Beyond the itinerary
Tips and tricks for your South African road trip
Planning a road trip through South Africa can be daunting, but with a little preparation, it can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips and tricks I learned along the way:
● Renting a car: Having your own transportation gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop whenever you see something interesting. That said, as I mentioned the roads along the way have sometimes seen better days, so booking one with a higher clearance can really help.
● Book your accommodation in advance: Especially during peak season, popular spots tend to fill up quickly and you don’t want to arrive in a remote location with nowhere to stay.
● Pack for all types of weather: South Africa has many diverse microclimates, so be prepared for anything from sunny and dry to cold, wet and windy weather.
● Embrace the local cuisine: South African cuisine offers a delicious blend of African, European and Malay influences. Don’t be afraid to try something new. And be sure to pair it with one of the incredible and affordable wines from the Western Cape.
● Support sustainable practices: Many lodges and restaurants are committed to responsible tourism practices. Do your research and choose establishments that align with your values.
● Relax and enjoy the ride: South Africa is a beautiful country with a lot to offer. Don’t overschedule yourself and allow time to make surprise stops (we did an impromptu kayak ride that was well worth it) and soak it all in.
A fond farewell to South Africa
The incredible landscapes, the diverse wildlife, and the warm hospitality of the South African people left an indelible mark on our hearts. A South African road trip is a great way to at least begin to experience the magic of what this remarkable country has to offer.
its adjoining marine environment. It offers unparalleled opportunities to witness Africa’s incredible creatures in their natural habitat. We opted for a self-drive safari, allowing us to explore the park at our own pace. The sheer number of elephants we encountered was aweinspiring, as the park is home to more than 700.
Addo to Amakhala: Unveiling more of the Eastern Cape’s treasures
Leaving Addo with unforgettable memories, we continued our journey eastward toward Amakhala Game Reserve. Unlike Addo, Amakhala is a private game reserve. This meant smaller crowds and a more personalised safari experience. We stayed at Quatermain’s 1920’s Safari Camp, a charming and nostalgic tented camp that transported us back to a bygone era of exploration. The evenings were spent huddled around a crackling bonfire, sharing stories with staff and fellow travellers and listening to the nocturnal symphony of the African bush.
The game drives and walking safaris at Amakhala were nothing short of exceptional. Our experienced guides expertly navigated the reserve, leading us to sightings of lions, elephants, playful zebras and graceful giraffes. Yet, surprisingly, one of the highlights was learning from our guide’s in-depth knowledge about the unique properties of each of the local plants, including their medicinal uses and role in the broader animal ecosystem.
Hogsback: Where Tolkien’s imagination took flight
Our final stop on this incredible South African adventure was Hogsback, a small village nestled amid the Amatola Mountains.
This place holds a special significance for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien (myself included), as it’s believed to have been a source of inspiration for the landscapes of Middleearth. The rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls certainly bear an uncanny resemblance to the Shire and elven kingdoms he describes.
One thing we noticed right away was the complete quiet of this town, the kind that blankets you and lulls you into a feeling of deep inner peace. We opted to stay at a cosy cottage Airbnb owned by a local couple. While the wife was away that evening, the husband — an entrepreneur and UK transplant — joined us for dinner and informed us all about life in this quiet town full of creatives and nature lovers. One of the most memorable experiences in Hogsback was horseback riding with Mark Keese’s Horses for Healing. His gentle giants not only provided us with a different way to explore the breathtaking scenery — sometimes described as the Switzerland of Africa — but exuded a steady, calming presence that touched our souls. Trotting along the hilltop pastures surrounded by towering peaks was a moment of pure peace and connection with nature.