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 “no, thank you” (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.