Showing posts with label car hire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label car hire. Show all posts

04 August 2025

Self-drive guide to Botswana: Everything you need to know!

Planning a self-drive adventure through Botswana? You're in for one of Africa’s most unforgettable travel experiences. Known for its pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and remote 4x4-only terrain, Botswana is a top destination for adventurous road trippers. Whether you’re dreaming of mokoro safaris in the Okavango Delta, wild camping in Chobe National Park, or traversing the Makgadikgadi salt pans - here's everything you need to know before hitting the road.

Why self-drive in Botswana?
Botswana is one of Africa’s most exclusive and rewarding self-drive destinations. With vast national parks, limited crowds, and a strong focus on low-impact tourism, you’ll feel immersed in untouched nature. While more rugged than neighboring Namibia or South AfricaBotswana's major draw is its wild camping and remote 4x4 routes, which give travelers the freedom to truly disconnect and explore.

Vehicle requirements:
To fully explore Botswana's national parks and remote regions, a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is essential - especially for areas like Moremi Game ReserveSavuti, and Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR). River crossings, deep sand, and thick mud (especially in the rainy season) demand proper off-road gear.

Top tips:

  • Opt for a vehicle with dual fuel tanks and extra spare tires.
  • Roof tents are popular and practical for camping in the bush.
  • If visiting during peak season (June - October), book well in advance.

Border crossings & documents:
Botswana is accessible by road from South AfricaNamibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. If you're entering with a rental vehicle, be sure to have:

  • A certified copy of the vehicle registration (or a letter from the rental company)
  • A cross-border permit and ZAR cash for fees
  • Valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended)
  • Third-party insurance (available at the border or included by some rental agencies)

Botswana has efficient border posts, but allow time for paperwork, especially at busy crossings like Kazungula (Botswana/Zambia) and Groblersbrug/Martins Drift (Botswana/South Africa).

Where to go:
Here are Botswana's top self-drive destinations:

Accommodation:
Camping is the best (and sometimes only) way to experience Botswana's parks. Most campsites inside national parks are unfenced and wild, meaning wildlife can (and will) roam through at night. 
Lodge options are available in towns like Gaborone, Kasane, Maun, and along the Okavango Delta, but these can be pricey. Many travellers choose to mix camping and lodging for comfort and experience.

Best time to travel:
Botswana is a year-round destination, but conditions vary:

  • Dry season (May–October): Best for wildlife and game drives; roads are more accessible
  • Wet season (November–April): Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and excellent birding - but some roads may be impassable

Peak season (July–October) means early bookings and higher campsite demand.

Connectivity & safety:

  • Mobile reception is limited in parks - download offline maps like Tracks4Africa
  • A satellite phone or GPS beacon is recommended for emergencies
  • Carry extra water, fuel, and a full recovery kit
  • Always inform someone of your route and estimated time of arrival

Wildlife encounters are common - respect their space and stay inside your vehicle.

Sample self-drive itinerary (10 Days):

Final thoughts: 
A self-drive trip through Botswana is not just a holiday - it's an expedition into one of Africa’s most spectacular and untouched landscapes. With proper planning, a sense of adventure, and a sturdy 4x4, you'll unlock the true magic of the wild.

 

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16 July 2025

Self-Drive Guide to Namibia: Everything you need to know before hitting the road!

IMPORTANT: Wildfire Update: Etosha National Park (Namibia) – September 2025!

IMPORTANT: Fuel availability at Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR): What travellers need to know (September 2025)!  

Namibia is one of the most rewarding countries in the world for a self-drive adventure. With vast desert landscapes, dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained roads, it's the ideal destination for travellers seeking freedom, solitude, and unforgettable scenery - all at their own pace.

Whether you're planning your first self-drive safari or you're a seasoned overlander, this guide covers everything you need to confidently explore Namibia on four wheels.

Why choose a self-drive in Namibia?

Namibia offers a rare combination: wide-open spaces, low traffic, and a tourism infrastructure built for independent travel. Here's why self-driving is the top choice for many travellers:

Top self-drive routes in Namibia:

Here are 3 classic road trip routes you can customize based on your interests and time:What kind of vehicle do you need?

Depending on your route, consider:Many travellers choose a 4x4 with rooftop tent for comfort, safety and flexibility.

Documents & driving tips:

Required documents:
  • Valid driver’s license (plus international license if not in English)
  • Passport
  • Vehicle papers/rental agreement
  • Cross-border permit (if extending trip to BotswanaZambiaZimbabwe or South Africa)
Tips for driving in Namibia:
  • Drive on the left side
  • Always carry spare tires and water
  • Refuel whenever you see a petrol station
  • Avoid driving after sunset due to wildlife and poor visibility
Accommodation options:

Namibia caters to all budgets with:

Pro Tip: Book Etosha National Park campsites early — they sell out months in advance during peak season (June–October).

Best time to go:

  • Dry Season (May – October) > Best wildlife viewing, cool nights
  • Green Season (November - April) > Fewer tourists, dramatic skies, some rain

What to pack for a Namibia road trip:

  • GPS / offline maps (such as Tracks4Africa)
  • Cooler or portable fridge
  • Headlamp, multi-tool, extra fuel & water
  • First aid kit & tire repair kit
  • Layers (mornings/evenings can be cold!)
  • Camera + zoom lens for wildlife

Safety & emergency info:

Namibia is considered one of the safest countries in Africa for self-driving, but keep in mind:

  • Always tell someone your route & estimated time of arrival
  • Cell coverage is limited - consider to rent a satellite phone or GPS emergency beacon
  • Avoid remote off-road travel alone
  • Be cautious of soft sand & flash floods (especially in riverbeds)

Final thoughts:

A self-drive journey through Namibia is more than a road trip - it’s a transformative experience. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for silence, solitude, and nature’s raw beauty. From spotting lions on an open plain to stargazing under the Milky Way, Namibia is a destination where the journey itself becomes the highlight.

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13 February 2025

South Africa: Toll road tariff to increase from 01 March 2025!

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced the adjustment to the toll tariffs effective from 01 March 2025. The tariffs are adjusted annually in South Africa in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as obtained from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). The annual toll tariffs will increase by 4.84%, as published in the Government Gazette of 07 February 2025. This rate is less than last year’s 6.25% adjustment.

Here’s a breakdown of the latest toll fees for major routes in South Africa:

N1 “Platinum Toll” Route

Plaza Type Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4
Carousel Main R73.00 R196.00 R216.00 R249.00
Pumulani Main R16.00 R40.00 R46.00 R55.00
Hammanskraal Ramp R34.00 R116.00 R126.00 R145.00

 

N3 Johannesburg to Durban Route

Plaza Type Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4
Mooi Main R67.00 R165.00 R231.00 R313.00
Tugela Main R96.00 R159.00 R251.00 R347.00
Wilge Main R90.00 R155.00 R207.00 R294.00

 

N4 Gauteng/Mpumalanga Route

Plaza Type Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4
Diamond Hill Main R49.00 R68.00 R128.00 R213.00
Middelburg Main R81.00 R176.00 R286.00 R352.00
Nkomazi Main R92.00 R187.00 R271.00 R391.00

Toll fees in South Africa vary depending on the type of vehicle:

  • Class 1: Light vehicles (motorcycles, motor tricycles, motor cars, and cars with trailers).
  • Class 2: Medium-heavy vehicles (two axles).
  • Class 3: Large heavy vehicles (three or four axles).
  • Class 4: Extra-large heavy vehicles (five or more axles). 

online car hire on TravelComments.com >>

13 December 2022

Traffic accidents: The most dangerous roads in South Africa!

The South African Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has released a list of South Africa's most dangerous roads. The list consists of 24 road sections where 15 or more road crashes have taken place over the past five years. These are the 24 accident hotspots in South Africa: the R573 Moloto Road in KwaMhlanga in Mpumalanga, the R71 near Mankweng in Limpopo, the N2 near Idutywa in the Eastern Cape, the N2 near Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape, the N1 near Naboomspruit in Limpopo, the R61 near Mbizana in the Eastern Cape, the N1 near Mokopane in Limpopo, the R30 between Stilfontein and Ventersdorp in the North West, the R61 near Umthatha in the Eastern Cape, the N2 near Pongola in KwaZulu-Natal, the R61 near Mzamba in the Eastern Cape, the N1 near Musina in Limpopo, the N2 near Mount Frere in Eastern Cape, the N4 near Middelburg in Mpumalanga, the N1 near Laingsburg in Western Cape, the N2 near Port Shepstone in KwaZulu-Natal, the N1 near Makhado in Limpopo, the N2 near Libode in the Eastern Cape, the R61 near Libode in Eastern Cape, the N4 near Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, France van Zyl drive near Parow in the Western Cape, the N3 near Harrismith in the Free State, the M35 near Folweni in KwaZulu-Natal and the N2 near Umthatha in Eastern Cape.

In case of an emergency, motorists may call the following numbers. On the N3 the emergency number is 0800 63 4357, on the N4 the emergency number is 0800 87 2264, on the the N1 the emergency number is 0800 029 999 and the Sanral emergency number is 0800 0800 487.

20 August 2019

South Africa's vehicle hijacking & theft hotspots!

Tracker, South Africa's most popular Stolen Vehicle Recovery (SVR) company, has released its vehicle crime statistics for the year July 2018 to June 2019. The "Vehicle Crime Index" - from Tracker's 1.1 million installed vehicle base - covers vehicle theft and hijacking, and provides insight into the time of day and day of the week when vehicle crime is most likely to occur in South Africa.
According to the
"Vehicle Crime Index", most activations (Tracker initiated recovery action) for vehicle hijackings take place on Fridays between 11:00 and 13:00 and between 20:00 to 23:00, while most activations for vehicle  theft occur Saturdays between 12:00 to 14:00.

Hijacking hotspots in Gauteng:

  • Kensington (Johannesburg)
  • Arcadia (Pretoria)
  • Eldorado Park (Johannesburg)
Theft hotspots in Gauteng:
  • Pretoria CBD
  • Arcadia (Pretoria)
  • Sunnyside (Pretoria)
Hijacking hotspots in KwaZulu-Natal:
  • Sydenham (Durban)
  • Imbali (Pietermaritzburg)
  • Avoca Hills (Durban)
Theft hotspots in KwaZulu-Natal:
  • Glenwood (Durban)
  • Morningside (Durban)
  • Musgrave (Durban)
Hijacking hotspots in the Western Cape:
  • Philippi (Cape Town)
  • Khayelitsha (Cape Town)
  • Maitland (Cape Town)
Theft hotspots in the Western Cape:
  • Philippi (Cape Town)
  • Claremont (Cape Town)
  • Dunoon (Cape Town)

09 August 2019

The 10 most dangerous roads in South Africa!

South Africa's Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has released a list of the country's most dangerous roads. The list is based on the number of fatalities that took place on National Routes (N), Provincial Routes (R) and Regional Routes (R) in all nine provinces in South Africa. A total of 254 people died on these roads in 2018 and the human behaviour accounts for nine out of ten fatal crashes that occurred on these roads. The Top Ten roads and areas with the highest number of deaths nationally are:
  • R71 Mankweng in Limpopo
  • R573 Umhlanga in Mpumalanga
  • N4 Nelspruit in Mpumalanga
  • N2 Libode in Eastern Cape
  • N1 Naboomspruit in Limpopo
  • N2 Umkhomazi in KwaZulu Natal
  • N2 Pongola in KwaZulu Natal
  • N2 Idutywa in Eastern Cape
  • R37 Mecklenburg
  • N3 Harrismith in the Free State
According to the RTMC the Top Ten roads have been prioritised for intensified law enforcement to make these roads safer.

26 April 2018

South Africa: Toll tariffs on national roads 2018/19!

South Africa's Department of Transport has approved the adjustment of toll tariffs on national roads for the 2018/19 tax year. The new tariffs, which are getting adjusted on an annual basis, are influenced by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) over the preceding twelve months and reflect the increase in value-added tax (VAT) from 14% to 15% recently announced in South Africa's 2018/19 budget. The adjustments were published in the Government Gazette 41545 (28 March 2018, page 7); the new toll tariffs in South Africa came into effect on 12 April 2018.

South Africa, toll tariffs 2018, travel, tourism
via https://archive.opengazettes.org.za/archive/ZA/2018/
government-gazette-ZA-vol-633-no-41545-dated-2018-03-28.pdf

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14 September 2017

The 20 most dangerous roads to drive in South Africa!

South Africa's Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has released a list of the country's most dangerous routes to drive. The list is based on the number of road crashes and fatalities that took place on National Routes (N), Provincial Routes (R) and Regional Routes (R) in all nine provinces in South Africa

traffic, Cape Town, South Africa

The 20 most dangerous roads to drive in South Africa:
  1. N2 - East London <> Umtata (231km)
  2. N2 - Umtata <> Kokstad (188km)
  3. N1 - Mokopane <> Polokwane (58km)
  4. N1 - Polokwane <> Makhado (109km)
  5. N4 - Middelburg <> Belfast (72km)
  6. N2 - Durban <> Tongaat (48km)
  7. N12 - Springs <> Witbank (101km)
  8. R573 - Pretoria <> Kwamhlanga (74km)
  9. N1 - Naboomspruit <> Mokopane (44km)
  10. R71 - Polokwane <> Tzaneen (95km)
  11. R40 - Hazyview <> Hoedspruit (99km)
  12. R61 - Port St Johns <> Bizana (149km)
  13. N2 - Cape Town <> Somerset West (48km)
  14. N2 - King Williams Town <> East London (70km)
  15. R61 - Queenstown <> Umtata (226km)
  16. N3 - Warden <> Viliers (104km)
  17. N4 - Waterval Boven <> Nelspruit (91km)
  18. R573 - Moloto Road (140km)
  19. N14 - Coligny <> Beisiesvlei (47km)
  20. N17 - Liandra <> Ermelo (120 km)

13 September 2017

Malawi to introduce a new Road Access Fee (RAF) for all foreign registred vehicles

The Government of Malawi is set to introduce a new Road Access Fee (RAF) for all foreign registred vehicles. Effective 01 November 2017, the fee is applicable on all foreign registered (small) vehicles and all such vehicles that are currently not paying the International Transit Fee (ITF)*. The RAF will be charged by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) at Malawi's border posts upon entry in the country in United States Dollars (US$) at a fixed rate of US$20 per vehicle and does not depend on the vehicle's country of origin or the distance to be travelled in the country. The on-the-spot penalty for those failing to pay the fee is US$500 per vehicle.

Land Rover, Pretoria, South Africa, Jacaranda

*The International Transit Fee (ITF) is charged by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) on foreign registered vehicles with a minimum of two axles. The fee, which is collected at Malawi's borders upon entry in the country, is payable in foreign denominated currency per 100km or part thereof travelled in Malawi.

06 October 2016

Kruger National Park: No leaded & unleaded fuel at Shingwedzi Rest Camp!

update (17 Oct 2016): Unleaded petrol available again at Shingwedzi Rest Camp in Kruger National Park. Leaded petrol is still not available. 

South African National Parks (SANParks) announced on 05 October 2016 that leaded and unleaded fuel is currently not available at Shingwedzi Rest Camp in Kruger National Park. Both fuel pumps are out of operation until further notice due to the decontamination of the tanks. The diesel fuel pumps are not affected by the decontamination, so that diesel is still available at the restcamp in the northern section of the Kruger National Park. We'll keep you posted!


30 October 2014

Hoedspruit (Limpopo): Blyde Bridge (R527) to close during November 2014

update (13 Nov 2014): The Blyde Bridge is open at the moment! It will be closed again for half of Friday and half of Saturday, then it will be open until the next closure in a week to 10days time. (via Kruger2Canyon) Well' keep you posted!

update (04 Nov 2014): The Blyde Bridge is still open...



Travellers planning to visit Hoedspruit via the R527 should be aware that the Blyde Bridge, located on the border of the Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve towards Hoedspruit (just before the R531 goes south towards the Selati Game Reserve) will be closed during November 2014 due to repairs. Kruger2Canyon, a regional community newspaper, reports that the bridge crossing the Blyde River will close for 10+ days from 03 November 2014 and again for another 10+ days later in November 2014. According to the newspaper, the bridge will be open during night from 16:30 - 06:30am. We marked the Blyde Bridge (R527) on a Google Map for better orientation [link].



Hoedspruit, situated at the foot of the Klein Drakensberg, is mainly known for the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the Kruger National Park (via Orpen Gate).

09 October 2014

Windhoek: Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) to get a fuel station!

update (09 July 2015): The new fuel station at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) is still under construction! We'll keep you posted!

update (20 Jan 2015): According to various news reports in Namibia, the fuel station at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) will open its doors in June 2015.

Namibia Airports Company (NAC) has appointed the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) to erect a common fuel station at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) to cater for the fuel needs of the various car rental companies based at the aiport, of travellers returning rental cars at Hosea Kutako as well as the general public. As of now, Namibia's main international airport, which is located about 45km east of Windhoek, has no such common fuel station*. According to Dan Kamati, the communications officer of NAC, the construction work is expected to start soon and will be concluded in early 2015. Namcor will run the fuel station for 15 years, after which Namibia Airports Company will take ownership.

*Avis Car Rental has its own fuel facility.

16 January 2014

Timelapse video: A roadtrip through Namibia

Are you currently planning your next hols in Africa? Having difficulties to decide where to go? Well, the stunning video below will definitely sort it out and makes you want to visit Namibia right now! The timelapse roadtrip video was shot by photographer and adventure film maker Rufus Blackwell in collaboration with Safari Drive, a self drive safaris specicalist based in the UK. Switch the video to fullscreen (HD!), lean back and enjoy the great trip through Namibia. Enjoy! Kudos Rufus & Safari Drive!

NAMIBIA from Rufus Blackwell on Vimeo.


05 November 2013

Windhoek (Namibia): Uhland Street renamed Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda Street

The City of Windhoek has renamed the Uhland Street in Windhoek Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda Street. The street, which covers a distance of 2.3 kilometres, starts at Independence Avenue and meets Berg Street in Klein Windhoek. It is the second longest street in Namibia. The former Uhland Street is already second street named after the former President of Zambia, Kenneth Kaunda, in Windhoek. The other street is in Freedom Square, Katutura.


View Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda Street in a larger map

Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda (* 28 April 1924) served as the first President of the independent Zambia, from 1964 to 1991.

04 November 2013

Video: A road trip through South Africa!

Cornelius Bierer, a German videographer and photographer, recently did a 18 day road trip through South Africa. He travelled about 4000km from Johannesburg to Cape Town, filmed his trip and thankfully made it available online. From Johannesburg and Pretoria Cornelius travelled to the Blyde River Canyon and the Kruger National Park before crossing the border to Swaziland to visit the Mkhaya Game Reserve. The next stops along his way to Cape Town included St Lucia, Durban, Coffee Bay, Port Elizabeth, Knysna, Hermanus and Franschhoek. Enjoy the video! Kudos Cornelius!

South Africa Roadtrip - experiencing a world in one country from Cornelius Bierer on Vimeo.

24 April 2013

Google's Street View now live in Lesotho

The landlocked country of Lesotho, completely surrounded by its only neighbouring country South Africa, is the third country in Africa to be covered by Google's Street View service. Explore the "Kingdom in the sky" and get to (virturally) know the roads, landscapes and lakes, Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, and other highlights, such as the AfriSki Ski & Mountain Resort near Butha-Buthe or the impressive Katse Dam, famous for its pony treks! Enjoy!


View Larger Map

btw - the other two countries in Africa covered by Street View are currently South Africa (since 2010) and Botswana (since 2012).

23 April 2013

South Africa: Roadworks on the N2 between Kokstad & Harding (KwaZulu Natal)

If you are planning to travel along the N2 between Kokstad and Harding on your way to eg Port Shepstone, Margate or the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, keep in mind that roadworks are underway between the two town. The construction of the Stafford’s Post Interchange (kilometer mark 44.30 on the N2 section 21) commenced on 19 April 2013 and will last until December 2014. The speed limit through the construction zones is reduced to 60km/h and traffic is accommodated on the existing carriageway and temporary bypasses or deviations with STOP/GO traffic accommodation towards the latter part of the construction. Safe travels!


View Larger Map

26 March 2013

South Africa: Extended border hours during the Easter period 2013

South Africa's land borders are getting ready for the Easter period as it is one of the busiest periods for border posts of the year, with exceptionally high numbers of travellers crossing in a relatively short space of time.
  • Beit Bridge border post (South Africa - Zimbabwe) will be operating 24hrs from 25 March to 14 April 2013
  • Lebombo border post (South Africa - Mozambique) will be operating 24hrs from 25 March to 14 April 2013
  • Oshoek border post (South Africa - Swaziland) will be operating 24hrs on 28 March 2013, otherwise it is open from 6am to midnight
  • Mahamba border post (South Africa - Swaziland) will operate from 7am to midnight on 28 March 2013, otherwise it will be open from 7am to 10pm
  • Mananga border post (South Africa - Swaziland) will operate from 7am to 8pm on 28 March 2013, otherwise it will be open 7am to 6pm
  • Qacha’s Nek border post (South Africa - Lesotho) will operate from 7am to midnight from 27 to 29 March 2013, otherwise it will be open between 7am to 8pm
  • Kopfontein border post (South Africa - Botswana) will operate from 6am to midnight on 28 and 31 March 2013 and 01 April 2013
  • Groblersbrug border post (South Africa - Botswana) will operate from 6am to midnight on 28 and 31 March 2013 and 01 April 2013
  • Maseru border post (South Africa - Lesotho) is a 24 hour post
  • Ficksburg border post (South Africa - Lesotho) is a 24 hour post

07 December 2012

The N2 is South Africa's deadliest road!

Mind the N2, travellers! No other road in South Africa is claiming more lifes than the N2 between East London and Mthatha in the country's Eastern Cape. According to the Road and Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), an average of 90 people are getting killed in car crashes every year on that stretch of the N2. Further up the N2, between Mthatha and Kokstad, an average of 77 people are losing their lifes every year due to car accidents. Please don't skip the Transkei & the Wildcoast because of the statistics, just be super careful when driving along the N2!


04 October 2012

South Africa: New camera system to nab speedsters in KwaZulu Natal

South Africa's province KwaZulu Natal has introduced a new camera system which will assist in effectively dealing with speeding motorists and those driving un-roadworthy vehicles on the province's roads. The Average Speed Over Distance (ASD) technology and the Smart Roadblock is able to detect speedsters and un-roadworthy vehicles, so that motorists can no longer take a chance by slowing down at known speed enforcement sites and then speed up again after passing the site ("Time over distance" > Speed = Distance / Time).
The Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras (ANPR) for the ASD systems are already strategically located on the N3 which is the national strategic corridor linking KwaZulu Natal to other parts of the country. The camera system will also be installed in other parts of the province where there are high volumes of vehicles.