The road infrastructure is excellent in South Africa so hiring a car to see the best of the country is ideal. However it is a huge country and not easily traversed in a day. Motorists choosing to tour around the country should be aware that fatigue is a major cause of road accidents.  It is therefore strongly recommended that those motorists not used to driving long distances should break up their journey. Colours and numbers identify main roads rather than by name.

General driving tips

• Plan your route and fuel consumption in advance. Note that bank credit cards (including Diners cards) are not accepted as payment for fuel 

• Have phone numbers of your hotel and destinations handy in case you get lost 

• Keep the car doors locked at all times and keep your windows closed

•  Lock valuable items in the trunk 

• Only stop at designated picnic sites 

• Never pick up strangers 

• Go to the nearest business or petrol station to ask for directions if you get lost

City Driving

• Headlights are switched on at dawn, just before sunrise and may be switched off at full light of day

• Headlights must be switched on at dusk, just before sunset and must remain on during night driving

• Seat belts are to be worn at all times by the driver, front and back passengers

• A recommended safe following distance from the vehicle in front is the distance of approximately 4 average sized vehicles

Country Driving

• While most national roads are tarmac and in good condition, the more rural the road, the more likely it is to be pot-holed and poorly surfaced

• If possible avoid all gravel, rural or unsuitable roads and be aware of pedestrians and animals, particularly on provincial or “country” roads