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HomeRoad TripsAfricaSouth AfricaRepublic of South AfricaRepublic South Africa
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Republic South Africa Road Trip

Johannesburg - Bloemfontein - Griekwastad - Upington - Pofadder - Richtersveld - Nuwerus - Vredenburg - Cape Town - Hermanus - Mossel Bay - Plettenberg Bay - Port Elizabeth - East London - Mthatha - Durban - Richards Bay - Hluhluwe - Ermelo - Mbombela - Kruger N.P. - Polokwane

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Landscape Landscape
Wildlife Wildlife
Comfort Comfort
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Road conditions Road conditions
Republic South Africa Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages22 km5,857 h/stage3.8

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Republic South Africa Road Trip in Republic of South Africa?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,134EUR drive & more 788EUR sleep & more 1,111EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,907EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,041EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,701EUR drive & more 1,050EUR sleep & more 2,222EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,784EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,485EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,024EUR drive & more 1,425EUR sleep & more 3,883EUR eat & more 2,016EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 7,324EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 10,348EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,725EUR drive & more 1,588EUR sleep & more 1,155EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,751EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,476EUR
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Republic South Africa Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the best of Republic of South Africa on the Republic South Africa Road Trip. Starting in Johannesburg, this 5903km route takes you through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes, from the rolling hills and vineyards of Bloemfontein to the wild beauty of Richtersveld and the stunning coastline of Cape Town. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to explore some of the country's UNESCO Heritage Sites, such as the Robben Island Museum, the Vredenburg Castle, and the Cape Floral Region. With a recommended 21 day journey, you'll have plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of this incredible country. The Republic South Africa Road Trip is a great way to experience the culture and natural beauty of this amazing country. With good road conditions and moderate budget requirements, this trip is suitable for drivers of all levels. From the wildlife of Kruger National Park to the beaches of Durban, you're sure to make some unforgettable memories. The best time to take this trip is during the summer months, when the days are warm and the nights are cool. So, take the wheel and explore the Republic of South Africa on the Republic South Africa Road Trip.
number of days 21 number of days
route length 5,857 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level fair accident level

START Johannesburg

Distance 5,857 km Driving time 82.6 h Pace: fast 1,757.2 kWh Airports JNB
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Johannesburg, the largest city of the Republic of South Africa, is a great starting point for a road trip named "Republic South Africa Road Trip". It's bustling city center is home to some of the country's most important cultural and historical sights, including the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the Johannesburg Art Gallery. The closest international airport is the OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) which is well connected to many cities around the world. Once you arrive, there are several car rental companies available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip. Johannesburg is the gateway to the rest of South Africa and the perfect place to start exploring. There are many things to see and do in the city, from visiting the remarkable Apartheid Museum to taking a guided tour of the city's iconic landmarks. The city's vibrant nightlife is also worth exploring. For nature lovers, there's the opportunity to explore nearby nature reserves, such as the Pilanesberg National Park and the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. There's also the opportunity to explore the city's many green spaces, such as the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and the Emmarentia Dam. No matter what you decide to explore, Johannesburg is the perfect starting point for a road trip through the Republic of South Africa. With its vibrant culture and rich history, Johannesburg is sure to leave an unforgettable impression.

1 Johannesburg - Bloemfontein

Distance 424 km Driving time 4.8 h Pace: fast 127.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Johannesburg to Bloemfontein! This 424 km journey, which takes less than 4 hours, is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour. You will be delighted with the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. Start by visiting the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. This museum is a must-see for anyone interested in South African history. Then, take a drive through the rolling hills of the Free State and admire the stunning scenery. Make sure to stop at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, where you can explore the beautiful sandstone formations and take in the breathtaking views. Continue your journey to Bloemfontein and explore the city’s many attractions. Visit the National Women's Monument, the National Museum, and the Free State Botanical Garden. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the city’s urban parks and admire the vibrant street art. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Bloemfontein - Griekwastad

Distance 316 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 94.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip from Bloemfontein to Griekwastad? This 320km journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in South Africa. In Bloemfontein, you can visit the Naval Hill Planetarium and Reservoir, the Free State National Botanical Garden, and the National Women’s Memorial. As you continue your journey, you will pass through Koffiefontein and Brandfort, where you can find the Koffiefontein Wind Farm and the historic Brandfort Church respectively. The next stop is Petrusburg, where you can explore the Petrusburg Museum and the Petrusburg Golf Club. Lastly, you will reach Griekwastad, where you can find the Griekwastad Museum, the Griekwastad Golf Club, and the Griekwastad Nature Reserve. If you are looking for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find them in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go on a road trip from Bloemfontein to Griekwastad!

3 Griekwastad - Upington

Distance 257 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 77.1 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Griekwastad to Upington! This 257km journey only takes less than 3 hours, but it is packed with incredible scenery, fascinating attractions, and plenty of opportunities to explore the beauty of the Northern Cape. Start your journey in Griekwastad, where you can explore the ruins of the old Dutch Reformed Church and take in the beauty of the local landscape. As you drive to Upington, be sure to keep an eye out for the stunning scenery, including the lush green vineyards and the majestic Orange River. Once you reach Upington, you can visit the Kalahari-Oranje Museum and the Donkerpoort Nature Reserve. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history and culture, while the nature reserve provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful Kalahari Desert. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of accommodation options in Upington. From luxurious hotels to rustic campsites, you’ll find something to suit your needs. The city also boasts a variety of restaurants, so you can sample the local cuisine. This is just one stage of your journey, so don’t forget to check the “Itinerary” section of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

4 Upington - Pofadder

Distance 217 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 65.0 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Upington to Pofadder? This 217 km journey will take no more than three hours and will be one of the most exciting stages of your tour. Start your journey in Upington, where you can visit the Kalahari-Oranje Museum, the Orange River Wine Cellars, and the Augrabies Falls National Park. Continue your journey to Pofadder, where you can explore the Pofadder Nature Reserve, the Pofadder Museum, and the Kokerboomkloof Nature Reserve. This is an amazing road trip that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Pofadder - Richtersveld

Distance 323 km Driving time 5.3 h Pace: fast 96.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Republic of South Africa? Embark on an amazing road trip from Pofadder to Richtersveld, a journey of 323km that will take you fewer than 6 hours. Start your trip in Pofadder, a small town known for its unique rock formations and the Pofadder Nature Reserve. Here you can explore the region’s natural beauty and spot some of the local wildlife. Continue your journey to the Richtersveld National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique desert landscape is home to the Nama people and offers stunning views of the Orange River. Here you can explore the spectacular scenery, hike the trails, and visit the local communities. Finally, end your journey in Richtersveld, a small town located on the banks of the Orange River. Here you can visit the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, where you can learn about the local culture and explore the unique plant species. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and embark on this unforgettable road trip!

6 Richtersveld - Nuwerus

Distance 354 km Driving time 5.5 h Pace: fast 106.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready to explore the beauty of the Richtersveld and Nuwerus? This 354km journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in South Africa. Starting in Richtersveld, you can explore the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Orange River, one of the longest rivers in South Africa. The next stop is the town of Alexander Bay, where you can take in the views of the Orange River and the spectacular Richtersveld mountains. Further along the route, you can visit the small town of Sanddrif and the Augrabies Falls National Park. A visit to the Augrabies Falls is a must-see, as you will be able to witness the power of the Orange River as it cascades down the gorge. Your journey ends in Nuwerus, where you can explore the incredible Nuwerus Nature Reserve. Here you can spot a variety of wildlife, including antelope, zebra, and the rare Cape mountain zebra. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Richtersveld and Nuwerus!

7 Nuwerus - Vredenburg

Distance 337 km Driving time 4.9 h Pace: fast 101.0 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options camping sites
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Welcome to the Nuwerus-Vredenburg road trip stage! This is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of the Republic of South Africa, with a distance of 343km and a driving time of fewer than 5 hours. Start your journey in Nuwerus, a small town with a rich history. Here you can visit the Nuwerus Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the area, as well as the Nuwerus Nature Reserve, a great place to observe the local wildlife. Continue your journey to the small town of Vredenburg, located on the West Coast of South Africa. Here you can explore the Vredenburg Castle, a 17th-century Dutch fort, and the Vredenburg Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of bird species. This route is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the “Itinerary” section for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. We hope you enjoy this Nuwerus-Vredenburg road trip stage and have a great journey!

8 Vredenburg - Cape Town

Distance 146 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 43.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Vredenburg to Cape Town! This 155km journey, which takes fewer than 4 hours to complete, is one of the most scenic routes in the country. You will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way. Don't forget to pay a visit to the West Coast National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the charming towns of Paternoster and Saldanha. You will also find some of South Africa's most famous wineries in the area! Make sure to take plenty of photos of the stunning views and natural beauty of the region. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

9 Cape Town - Hermanus

Distance 217 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: modest 56.4 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Cape Town to Hermanus? This scenic 223km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete and it’ll be full of interesting places to explore. Your first stop should be the majestic Table Mountain National Park, where you can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. After that, you can visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and learn about the unique flora of the area. Continuing along the route, you will find the charming town of Betty’s Bay, where you can observe penguins, seals, and a variety of birds. Then, you can explore the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden and admire its beautiful flowers, trees, and fynbos. Finally, you will arrive at Hermanus, where you can stroll along the scenic cliff paths and spot whales. You can also visit the Hermanus Whale Museum to learn more about the fascinating marine mammals. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable road trip from Cape Town to Hermanus!

10 Hermanus - Mossel Bay

Distance 365 km Driving time 5.4 h Pace: fast 109.4 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Hermanus to Mossel Bay? This 365km journey takes you through some of South Africa's most beautiful scenery, and can be completed in less than 5 hours. The drive starts in Hermanus, a coastal town renowned for its whale watching opportunities. Make sure to take a stroll along the cliff paths and enjoy the stunning views of Walker Bay. Continue your journey to Gansbaai, a small fishing village known for its great white shark cage diving. From there, you will drive along the scenic coastal road to Arniston, which is home to the beautiful Waenhuiskrans Cave. Next, you will reach the town of Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa. Here, you can explore some of the oldest buildings in the country and take a drive up the Tradouw Pass to admire the stunning views. Your final destination is Mossel Bay, a popular holiday destination. Here, you can visit the famous Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, which houses a Maritime Museum and a Shell Museum. Don't forget to relax on the beach and enjoy some of the delicious seafood restaurants. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your Hermanus to Mossel Bay road trip!

11 Mossel Bay - Plettenberg Bay

Distance 142 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 42.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Start your journey in Mossel Bay, a coastal town of the Republic of South Africa, and travel 142 km to reach Plettenberg Bay. Along the way, you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, so make sure to keep an eye out for the best photo opportunities. With only two hours of driving time, you can take your time to explore the best of both places. In Mossel Bay, you can visit the Diaz Museum Complex to learn about the history of the town, the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex to explore the local culture, and the Santos Beach to relax and enjoy the view. Once you reach Plettenberg Bay, you can take a walk to the Robberg Nature Reserve for a unique wildlife experience, explore the Lookout Beach for a stunning view of the ocean, and visit the Old Timber Shed to learn about the history of the town. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey! You can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and wonderful trip!

12 Plettenberg Bay - Port Elizabeth

Distance 233 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 69.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Get ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Plettenberg Bay, Republic of South Africa. The 230km route, taking less than 3 hours, will take you through the Addo Elephant National Park and end in Port Elizabeth. Along the way, you'll be able to admire the diverse landscapes of the Eastern Cape, and spot the Big Five, including the African elephant. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the Zuurberg Mountains, and visit the Addo Elephant Park, where you can spot the majestic animals in their natural habitat. Don't forget to pay attention to the historical sites along the way, such as the remains of the 18th-century military fort. This is just one part of a larger tour, so make sure to check the itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your trip!

13 Port Elizabeth - East London

Distance 286 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: fast 85.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a spectacular road trip from Port Elizabeth to East London? This 285 km route takes less than 4 hours and it is one of the most beautiful drives you can take in South Africa! Start your journey in Port Elizabeth, the friendly city with its stunning beaches and the famous Donkin Reserve. While you drive, you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Cape, including the Sundays River Valley, the Tsitsikamma National Park, and the Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve. Once you reach East London, you can explore the East London Museum, the Nahoon Beach, and the Amalinda Nature Reserve. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

14 East London - Mthatha

Distance 233 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: fast 69.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from East London to Mthatha, along the Wild Coast. This 233 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete. Start your journey in East London, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, from the Nahoon Beach to the East London Museum. Continue your journey along the Wild Coast, one of South Africa’s most picturesque routes. Visit the stunning beaches of Coffee Bay and Hole in the Wall, the beautiful Waterfall Bluff, and the impressive Mtentu Bridge. Your journey ends in Mthatha, the birthplace of Nelson Mandela. Here you can visit the Nelson Mandela Museum and the Mthatha River. This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.

15 Mthatha - Durban

Distance 428 km Driving time 5.7 h Pace: fast 128.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Mthatha to Durban? This 434 km journey will take you less than 6 hours, and you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in South Africa. Start your trip in Mthatha and visit Nelson Mandela Museum, the birthplace of the former president of South Africa. As you drive through the Eastern Cape, you will be able to admire the beautiful landscape and take in the stunning views. Continue your journey to East London and visit the East London Museum to learn more about the history of the city. Take a stroll along the beach to appreciate the beauty of the Indian Ocean. Your next stop will be Port Shepstone, where you can visit the nearby Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, explore the picturesque gorges, and spot some wildlife. Finally, you will arrive in Durban, the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal. Here, you can explore the beautiful beaches, visit uShaka Marine World, and take a tour of the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Be sure to pay attention to the fascinating historical sites along the way, as you will be able to learn more about the history of South Africa. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage.

16 Durban - Richards Bay

Distance 172 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 51.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip that starts in Durban, Republic of South Africa and ends in Richards Bay? This 172 km journey will take you less than two hours to complete and you will find plenty of interesting places to visit along the way. In Durban, make sure to visit the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Umgeni River Bird Park and the Durban Botanical Gardens. All of these places offer amazing views and plenty of activities to keep you busy. The next stop is Eshowe, where you can explore the Zululand Historical Museum and the Eshowe Hill Nature Reserve. The museum is full of interesting artifacts and the nature reserve is a great place to spot some of South Africa's unique wildlife. Next, you'll be heading to Empangeni, where you can visit the Empangeni Museum and the Empangeni Nature Reserve. The museum is full of interesting artifacts and the nature reserve is a great place to spot some of South Africa's unique wildlife. Your final stop is Richards Bay, where you can explore the Richards Bay Game Reserve and the Richards Bay Nature Reserve. Both of these places are great for spotting wildlife, as well as enjoying some of the area's stunning views. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip experience!

17 Richards Bay - Hluhluwe

Distance 102 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 30.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome to the Richards Bay to Hluhluwe road trip stage! This 102km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, and along the way you'll get to explore some of the most interesting places in South Africa. Your first stop should be the Richards Bay Harbour, where you can take a boat tour and enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Then, make your way to St. Lucia Estuary, a World Heritage Site, and take a guided tour of the wetlands and its unique wildlife. Next up is the False Bay Nature Reserve, where you can go on a game drive and spot some of the region's most iconic animals. Then, head to the Emdoneni Lodge, a wildlife sanctuary home to some of the world's most endangered species. Finally, you'll reach the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest game reserve in South Africa. Here, you'll be able to go on a game drive and see some of the area's most beautiful animals. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

18 Hluhluwe - Ermelo

Distance 334 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: fast 100.1 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Hluhluwe in the Republic of South Africa to Ermelo. This 348km stretch can be completed in fewer than 13 hours and is the perfect way to explore the area. Start your journey in Hluhluwe, home to the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Here you can take part in a game drive and spot a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. Continue your journey to the town of Mkuze, where you can visit the Mkuze Game Reserve. Here you can take part in a guided game drive and spot the Big Five, as well as the elusive Pangolin. On the way to Ermelo, you can also visit the Nkomazi Game Reserve and the Mthethomusha Game Reserve. Here you can take part in a game drive and spot a variety of wildlife. Finally, you will arrive in Ermelo, a small town located in the Mpumalanga Province. Here you can visit the Ermelo Nature Reserve and take part in a game drive. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

19 Ermelo - Mbombela

Distance 226 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 67.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome to the Ermelo to Mbombela stage of your road trip! This 227 km stretch of road takes you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the Republic of South Africa. Start your journey in Ermelo, where you can visit the Dutch Reformed Church, the Ermelo Dam, and the Ermelo Golf Club. After a few hours of sightseeing, you'll be ready to hit the road and head towards Mbombela. On the way, make sure to take a few stops to take in the stunning scenery of the area. Enjoy the views of the rolling hills and grasslands and keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife. Once you arrive in Mbombela, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore. Visit the KaNyamazane Stadium, the Mbombela Stadium, and the Lowveld Botanical Garden. You can also take a tour of the Mbombela Local Municipality offices or visit the Shongwe Nature Reserve. This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

20 Mbombela - Kruger N.P.

Distance 234 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 70.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Mbombela to Kruger National Park! This 238 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours and will provide you with an opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in South Africa. Start your journey in Mbombela, a city of culture and history with attractions such as the Sudwala Dinosaur Park, Kaapsehoop Historical Village, and the Lowveld National Botanical Garden. Continue on to the Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa and one of the largest in the world. Here you can explore the park’s diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, and take in the spectacular scenery. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

21 Kruger N.P. - Polokwane

Distance 207 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: fast 62.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road-trip from Kruger National Park to Polokwane? This 207 km journey will take you less than three hours, and you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places in South Africa. The journey starts in the Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa, where you can enjoy watching the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes. You can also visit the God's Window, a lookout point with a stunning view of the Lowveld. The next stop is the Abel Erasmus Pass, where you can enjoy the view of the Abel Erasmus Pass Nature Reserve. Then, you will drive through the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. Here, you can visit the Three Rondavels, a natural formation of three round rocks resembling traditional African huts. The final stop is Polokwane, the capital of the Limpopo Province. Here, you can visit the Bakone Malapa Museum, the Polokwane Game Reserve, and the Modjadji Cycad Reserve. This is just one stage of your larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your road-trip from Kruger National Park to Polokwane today!

22 Polokwane - Johannesburg

Distance 306 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: fast 91.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Polokwane to Johannesburg! This 305 km journey will take you less than three hours and offers plenty of interesting sites to explore. Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is a must-see. Here, you can visit the Voortrekker Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Freedom Park, a memorial to those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedom of South Africa. As you drive through the countryside, take time to admire the picturesque landscapes. Be on the lookout for historical sites and monuments, as some of them are UNESCO Heritage sites. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

  Johannesburg

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The end of the "Republic South Africa Road Trip" is the city of Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa. Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis, known for its vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions and shopping opportunities. The city is home to some of South Africa's most iconic landmarks including the Carlton Centre and the Apartheid Museum, which chronicle the country's history. Other attractions include Constitution Hill and the Nelson Mandela Bridge, which offer stunning views of the city skyline. For those seeking a more active experience, Johannesburg offers a variety of outdoor activities, from mountain biking and rock climbing to horseback riding, bird watching and golf. There are also many parks and gardens in the city, providing a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Johannesburg is also home to a number of shopping opportunities, from the world-renowned Sandton City to the many markets and flea markets around the city. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). From there, travelers can easily reach the city by car or public transport. At the end of the "Republic South Africa Road Trip", Johannesburg is a great destination for exploring the country's culture, history, and outdoor activities. With its world-class attractions, shopping opportunities, and stunning views, it's the perfect way to end an unforgettable journey.

Republic South Africa Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the Republic of South Africa Road Trip for an epic journey through South Africa's stunningly diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Spanning an impressive 5,903 kilometers, this adventure commences from the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg and takes you on a 21-day exploration through majestic mountain ranges, expansive savannas, and along a breathtaking coastline.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Johannesburg: Start your odyssey in this dynamic city, known for its historical significance in the country's anti-apartheid struggle and its modern urban culture.
  • Bloemfontein: Known as the 'City of Roses', this judicial capital offers a tranquil retreat with its charming rose gardens and historical museums.
  • Richtersveld: Traverse the dramatic and wild terrains of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its unique mountain desert landscape and rich biodiversity.
  • Cape Town: This iconic city is a tapestry of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance. Visit the poignant Robben Island Museum, the imposing Castle of Good Hope, and the world-renowned Cape Floral Region, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Kruger National Park: Immerse yourself in the thrill of spotting the 'Big Five' in one of Africa's largest and most famous game reserves.
  • Durban: Relax on the golden beaches of this coastal city and experience the blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time for this Road Trip is during South Africa's summer months from November to February, which offer warm days and cooler evenings, ideal for traveling and outdoor activities.

Potential Risks:

The Roads are generally in good condition, but it's important to be cautious of potential hazards such as sudden weather shifts and wildlife crossings. Keep abreast of local advisories and ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for both urban and rural terrains.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • South Africa is home to eleven official languages, showcasing its cultural diversity.
  • The route includes several UNESCO Heritage Sites, enhancing your journey with rich cultural and natural insights.
  • A moderate budget can offer a comfortable experience, but varying options are available to suit different financial plans.
  • The journey not only allows for an extensive exploration of South Africa's enchanting natural beauty but also provides an in-depth look at its complex history and vibrant culture.

A good choice for:

The Republic of South Africa Road Trip is a mosaic of experiences, presenting an unrivaled opportunity to dive into the nation's heart. With thoughtful planning and an eagerness to explore, Roadtrippers will forge unforgettable memories of South Africa's awe-inspiring culture, unparalleled wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Facts for safer driving in Republic of South Africa

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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