Road trip through South Africa

With South Africa Nomads, you can discover South Africa your way. Travel in a 4x4 with a roof tent, sleeping at unique campsites in nature or by the coast, or choose our lodge-to-lodge trip where you'll stay in carefully selected B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels.

A road trip in South Africa is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for variety and unique experiences!  Taste the wines of Franschhoek, kayak through the gorges of Tsitsikamma, learn to surf in Jeffreys Bay, and go on a safari in Addo Elephant NP.

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11-day itinerary through South Africa

Cape Town
Your road trip through South Africa begins in Cape Town. This city is known for its diversity and, of course, Table Mountain. Visit the penguins at Boulders Beach, hike up Lion's Head, or catch the sunset at Camps Bay.

Cape Town – Hermanus (160 km – 2h55)

Take the Clarence Drive to Hermanus. This charming coastal town is famous for the whales in the bay between June and November. If you're lucky, you might even spot them from the land.

Hermanus – Swartvlei (395 km – 4h30)

This place is a hidden gem. On a beautiful estate by the lake of the same name, you'll find the peace you need between all your adventures.

Swartvlei – Addo Elephant National Park (360 km – 4h40)

The next highlight of your road trip in South Africa is the famous Addo Elephant National Park. As the name suggests, this is the place for a safari.

Addo Elephant National Park – Jeffreys Bay (145 km – 2h)

This surfer's paradise, better known as J-Bay, attracts surfers from all over the world. You'll find great waves and a relaxed vibe here. Even if you don’t surf, it’s lovely to chill on the endless beach or at one of the cozy cafés.

Jeffreys Bay – Tsitsikamma National Park (145 km – 1h30)

Visit Tsitsikamma National Park and kayak on the Storms River or walk across the suspension bridges over the river mouth. For hikers, there are several trails; read here about all the activities you can do in the park.

Tsitsikamma National Park – Mossel Bay (165 km – 2h15)

Mossel Bay is a charming coastal town where the warm Indian Ocean creates perfect waves for both beginner and experienced surfers along the pristine beaches. Discover what you can see and do here.

Mossel Bay – Franschhoek (355 km – 4h10)

Your road trip through South Africa ends in Franschhoek among the vineyards. This picturesque town has many great restaurants and various wineries where you can taste wine.

South Africa Road Trip Map

Destinations during the 11-day tour in South Africa

Discover here which destinations the ultimate tour through South Africa includes.

Round trip South Africa Cape Town
Cape Town

This vibrant metropolis is nestled between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The city offers a unique blend of liveliness and nature, with the famous Table Mountain as a backdrop. Visit the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood or check out the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton. From spotting penguins at Boulders Beach to hiking on Lion's Head, there’s something for everyone in this versatile city.

More about Cape Town
Round trip South Africa Hermanus
Hermanus

The route to Hermanus via the spectacular Clarence Drive is an experience in itself. As you wind along the coastline, you'll get breathtaking views over False Bay. This charming coastal town is known as the whale capital of South Africa, where you can spot southern right whales between June and November as they come here to raise their calves.

Round trip South Africa Garden Route
Swartvlei

Relax in Swartvlei. This place is a hidden gem during your trip through South Africa. From your rooftop tent, you can enjoy spectacular sunsets while the sounds of the African bush surround you. Take a refreshing dip in the lake, stroll around the estate, or share stories with other South Africa Nomads travelers during a group braai under the starry sky.

South Africa Round Trip Addo Elephant
Addo Elephant NP

The next highlight of your tour in South Africa is the famous Addo Elephant National Park. Here, you can spot more than 600 elephants regularly at the watering holes. In addition to these impressive giants, the park is home to the 'Big Seven' – including southern right whales and great white sharks in the marine section of the park. You’re likely to see zebras, elephants, kudu, and hyenas here.

Jeffreys Bay

Jeffreys Bay, also known as J-Bay, is a legendary spot in the surfing world where the perfect waves of the so-called 'Supertubes' attract surfers from all over the globe. But even if you don't surf, this laid-back coastal town has a lot to offer. Stroll along sandy beaches, shop in the many surf stores, or enjoy fresh fish at one of the trendy restaurants. The authentic surf culture and the great vibe make J-Bay a relaxing place.

South Africa Tsitsikamma Round Trip
Tsitsikamma NP

In Tsitsikamma National Park, you can enjoy all sorts of adventurous activities. The iconic suspension bridges over the wild Storms River are a must-see, and while kayaking between the steep cliffs, you'll feel small in this breathtaking nature. For hikers, there are several trails like the Waterfall Trail, which takes you through ancient forests where colorful birds like Knysna Loeries flutter among the trees.

Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay is a great stop along the route near the Robberg Nature Reserve. This peninsula is home to hundreds of seals and offers beautiful hikes. In Mossel Bay, there are perfect waves for both beginner and experienced surfers. The town has a rich history as one of the first places where European sailors encountered the African continent, and you can still visit the 500-year-old Post Office Tree where early explorers left their messages.

Road trip South Africa Franschhoek
Franschhoek

Your South African adventure ends in style in the picturesque Franschhoek, the culinary heart of the Cape Winelands. Hop on the unique wine tram that takes you past historic wineries and taste the local wine for yourself. The main street is home to many award-winning restaurants, art galleries, and colonial architecture. The combination of French flair and African hospitality makes this the perfect place to wrap up your journey.

Your car and accommodation in South Africa

We offer two accommodation options in 2026.

Round trip South Africa 4x4 jeep
Road trip South Africa Suzuki Jimny
Road trip South Africa 4x4 jeep
Suzuki Jimny 4x4 + rooftop tent

11 days • from €975 p.p.

  • A fully equipped 4×4 with a rooftop tent
  • 1 hotel night in Cape Town
  • 9 nights at unique campsites
  • Roadbook & access to exclusive app
  • Entry to Addo Elephant NP + Tsitsikamma NP
  • Support before and on-site

Are you up for adventure? Traverse South Africa in a Suzuki Jimny, a well-equipped 4x4 jeep that lets you tackle all kinds of roads with ease. The car is automatic and comes with a rooftop tent and camping gear.

During the trip, you'll spend the first night in a hotel in Cape Town. You'll pick up the car early, so you can explore the city center and unwind from your travels. After that, you'll stay every night at a lovely campsite in nature or by the coast, with all the necessary facilities. Here, you can fully relax after a day full of adventures.

Car + Lodge-to-lodge

11 days • from €1125 per person

  • A Suzuki Jimny or SUV (for 3-4 people)
  • 10 nights in charming guesthouses & hotels
  • 8 breakfasts
  • Roadbook & access to exclusive app
  • Entry to Addo Elephant NP + Tsitsikamma NP
  • Support before and on-site

Want to relax after a day full of adventure? Choose accommodations in carefully selected guesthouses and hotels. Here you can enjoy comfort and hospitality while traveling in a comfortable car, a Volkswagen Polo automatic or similar.

You will stay in a cozy room with a private bathroom each time, and every day a delicious breakfast will be ready for you (vegetarian options available too). The only exception is during your stay in Cape Town, but there are plenty of fun eateries nearby the hotel.

Your itinerary through South Africa

This is the overview of your 11-day road trip through South Africa. Our route will take you to the most beautiful spots in the country. The overnight stays are already set, but during the day you choose which attractions you want to visit and how much time you want to spend there.

Want to learn how to surf during your road trip?

To add to your road trip

Are you looking for some extra experiences during your road trip? Complete your adventure with one or more activities tailored to your itinerary!

(Learn to) surf during your road trip?

Want to get better at surfing during your road trip?

Then opt for a surf package with 3 surf lessons, where you’ll learn to surf at three iconic surf spots: Muizenberg, Mossel Bay, and Jeffreys Bay.

With the surf package, you get 3 lessons of 1.5 to 2 hours each at three different locations, including rental of a surfboard & wetsuits. The lessons are available for every level, and the cost is €99 per person.

Highlights in South Africa
Road trip South Africa Surf
Road trip South Africa Cape Town

Start of your adventure: location & arrival

Your journey begins in Cape Town.

We expect you on the first day between 1 PM and 4 PM at the airport to pick up your car.

There are several options to get to Cape Town. You can choose to book your flights through us or book your own flights.

Book your flights through South Africa Nomads

Choose our editions with flights in October and take advantage of:

  • Specially selected, affordable flights from Brussels
  • Everything arranged for your trip right away
  • Perfect connection to your travel program

Check out thisoverview for more information on flight times.

Book your own flights

Prefer to arrange your own flight? You can do that for all our other editions:

  • Depart from your preferred airport
  • Flexible travel dates
  • Extend your trip however you like
  • Use your airmiles or other rewards programs

If you're booking your own flights, make sure the flight times match the start time of the tour. See here for more information.

Where and when can you pick up the car?

On day 1, you can pick up the car between 1 PM and 4 PM at our starting point at Cape Town airport. Here, you'll receive detailed instructions about the car and any camping gear. From here, your road trip can really begin.

On day 11, you need to return the car between 8 AM and 11 AM at the same location.

Your first hotel is located in Cape Town, about a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Practical information about your road trip

Here you can find more information about the trip, what's included, and what you can add on. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us via email.

What's included?

Your South African adventure starts at just € 1,175 per person (excluding flights). This price is based on 2 people per car.

The following items are always included:

  • A comprehensive roadbook with the full itinerary, explanations of all attractions, and useful tips & tricks
  • Access to an exclusive app with all kinds of information and an interactive map
  • Entry to Addo Elephant NP + Tsitsikamma NP
  • Support before and during any issues on-site

Included with the 4×4 with rooftop tent: 

  • A fully equipped 4×4 with a rooftop tent
  • 1 hotel night in Cape Town excluding breakfast
  • 9 nights at unique campsites
  • Sleeping materials: a double mattress (210 x 120 cm), sleeping bags, pillows, and sheets
  • Camping gear: towels, camping table and chairs, a small fridge, a shovel, a jerrycan with water, and a USB charging system
  • Cooking equipment: cutting board, pots, gas stove, plates, cutlery, and cups

Included with lodge-to-lodge: 

  • A Suzuki Jimny or SUV (for 3-4 people)
  • 2 hotel nights in Cape Town excluding breakfast
  • 10 nights in cozy guesthouses & hotels including breakfast
What can I optionally add?

You can add the following options to your trip:

How do I book my flights myself?

Are you booking your own flights? Make sure to keep the weekly schedule in mind, and feel free to reach out to us via email if you have any questions.

We expect you in Cape Town on the first day of your trip in the afternoon.

For example: if you book a trip for spring during the period from April 13 to April 23, you would fly to South Africa on April 12 and be back home on April 24.

Of course, you can also choose to fly to South Africa a bit earlier or return home later, but then you'll need to arrange your own transportation and accommodation for the period before or after your trip.

If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to contact us via email. 

How do I book my flights through South Africa Nomads?

We offer flights in 2026 with Ethiopian Airlines from Brussels(Zaventem) starting from €615 per person (excluding checked baggage).

If you book your flights through us, you'll have a layover in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for about 2 hours.

Flight Times and Prices

Your outbound flight is scheduled for the day before your road trip starts. The flight departs between 21:00 and 22:00 and you will arrive in South Africa the next day. Thisoverview shows the flight times and prices per week.

Expect 2 extra travel days before and after your road trip (these days are already included in the weekly schedule).

Help Center

We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions about flights for you. Do you have specific questions about your flights? Feel free to send us an email!

If you book your flights through us, they will be tailored to your travel schedule, and you can count on our support in case of any issues.

Which name should I enter when booking the flight tickets through South Africa Nomads?

Use your official name when registering, exactly as it appears on your passport or ID.

Where and when can you pick up the car?

We expect you on the first day between 1 PM and 4 PM at Cape Town airport to pick up your car. Here you'll receive detailed instructions about the car, the camping gear, and some basic traffic rules. From here, your road trip can truly begin.

On day 11, you need to return the car by 11 AM at the same location.

How can I travel insured?

We offer the following insurances:

Car Insurance

Accidents can happen anytime, so we recommend adding a damage waiver to your booking. This insurance costs you €37 per day and covers the vehicle when a member of your team is behind the wheel. By choosing this insurance, you won’t have to pay a deposit.

If you don’t take out a damage waiver, you will need to pay a deposit of €1000, and the excess will be a maximum of €3000 in case of damage.

Travel and Assistance Insurance

Want to travel without worries? Then take out a personal travel and assistance insurance.

Cancellation Insurance

Worried that your trip might not happen due to unforeseen circumstances? Then take out a cancellation insurance .

What are the additional costs?

This is what you will pay on-site yourself:

  • Your lunch, breakfast* and dinner: on average about €15-20 per person per day
  • Snacks, drinks, souvenirs
  • Tips for guides and locals
  • Sights and museums
  • Fuel: approximately €300 per car for the entire road trip.
  • Toll roads: approximately €10 for the entire road trip.
  • Local SIM card: around €20.
How many people can join us on this trip?

Traveling with the 4x4 + rooftop tent?
The Suzuki Jimny 4x4s are suitable for 2 people.

Choosing lodge-to-lodge?
We offer a VW Polo or similar for 2-3 people.

There is space for one group of three people on every departure date. If you're traveling with three people, the base price drops by €50 per person.

Traveling with 4 people?
Then you can book two cars by making two separate bookings. Just send us an email, so we know you're traveling together.

Traveling alone?
Check out WeAdventures. They offer a similar route as a group trip to South Africa.

How old do I need to be to drive in South Africa?

You must be at least 23 years old and have held your driver's license for 3 years in order to drive the 4x4. Please note: there will be additional costs of 79 euros per person if you are 23 or 24 years old to be able to drive the car.

Are you 25 years or older and have held your driver's license for 3 years? Then there are no additional costs involved.

 

How does the payment process work?

Within 5 days of your registration, you will need to pay a 35% deposit to confirm your trip. After that, you have until 45 days before departure to make changes to your options and pay the remaining amount. If you make any changes, the deposit will be automatically recalculated.

Additionally, shortly before departure, you will also need to pay a security deposit. The amount of the deposit depends on the car insurance you have chosen (more info in the car insurance section).

There are various payment options. Did your payment fail? Then there might have been an error when entering the reference number or you may have exceeded your account limit.

What are the Superflex cancellation policies?

These conditions are available for anyone who books early. You can use them to move your road trip to another date within the same season (subject to availability) or cancel free of charge until October 24, 2025 (for the spring edition in 2026).

Is there support on site?

Upon your arrival in Cape Town, you will be warmly welcomed by our local partners. They will greet you and provide you with information before your tour begins.

During your trip in South Africa, you can find all sorts of useful information in our app. Additionally, just before your departure, you'll receive an invitation to join a WhatsApp group with all participants leaving on the same date. In that group, you can communicate with each other, but there will also always be someone from the team available and on-site in case of emergency.

What documents do I need to travel to South Africa?

To be able to drive during the trip in South Africa, you need the following:

  • An international passport that is valid for at least 30 days after your trip.
  • A (international) driver's license that has been valid for at least 3 years.

Our rental partner does not require an international driver's license; a national driver's license B/EB is sufficient. An international driver's license in English is also valid in combination with a national license.

Do I need vaccinations for my trip to South Africa?

There are no mandatory vaccinations for South Africa unless you have stayed in a high-risk yellow fever country within the seven days before entering South Africa or have been in transit (at an airport) for 12 hours. In that case, a vaccination against yellow fever is required. Are you flying through Ethiopia? Then you need a yellow fever vaccination in case your flight gets delayed.

Regardless of the length of your stay, the following vaccinations are recommended for South Africa:

  • DTP vaccination (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio)
  • Hepatitis A vaccination (infectious jaundice). Hepatitis A is only important if you are traveling under primitive conditions.
  • If you haven't had measles or a measles vaccination, a MMR vaccination is recommended for South Africa.

You can check this website for more information or contact your family doctor or the GGD (Public Health Service) in the Netherlands.

Where will I be staying exactly?

4×4 + rooftop tent
You will stay at unique campsites along the route in nature or by the coast. The campsites are secure, so you don't have to worry. All campsites have sanitation facilities, and almost all of them also have an electricity connection. If there isn't one, you can use the power bank for a night. The campsites in South Africa can sometimes feel a bit quaint and European. You won't encounter large wild animals, but keep your food and belongings out of sight from the monkeys. Sometimes there's a swimming pool available.

Lodge-to-lodge 
You'll stay in carefully selected B&Bs, hotels, and guesthouses. You'll always have your own bathroom, and breakfast is included in most places. All accommodations we partner with are rated at least 8.5 or higher and are small-scale. Sometimes there's a swimming pool available.

Would you like to do your part for nature?

Through our partnership with Greentripper, you can offset the CO2 emissions from your trip. Your contribution goes to the certified Wildlife Cambodia project, which protects various forests and the wildlife that inhabits them. Additionally, Travelbase also contributes to every donation.

Is the Garden Route safe to travel?

The Garden Route in South Africa is generally a safe and popular area to explore, especially for travelers who are well-prepared. During your trip with Travelbase, you'll always be in good hands: a local partner is ready to help with any questions or issues, and you'll be traveling with other adventurers, staying in the same places every night, so there's always someone around. Plus, you'll receive a comprehensive roadbook with practical tips, including safety advice and which neighborhoods or roads to avoid. This way, you can enjoy your adventure worry-free!

info@southafricanomads.com
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