South Africa is widely considered one of the best countries to road trip through. From the lush golden coastlines to the dry highveld, there’s so much to explore, experience and enjoy along the many tar roads that span the length and breadth of our nation. We’re looking at four road trips you must consider when choosing to hit the road and explore the tip of Africa:
1. Midlands Meander
KwaZulu-Natal is home to the Midlands Meander, a winding adventure with five routes along roads creeping through valleys and between hills rich in history. Places to see while driving the Midlands Meander include the Mandela Capture Site, the Hilton Station Railway Museum (if you’re into trains), Nottingham Road Brewing Company (if you love your craft beer), and Terbodore Coffee Roasters.
Places to stay nearby:
2. The Garden Route
The Western Cape offers a rugged yet absolutely stunning coastline and an interior that boasts one of the most impressive natural collections of flowers on the planet. There are a few things you must do when on the Garden Route. At Bloukranz you can try out the world’s highest bungy jump. How about close encounters with whales in Knysna? Or you could rub bellies with the ocean’s dogs, fur seals, in Plettenberg Bay.
Places to stay nearby:
City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront
3. The Wild Coast
Travel North-East from The Garden Route and South from KwaZulu-Natal and you’ll land in the Eastern Cape, home to The Wild Coast. This is an absolutely breathtaking road trip through a province where many of South Africa’s most iconic political figures were born. Places you have to see include Nelson Mandela’s childhood home, and the culturally rich coastal village of Cintsa.
Places to stay nearby:
4. Magnificent Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga is a province with some of the best geographical wonders you’ll find anywhere in Africa. It’s also a gateway to the Kruger National Park, home to the best Big 5 safari experience south of the equator. The Blyde River Canyon is a must-see sight while in Mpumalanga, also Sudwala Caves and God’s Window (for those who are not afraid of heights). The capital city of Mpumalanga is Mbombela (previously known as Nelspruit), where you’ll find South Africa’s citrus-producing hub.
Places to stay nearby:
A place to stay that feels like home
City Lodge Hotel Group is a family of hotels and accommodations that cover South Africa. From our basically brilliant Road Lodges, to the premier luxury experiences had in our Courtyard Hotels, we have accommodation options to suit your pocket. If you’d like to contact any of the above City Lodge Hotel Group properties, feel free to reach out to them through our website’s contact page.