Tips and information about South Africa

What to expect in South Africa

The diversity of South Africa is impressive. Just think about the beautiful scenery that most of us have seen in the many travel guides and websites about South Africa, with features such as the Table Mountain and God’s Window, just to name a few. It is the ultimate mix of the stunning mountainous areas, the relaxing old-growth forests and the feeling of being completely alone on one of the 3,000 kms of beaches. Of course South Africa is well known for its abundance of wildlife as well. There is the Big Five, but also Whales, Sharks and Penguins!
By far the best way to discover what South Africa has to offer is by 4WD Camper. Most areas will be accessible when you do not have to stick to the bitumen roads! South Africa is more than just Flora and Fauna, although everything else seems to be directly related to this. Art is often directly inspired by nature and the many tribes produce beautiful artefacts that can be hard to resist so prepare yourself for some unexpected souvenir purchases. With over 130 adventurous activities, from Hiking to Scuba diving and everything in between, South Africa has so much to offer, you’ll be amazed.

Why travel South Africa by 4×4?

The answer is simple: to get the most out of your South African holiday! You won’t be restricted to the sealed bitumen roads and you can go virtually anywhere so you will not miss out on anything. You will be able to drive to the most remotely located campgrounds, and basically enjoy your own personal Safari. Even for the less adventurous among us a 4WD is more fun than a regular 2WD campervan. They are easy to drive and will turn your holiday into a controllable mini-adventure! Fantastic holiday footage and pics guaranteed.
Also keep in mind that many national parks and other unique scenic areas are only accessible by 4WD vehicle.

Handy hints prior to the start of your adventurous 4WD holiday

• The Tourism Sector is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in South Africa and because of this the country is very well positioned to be one of the world leaders in adventure sports, nature and wildlife tourism and can be considered both a pioneer as well as a leader in the development of sustainable tourism.
• As the country is situated in the Southern hemisphere, winter in South Africa is from May through to August. spring from September – October, and summer from November through to February, and Autumn between March and April.
• The country has a very mild climate and is well known for its long, sunny days, hence the name ‘Sunny South Africa’. Most parts enjoy some summer rainfall, except for the Western Cape which mainly receives rain in wintertime.
• There are numerous good quality sealed roads in South Africa, but even more unsealed roads to be explored by 4WD vehicle. The speed limit on the freeways is 120 km/hr, 100 km/hr on secondary roads, and 60 km/hr in build-up areas.
• Tap water is of very good quality and is often considered some of the purest in the world. Obviously this depends on the location and when traveling to remote areas it is advisable to bring sufficient fresh drinking water.
• South Africa has three international airports: OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), Cape Town International Airport en King Shaka International Airport (Durban). Plus about 90 regional airports such as Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit.
• Medical care is very well organised in South Africa. The private hospitals, mainly in and around the cities, belong to the best in the world. Most of South Africa is malaria-free but always check yourself and take the advised precautions, especially when you have plans to visit one of the wildlife parks.
• You must carry a valid yellow fever certificate if you travel from an infected country to prove that you are yellow-fever free. There is no yellow fever in South Africa and they are trying hard to keep this situation as is. This certificate is also compulsory for children from 1 year of age. Check with your medical practitioner whether or not you require to carry a certificate or must have additional immunizations before heading to South Africa.