Southern Africa boasts some of the world’s most captivating road trips. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town, South Africa, to the blue waters of Maputo, Mozambique, driving through the heart of this region is nothing short of unforgettable.
Buckle up and pack the padkos as we’re about to experience some unforgettable road trips, taking you through South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
South Africa
Our journey begins in the rainbow nation, South Africa. The Garden Route, 1 of the most stunning road trips in South Africa, takes you through an enchanting blend of beaches, lagoons, and forests from Mossel Bay to Storms River. En route, stop at Tsitsikamma National Park for a dose of thrilling adventures or the tranquil Knysna lagoons for a calming retreat.
If you love oysters, plan your trip around the Knysna Oyster Festival. There’s a marathon that coincides with this annual festival if you feel like it.
Botswana
Crossing the border into Botswana, the vastness of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans awaits. This natural wonder offers stunning landscapes under clear starry skies. And trust us; those stars are something magical to experience.
Visit the Okavango Delta, where the rich wildlife is mirrored in its pristine waters. Botswana’s road trips provide unparalleled opportunities for wildlife spotting and a taste of the untamed African wilderness.
Namibia
Namibia is an African country like no other. It’s a land of contrasting landscapes featuring 1 of the most famous road trips on the continent: The Skeleton Coast. This rugged coastline presents a haunting yet beautiful journey through shipwrecks, seal colonies, and towering dunes.
Heading south? The Fish River Canyon echoes with the whispers of an ancient past, a sight that leaves many visitors breathless. The canyon, the largest in Africa, is a favourite among hikers as it offers an 86km-long scenic hiking trail… Obvs not your average Sunday afternoon stroll.
Mozambique
Pack your costume and sunscreen because you’re about to be blown away by the stunning beaches of Mozambique. The EN1 Route stretches from Maputo to Pemba, taking you through coconut plantations and fishing villages, and past pristine beaches. The coastal cuisine and clear, turquoise waters promise an unforgettable sensory experience. Be careful of the R&Rs… 😊
Eswatini (Swaziland)
In the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), the MR3 highway introduces you to a country steeped in rich traditions.
The road weaves through the Ezulwini Valley, taking in traditional Swazi markets, wildlife reserves, and cultural villages. The journey invites you to engage in Eswatini’s warm hospitality and cultural heritage, something this tiny African country is big on.
Lesotho
The rugged mountainous beauty of Lesotho is unveiled through the circular Maloti Drakensberg Route. This road trip across the Roof of Africa provides breathtaking views of towering mountains, verdant valleys, and quaint villages.
Yearning for a break from driving around? Unwind and relax by the Maletsunyane Falls, an awe-inspiring sheet of water that cascades over a cliff into a spectacular gorge.
Malawi
Lastly, traverse the diverse landscapes of Malawi along the M1, also known as the Great North Road. This picturesque route introduces you to tea plantations (can we get those pinkies in the air?), scenic highlands, and the sparkling waters of Lake Malawi. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine at roadside eateries and enjoy the diverse birdlife in the surrounding forests.
Road-tripping through southern Africa is the best way to capture the soul of Africa. From sprawling savannahs to towering mountains, vibrant cultural hubs to serene beaches. So, pack your bags and padkos, and embark on a road trip adventure that’s sure to ignite your wanderlust!
Here’s a fun fact about road-tripping through southern Africa: With car insurance from King Price, you’re covered in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho and Malawi according to the deets on your policy schedule. So, as always, check your policy schedule or our KPPD to make sure.
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