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Safari Holidays to South Africa and Namibia for independent travellers.
Contact Phone Numbers
0845 838 2450
Local rate in the UK
0800 981 420
Toll free in SA
Other +44 1932 268230
Although as a country South Africa is vast, it is relatively easy to drive around and see many highlights in a 2 or 3 week holiday.
Self-drive Holidays
Travel Butlers help hundreds of people each year plan and book their self-drive holidays to South Africa.
It is law to wear a seat belt at all times, and using a mobile phone when driving is prohibited.
The main roads and highways are generally maintained in an good condition, and are straight, long and fast.
Driving Licence
All drivers must have a valid driving licence from their country of residence. If the license is not printed in English, then you will need to obtain an International Drivers Licence.
You must carry your driving licence with you at all times when driving in South Africa. If you licence doesn't hape a photograph on it, then you must also carry your passport with you so that you can be identified as the legal holder of the driving licence.
It's a good idea to keep a copy of your driving licence separate in your luggage, and also leave a copy at home with family or friends.
Please note that the various car hire companies have different regulations regarding the length of time that you need to have held a driving licence, so it is advisable to check with your hire car company about their requirements.
South Africa's Highlights
You can find out more about the many highlights of South Africa by clicking on the map on the left.
If you would like to get some personal help and guidance on your trip from one of our experienced travel consultants then enquire now - we'd be delighted to help!
Most Popular Destinations
| Cape Town | Kruger National Park |
| Garden Route | Malaria Free Safaris |
| Cape Peninsula | Family Safaris |
| Cape Winelands | Eastern Cape Safaris |
| KwaZulu-Natal | |
| Sun City |
Robots on the Street ...
When asking for directions, you may be surprised to get the response "turn left at the next robot..." - no, you have not suddenly been transported into a Star Wars film, rather a 'robot' is the South African term for traffic lights.
4 Way Stop
South Africa is home to the 4 way stop sign. For those unfamiliar with this concept, the first car that arrives at the junction has the right of way, whether they are going straight on, or turning left or right.
The second person to arrive has the next right of way, and so on.
If you are not familiar with this method, then you will have to pay particular attention when approaching stop signs, as you may find that if your attention lapses for only a second, you're likely to cut someone up!
Read more about road conditions and things to look out for whilst driving in South Africa.
2WD or 4WD?
There are very few roads in South Africa where you would need a 4WD. Even in the self-drive National Parks and safari areas such as Kruger or Hluhluwe, the roads are good and a 2WD can adequately cope with the odd bit of unevenness.
Safety Precautions
When driving anywhere in South Africa, try to apply the following precautions:
- Drive with your doors locked and windows wound up, especially when stopped at traffic lights.
- Don't ever stop to pick up hitchhikers, however innocent, lost or appealing they look. If you are worried about someone's plight, stop at the next town and report it to someone there.
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Do not leave anything valuable on show in your car when you leave it unattended, and ALWAYS lock your car when you leave it, even if you are only going to be gone for a few minutes.
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Try to always park in a busy, well-lit area.
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Take advice from your hosts where you are staying, and ask if there are any areas that tourists should avoid driving through.
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Don't get out of your car if you are knocked or hit from behind in suspicious circumstances.
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Don't do road rage !
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