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Rickshaw Family
South Africa

Getting around South Africa

General information

If you’re starting to plan a family trip to South Africa and wondering the best way to travel around, keep reading… While Kruger Park and Cape Town are the stars of South Africa, there’s so much more to explore, and the journey in between is not to be skipped.  Our experienced travel team have shared their top tips on the best ways to travel around South Africa, and how to make the most of this diverse country.

Self-drive

Self-driving is a fantastic way to explore South Africa with your family! Having your own car means you can hit the road at your own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way—perfect for those “wow” moments. Plus, driving in South Africa is pretty straightforward; most roads are paved, and since you drive on the left, it’s an easy switch if you’re coming from the UK. Many families choose to rent a car and enjoy different accommodations as they travel from place to place. Just a heads up: some roads between Johannesburg and Cape Town can be a bit rough, so if you’d rather skip that hassle, you can always opt for a domestic flight.

South Africa 4x4

4×4

For families looking for a fun and adventurous way to explore South Africa, hopping onto a 4-wheel drive with a roof tent is a fantastic option! It gives you the freedom to discover the breath-taking landscapes at your own pace. After a day packed with exciting activities, you can cosy up around a campfire, gazing at the stars, and then crawl into your tent, listening to the sounds of nature as you drift off to sleep. And don’t worry about the morning rush; packing up your tent takes just five minutes! This means you can easily hit the road and move on to your next campsite.

Domestic flights and private transfers

If you’re short on time but still want to see as much of South Africa as possible, consider taking a domestic flight! There are daily flights connecting major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Durban. Many travelers choose to fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth to save time and enjoy a stunning view of the Transkei region from above.

If you have a bit more time to explore, definitely make a stop in the Transkei! It’s the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and offers a unique glimpse of South Africa that’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists. Flights within South Africa usually cost around £150 per person for a one-way trip, and if you’re thinking about heading to Mozambique, expect to pay around £260 for that journey. So buckle up and get ready for an adventure your family won’t forget!