Campervan Hire South Africa tips
South Africa is a vast country with an area of over 1.2 million square miles.
Unlike other countries such as the UK, USA or Europe, travelling around South Africa on public transport is not a practical or safe option.
This means that hiring a campervan can be an ideal way to explore this diverse and unique country in safety and comfort.
Driving safely:
It is important to keep in mind some important laws and regulations when driving a campervan in South Africa. South Africans drive on the left side of the road, and the legal driving age is 18. It is illegal to drive without a seatbelt or whilst using a mobile phone. It is advisable to drive with your doors locked and windows closed whenever possible. Keep your belongings and valuable items locked in the trunk of your vehicle. All national South African roads have petrol station with restaurants, restrooms and shops so it is a good idea to use these to stay alert on long drives. Petrol stations are also called garages, and they become scarcer in rural areas so be prepared to stop when you can. Garages have petrol attendants to refuel your campervan; you can tip these at your own discretion. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally the same price throughout the country.
Up to date information on roads can be obtained from the Automobile Association of South Africa. The AA also has strip maps available for specific destinations and information for tourists. Main roads in South Africa are identified by colour and number with a route marker system, making it simple to navigate using a map.
Many rural areas are not fenced and it is possible that livestock can be found crossing the road, take extra care at night to be aware of this risk. Large antelope crossing roads can also cause a hazard, road signs showing a leaping antelope should alert you to this hazard.
The general speed limit on South African highways, urban freeways and other major routes is 120 km/h (around 75mph). Rural roads have a limit of 100 km/h (60mph). Built-up areas are usually regulated to 60 km/h (35mph). Always remember to check road signs to be aware of specific speed limits.
Travel information:
It is advisable to bring enough travel money with you to cover things like curios and food. The national currency of South Africa is the Rand (ZAR), and there are ATM machines available across the country to draw money while you are travelling.
Winter in South Africa is between May and August, so it is useful to take warmer clothes with you during this time. In other months summer clothes such as shorts and t-shirts are practical.
Other items that may be important to bring when on your campervan holiday are a flash light, spare batteries, high UV protection sun cream, a water bottle and a camera.
There are many cyber cafes located around South Africa so it is easy to communicate with friends and family, or do business whilst on your holiday. Hotel communication centres can cost around 20 times as much as cyber cafes so it is advisable to avoid these where you can. Internet connections can be very slow so be prepared to be patient.
It is recommended to not drink tap water when travelling South Africa (including ice). Bottled water is available to buy at grocery stores and hotels so you can stock up and keep a supply in your campervan.
Be aware of the increased risk of snatch thefts and robbery in urban area with high concentrations of tourists.
To protect against malaria, ensure that visit you health care provider a few months before travelling (if coming from overseas) to receive the necessary vaccinations and drugs. Use DEET insect repellent on exposed skin to protect yourself from mosquito and other insect bites. Wear long pants and shirts to minimise the risk of bites, and keep fly screens down on the windows of your campervan.
