Driving rules in South Africa
South Africa drives on the left-hand side of the road, the same as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Japan. If you're arriving from continental Europe or the USA, take extra care at roundabouts, intersections, and when overtaking until you adjust. Speed limits are enforced by fixed cameras and traffic officers, particularly on the N1 and N2 highways.
Key traffic regulations for campervan and motorhome drivers in South Africa:
- Speed limits: 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways/freeways. Campervans and motorhomes over 3,500 kg are limited to 100 km/h on highways.
- Headlights: Recommended at all times for visibility. Required between sunset and sunrise, and during rain or fog.
- Seatbelts mandatory: All passengers must wear seatbelts at all times. Children under 3 must be in a car seat; children 3-14 must sit in the back.
- Zero tolerance for drink driving: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Penalties include fines up to R120,000 and imprisonment. Random breathalyser roadblocks are common.
- Roundabouts (traffic circles): Give way to traffic already in the circle. Enter only when safe. Indicate left when exiting.
- Four-way stops: Very common in South Africa. Vehicles proceed in the order they arrived. If two arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right goes first.
- Minibus taxis: Be aware of minibus taxis which may stop suddenly to pick up or drop off passengers. Give them space and expect unpredictable manoeuvres.
- Mobile phone use: Prohibited while driving. Use a hands-free system. Fines up to R2,500.
Road types and conditions
South Africa has an excellent national road network with well-maintained highways (N-roads) connecting all major cities. The Garden Route (N2), Panorama Route, and Cape Town-Johannesburg route (N1) are all paved and in good condition. However, secondary roads in rural areas like the Wild Coast, Cederberg, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal can be gravel and may require a higher-clearance vehicle.
Important road condition notes:
- National highways (N-roads): Excellent tarmac, well-signposted, regular rest stops and fuel stations. The N1, N2, N3, and N7 are the main arteries.
- Provincial roads (R-roads): Generally good condition but some may be gravel in remote areas. The R44 (coastal Cape Town to Hermanus) is one of the most scenic drives in the world.
- Gravel roads: Common in game reserves, the Karoo, Northern Cape, and mountain passes. Reduce speed to 60-80 km/h. Check rental agreement, some companies restrict gravel road use to 4x4 vehicles.
- Mountain passes: Dramatic passes like Swartberg Pass, Sani Pass, and Bainskloof require caution. Some require 4x4 (Sani Pass is famous for this).
- Potholes: Some secondary roads may have potholes, especially after heavy rains. Stay alert and reduce speed in poor conditions.
Pro tip: Download the Waze app for real-time traffic and road condition updates. South African drivers often flash their hazard lights briefly to say "thank you" when you let them pass. The AA South Africa app is also useful for roadside assistance and route planning.
Toll roads and e-tolls
South Africa has a toll road system on major routes. Most toll plazas accept cash (South African Rand) and credit/debit cards. Toll costs typically range from R20-R80 per toll plaza. The N1 between Johannesburg and Pretoria uses the controversial e-toll system (electronic tolling with overhead gantries), though enforcement has been inconsistent.
On the Garden Route (N2), there are a few toll roads including the scenic Tsitsikamma toll between Storms River and Plettenberg Bay. The N3 from Johannesburg to Durban has several toll plazas. Budget approximately R200-400 per major long-distance journey for tolls.
Fuel and refuelling
Fuel stations are plentiful across South Africa, especially on major routes. Most are full-service, an attendant will fill your tank, check oil and water, and clean your windshield. Tipping the attendant R5-R10 is customary. Fuel is paid in South African Rand (ZAR) and costs approximately R22-25 per litre (~€1.10-1.30). Diesel is generally cheaper than petrol.
Pro tip: In remote areas like the Karoo, Northern Cape, and along the N7 towards Namibia, fuel stations can be 200+ km apart. Fill up whenever you see a station in these regions. Most stations accept cash and cards, but carry some cash as a backup.
