Glimpse of South Africa - Self Drive

• Do you want a Sightseeing Vacation where you want to explore new Places, See new Attractions and Meet new People?
• Are you ready to have an active holiday where in you will be doing sightseeing for full days in most of your holiday?
• Are you ready to wake up early in order to do most of the Sightseeings or Excursion?
• Are you ready to follow the time Schedule religiously in order to cover maximum possible Sights in depth?
• If yes to above you may choose AFRICA, USA, EUROPE, SINGAPORE, HONGKONG, CHINA etc.

Or, if your idea of a perfect vacation is where you just want to relax:

• Spend time with your family and be close to them and stay away from the world.
• Do not intend to do much Sightseeing and Exploration of the Destination.
• If yes than Exotic Islands, Luxury Resorts, Cruises and Destinations like MAURITIUS, MALDIVES, SRI LANKA, BINTAN, BALI AND LANGKAWI are some of the examples to choose from for your holiday.

• History and Architecture?
• Explore untouched Scenic Beauty?
• Adventure and Exciting Activities?
• Beaches or Water Activities?
• Wild life?

Every individual has a different perception of their perfect holiday. Some people may opt for adventure activities, while others want to pamper themselves with the world’s most exotic spa or massages.

Vacations are extremely important to us & our families, be it a small break or a month long tour. We want them to the best and most enjoyable ones.

To start with, just ask some simple questions to yourself & your families – 

No of days you want to spend on your vacation

Budget 

• The activities you wish to do at the destination (eg: adventure activities/history/natural beauty/nightlife/beaches/mountains, etc.)
• Difference between Individual Tours & Escorted Group Tours – 
  

  POINT	ESCORTED GROUP TOURS	INDIVIDUAL TOURS
  Itinerary	Fixed	Customizable
  Dates	Fixed	Customizable
  Co-travellers	Yes	No
  All inclusive	Yes	Depends on the accommodation
  Tour leader/manager	Yes	No, local guides (wherever applicable)
  Follow Timings	Yes	Yes

Self-drive

Choosing self-drive in South Africa can be an excellent way to explore the country for several reasons:

Flexibility: Self-driving gives you the freedom to create your itinerary and explore at your own pace. You can choose when and where to go, allowing for spontaneous detours and discoveries along the way.

Scenic Routes: South Africa is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from the Garden Route along the coast to the Drakensberg Mountains and Kruger National Park. When you self-drive, you have the opportunity to take in these scenic routes at your leisure, stopping for photos or to enjoy the views.

Access to Remote Areas: Self-driving allows you to reach remote and less-visited areas that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. This can lead to more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Cultural Exploration: Driving through South Africa gives you the opportunity to interact with local communities and experience the country's diverse cultures and traditions.

Cost Savings: While renting a vehicle and paying for fuel might seem like an added expense, it can be cost-effective when compared to guided tours, especially if you're traveling with a group or family.

Privacy and Comfort: Self-driving provides you with privacy and control over your travel experience. You can stop for breaks when needed, enjoy private accommodations, and have a more personalized journey.

Adventure and Challenge: If you enjoy adventure and a bit of challenge, self-driving in South Africa can be a rewarding experience. Navigating the roads and terrain can add an element of excitement to your trip.

Customization: You can tailor your trip to your specific interests, whether it's wildlife photography, hiking, wine tasting, or historical exploration. Self-driving allows you to choose activities and destinations that align with your preferences.

International Driving Permit (IDP): While you’re Indian driver's license is generally valid in South Africa for a short-term visit (tourism or business). So there is no requirement for an IDP. 

Safety: it's essential to prioritize safety at all times. South Africa has a wide range of road conditions and driving challenges

Rest Stops: Take regular breaks during long drives to rest and stretch. Fatigue can be a significant safety risk.

Fuel and Supplies: The fuel is an exclusion out of the car cost, and needs to be paid for directly as per the car usage. 

Crime Awareness: While self-driving, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft. Keep valuables out of sight, lock the doors when driving, and be cautious in unfamiliar areas, especially at night.

Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with South African traffic laws, as they may differ from your home country. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.

Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for car rentals and medical emergencies.

Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits, which can vary from urban areas to rural roads. Speed limits are often strictly enforced, and there may be speed cameras along highways.

While self-driving in South Africa offers many advantages, it's essential to be well-prepared, as mentioned in the previous response, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Make sure you have a reliable vehicle, plan your routes, and stay informed about local conditions and safety recommendations.

• When opting for a self-drive vehicle, several additional costs may be applicable beyond the base rental fee. Here are some common extra charges to consider:
• Basic Insurance: Typically included in the rental fee, but it may come with a high deductible.
• Toll taxes & entrance fees: All conservation fees at sightseeings, toll taxes, parking charges are excluded from the selfdrive car inclusions.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial responsibility for damage to the rental vehicle.
• Theft Protection: Covers the cost of the car if it is stolen.
• Supplemental Liability Insurance: Provides additional coverage for third-party claims.
• Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical costs for you and your passengers.
• Fuel Charges: The fuel cost is always additional and needs to be paid for directly as per usage. If you return the car with less fuel than when you picked it up, you’ll likely be charged for refueling at a premium rate.
• Mileage Limitations: Some rentals come with a daily mileage limit, and exceeding this limit can result in additional charges per mile/kilometer.
• Local Taxes: Vary by location and can add a significant amount to the rental cost.
• Airport Surcharges: Often applied if you pick up or drop off the car at an airport.
• Additional Driver Fees: If more than one person will be driving the car, there may be an extra charge for each additional driver.
• Young Driver Fees: Drivers under a certain age (usually 23yrs) may incur additional charges.
• Other exclusions: GPS Navigation, Child Safety Seats, Ski Racks, Bike Racks
• One-Way Rental Fees: If you pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another, there may be a one-way rental fee.
• Late Return Fees: Returning the car after the agreed-upon time can result in additional charges, sometimes calculated on an hourly basis.
• Deposit and Security Hold: Most companies require a security deposit (around ZAR 3000-4000) depending on the car category, or hold on your credit card, which is released when the car is returned in good condition.
• Understanding these potential additional costs can help you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected expenses when renting a self-drive vehicle. Always read the rental agreement carefully and ask the rental company about any potential extra charges before finalizing your booking.

• Fuel costs in South Africa can vary depending on several factors, including global oil prices, local taxes, and distribution costs. Here's a general overview of what you can expect regarding fuel prices in South Africa:
• Petrol: Ranges from ZAR25 – ZAR35 per liter (fluctuation possible through the months/years)
• Diesel: Ranges from ZAR21 – ZAR31 per liter  (fluctuation possible through the months/years)
• It's always a good idea to check the latest fuel prices before traveling, as they can change frequently due to various economic and geopolitical factors.
  

South Africa offers an incredible opportunity for an unforgettable road trip adventure. Driving yourself allows you to explore the country's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace.  Fortunately, South Africa's national road network is in very good condition overall, with plenty of interesting sights, convenient rest stops, and ample cell phone coverage along most routes. As you venture into the more rural areas, road conditions remain fair for the most part, although there are areas where you’re more likely to encounter potholes or animals crossing. While cell coverage may be a bit spottier off the beaten path, you'll be rewarded with spectacular, unspoiled views and landscapes that showcase South Africa's rugged natural beauty. With proper planning and awareness, a self-drive trip through South Africa's cities, small towns, and wilderness areas is a fantastic way to experience the country's rich culture, history, wildlife, and stunning scenery.

To maximise your safety while driving in South Africa, always maintain a high level of situational awareness. Plan routes carefully, steering clear of high-crime locations. Share your itinerary with a trusted contact. Provide your accommodation with your phone number and ETA and obtain their contact info as well. 

Early Humans in South Africa:

• South Africa is actually home to some of the oldest fossil human remains in the world. Three million-year-old fossil remains of an early human-like species Australopithecus africanus, have been discovered at a number of sites on the highveld.

Arrival of the European:

• The first Europeans to make contact with South Africa were Portuguese sailor attempting to find routes to the spice islands of Asia.
• In 1497 Portuguese sailor, Vasco da Gama, rounded the cape and continued up the continent's eastern coast before heading further east, eventually to India. Over the next 200 years increasing numbers of Portuguese traders and their Dutch and British competitors began to make the journey to the east via the Cape of Good Hope.
• The Dutch were the first European trading power to set up a permanent settlement in South Africa. In 1652 the powerful Dutch East India Company built a fort and established a supply station under the command of Jan Van Riebeek on a site that later became Cape Town. The idea was to drop into to get settlement growing into a larger community and at first, every inhabitant was a company servant.
• This situation soon altered, however, when the company decided that it would allow a group of servants who had worked out their contracts to settle as independent farmers and supply the post with their produce.
• As the settler farming areas expanded they came into contact with San and Khoi and by the end of the 18th century they had almost all been either absorbed into settler economy as servants.

Arrival of the British:

• During the 18th century Dutch economic and political power began to wane.
• In 1795 the British sailed into False Bay and annexed the Dutch Colony. The British were really interested in the Cape as a staging post and strategic port to protect trade with their new Asian empire. The colony was not profitable and neither the British government nor business took much interest in the new possession. In 1820 the British parliament transported settlers from Britain to occupy this area. 1820 settler's attitudes towards things such as the freedom of press and towards the proper role of government played an important part in shaping 19th century Cape settler society.
• The other fundamental change that British rule brought about was the ending of the slave trade and then the total banning of slavery.

• In 1867, diamonds were discovered near the confluence of the Harts and Vaal rivers.
• By 1872, 20,000 Europeans and a large number of Africans and coloreds had converged on the site of the soon diamond capital, Kimberley. At first there were to be numerous small individual plots at the mines but these soon became concentrated into the hands of one or two companies who bought up the claims from small entities. Eventually total control of the mines rested in the hands of Cecile Rhodes DeBeer Consolidated Mines.
• In 1886 there was a further mineral discovery in South Africa; this was gold on the Witwatersrand in the Transvaal Republic.

• In 1912 a group of African leaders called for a national convention for all African political groups in the Country. This gathering in Bloemfontein marked the formation of a more organized phase in African opposition to racist legislation and lead to the South African Native National Congress, later renamed the African National Congress.

• The word simply means 'apart', and as such can be seen as simply a refinement of segregationist idea that had dominated in the first half of the century. A group of Afrikaner intellectuals who saw the total separation of the races as being the only way in which white could maintain political power over South Africa. This political philosophy was obviously not at all popular amongst white factory owners and farmers who relied upon cheap African labor to run their business. To these people Apartheid should be simply a way maintaining a cheap supply of African labor with few employment or political rights that would allow the demand of higher wages. Segregation of all amenities was also tightened and there became no area of African life where the state did not intervene.
• Nelson Mandela, who had joined the ANC's Youth League in the 1940s, used Gandhian tactics of peaceful resistance to the new Apartheid legislation. He used Gandhi's concept of civil disobedience. Civil disobedience is the act of using methods such as boycotting and protesting, not involving the characteristics of violence. Because of Mandela's approach to the situation, he went to jail for 27 years because he fought for what he thought everyone was entitled to have: freedom. People recognized Mandela's courageousness and so when he was freed from imprisonment, he was elected president by his people. He eliminated the Apartheid and established an equal and tranquil country.
• Dismantling apartheid
• With increasing local and international opposition to apartheid in the 1980s, including an armed struggle, widespread civil unrest, economic and cultural sanctions by the international community, and pressure from the anti-apartheid movement around the world, State President FW de Klerk announced the unbanning of the African National Congress and Pan Africanist Congress as well as the release of Nelson Mandela on 2 February 1990, which signalled the beginning of a transition to democracy.
• 1994 South African population voted in the first general elections. The African National Congress won election to govern for the very first time., Nelson Mandela was elected as President on 9 May 1994
• In early 2002 a planned military coup by a white supremacist movement known as the Boeremag (Boer Force) was foiled by the South African police. Two dozen conspirators including senior South African Army officers were arrested and the extremist organisation was dismantled. The effectiveness of the police in foiling the planned coup strengthened public perceptions that the democratic order was irreversible.
• In 1999 & 2004 Thabo Mbeki became President.
• In 2009 Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma became president of South Africa.
• 2013, Nelson Mandela, the first president of South Africa elected in a fully representative democratic election, died at the age of 95 after suffering from a prolonged respiratory infection. He died at around 20:50 local time (UTC+2) at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, South Africa.
• 2014, Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, (born 12 April 1942) is the President of South Africa elected by parliament following his party’s victory in the 2009 general election. He was reelected in the 2014 election.

• Coach travel is a popular and widely available mode of transportation in South Africa. Coaches, often referred to as buses in South Africa, and are commonly used for Tourism, both intercity and long-distance travel within the country.
• Coach tourism is an ideal option for group travel, whether you're traveling with family, friends, or as part of a tour group. It allows groups to stay together and enjoy the journey as a collective experience.

Coaches also serve long-distance routes that can take you to various destinations within South Africa. These routes are particularly useful for travelers exploring different regions of the country, including the Garden Route, the Panorama Route, and the Drakensberg Mountains.

• Some coach operators offer tour packages that combine transportation with guided tours and activities, making it easier for tourists to explore South Africa's attractions.

• South Africa has a well-developed road network, and many of the major routes are suitable for coach travel, making road-based tourism a popular and convenient option. However, the quality of roads and the ease of travel can vary depending on the specific route and location.
• South Africa's major highways and well-traveled routes, especially those connecting major cities and popular tourist destinations, generally have good road infrastructure. These roads are usually well-maintained and suitable for coach travel.
• In rural and less-traveled areas, road conditions may vary. Some roads in remote or less-developed regions might be unpaved or less well-maintained. Coach travel in these areas may be slower, and road conditions can be affected by weather.
  

• South Africa is well-connected by air and land to neighboring countries, making it relatively easy to plan multi-country trips.
• Namibia: South Africa and Namibia share a border in the southwestern part of Africa.
• Botswana: Botswana is known for its pristine wilderness and exceptional wildlife safaris.
• Zimbabwe: Combining a visit to South Africa with a trip to Victoria Falls offers a mix of adventure activities, such as white-water rafting and bungee jumping, as well as opportunities to explore Zimbabwe's rich history.
• Mozambique:  Combining South Africa with Mozambique allows for a diverse vacation, coastline along the Indian Ocean is known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs.
• Eswatini (formerly Swaziland): Located within South Africa's borders, Eswatini is a small kingdom known for its cultural festivals and scenic landscapes. 
• Lesotho: Completely surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho is known as the "Mountain Kingdom." It offers spectacular mountain scenery, including the Drakensberg Mountains..
• Zambia: Zambia shares a border with South Africa in the north. Combining the two countries allows travelers to explore Zambia's national parks, including South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, known for their abundant wildlife and opportunities for walking safaris.
• Kenya or Tanzania: While these East African countries are not neighbors to South Africa, they are often combined with South Africa in longer African itineraries. Kenya and Tanzania offer some of the best safari experiences in Africa, with the Maasai Mara and Serengeti being iconic destinations for the Great Migration and wildlife viewing.
• Mauritius & Seychelles: South Africa offers a wide range of experiences, from safaris in national parks and game reserves to exploring cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. Mauritius & Seychelles is known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and relaxation. Determine the duration you want to spend in each location. For flights that connect South African cities like Johannesburg or Cape Town to Mauritius. There are direct flights available from several South African airports to Mauritius.
  

International Hotel Chains

There are several international hotel chains operating in South Africa. Some of the well-known international hotel chains that were present in South Africa as of 2021 include:

Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Hilton operates several properties in South Africa, including:

• Hilton Sandton
• Hilton Durban
• Hilton Cape Town City Centre

Marriott International: Marriott has a strong presence in South Africa with brands like 

• Marriott Hotels
• Protea Hotels
• African Pride Hotels in various cities

Radisson Blu: Radisson Blu has hotels in cities such as 

• Cape Town
• Johannesburg 
• Port Elizabeth

Radisson Hotel Group: In addition to Radisson Blu, Radisson Hotel Group operates other brands like 

• Park Inn by Radisson 

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG): IHG has properties under brands like 

• Holiday Inn
• Holiday Inn Express
• Crowne Plaza 

AccorHotels: AccorHotels has a presence in South Africa through brands like 

• Sofitel 
• Novotel,
• Ibis

Best Western: Best Western has hotels in various South African cities.

• Four Seasons 
• NH Hotels
• Local Chains
  

South Africa has several local hotel chains that offer a diverse range of accommodation options across the country. These local hotel chains are often known for their unique South African hospitality and may have properties in major cities, coastal areas, and game reserves

Local Chains

• South Africa has several local hotel chains that offer a diverse range of accommodation options across the country. These local hotel chains are often known for their unique South African hospitality and may have properties in major cities, coastal areas, and game reserves. 

• Shamwari Game Reserve: Shamwari Game Reserve is located 75 km outside Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa. An essential focus is the management, development and rehabilitation of an ecosystem that has been returned to a more natural condition after many years of agricultural farming. It is part of the Indalo Protected Environment.
• Amakhala Game Reserve: Amakhala Game Reserve is located in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa. The Game Reserve offers a wide variety of 3, 4 & 5-star owner-managed experiences. The private Game Reserve offers guests accommodation in a selection of 9 diverse establishments made up of restored Country houses, Safari Lodges and Tented camps located in different areas of the large 8 500 hectare Game Reserve.Some dwellings are owned and managed by fifth generation Frontier Settlers families (read the history of the Game Reserve)
• Gondwana Game Reserve: It is situated in the heart of the Garden Route, near Mossel Bay in the Western Cape province. Gondwana Game Reserve is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and upscale accommodations
• Singita Private Game Reserve: Singita operates several lodges and reserves across South Africa, including Singita Sabi Sand and Singita Kruger National Park. These lodges are renowned for their ultra-luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and exceptional safari experiences.
• Royal Malewane: Located in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, Royal Malewane offers a truly regal safari experience. It features lavish suites, a world-class spa, and expertly guided safaris.
• Londolozi Private Game Reserve: Situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Londolozi is known for its intimate, exclusive lodges, exceptional wildlife viewing, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
• Ulusaba Private Game Reserve: Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba is perched on a hill in the Sabi Sand Reserve. It offers luxurious treehouse-style lodges with panoramic views and outstanding game viewing.
• Lion Sands Game Reserve: Lion Sands has several lodges within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park. Guests can enjoy the epitome of luxury while experiencing incredible wildlife encounters.
• Tswalu Kalahari Reserve: Tswalu, located in the Northern Cape, offers a unique luxury safari experience in the Kalahari Desert. The lodges are known for their privacy, exclusivity, and impeccable service.
• Phinda Private Game Reserve: &Beyond's Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal offers a luxurious safari experience with a strong focus on conservation. Guests can stay in elegant lodges and participate in various wildlife activities.
• Thanda Private Game Reserve: Thanda, located in KwaZulu-Natal, offers luxurious accommodations, including a private villa, along with excellent game viewing and conservation initiatives.
• Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge: Found in the Madikwe Game Reserve, this lodge offers stunning suites with private plunge pools, gourmet dining, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
• Kapama Private Game Reserve: Kapama is known for its opulent lodges and offers various activities such as hot air balloon safaris and wellness treatments.