The Ultimate South Africa Travel Guide for the Eco-Conscious

According to the data from the World Tourism Organization leading up to the pandemic of 2020, tourism is the world’s largest and fasted growing industry grossing multi-billion revenue each year and as much as 900 million international arrivals. That is a lot of people stomping the grounds of our already fragile planet. 

As a result of this, responsible tourism is gaining popularity with a huge increase in the development of new properties and operations that enable eco-conscious travelling. Even mainstream tourism has taken on certain elements of this but it still leaves many questions unanswered and a lot of work to be still done towards lowering the carbon footprint and pollution left behind.

How it all began

Ironically, the beginnings of ecotourism can be found in Africa’s nature tourism. During the 20th century, a vast area like the Kruger was put under protection with local inhabitants being forcibly removed to make room for reservation areas. Unfortunately, this left certain tourism regions isolated by communities, leaving them unable to hunt, graze herds or source out food and building materials.

The problems kept growing exponentially, there was a need for a different approach which came from such forward-thinking pioneers as the founders of Wilderness Safaris in Botswana and the Varty brothers in Londolozi. The result was a pioneering partnership forged between the government, private business, and locals – ground-breaking project such as Phinda in KwaZulu-Natal were started and degraded farmland was eventually returned to its original state. Soon, others followed suit, particularly in the region of Eastern Cape.

Today, Africa is a leading country in the field of responsible tourism and the only country in the world that has a “fair trade” mark for its tourism products. The following list offers a general resource and a selection of destinations to make your ultimate South Africa eco-trip.

General resources for green travel

As a great starting point, it’s good to have some general information before you decide to embark on your journey.  The following websites offer valuable wide-ranging information on sustainable travel. In case you need more sustainable resources, tips and explanations on how to travel in an eco-friendly style, visit www.frommers.com/planning.

www.responsibletravel.com is a great place to find sustainable travel ideas. The site is operated by a representative of ethical tourism within the travel industry, and all operators working on the site have met the company’s strict membership requirements. They are also co-sponsors of the international Responsible Tourism Awards nominated by tourists who recognize individuals, companies, and organizations in the travel industry who strive to make a difference.

Another useful resource is renting a free transfer car as your means of transport on the journey, which is not only far more cost-effective, but also greener as this type of journeys commonly consumes less fuel than the standard rentals. Their service is new to South Africa and functions so it connects rental companies that need to move cars from one city to another with people looking for a one-way rental. The driver “rents” the car for as little as R1 a day in return for relocating it, and the rental company gets a free driver.   

www.greenstop.net is one of many sites that offer “eco-worthiness” reviews for every entry and www.greenhotels.com provides recommendations for green-rated accommodation around the world that satisfy the company’s strictest environmental requirements. 

www.ecohotelsoftheworld.com is another worthwhile source of information as it is an independent guide that also allows readers and visitors to contribute. And www.environmentallyfriendlyhotels.com offers an additional source of information for green accommodation options and ratings.

Wilderness Safaris, South Africa

Thanks to their massive efforts in responsible tourism especially in Damaraland Camp, Wilderness Safaris have won numerous awards for their achievements that include a win at the Imvelo Awards for Responsible Tourism in the category Best Overall Environmental Management System. Another camp

Adding to a long string of achievements (including a highly commended recognition for their Damaraland Camp in the International Responsible Tourism Awards), Wilderness Safaris (www.wilderness-safaris.com) clinched a win with their Skeleton Coast Camp in 2008, winning the category.

Madikwe Game Reserve 

In the past, Madikwe used to be kilometres of overgrazed farmland until 1991 when it was turned into a 185,250-acre reserve, fourth largest in South Africa. In the course of the next 6 years in a project dubbed Operation Phoenix, the largest game translocation in the world. You can book your accommodation at Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge, the first fully owned community safari lodge in South Africa, or Thakadu River Camp, also the ownership of a local community.

&Beyond, Africa

In addition to rehabilitating an enormous number of wild animals at its 56,810 acres of land, &Beyond has done stellar work with the Africa Foundation that helps people living close to protected areas. In the course of their 14 years of existence, they have raised over $6 million and won some really important awards. 

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa 

Deeply devoted to Fair Trade Tourism principles, Tswalu succeeded in rehabilitating 38 overgrazed cattle farms and transforming them into the largest privately owned reserve in the region, restocking it with cheetah, rhino and the endangered wild dog. 

Ant’s Hill, Waterberg

Waterberg bush villas are prime examples of eco-lodging with their waste disposal, water recycling, sourcing locally produced food and energy management. They were one of only two African spots awarded four stars in this year’s Eco Hotels of the World competition. 

When it comes to eco-holidays in South Africa, the country is simply a true paradise for eco-travellers as there are many green destinations, accommodation, attractions and activities in this vast and beautiful country. 

Cape Town to Windhoek: A Road Trip to Remember

Driving from Cape Town to Windhoek will take you over a distance of about 1500km, depending on where you’re coming from. If your starting point is Gauteng, you’re more likely to fly but for anyone based in the Western Cape, it would be much more enjoyable to rent a comfortable transfer car and take a long but scenic 15-hour drive marveling the contrasting landscapes.

To make it memorable and fun, plan this as a proper road trip, take your time to do some trek, explore the sights and soak up the sun.

Getting prepared

The first step is always to make a good checklist to make sure you pack all the essentials. Start with your passport and all the relevant documents you’ll need at the border crossing. Pack enough snacks, water and some extra containers of petrol as in some parts of the country, petrol stations are quite far apart. 

Also, make sure you book your accommodation along your route in advance so you don’t find yourself in the middle of nowhere without a place to stay overnight.  Take a variety of clothing to cover all weather situations, from hot days to cool nights and don’t forget your first aid kit and all the necessary medication you use. 

Stop #1 – Clanwilliam 

Clanwilliam has a great reputation of a lovely, small, warm town that you typically just drive through during your road trip. However, it’s worth stopping by as it has lots to offer. It’s situated in the Olifants River valley, near the Cederberg’s 100-kilometre-long mountain range surrounded by citrus orchards and vineyards. It’s an ideal spot for foodies, hikers and nature lovers. 

Make a stop at the local Spar to enjoy some air-conditioning before you head to for a drive in 40 degrees, or you might decide to visit the gorgeous gardens at Yellow Aloe Guest House. The town also offers an opportunity to check out the rooibos route that will take you through the spectacular rugged peaks, fresh mountain air and beautiful landscapes with sparkling streams. This is a perfect growing environment for the rooibos so don’t miss the Rooibos Experience at Velskoendraai Farmer’s Market

Stop#2 – Kamieskroon 

A place not to be missed on your way to Windhoek is the tiny Northern Cape Town of Kamieskroon, especially in spring, when for a short period of time in August, you’ll be able to see the entire region covered by a blanket of multi-coloured wild flowers. 

In the vicinity, you’ll find a small but impressive Goegap Nature Reserve abundant with more wild flowers, beautiful dessert-like terrain with swathes of rocks, boulders and sand that make a perfect backdrop for wildlife such as springbok, gemsbok, zebra and an odd klipspringer.

Stop #3 – Namaqua National Park

 After almost 6 hours on the N7 from your starting point of Cape Town, right by the shore, you’ll reach the Namaqua National Park. The park covers a vast area that is typically dry and harsh, but after the rain between May and July, it turns into a valley of the most colourful flowers on the planet. You’ll see the beautiful lilies, daisies and aloe and various animals as well, such as the tiniest tortoise in the world, antelopes, aardvarks and baboons. 

Picnicking and staying here over night in the tented camp area under a star-studded sky is the ideal pit stop along your desert route. 

Stop #4 – Keetmanshoop 

Now you’ve crossed the border, but there’s still quite a bit of journey ahead of you which means it’s a great moment for a break and a stretch. Check out the Quiver Tree Forest rest camp in Southern Nam, some 14 km from Keetmans. You’ll have the choice of staying at the rest camp admiring the large wonky trees or making a quick visit with a snapshot for your Instagram before you move on to Windhoek, which is another 5 hours away. 

Stop #5 – Kolmanskop and Lüderitz 

Kolmanskop is the first place you’ll run into if you decide to take a detour to the coast. Located only 10km inland from the port of Lüderitz, it is now run by Namibia-De Beers. It was once a small prosperous mining village named after a transport driver, Johnny Coleman, who abandoned his ox wagon on an incline right opposite the settlement during a sandstorm.

Don’t miss your opportunity to take a ghost tour and snap a picture in a bathtub on a sandy dune! From there, make your way to the wonderful and windy, one-street town of Lüderitz, a harbor village known for its colonial architecture, German Art Deco-style buildings and fresh local seafood. 

South African and Namibian coast with their vast and desolate landscape might not be an ideal destination for a road trip at first thought, but with this guide and a free one-way car rental, you’ll have an unforgettable journey that will invigorate your soul and liberate your spirit!

How to Truly Enjoy Port Elizabeth on a Shoestring Budget

One of the friendliest but also underrated cities in South Africa is Port Elizabeth. This beautiful city on the sea with almost no traffic but with loads of fresh sea air, wonderful undercover restaurants and easy access to amazing African wildlife has a lot to offer to enthusiastic travellers coming there on a shoestring budget. 

A great opportunity for such tourists is the option of a free transfer car, a service relatively new in South Africa, that allows rental car companies to transfer their cars between branches in a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly way but at the same time, it gives the travellers the chance to have free transportation on their journey of exploration. 

So, with transport taken care of, get your bags, your good mood and the following list of best spots to check out in Port Elizabeth!

Hip Stanley Street & the Goodnight Market

An undeniable king of cool streets, Stanley Street in Port Elizabeth is a rightful match to Cape Town’s Bree Street or Jozi’s Maboneng, Durban’s Rivertown Precinct. Located in Richmond, one of the city’s oldest suburbs, Stanley Street guarantees good times with its hip restaurants spilling out onto sidewalks and fairy lights flickering in trees. 

Every last Thursday in the month, the Goodnight Market puts on a gourmet fest of craft goods and unites the best of the city’s unique venues, so you’re sure to find something for everyone’s taste.

A visit to the wreck of the Portuguese warship Sacramento will take you through a part of PE’s swashbuckling history. It sank there just outside Port Elizabeth on 30 June 1647 with its 72 survivors attempting a dangerous journey to a Mozambican port. You can either hire a guide for the day or go alone so you might opt to take a hike and enjoy the wonderful coastal trails between Schoenmakerskop and Sardinia Bay.

Cheer at Nelson Mandela Stadium

It’s a one of a kind experience to watch a live game of South African soccer clubs battling it out in this five-tier stadium that seats 46,000 people. It is home ground to the EP Kings, Southern Kings and Chippa United and but it also hosts Bafana Bafana and the Springboks. If you get the NMB pass, it’ll entitle you to a free stadium tour but you will need to book in advance. 
Admire the Animals
Just a short drive from Port Elizabeth is Kragga Kamma, a sanctuary for free-roaming white rhino and other animals such as zebra, buffalo, giraffe, cheetah, bontebok, nyala, and lechwe. You can opt for a fairly-priced game drive or do a self-drive. However, this can also be free your NMB pass! 

One of the most memorable things you can do in Port Elizabeth is seeing penguins at the SANCCOB marine bird rehabilitation centre situated at the Cape Recife Reserve

Another thing you can enjoy for free with your NMB pass is seeing the southern right whale and great white shark at the Add, a wide-spanning reserve also offers the best elephant viewing in the country. 

Enjoy the strolls outdoors

At Cape Recife Reserve, you can enjoy the 9-kilometre walk and take in unspoiled beaches and wildflowers, just make sure you also visit the lighthouse, another fascinating location in the reserve.

Blue flag status belongs to Homewood beaches and the Kings Hobie Beach lacks no charm and offers a great spot to launch a boat, play some beach volleyball, windsurf, swim or just relax in the sun. The small rock pools are a perfect spot for kids to explore.

Some 40 Kilometres out of Port Elizabeth, Van Staden’s Flower Reserve harbours and protects rare and endemic plants but there’s no entry fee. While there, pay a visit to the traditional Xhosa “umzi” (homestead) and learn about their traditional culture.

Finally, take a scenic stroll along the boardwalk at Summerstrand – it is sure to impress.

Visit the Algoasaurus at Bayworld

The skeleton of the Algoasaurus, a dinosaur related to the Brontosaurus, was discovered near Despatch in 1903. During quarrying for brick-making materials in the Nelson Mandela Bay Area, the brickmakers came across the bones. Unaware of the discovery, they accidentally destroyed some of the bones but luckily, quite a few remained which allowed the archaeologist Robert Broom to construct a replica of the dinosaur. Kids under three years get in free of charge and with an NMB pass, you get free entrance too.

South End Museum and the old Library

Run by volunteers, the South End Museum commemorates the tragic destruction of the local community as a result of the Apartheid regime. The floor of the museum displays the streets as they used to be and pays homage to the lives lost. There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcome for the maintenance of the museum.

The only historic building in Victorian Gothic style in South Africa was built as a Public Library and it still operates as a public library today. Gorgeous on the outside, it offers a chance for a pensive afternoon browsing the collection inside.

If you’re looking for more cultural events, in the summer, you can attend open-air Shakespearean productions at the Manville Theatre in St George’s Park. 

Relish in the local food

No trip to Africa can be complete without tasting the local food and Port Elizabeth has one of the most exciting and diverse foodie scenes in the country. For an authentic bite of dim sum, head to Mellas and for a taste of fresh bread and pastries head to Vovo Telo. It all started with the scent of freshly-baked artisanal bread in Raleigh Street, Richmond Hill and soon developed into a series of popular slow-food restaurants. Anything from fresh ciabatta, sourdough, coconut loaf, brioche, rustic and rye is available for take-away as well as their exquisite coffee.

Africa has always been a land of magical experiences so start your adventure with Port Elizabeth and see where it takes you next!

7 Stunning Wallet-Friendly Weekend Escapades from Johannesburg

Living in Johannesburg means leading a vivid lifestyle. This consists of both positive and negative elements. On the positive side, you’re living in one of the most propulsive African cities. There are more jobs, cultural events, and fun things to do than in other parts of South Africa. On the negative side, Johannesburg is becoming one of the busiest and noisiest cities in the world, so it’s beneficial for your mind and body to spend weekends outside the urban jungle. No matter if you’re a tourist who decides to rent a free transfer car or just a local family guy, you’ll find calm in the following places around Johannesburg. 

Camping in Marakele National Park

For about $60 for two people in a tent per night, the Bontle Camp in Marakele National Park will give you the real feel of the Johannesburg surroundings. About a 3-hour drive from the city center, you’ll find yourself in the typical natural environment of the South African inland. If you’re an animal lover, this is the right place for you because local animals wander freely around this park and the campsite. You’ll come across impalas, rhinos, sables, tsessebes, and other interesting species. As for the accommodation, you’ll enjoy comfortable tents equipped with modern appliances and devices. 

Manyane Resort in Pilanesberg

Mountaineers and hikers can find a perfect weekend escapade at the Manyane Resort in Pilanesberg National Park. This campsite provides dozens of different sites scattered around the camp area. You can choose from a place in the shade to sites in the open sunlight. The camp has enough power points and a variety of animals in the surrounding area, from brown hyena to cheetah to more mainstream species, like elephant and rhino. The price for a tent to accommodate two people is about $60, while the price only for a campsite including power is $20.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Another tremendous national park in the relative vicinity of Johannesburg – about 3-hour drive – Golden Gates Highlands is a cosy mountain getaway. You can choose from a variety of accommodation options, from sweet pensions at the foot of the mountain to impressive accommodations at the top. If you want to clear your lungs from exhaust gases, visit the Highlands Mountain Retreat. Placed at the altitude of 2200 metres, it prides itself with breath-taking views and lung-filling air quality. Every accommodation unit is accommodated with electric blankets, a fireplace, heaters, and other comfort-ensuring devices. The price starts at $95 for two people per night. 

Stone Tin Lodge in Dullstroom

Getting out of Johannesburg doesn’t have to mean spending a safari weekend or going uphill. The Stone Tin Lodge near Dullstroom is a lavishly furnished house with three beautifully decorated bedrooms. Situated by two dams and surrounded by curvy slopes, this lodge offers a wide range of activities. From flyfishing and hiking during the day to spending quiet nights on the terrace, looking at the water, you can combine physical activity with smooth relaxation. Think about getting a free campervan or an SUV to get here because the road is a bit demanding. The price for six people for two nights at this place is around $200. 

Wolwekrans Eco Lodge

Elevated high above the rolling hills of the Schoemanskloof area, the Wolwekrans Eco Lodge is a perfect choice for ecologically aware travellers. The position of this accommodation ensures total isolation from any distressing urban sounds. This place, built from stone and wood, will charge you with a special kind of natural energy. Also, the surrounding area consists of acacia forests and natural springs where you can swim or observe the azure colour of crystal-clear waters. 

Glenogle Farm in Magoebaskloof

Placed a bit farther from Johannesburg – a 4- hour drive to the east – the Glenogle Farm is a rural mansion that will take you back to the past. Surrounded by pine groves and forests, this farm shows what it looked like to be a wealthy landowner in South Africa. Also, it offers some modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and TV. As for activities, you can ride horses or enjoy the fresh food from ingredients grown at the farm. The area has a network or cycling trails so feel free to bring your own bike or rent ones here. The price is about $40 per person for two people and $25 per person for a group of four people. 

De Kunst Huisje

Situated in Bela-Bela, De Kunst Huisje is quite a practical getaway. After a 2-hour drive from Johannesburg, you’ll come to a vintage farmhouse displaying a plethora of artworks. The concept of a museum on the farm ground is a perfect choice for urban art lovers who need time and space for art and rest. From classical oil paintings to the collection of ceramic items and tins, this place gives an unusual combination of rural tradition and art. The surrounding area is the typical South African bushveld, with the addition of hot mineral springs. The price is about $40 per person per night. Getting out of Johannesburg from time to time is healthy both for your mind and your body. Whatever place from this guide you choose, you won’t regret. If possible, go to each of these destinations and see for yourself why Johannesburgers often choose them as their weekend getaways.

Things That Make Durban a Must-Visit City

As the third-largest city and the busiest port in South Africa, Durban is joining Cape Town and Johannesburg as a popular travel destination in this part of Africa. What makes Durban an authentic place to visit, is the Asian atmosphere it has since this metropolitan city is home to the largest concentration of people of Indian origin outside of India. Apart from this, many things make Durban a desirable destination. With this in mind, why don’t you get a free campervan and set off to discover another jewel in South Africa’s crown?

Beaches

Owing to its favourable location in South Africa, Durban has a very pleasant climate which allows both tourists and locals to take a dip in the sea during all seasons, not just in summer, as is the case with Cape Town for example. As a result, Durban’s Golden Mile or The Mile, beachfront stretch with a long and wide promenade, is one of the most popular sights in the city. Both heaven for swimmers and surfers, The Mile is packed with international travellers in the summer, while most of the domestic ones decide to visit and engage in water sport activities in the winter. 

Lively neighbourhoods

Apart from the beaches, Durban offers some unique attractions all through its many neighbourhoods for everyone to enjoy. The foodies will be delighted to know that in the Rivertown District there is a night food market where you can taste some of the best local dishes, while during the day they can find some quirky places to eat in Leafy Glenwood. The night owls will find the majority of pubs, bars, and clubs in the more modern neighbourhood of Durban, Station Drive Precinct or in the Morningside.  

Victoria Street Market

In case you are interested in experiencing the Asian feel in Africa, then Victoria Street Market in Durban is the right place to visit. Located in Bertha Mkhize Street, this market is a true example of how the cultures of two different continents can combine and provide a unique and authentic atmosphere. Here you will find a wide variety of Indian spices, and North African jewellery and arts.

Drakensberg

Another iconic landmark of Durban is Drakensberg. This escarpment stretches for over 1000 km from the south to the north. The greatest thing about this location is that it contains a wide and accessible plateau to admire the majestic landscape, while its peaks and slopes allow hiking only recommended to those experienced hikers in great physical shape since the conditions tend to become highly volatile at times. 

Walking tours

Organised walking tours are a great way to explore the city and discover all its wonderful sights and attractions. Like many other cities in the world, Durban also offers several walking tours for their visitors guided by professionals. Some of the most popular ones are the Historical Walking Tour, and the Oriental Walking Tour. The first one takes you to the city’s most historic buildings and museums along with the Farewell Square, and the City Hall so you can acquaint yourself with the historical heritage of Durban. The second tour contains some interesting places such as the Old Durban Station, food markets, and the Point. 

Snorkelling

Given the beaches all year round, the warm and clear sea, and rich sea life, Durban is a great place for snorkelling all through the year. For the ultimate snorkelling experience, try Umdloti Pools, Salt Rock tidal pool or Thompsons’s on the north coast. Also, uShaka Beach and Vetch’s Pier are good for snorkelling and diving too. 

The Sardine Run of South Africa

This event takes place from May through July every year when billions of silver sardines start migrating from the cold waters of Aghulas Bank to warmer areas along the east coast of South Africa. Their migration triggers feeding frenzy when larger fish and birds notice the incredible amount of sardines available along the coastline. 

SkyCar

Durban had undergone serious renovations prior to the 2010 World Cup when a modern Moses Mabhida Stadium was built. Although it is one of the largest stadiums in South Africa, this is not why the tourists visit this stadium. The stadium offers the opportunity of 360º view of Durban from its skycar. It takes only 2 minutes to reach the top of the arch and enjoy the breathtaking view of the whole Durban.

Nature

This city has much to offer both in its centre and on its outskirts. To explore the nature around the city, don’t miss a chance to visit the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, a sanctuary with abundant wildlife and numerous wetland species, the Beachwood Mangroves Reserve, home to three different species of mangroves and several unique animal species, and Hawaan Forest, to explore the forest on a dune. 

People’s Park

This is one of the favourite locations in town. Found below the stadium, this park is the ideal place to spend an afternoon with your children. While they are playing on the playground, you can relax and enjoy your coffee at the nearby café. 

These are the most authentic things that make Durban a must-visit city. Rent a free transfer car to fully enjoy the genuine Durban experience. 

South Africa: Memorable Road Trip Adventures

From the dusty outback of the Northern Cape and quaint small towns of the Western Cape, to bustling cities and the other-worldly boondocks of Mpumalanga, roads are the lifeblood of South Africa. They offer plenty of opportunities to explore the unknown and experience the very soul of this great country. Pack your luggage, gather your friends, rent a free car, compile an awesome playlist and let’s explore some fabulous road trips in South Africa.

Cape Route 62

If delicious food, good wine, unusual experiences and Instagram-worthy landscapes get your pulse running, then the Cape Route 62 is an ideal road trip for you, taking you through charming towns and introducing your palate to some truly great artisanal treats. It stretches from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town and encompasses lovely little towns as Humansdorp, Oudtshoorn, Tulbagh, Worcester, Barrydale, Robertson, and Calitzdorp.

It is also considered the longest wine route in the world, meandering through some of the country’s most fertile wine valleys. Spring (September to November) is the optimal season for taking this delightful road trip, when the landscapes are lush and colourful and the weather is simply fantastic.

Panorama Route

As one of the most amazing scenic routes in South Africa, the Panorama Route is a real feast for the eyes and a true release for the mind. Weaving through the divine emerald landscapes of Mpumalanga, it hides some of the most magnificent waterfalls and exciting hiking trails in the country.

The route stretches from the charming forestry town of Sabie, through Graskop, Pilgrim’s Rest (a museum town and a heritage site surrounded by lush green mountains), all the way to the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. If you have some extra time on your hands, you can take a slight detour to Kroonstad, in the Free State, around September/October to marvel at the fields of blooming sunflowers.
Karoo

This journey goes through the peaceful pastures of canola fields, old Victorian railway towns as Maitjiesfontein, to immensely spiritual places as the Tankwa Karoo. Divided into two distinct parts, the Karoo road trip can explore either the Groot Karoo, which occupies the heart of South Africa’s inland, or the Klein Karoo (a 300 km long strip of mountainous semi-desert between George and Worcester). 

Its delightful mix of vast open spaces, ragged mountains, idiosyncratic little towns, star-spangled skies, quaint windmills, and sheep farms makes this road trip truly unique. Whichever direction you choose, up to the Northern Cape or towards the east coast, you are bound to stumble upon something fascinating and beautiful along the way.
Garden Route

Around 200 km long, the Garden Route takes in placid lakes, dense forests and some outrageously gorgeous beaches. Known as much for its natural beauty as for its outdoor activities, along the way you can stop to leap into water-filled canyons, learn to surf or dive to shipwrecks. 

It stretches through Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Nature’s Valley, and the Tsitsikamma National Park, offering inspiration to a number of artists, whose regular presence gives this route a trendy flavour. 

West Coast

Starting in Melkbosstrand and stretching through Darling, Langebaan, Paternoster, and the bays of Elands and Lamberts, the West Coast pulls free spirits and ocean lovers. It’s one of those journeys where you roll your windows down and turn the music up, all about taking it easy and enjoying the ride.

You can indulge yourself with freshly baked pastry and homemade strawberry jams offbeat padstals (farm stalls), witness the explosion of gorgeous spring flowers that turn the coast into a magical garden, cruise through quaint fishing villages searching for the best fish and chips your money can buy, surf at Stilbaai, and camp by the ocean in Namaqua National Park

A road trip across South Africa is most likely one of the most amazing trips you’ll ever take. So, find that free car rental and start creating the memories that make your life a delightful escapade it is meant to be.