Driving in Africa: Hints,Tips & Safety

If you're on a self-drive tour organised by Go2Africa, your chances of encountering problems are minimal. We make it our business to know the routes we recommend, having travelled them ourselves, so you're not at any unnecessary risk. We'll also provide you with comprehensive directions before you set out.

In South Africa and Namibia we drive on the left side of the road. The infrastructure is good and roads are generally of a high standard. However, the drivers are notorious for being fast - and quite reckless - so keep that in mind when travelling.

Road Safety in Africa

Park in well-lit, populated areas and keep your vehicle locked at all times, even when driving. Don't leave valuables where they can be seen, you'll be surprised at what desperate people might try to steal.

Review maps and other information in a secure area, always be aware of your surroundings and know how to reach your destination before departure. Avoid stopping on highways.

You're more important than your belongings - in the rare event that you're approached by a stranger demanding your valuables, don't resist and do as they say.

Animals Crossing - Be aware that the roads in many rural areas are not fenced. Dogs, chickens, sheep and even horses and cows may be on the road, so stay alert. Large antelope crossing the road can also be a hazard in certain areas - watch out for the road signs depicting a leaping antelope, and take it slowly, especially towards evening.

The best advice for security when you travel - simply stay aware of what's going on around you.

Roadside assistance number in South Africa - 0800 11 5767

Travel Distances in Africa

Remember that distances in Africa are vast and if you're unused to driving long distances it's always best to keep your driving times short, and to schedule regular stops.

All maps, road signs and speed limits in Southern Africa use kilometres to confer distance.

The speed limit on national highways in both South Africa and Namibia is generally 120km/h (75mph), and secondary roads are usually 100km/h (60mph). In built-up areas the speed limit is usually 60km/h (35mph) unless otherwise indicated.

Gravel roads and game reserves require extra caution - don't exceed 80km/h on even the best gravel roads and keep well under 50km/h in game reserves.

Filling Up in Africa

A variety of petrol (gas) stations are situated on both main and national roads. Most of them are open 24 hours a day, although some keep shorter hours.

Fill up your tank before it starts giving warning signals - distances between towns (and therefore petrol stations) are considerable in some parts of the country.

Different petrol types are available - unleaded, lead replacement fuel and diesel. If you're hiring a car it's likely to require unleaded petrol. Check with the rental company before you drive off.

Petrol stations are not self-service - an attendant will fill the car, check the oil, water and tyre pressure and, if necessary, clean the windscreen - for which he or she will expect a tip of two or three rand.

Pay for petrol with cash - South African law prohibits the purchase of petrol with a credit card and many Namibian petrol stations will only accept cash.

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