutch architecture, dozens of vineyards stretching up to the mountains, and a charming center where you can enjoy delicious meals in restaurants that combine French flair with South African hospitality.

You’ll be sleeping among the vineyards, literally. You set up your tent among the vines and fall asleep with a view of the mountains surrounding Franschhoek. The campsite has an eco-friendly little pool where you can cool off during the day, and zebras and antelopes roam the grounds. It’s truly a special place. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your trip through South Africa, with a glass of Pinotage in hand as the sun sets behind the vineyards.

Each campsite has clean sanitary facilities with hot showers and toilets. Usually, these are shared facilities, but at the end of your trip, you'll even have your own private bathroom. You can enjoy swimming in various places: some campsites have a pool, others are located by a river or have a tidal pool. It's refreshing after a day of driving in the South African sun.

Almost all campsites have electricity, so you can easily charge your phone, camera, and power bank. Except for one campsite, which you'll be informed about in advance. This way, you can fully charge all your devices beforehand and make the most of your power bank. Luckily, your car has a power bank that can stay charged even without an electricity supply.

Almost all campsites have a braai (barbecue) area where you can cook delicious South African meals in the evening. A braai under the starry sky with a glass of wine is a must-do during your trip through South Africa. Some campsites can even organize a braai for you, so you can relax and enjoy the delicious food prepared by local chefs. Most campsites are also within Uber or walking distance of restaurants.

The beauty of camping during your South Africa Nomads road trip is the balance between adventure and relaxation. During the day, you experience the most amazing adventures: surfing, hiking, wildlife spotting, wine tasting. But in the evenings, you return to your campsite, fire up the braai, cook a delicious meal, and share stories about your day.

Each campsite has its own character and charm. Sometimes you fall asleep to the sound of crickets, other times to the crashing waves of the ocean. Sometimes you wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the mountains, other times to mist slowly lifting off the water. If you have any questions about your accommodations, feel free to reach out to us via email.

The first few kilometers from Cape Town were quite exciting. Everything is a bit different: you sit on the right side of the car, the turn signal is on the other side, and you really have to remember to stay on the left side of the road. But believe me, you get used to it surprisingly quickly!

A golden tip that really helped us: the driver should always sit in the middle of the road. With that in mind, driving on the left during your road trip in South Africa suddenly makes a lot more sense. We also came up with a little mnemonic: if you're going left, that's a sLight curve, with the letter L. If you're going right, that's a bRoad curve, with the letter R. You'll probably turn on your windshield wipers instead of your turn signal a few times, but you really do get the hang of it!

One of the highlights of our road trip through South Africa was definitely the visit to Addo Elephant National Park. Going on safari in your own Jimny, how cool is that? But there are some special rules to follow. You must always stay in your car (except at designated spots) and there's a maximum speed limit of 40 km/h.

That low speed turned out to be perfect – not only for spotting animals, but also because you might encounter a turtle or even an elephant crossing the road! The high seating in the Jimny was really a lifesaver. We had a perfect view of all the animals and could easily take photos through the windows.

Tip: try to avoid the dung piles on the roads. They often have endangered dung beetles on them, and you definitely don't want to run over those.

On the road, we learned some handy lessons. For example, only refuel at large, well-known gas stations – and did you know that in South Africa, you can't pump your own gas with your jeep? The attendant will do it for you. A small tip (10-20 rand) is appreciated. We also recommend not picking up hitchhikers, always keeping your car doors locked, and parking in secured parking lots. Preferably drive between sunrise and sunset. Often, there are parking attendants who watch over your car for a small tip. If you park for less than an hour, you'll pay about 2 to 5 ZAR. For a few hours, it's around 5 to 10 ZAR. Check out this blog for more practical safety tips on the road.

Tip: Always avoid the Motherwell neighborhood near Port Elizabeth!

Traffic in South Africa is well organized, but it's a bit different from Europe. Speed cameras and checks are mainly found around the big cities – so you need to pay extra attention to your speed in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Along the Garden Route, there are far fewer checks, but the rule still applies: stick to the speed limit of 120 km/h on the highway and 60 km/h in built-up areas.

A unique phenomenon in South African traffic is the minibus taxis. These taxis often stop unexpectedly to pick up passengers. So always keep a safe distance. You'll also frequently see people walking along the road – stay alert and adjust your speed accordingly.

What’s also good to know: at most major intersections, there are traffic lights, referred to as 'robots' here. In case of a power outage (which unfortunately happens quite often), these intersections automatically become four-way stops. That means: first come, first served. It sounds chaotic, but in practice, it works surprisingly smoothly – as long as you pay attention and make eye contact with other drivers.

The Suzuki Jimny in South Africa turned out to be the perfect companion for our road trip. Compact enough for the city, but with enough power for the long routes. Keep in mind that it can get quite windy on the roads sometimes. Since your car is a bit higher and has a rooftop tent, it can feel a bit strange at times. Just make sure to steer carefully and drive slightly below the speed limit in strong winds. The 4x4 jeep in South Africa took us everywhere during the road trip: from Cape Town to Tsitsikamma National Park and from Mossel Bay to the wine regions of Franschhoek, where we wrapped up our journey in style among the vineyards.

Ready for your own road trip adventure with South Africa Nomads?

South Africa is big – really big. The climate in South Africa varies greatly by region. In the northwest, you'll find the Kalahari Desert with extreme temperatures and little rainfall. The Karoo, the central plateau, experiences dry summers and cold winters. On the east coast around Durban, there's a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers. The southwest near Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and winter rains.

And then there's the south coast with the famous Garden Route – here you'll find the most pleasant climate in the country, with mild temperatures all year round. It's no wonder our South Africa Nomads trips focus on this beautiful coastal route. You’ll discover the perfect mix: not too hot, not too cold, and always green enough for spectacular nature experiences.

The seasons in South Africa are exactly the opposite of those in Europe. When we are in summer here, it's winter there. This means a very different temperature rhythm in South Africa than you might be used to.

Winter (June to September)
The South African winter is characterized by warm, dry days (20-25°C) and cool nights (5-15°C). It's the driest season in most of the country, with low humidity and usually clear blue skies.

Spring (October to November)
Spring brings pleasant temperatures between 20-28°C. Nature awakens with bursts of color from the many wildflowers. This period falls right between two peak seasons, which means: pleasant temperatures in South Africa and few other tourists. Perfect for a road trip in South Africa!

Summer (December to March)
The summer months are warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C on the coast to 35°C inland. It's peak season, and the climate in South Africa is most varied during this time: some regions receive refreshing rain showers, while others are very dry.

Autumn (April to May)
Autumn offers mild temperatures between 20-25°C and stable weather. The summer heat gives way to pleasant days and still warm evenings. It's one of the most reliable seasons in terms of weather, ideal for a tour with South Africa Nomads.

In South Africa, each region has its own ideal travel time. If you're planning a road trip in South Africa, it's smart to keep this in mind.

The West Coast & Cape Town
The attractions in Cape Town are at their best between October and April. During these months, there’s little rain, and temperatures in this area are pleasantly between 20-28°C. December and January are peak season, which means: crowds and higher prices.

Addo & the East Coast
The region around Addo Elephant Park is 5-8 degrees warmer than Cape Town. In the summer (December-February), temperatures can reach up to 35°C, with a chance of tropical showers. The best travel time for this region is from April to November, when the temperatures are more pleasant (23-30°C) and it’s drier. Animals are also more active and easier to spot during this time.

Kruger & the North
The famous Kruger Park is best visited between May and September. This is the dry season, which causes animals to gather near water sources. Daytime temperatures are comfortable (around 25°C), but it can get quite chilly at night. Avoid the period from December to February, as it’s not only very hot (35°C+), but also very humid.

The Karoo & the Interior
The central plateau experiences extreme temperature differences. In the summer, it can reach over 35°C during the day, while in winter, it can freeze at night. Spring (September-November) offers the most pleasant temperatures and transforms the otherwise dry Karoo into a colorful sea of flowers.

Not only the climate, but also the temperature in South Africa varies greatly by region. During your road trip with South Africa Nomads, you'll drive through different climate zones. In Cape Town, there's a Mediterranean climate, perfect for the world-famous vineyards and a refreshing dip in the ocean. As you head east along the Garden Route, the climate becomes increasingly subtropical. At Addo Elephant National Park, where you can drive among the elephants, it’s already much warmer and more humid than in Cape Town. The temperature in Addo can sometimes be up to 10 degrees higher than in Cape Town.

• Summer (December-February):
  • Cape Town: average 25-27°C
  • Addo: average 30-35°C
• Winter (June-August):
  • Cape Town: average 18-20°C
  • Addo: average 23-25°C

The South African spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to explore the country. During these times, temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. The weather is perfect, and it's wonderfully quiet since the major tourist flows haven’t yet begun. Whether you're whale watching in Hermanus or going on safari in Addo Elephant National Park – everything feels just a bit more relaxed during these periods.

South Africa Nomads Roadbook + app

Before you start your trip, you'll receive a roadbook and access to an app. Our roadbook and app include all the information you need for a successful road trip in South Africa.

On one hand, it contains the complete route, including all the hotspots and hidden gems that you won't find in large travel guides. It also includes safety information for South Africa and the safest routes. The places we recommend are always suggestions: you can decide for yourself which attractions to visit and how much time to spend there. Additionally, our roadbook and app feature various fun spots where you can grab a bite to eat or drink.

Essential Safety Tips

For your safety in South Africa, it's important to be prepared before you head out. That's why we’re sharing some tips for the road.

In the car

Refuel when your tank is still half full and choose large, well-known gas stations. It's best to drive between sunrise and sunset. Don't pick up hitchhikers, always keep your car doors locked, and park in secure parking areas. There are often parking attendants who will watch your car for a small tip. If you've parked for less than an hour, you'll pay about 2 to 5 ZAR. For a few hours, it's around 5 to 10 ZAR. It's also customary to give a tip when refueling. Don’t be surprised if your windows get cleaned too. A tip between 5 and 10 ZAR is appreciated.

Personal safety

For your personal safety in South Africa, taking precautions is key. Spread your money and important documents across different places and use a money belt or a bag that’s close to your body. Make copies of your passport in case you lose it. In cities, it’s wise to take an Uber at night. Be cautious about displaying valuable items like cameras and phones in public.

Dealing with people on the street

In South Africa, it's common for people to approach you on the street. This could be vendors, beggars, or people offering help. Stay friendly but firm. A clear “nee, dankie” (Afrikaans for “no, thank you”) often works best. Don’t accept unsolicited help at parking machines or ATMs.

In case of a robbery

It's important to know what to do if you unexpectedly find yourself in a robbery situation. Your safety is always the top priority.

The most important thing is to stay calm and not resist. Robbers are usually tense and can react unpredictably. Therefore, cooperate and hand over your belongings – possessions are replaceable. Try not to escalate the situation. Avoid sudden movements and keep your hands visible. Avoid direct eye contact, but look down or to the side so you might be able to provide a description later.

Once the robbers are gone, find a safe place. This could be a shop, restaurant, or hotel. Call the police and the Travelbase emergency number immediately – we will arrange the right help and support you. We also recommend filing a police report.

Safety on the Road

The route you take with South Africa Nomads is relatively safe and very popular among tourists. We have chosen the safest routes for you, and in the app and roadbook, we provide detailed information on which routes and neighborhoods to avoid. Here’s some information for your safety on the road.

Townships

The highest crime rates in South Africa can be found in the townships and impoverished areas surrounding the major cities. These areas experience significant poverty, partly due to the legacy of apartheid, which still affects the economic situation of many residents. Townships also attract many people from neighboring countries seeking a better life in South Africa. Unfortunately, due to the lack of employment opportunities and high unemployment in these areas, there is a strong correlation with crime. Therefore, it's advisable not to visit these areas independently. If you really want to experience a township, do so only under the guidance of a certified local guide.

Safety in Cape Town

Right from the airport, you can see the different faces of Cape Town. Along the highway, there are several townships – it's safe to drive on the highway, but don't drive through the townships.

The city center requires common sense and alertness. You should be especially cautious in the center at night. It's best to use an Uber then. The iconic Bo-Kaap neighborhood, with its colorful houses, is perfect for photos during daylight. Leave this area before sunset. The famous Long Street is fine to visit during the day, but we advise going elsewhere in the evening. V&A Waterfront and Sea Point are a bit safer. Still, we always recommend staying alert, parking your car only in secured areas, and walking only short distances in the dark.

The hiking trails on Table Mountain and Lion's Head are generally safe, as long as you stick to the marked paths and ideally hike with others. Start early, and there will be more people on the trails with a lower chance of fog.

The Garden Route

The Garden Route is known as one of the safest regions in South Africa. This popular route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is traveled by thousands of tourists each year, leading to a good infrastructure with safe accommodations and secured parking. The tourist towns and villages along the route, such as Hermanus, Wilderness, and Plettenberg Bay, are lively during the day and quiet at night. However, it's important to remain alert and take normal precautions, such as not walking alone on deserted beaches and keeping valuables secure. But generally, you can enjoy this beautiful coastal route with peace of mind, especially if you use common sense and follow the advice of locals.

We have a few tips to share. For example, we recommend walking the famous Cliff Path in Hermanus during the day and not alone. In Jeffreys Bay, it's best to park at Main Beach and stay in the central area. Avoid walking alone on deserted beach sections and don’t venture too far west.

Port Elizabeth and Addo Elephant National Park

When planning your route to Addo Elephant National Park, local knowledge is crucial. Avoid the route through the Motherwell neighborhood near Port Elizabeth completely and opt for the N2 and the route via Paterson. You can also drive up to the Main Entrance via the southern entrance of the National Park and then head towards Addo. Leave early to arrive before dark, and make sure your car is fully fueled.

It's safe to drive around Addo Elephant National Park independently. The park is well-organized with clear roads and signage. The animals are used to vehicles, allowing you to enjoy nature up close safely. It's important to stay in your car, not to exit at non-designated spots, and to keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially elephants. If you prefer to be guided, it's also possible to book a guided safari. An experienced guide can tell you more about the flora and fauna in the park and ensure you discover the best spots without worry.

Road support: Ready for you 24/7!

Day and night, someone is ready to help you through the call center. Before you set off, we’ll explain exactly how to reach us if something goes wrong. All cars are equipped with modern tracking systems, and we even have access to a helicopter service if needed!

With over 40 locations spread across the country, our partner is never far away. Got a flat tire on the road? No worries! The roadside assistance will stay in contact with you until the problem is resolved. We drive new, well-maintained cars for the safest possible journey.

Save these important numbers in your phone:

– General emergency number/police: 10111 and 112 (mobile)
– Ambulance / Fire department: 10177

Be Prepared for Travel in South Africa

With the right precautions for your safety, South Africa is a beautiful destination. The locals are exceptionally friendly and helpful. By staying alert but not anxious, you can fully enjoy the breathtaking nature and rich culture. We are available 24/7 at South Africa Nomads in case of emergencies, and our local partners will be with you as soon as possible if anything happens with your vehicle. With this knowledge in mind, your trip along the Garden Route will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

Be prepared, stay alert, and enjoy everything South Africa has to offer.