In general, the road infrastructure in South Africa is extremely good. The majority of roads are tarred, and although you may come across the occasional pot-hole, overall they are maintained in exceptionally good condition.
Many of the major main road are toll roads, in order to help maintain them in their present good condition.
Tolls range from a few Rand to nearly R50, and you can pay either by cash, or some toll booths will take Visa or MasterCard credit cards.
The toll roads are clearly signposted, and give you plenty of warning, so that you can get your money ready.
However, if you do not feel like parting with any money, you can always take the alternative route which will be signposted as a non-toll road, but in general this will be longer.
Roadworks
Keeping the non-major roads in good condition unfortunately means that roadworks are a common occurrence on most journeys.
Don't be alarmed if you see someone standing at the side of the road, waving a red flag at you - this is just their way of saying 'Beware - Roadworks Ahead - Slow Down'.
In general, the speed limit through roadworks can go down to as low as 40 km/h (the norm is 60), but you will find that many SA drivers pay little or no interest in this.
Overtaking is supposedly not allowed when driving through roadworks, but if you are cruising along at the correct speed, you may find yourself being overtaken by speeding drivers. Don't fall into the trap of following suit - cameras and police checks can surprise you.
In some areas, where the road goes down to a single carriageway while one side is being repaired, be prepared for a long wait - anything from 10 minutes to half an hour.
However, if you do find yourself 'stuck' in a queue like this, there are normally many enterprising people waiting at the roadside to sell you ice-creams, cigarettes, fruit or snacks, and they will wander along the line of traffic selling their goods.
