Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Essential Tips for Buying a Used Car in South Africa
Buying a used car in South Africa requires some research and planning ahead to avoid getting stuck with a lemon. Here are some key tips to ensure you find a reliable set of wheels for your South African road trip adventure:
Inspect Thoroughly - Be sure to take any used car you're considering to an independent mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection. They will check under the hood and under the chassis for issues not immediately visible. This upfront investment could save thousands in repair costs down the road.
Ask for Service Records - Reviewing maintenance and service records from the previous owner will give you insight into how well a used car was cared for. Regular oil changes, tune ups, and part replacements are good signs. Gaps in service may indicate neglect.
Take a Test Drive - Don't even consider buying a used car without taking it for an extended test drive in different conditions. Accelerate hard, brake firmly, and take tight turns. Listen for odd noises or feelings. Test all accessories like lights, wipers, radio, and seat adjustments.
Check Safety Features - Ensure all seatbelts are operational. Examine tires for adequate tread depth and any cracks/deformities. Make sure headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all functioning. These items are critical for safety during your road trip.
Consider Insurance - Before finalizing any used car purchase, contact your insurance company to get quotes on coverage. Some older or high-risk models may be expensive to insure. Factor this into the overall cost.
Negotiate the Price - Research prices for the specific used car model you want using resources like AutoTrader. Don't be afraid to make a lower offer than asking price, but be reasonable. Pointing out flaws can justify a discount.
Get it Inspected - Once you've negotiated a tentative deal, make it contingent on a clean inspection report from your mechanic. This will catch any issues not visible during your test drive.
Secure Financing - If you need financing, get pre-approved by your bank/credit union before visiting dealers. This will give you bargaining power and prevent sneaky financing fees. Arrange insurance ahead of time as well.
What else is in this post?
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Essential Tips for Buying a Used Car in South Africa
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Mapping Out the Ultimate South African Road Trip Route
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Must-See Scenic Drives and Viewpoints
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Top National Parks and Game Reserves to Explore
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Adventure Activities Along the Way - Hiking, Surfing, and More
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Sampling Delicious Local Food and Drink
- Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Where to Camp or Find Affordable Accommodations
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Mapping Out the Ultimate South African Road Trip Route
With its incredibly diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities, South Africa is a road tripper's paradise. But with so many potential routes and destinations, planning the ultimate South African road trip can feel daunting. The key is mapping out a route that strikes the perfect balance between taking in the country's top sights and leaving room for spontaneous detours and hidden gems.
The classic South African road trip route forms a loop starting in Johannesburg and heading east along the scenic Drakensberg Escarpment through Kruger National Park. This allows you to spot the Big Five and take in the dramatic Blyde River Canyon before turning south to the coast. From here, trace the famous Garden Route with stops in Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, and Mossel Bay where you can try world-class surfing, hike through ancient forests, or cage dive with great white sharks.
Next, head west through ostrich country in Oudtshoorn and the fruit orchards around Cape Town for amazing wine tastings. Complete the loop by returning north through the arid West Coast and Namaqualand region famous for explosive wildflower blooms in spring. You'll pass massive granite domes, quaint villages, and oceanside national parks perfect for spotting whales and penguins.
While this route provides a superb introduction to South Africa, adding in some side trips and detours will take your adventure to the next level. Venture to the Drakensberg Mountains where you can summit 11,000 foot peaks and explore ancient San rock art. Or head to the semi-desert of Namibia to see massive red sand dunes and starry night skies unpolluted by light.
Lesser-known highlights include searching for whales and dolphins along the Wild Coast, hiking through the subtropical forests of the Garden Route, and sampling delicious cuisine in Durban's bustling Indian Quarter. Wherever you go, be sure to chat with locals - their insider tips will lead you places no guidebook ever could.
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Must-See Scenic Drives and Viewpoints
The open roads of South Africa offer boundless opportunities for cruising past jaw-dropping vistas. While stunning viewpoints await around every bend, certain routes stand out for their abundance of must-see scenery guaranteed to inspire goosebumps and gratuitous photo stops. Grab the wheel, roll down the windows, and let these spectacular drives satiate your craving for wild beauty.
The Panorama Route threads together some of South Africa's most picturesque pitstops. Linking Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, this route winds past magnificent mountains, plunging waterfalls, and the world's third largest canyon. Pull over at God's Window for a vertigo-inducing glimpse over the edge, where sheer cliffs plummet 2500 feet to the lush Lowveld below. Further along, take a moment to appreciate the astounding scale of Blyde River Canyon, with red sandstone walls rising over 2000 feet from the river cutting through its base.
Next up is Chapman's Peak Drive, hugging the sheer flank of its namesake mountain west of Cape Town. The road twists and turns past rocky cliffs with the shimmering Atlantic Ocean far below. Designated viewpoints every few miles give you a safe place to stop and absorb the magnificent vistas. Be sure to time your drive for sunset when the fading golden light illuminates the peaks and ocean in a magical glow.
For sheer diversity of landscapes, the Wild Coast is hard to top. As the name implies, the scenery here is rugged and unspoiled. One highlight is the Mkambati Nature Reserve section near Port St Johns. The road dips down to a pristine beach with aquamarine waters and narrow rock formations protruding from the surf. Just inland, a grassy plateau tops sheer cliffs with panoramic views of forested ravines ending at the beach.
No South African road trip is complete without a spin through the legendary Garden Route. Running from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this drive boasts one incredible view after another. For peaceful seascapes, pull over at Victoria Bay to appreciate the arc of golden sand against the vibrant blue Indian Ocean. At Knysna Heads, grab a view of the area's two massive cliffs guarding the opening to an expansive lagoon and pristine estuary.
Finally, don't miss the opportunity to marvel at Table Mountain, arguably South Africa's most iconic vista. There are many pull-offs on Chapman's Peak Drive where you can simply stop and soak up this stunning flat-topped peak looming over the lively city below. Built from massive blocks of sandstone, it's believed to be over 600 million years old, making it one of the world's oldest mountains.
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Top National Parks and Game Reserves to Explore
No South African road trip is complete without venturing into the country's world-renowned national parks and private game reserves. These wilderness areas protect an astonishing diversity of landscapes and wildlife. Exploring them will bring you up close with the famed Big Five as well as rare species found nowhere else on Earth.
Kruger National Park is South Africa's most iconic and accessible safari destination. At over 7500 square miles, it's one of Africa's largest game reserves with excellent infrastructure. Paved roads make self-driving safaris a breeze while accommodation ranges from campsites to luxury lodges. Kruger's size and variety of habitats mean great wildlife viewing on drives, walks, and night safaris. You can expect to spot the entire Big Five along with cheetahs, hundreds of bird species, and over 1000 types of trees. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards napping in marula trees!
For a more exclusive safari experience, Sabi Sands Game Reserve shares an unfenced border with Kruger. The lack of fences allows animals to roam freely between the two areas. Sabi Sands is notable for its high leopard density and intimate safari experience. Most properties here limit the number of vehicles at animal sightings, so you may be the only ones watching a mother leopard teaching her cubs to hunt. We had several leopard encounters just meters away - a truly magical experience!
Move west to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Contrasting ecosystems from wide beaches to dense forests offer superb wildlife viewing opportunities. Take a walk on the Maphelane dune trail for a good chance of spotting whales and dolphins just offshore. At Lake St. Lucia, one of Africa’s largest estuarine systems, spot enormous crocs and hippos from a sunset cruise. We also saw rare antelope like red duiker and spotted other endemic species like the bright purple galliwasp lizard.
For the ultimate Big Five experience, head to private reserves like Londolozi or MalaMala bordering Kruger in Sabi Sands. Being privately owned means these luxury lodges can offer exhilarating night drives and walking safaris for extreme close-up encounters. During one heart-pounding night drive, we tracked a pride of lions stalking and eventually taking down a nyala antelope - a memorable sight under the dazzling Milky Way.
Off the typical safari route, Addo Elephant National Park near Port Elizabeth protects the densest African elephant population on Earth. In addition to hundreds of elephants, you’re likely to spot lion, buffalo, rhino, zebra and even great white sharks offshore! We recommend Addo for guaranteed elephant sightings - we got within just meters of these magnificent pachyderms.
For diverse landscapes and marine life, West Coast National Park spans golden beaches, wetlands, and lagoons. Birders flock here to spot over 250 species including charismatic black oystercatchers. We also saw ostriches, zebra, ostriches, baboons and stunning fields of wildflowers in spring. Make sure to sample the excellent oysters farmed in the lagoon!
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Adventure Activities Along the Way - Hiking, Surfing, and More
While wildlife viewing tops most travelers' South African road trip must-do lists, the country offers no shortage of adventures to get your heart pumping and adrenaline flowing. From world-class surf breaks to towering summits crying out for conquest, you'll find endless opportunities to challenge yourself amidst the region's stunning natural playgrounds.
Hiking and climbing opportunities await around every corner in South Africa. The Drakensberg Mountains contain the country's highest peaks, including the 11,424-foot Thabana Ntlenyana. Experienced mountaineers can summit this challenge after a grueling 7 day trek, or take on more accessible peaks and overnight Tugela Gorge via the famed Chain Ladders route. For easier yet still astounding scenery, hike to Tugela Falls, the world's second tallest waterfall plunging a staggering 3110 feet in five cascades. Or check out the Cedarberg Wilderness Area's network of day hikes leading to ancient rock formations and paintings by the indigenous San bushmen.
Adrenaline junkies will find their fix along the Garden Route where adventures like the world's highest bungee jump thrust you 709 feet towards the Bloukrans River gorge. Just offshore, ride waves up to 12 feet high at Victoria Bay, cited as one of the planet's best right point breaks. Learn to surf at Pacific Love Surf School in Jeffreys Bay, home to the annual surf festival and some of the most consistent waves on Earth thanks to an angled seabed that magnifies swells. For calmer waters try stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing on the region's tranquil lagoons and estuaries ideal for beginners and families.
In Cape Town, abseil - that's rappel to Americans - down the towering cliffs of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the Cape Peninsula below. Or channel your inner Olympian at the Cape Canopy Tour as you swoop between platforms in ancient Harkerville Forest, hitting speeds over 40 mph while securely harnessed on the longest zipline in Africa. If jaw-dropping heights aren't your thing, hike to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwesternmost point on the continent, on easy trails through an ostrich-filled reserve.
No visit to Kruger National Park is complete without experiencing the bush on foot via guided game walks available through many lodges. Expert armed guides will safely lead you mere feet from lions, elephants, and more as you learn to track animals by their footprints, scat, and broken branches. Night walks are equally exhilarating as you search for nocturnal creatures like civets, genets, porcupines, and possibly even leopards with a trusty spotlight. For the ultimate walking adventure, book a multi-day wilderness trail immersing you in rugged backcountry far from roads or lodges.
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Sampling Delicious Local Food and Drink
A road trip through South Africa offers the perfect opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with an incredible diversity of flavors reflecting the region’s rich cultural influences. Experiencing the local food and drink scene provides a tasty education into the country’s complex history while supporting small producers. Plus, who doesn’t love discovering new favorite foods and beverages? From fragrant curries to full-bodied wines, a culinary adventure awaits at every turn.
Seafood lovers flock to the Garden Route to sample super-fresh oysters and mussels direct from the Indian Ocean. Stop at a harbor-side restaurant in Knysna for just-caught fish like kingklip baked in a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. Or pick up freshly shucked Knysna oysters from the morning’s harvest to enjoy with a crisp Chenin Blanc at a picnic overlooking the lagoon. Nearby Mossel Bay is famous for excellent seafood eateries serving local specialties like calamari grilled in lemon butter and hearty fisherman’s stew brimming with mussels, hake, and calamari.
The Winelands surrounding Cape Town offer a delicious escape into the rolling vineyards producing some of South Africa’s finest vintages. Head off the beaten path by following Route 62 inland through the Breede River Valley dotted with charming family-run wineries. Here you can taste full-bodied Shiraz and aromatic Pinotage while picnicking under vines in the dreamy South African sunshine. Don’t miss a stop at De Krans Winery to sample their superb port paired with dried fruit and local cheeses at their scenic outdoor tasting deck.
Meat lovers will delight in trying South Africa’s signature braai cooking, a beloved national pastime similar to American BBQ. Look for roadside braai stands serving sizzling boerewors sausages and juicy steak cuts like rump or T-bone at a fraction of restaurant prices. Pair it with pap, a fluffy corn porridge, or vetkoek, a deep fried dough ball, for an authentic local experience. At sit-down restaurants, don’t miss trying a proper braii platter with succulent lamb chops, boerewors, chicken sosaties and sides like creamy potato bake.
For a taste of South Africa’s diverse cultures, head to Durban where the lively Indian Quarter transports you to the subcontinent in Africa. Here you’ll find authentic curry houses serving fragrant lamb, chicken or vegetable curries alongside fluffy naan bread, samosas, and other specialties reflecting the large population of Indian descent. Or sample Bunny Chow, a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with piping hot curry, created by Indian immigrants who needed an easy way to take food to the fields.
Hit the Open Road: A Guide to Buying a Car and Roadtripping through Scenic South Africa - Where to Camp or Find Affordable Accommodations
With the dollar-rand exchange rate favorable for American travelers, South Africa can be surprisingly affordable if you plan wisely regarding accommodations. While safari lodges and oceanview hotels can still dent your budget, amazing affordable options await at campgrounds, hostels, guest houses, and self-catering cottages across the country. Embracing these wallet-friendly alternatives will allow you to splurge on unforgettable experiences like diving with great white sharks rather than draining funds on lodging alone. Who wants to leave a once-in-a-lifetime South African adventure wishing they’d had a bigger budget for activities? Not me!
Camping is hugely popular across South Africa, with well-equipped campgrounds available within most national parks and nature reserves. Kruger National Park has a dozen drive-in campsites with pools, shops, restaurants, and even wi-fi, providing easy access to self-drive safaris. Camping here costs under $15 per night for your own space, or opt for a permanent tent with beds for under $70 if not keen on pitching your own. Addo Elephant Park’s forest cabins have 3 beds and shared kitchens from around $60, or you can go even more budget and bring a tent for around $25 per night. Just imagine hearing elephants trumpet as you fall asleep under the stars!
Backpackers and hostels in major cities like Cape Town provide affordable, convenient crash pads if you’ll be spending time exploring on foot. Long Street Backpackers has dorm beds from $20 including linens, internet, fully equipped kitchen, and an awesome rooftop pool and bar area. Or try Once in Cape Town with doubles from around $65 including breakfast overlooking Table Mountain. Plus most hostels organize discounted activities like wine tours, hikes, and battlefield excursions, saving you even more cash.
Self-catering cottages and guest houses are another affordable way to save on meals compared to dining out constantly. Along the Garden Route, Knysna Hollow Country Estate has charming cottages with multiple bedrooms and kitchenettes from around $120 nightly. Dyer Island Accommodation in Gansbaai near the great white shark cage diving has family sized self-catering units with bay views from under $100 per night. Preparing even some of your own meals can make a huge difference in daily costs.