South African Travelling Tips

General Tips when driving:

South Africa has an excellent road infrastructure making driving a viable option when visiting the country. Road users drive on the left hand side of the road with the driver's seat located on the right hand side of the car. Distances are indicated in kilometres and seat-belts are compulsory for drivers and passengers. As an additional safety precaution, South African law prohibits drivers from using hand-held phones while driving. A hands-free kit or vehicle phone attachment is permitted.
For visitors who decide on self driving, it is recommended that routes be carefully planned, especially if coming from much smaller countries where travellers are not used to driving the long distances necessary to travel between the major cities in South Africa. The onset of fatigue is a major contributing factor to road accidents for drivers who travel long distances.
When planning routes, keep in mid which roads require toll fees. In such cases, it is advisable to have cash or a credit card available; fees vary from R2.50 to R46.00.
The speed limit for major highways, freeways and routes is 120km/h, with secondary roads being 100km/h; in urban and suburban areas the limit is 60km/h. The limits may vary in some areas, but are always well indicated by signposts.

While driving through rural areas, especially at night along roads that are not fenced, animals crossing the road may present a hazard. Keep an eye out for road signs indicating animal crossings and reduce speed to minimise risk of an accident.
Always keep doors locked and try to keep valuable items out of sight by placing them under the seat, in the glove compartment or in the boot, especially when parking and leaving the car untended.