Driving in South Africa: Tips and Tricks for Tourists

Nov 16, 2025 0

South Africa is probably one of the best countries in the world to explore by car.

Driving in South Africa can be an exciting adventure, offering a chance to explore all corners of our country’s incredible landscapes and vibrant cities. However, to ensure a safe and pleasant journey, it’s essential to understand and practice proper driving etiquette.

Here are some tips to help you navigate local roads safely and responsibly, whether you’re in your own vehicle or cruising in a rental. No matter where you go in the world, there are some rules of the road that could simply be considered “common sense”.

This comprehensive network spans the entire country. So, no matter where you want to go, there’s always a road that will get you there!

Driving in South Africa can be safe with key preparations, such as route planning, road trip essentials and being alert to your surroundings. Staying on major routes and tourist hotspots is usually well-maintained with good road conditions.

Key Differences and Essential Tips

However, although driving in South Africa is usually easy and hassle-free, there are several key differences between driving here.

Driving on the Left

The first key difference visitors will encounter is that South Africa drives on the left side of the road. This is one of the trickiest differences to get used to. As a general rule of thumb, South Africans keep left and pass right. However, this is not always adhered to!

When driving in South Africa, keeping to the left is particularly tricky when stopping at an intersection or entering a roundabout. At any intersection without traffic lights (in South Africa, these are often referred to as “robots”) remember to look to the right first!

Vehicle Controls and Manual Transmission

Driving on the left means all cars are right-hand drive. This, in turn, means all the controls in the vehicle will be on the other side of the steering column to most cars.

Most rental cars in South Africa are manual (stick shift). So, you’re reaching for gears with the “wrong” hand, which can take a little getting used to. If you feel this is going to be a problem, you can request an automatic.

It’s worth taking a few moments before leaving the rental car park to familiarise yourself with where everything is. It can be very distracting trying to find lights or windscreen wipers when you’re trying to concentrate on unfamiliar roads. And try not to drive when you’re tired.

Tired or not, you’re pretty much guaranteed to inadvertently wash your windscreen whenever you want to put your indicator on!

Age and Licensing

To drive in South Africa, you have to be at least 18 years old. Americans can get their driver’s license at the age of 16, but this is not relevant in South Africa. Even with a US license, you won’t be allowed drive in South Africa unless you’re 18 or older.

It’s compulsory to carry your driver’s license with you at all times. Failing to do so could result in a significant fine.

Vehicle Safety and Security

Always lock your car when you park it and never leave valuables in the car if you can help it. If you do have to, try to make sure they are hidden from sight. Physically check that the doors are locked, even after you think you’ve locked them.

Read also: Discover Thula Thula

“Car guards” are common in most shopping mall parking lots, and they help keep your car safe. They are usually identifiable from their uniforms and high-vis vests.

Never, and we do mean never, stop to pick up hitch-hikers or anyone else flagging you down on the side of the road.

If you’re driving along, do not put your handbag or other valuables on the passenger seat.

Fuel and Petrol Stations

When driving in South Africa, remember that “gas” is definitely not something we put in our cars! If we talk about gas, we mean Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) which we buy in bottles of varying sizes.

We use gas for braais (barbeques), cooking, lighting, hot water and heat, but we do not run our cars on it!

So, if you need fuel for your car, you have to ask for petrol or diesel, depending on what vehicle you have. Petrol stations are not self-service in South Africa. There will always be an attendant to fill up your car for you.

You can also request an oil, water and tyre (tire) pressure check, as well as a windscreen clean.

Also remember that fuel is priced per litre, not per gallon.

Speed Limits

Speed limits on South African roads are higher than in the States. We work on a metric system, so all limits and distances are in kilometres, not miles.

The general speed limit on national highways, urban freeways and other major routes is 120km/h (75mph). On secondary (rural) roads it is 100km/h (60mph), and in built-up areas, it’s usually 60km/h (35mph) unless otherwise indicated.

Remember that if you are “flashed” by a roadside speed camera, and you’re in a hired car, the fine goes directly to the car rental company. It’s common practice for them to charge a steep admin fee for paying and processing any fines you incur.

Road Signs and Traffic Laws

Imagine arriving in South Africa and getting behind the wheel only to find unfamiliar traffic laws, road signs, and driving customs. It can be an overwhelming experience.

As a visitor in South Africa, understanding local customs is key to safe and enjoyable travel. While South African road signs generally abide by international conventions, be sure to take note of speed limit changes in different zones.

On highways, general speed limits range from 100 km/h to 120km/h. Fines for speed limit violations can be hefty, so be sure to monitor your speedometer. Also, keep an eye out for priority signs at complex intersections.

Coming to a complete stop is required before proceeding.

Lane Usage and Passing

When driving on multi-lane roads, slower traffic should keep left while faster cars pass on the right. Use your turn signals when changing lanes and overtaking vehicles. If driving on a single-lane road with slower vehicles ahead, pass when it is safe to do so, but don’t tailgate impatiently.

On two-way roads, only pass if you have clear visibility of oncoming traffic. Allow other cars to pass you and don’t obstruct faster flows.

Parking Regulations

Understand parking signs and zones carefully to avoid tickets. Know that “no parking” means no stopping at all, while “no stopping” means you can pull over briefly but not leave your car.

At coloured parking bays, look for posted time limits. When parallel parking, come to a stop alongside the front car about a foot away. Reverse while turning your wheel left until your car is at a 45-degree angle. Then straighten your wheels while reversing into the space.

On hills, curb your wheels to prevent rolling.

Licensing and Legal Requirements

South Africa requires all drivers to hold a valid driver’s license and vehicles to have up-to-date registration and insurance. Drivers and all passengers must wear seatbelts at all times.

The legal driving age is 18 for a regular license and 16 for a learner’s permit if accompanied by a licensed driver. Adhering to all driving laws and requirements ensures your safety and avoids legal issues.

Traffic Circles and Four-Way Stops

Traffic circles (roundabouts) are common in South Africa. Enter only when there is a safe gap and proceed counter-clockwise. Always yield to traffic already in the circle.

South Africa also has many 4-way stops. Come to a complete stop, then proceed when you have right-of-way. The first vehicle to arrive goes first. If multiple vehicles arrive simultaneously, the one on the right proceeds first.

Safe Driving Practices

Practicing caution, patience and courtesy as a driver in South Africa is key to staying accident-free. Be alert for reckless drivers and hazards like animals crossing the road at night.

Don’t engage with aggressive drivers; take deep breaths and focus calmly on your driving. The safer all drivers behave, the better the roads are for everyone.

Adjusting to South Africa’s unique driving environment takes some preparation and practice for visitors. But learning local etiquette lays the groundwork for an open-road adventure in this spectacular country.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Drive

Strict Traffic Laws: South Africa has strict traffic laws designed to keep everyone safe. Always obey speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs.
Pedestrian Crossings: Pedestrian crossings, especially in urban areas, are common.
Signaling: Signaling your intentions clearly is a fundamental aspect of driving etiquette. Use your indicators when changing lanes, turning, or overtaking.
Safe Distance: Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you is crucial to avoid collisions.
Patience in Traffic: Traffic congestion and delays are part of driving, especially in busy cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. Stay calm and patient, avoiding aggressive behavior such as tailgating or excessive hooting.
Emergency Vehicles: If you hear sirens or see flashing lights, move to the left to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
Minibus Taxis: Minibus taxis are a prevalent mode of transport and can be unpredictable. They may stop suddenly to pick up or drop off passengers.
Wildlife and Livestock: In rural areas, you might encounter wildlife or livestock on the roads. Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. Hitting an animal can cause severe damage and injuries, both to the animal and to you.
Mobile Phone Usage: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free device. Distracted driving is a significant cause of accidents, so keep your focus on the road.
Parking Etiquette: When parking, ensure you are not blocking driveways, pedestrian pathways, or access points. In cities, use designated parking areas and avoid parking in restricted zones.
Night Driving: Driving at night requires extra caution. And, with the constant threat of loadshedding, many South African roads are poorly lit.
Four-Way Stops: At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the one on the right proceeds first. This system relies on courtesy and clear signaling.
Road Conditions: Road conditions in South Africa can vary. In rural areas, you might encounter gravel roads or potholes. Drive cautiously, adjusting your speed to the road conditions, and always have a spare tire and emergency kit on hand.

Potential Hazards and Precautions

The main safety risks to driving in South Africa relate to poor road conditions, traffic, pedestrians, wildlife, non-roadworthy cars, erratic drivers, crime, night-time driving and remote areas.

Driving during the day provides better visibility and reduces the likelihood of an accident. Staying safe in South Africa is possible with common sense and self-awareness. Keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight, and plan your route to avoid unsafe areas.

Here are some specific hazards to watch out for:

Potholes: Watch out for potholes | They can be hard to see especially when driving faster on major roads.
Night Driving: Avoid driving at night | It’s hard to spot potholes at night, and many of the roads are not well lit.
Erratic Drivers: Many cars are uninsured or in poor driving condition. Be aware of slow and erratic drivers; keep a safe distance from the car in front of you.
Overtaking: Slower vehicles often move onto the hard shoulder to let you pass, only overtake if it is safe.
Pedestrians: People often walk on the side of main roads or cross them without warning.
Minibus Taxis: These can stop suddenly or change lanes without indicating, give them plenty of space.

Dealing with Police Stops

Police stops are common in South Africa and can feel intimidating. Stay calm, polite and keep the following documents ready; driving licence, car rental paperwork or vehicle registration.

If you are unsure whether they are legitimate police, ask for their name, badge number and police station they are from. Ask politely for this information before handing over any identification or documents and keep car doors locked.

Unfortunately, corrupt officers may ask for bribes, claiming you have committed a traffic offence or you have improper documents. In these situations, they are looking for cash to make you feel like this is the only way out of the situation.

When being asked to pay a bribe, it’s best to ask for a written fine or formal charge. If you haven’t already, ask for the police officer's badge number and name and that you’d like to resolve it at the nearest police station. Report any suspicious behaviour to 10111, a police emergency number, or call your rental company for assistance.

Tourist Police Scam: There have been reports of criminals disguised as tourist police, which don’t exist in South Africa. They use flashing blue lights and ask you to check your bags.

Renting a 4x4 for Enhanced Exploration

Renting a 4x4 in South Africa unlocks the ultimate freedom to explore in greater depth and get off the main tourist routes. When we took a 4x4 from Johannesburg to Cape Town, we discovered a few important things to make an enjoyable experience.