Self-drive family holidays in South Africa
Get ready for an unforgettable family road-trip in South Africa. Hit the open road and explore this beautiful country’s diverse landscape, rich cultural encounters and outstanding family experiences – all with flexibility to travel at your own pace. Driving in South Africa may feel a bit tricky at first, but with our handy tips, pre-set GPS, free Wi-Fi, and a sense of adventure, you’ll be cruising in no time.
Self-drive holidays have several benefits, especially for families. You can explore at your own pace, stop wherever catches your eye and be as flexible as you wish, and find hidden gems most travellers will miss. So pack up the car and get ready for a family adventure like no other!
Self drive or transfers?
Finding the right transportation options for each trip is essential, whether that means using public transport or arranging private transfers. In South Africa, many families opt for the flexibility of a rental car, which allows them to enjoy their stays at their own pace and discover more off-the-beaten-path locations—perfect for spotting wildlife! We definitely recommend self-driving if you like turning the journey into part of the fun. Driving here is easier than you might think—you’re on the same side of the road as in the UK, and all the road signs are in English, making it simple to get around.
Sat Nav/GPS
Aside from just helping you get to your destination, a sat nav is your go-to buddy for finding those out-of-the-way restaurants, petrol stations, and even giving you a heads-up about any “dangerous bridge ahead” signs. Just load it up with all your hotel names before you start your adventure, and you’re ready to go!
Category B: Volkswagen polo (or similar)
- 2 litre – automatic or manual
- Air-conditioning
- Room for 3/4 medium pieces of luggage
- Maximum 5 people
- Wifi and satnav included
Category C: Toyota Corolla Cross (or similar)
- 3 litre – automatic or manual
- Air-conditioning
- Room for 2x large and 2x small pieces of luggage
- Maximum 5 people
- Wifi and satnav included
Top tips
Parking – We’ve rarely had any problems parking in South Africa – you can almost always leave the car outside your accommodation. This will usually be free and parking on the streets is usually fairly easy as well.
Allow time – Leave an hour earlier than you need to. South Africa is a beautiful country and as you drive through it, you’ll see many opportunities to stop and admire the scenery. By giving yourself a bit of extra time you’ll be able to appreciate these moments rather than speeding on towards your next destination. It also gives some space for any pee breaks in between.
View our favourite road trip spots
Self drive terms and conditions South Africa
A self-drive holiday in South Africa is a great way to explore the country at your own pace. About 80% of your driving will be on quiet dual carriageway roads, with some gravel roads in rural areas. Thats why most tourists tend to go for small 4×4 vehicles, which are ideal for these types of roads.
What’s Included?
We think it’s important to have proper insurance while traveling, so we include full coverage with no excess in your rental. This all-inclusive insurance is part of our car hire prices, so you won’t have to worry about any hidden fees.
Included:
– Use of the car
– Taxes
– Full insurance
– Loss Damage Waiver
Full insurance includes (unless there is negligence on behalf of the client):
– Mechanic damages
– Robbery
– Car crash (covers the rental car and the other car as well)
– Damages to the car due to natural disasters
What’s not included?
Full insurance does not include:
– Damage or loss of the GPS
– Damage or loss of the emergency kit
– Damage or loss of tires and rims
– Loss or damage of the car keys
– Loss or damage of the license plate and car documents
– Loss or damage of personal valuables inside the car
– Traffic tickets
– Non authorized drivers
– Not presenting police report in case of robbery or accident
– Not calling the insurance company in case of robbery or accident
– Emergency expenses
Rules and regulations – check before you travel
If you are planning to drive to abroad, you will need to be aware of your responsibilities to follow driving laws in your destination country. We strongly recommend you make your own investigations before travelling. The RAC website provides useful information and tips on driving abroad.
Additional driver policy
Additional drivers are allowed at a cost of 569 ZAR per day. 2 drivers are included in the rate
Age requirements
Minimum 21. No maximum age.
License requirements
Full and Valid Driver’s License from country of origin and international drivers license. Should your driving license not be resident to the country of origin of your booking there may be a charge at an appropriate rate for your country of residence. Please note that you must have original driving license. Copies are not accepted.
Refuelling policy
All vehicles are supplied full and must be returned the same or refuelling charges will apply. The amount is the cost of fuel plus 100%.
Roadside assistance
Contact nearest location within South Africa. In the case of an accident, customer must complete a police report at time of incident.
Information subject to change
All information quoted here on rates, drop-off fees, insurance premiums and the terms and conditions are subject to change and can be changed by the car hire company or local government without any prior notice. Detailed terms and conditions will provided on the car rental agreement provided to you when you pick up your car.
