Your Guide to Motorhoming in South Africa

South Africa is brimming with fascinating cities, impressive wildlife and rugged terrain. There's plenty of diversity to discover here, and hiring a motorhome is a fantastic way to see it all. It's one of the best ways to explore this rewarding part of Africa - if you're up for the adventure.

Camping in South Africa

While freedom camping isn't allowed in South Africa, you will find plenty of designated camping sites to park up and enjoy. Campgrounds, in general, have superb facilities which are clean and spacious. You'll rarely need to book a space in advance with over 1,500 locations across the country. Keep in mind, the busiest times are during the summer holidays in December-January.

Begin Your Road Trip

Those heading to South Africa have some spectacular sightseeing options available to them. But first, you need to pick up your home on wheels. We recommend a few starting points, including the scenic Cape Town - often called one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You'll be in a prime position for cruising the Garden Route bound for George or Port Elizabeth. Check out the capital city of Johannesburg or head to coastal Durban to savour some Indian Ocean views. No matter where you choose to start your adventure, these locations offer plenty of motorhome rental options.

Top Attractions in South Africa

If you’re beginning your holiday in Cape Town, start by exploring the historic and cultural neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap. You'll find a mix of colourful little houses all in a row. There's also a museum where you can learn more about the history of this rainbow community. It's hard to ignore the majestic Table Mountain towering above you. Head up to the highest point in Cape Town by taking an aerial cable car to the top. Once there you'll find a restaurant, hiking trails and ample spots for wildlife watching. Why not take a guided thirty-minute trek, or for those feeling more adventurous try abseiling down a cliff face. Stay for the afternoon, grab a bite for dinner and end the perfect day with a gorgeous sunset.

Get to know the African penguins out at Boulders Beach. This part of the coast is home to thousands of rare mainland penguins who clamber among the boulders. You'll hear their distinct chirp before you see them. There's an entrance fee to get to the beach sanctuary or watch them waddling from a distance on the surrounding boardwalk. If penguins are too tame, you could always come face to face with great white sharks during a cage-dive. Gansbaai is a fishing town renowned as the Great White Shark capital of the world, and only two and a half hours drive from Cape Town.

Don't miss cruising along the Garden Route. This picturesque highway offers visitors 300 kilometres worth of glorious attractions to see along the way. Stop by the coastal city of George, before making your way towards Port Elizabeth, the city by the bay. Stay on this route for the perfect introduction to South Africa. An alternative highway is Route 62 from Cape Town which is another incredibly scenic drive that's perfect for motorhome travellers.

If you're venturing north towards Johannesburg, then you can't miss Kruger National Park. It's pretty much South Africa's top attraction and has been listed amongst the top five national parks in the world. Another spot worth mentioning is Bourke's Luck Potholes, a magnificent natural attraction worth stopping by at the Blyde River Canyon. You'll witness the result of thousands of years of water erosion which has created an otherworldly geological feature.

Safety in South Africa

As with anywhere in the world, it's essential to stay safe while you're on holiday. Keep on trucking by following these simple safety tips while in South Africa.

• Don't pull over for hitchhikers or accidents.

• Keep an eye out on the road for wildlife and give any animals time to pass.

• Avoid entering townships or known neighbourhoods of trouble unless a guide accompanies you.

• Petty theft can happen; keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

• Never leave anything valuable in the motorhome.

• Always drive with your doors locked and windows up in the city, and ignore people who approach your car at red lights or stop signs.

• Distances in South Africa can be vast. Always fill your petrol tank when driving long distances and make sure your motorhome is running smoothly, to avoid stopping on isolated highways.

You'll only need a few days of exploration to fall in love with the beauty of South Africa. From the attractive coastal cities and beaches to the golden savannahs and mountains - this country will introduce you to so many must-see spots. Take a camera, and get ready to take a tonne of photos. Exploring South Africa in a motorhome rental is going to be the trip of a lifetime.