South Africa and Mozambique are ideal destinations for a road trip in Africa. These locations offer a chance to explore diverse landscapes, encounter wildlife in their natural habitats, and immerse yourself in local cultures.
By traversing the roads of South Africa and Mozambique, you will discover different ecosystems in a single journey. Here are the 10 must-see stops on your road trip.
What You Need to Know About South Africa and Mozambique
How to get to South Africa?
South Africa is one of the most developed countries on the continent, with a population of about 60 million. Expect around an 11-hour flight from Paris to either Johannesburg or Cape Town.
Ticket prices range from €600 to €800 in the low season and can go up to €1,200 in the high season. It’s highly recommended to book at least three months in advance to secure the best deals.
What is the best time to visit South Africa and Mozambique?
From November to March, you can enjoy the southern summer, where the weather is warm, perfect for beaches and safaris.
From April to September, you can avoid the rainy season and enjoy calmer seas. The cyclone season runs from early January to the end of February in Mozambique, so it’s best to avoid this period if you plan to spend time at the beach.
How to rent a car on-site?
If you wish to rent a car locally, an international driving permit is recommended. Major rental agencies can be found at the airports in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Expect to pay between €25 and €40 per day for an economy car, and up to €100 per day for an SUV.
It’s best to rent your vehicle in South Africa, as you’ll have more options than in Mozambique. Remember that driving is on the left side of the road. The road network is generally good, although some rural roads may be damaged.
Road trip in South Africa and Mozambique: The 10 must-see stops
Stop 1: Cape Town and Table Mountain
Start your road trip in Cape Town, one of the main gateways to South Africa if you’re arriving by air. It’s an excellent starting point to explore the region. Table Mountain is famous for its panoramic views and status as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, so be sure to plan your ascent. After visiting Cape Town and its surroundings (like Cape Point and the Wine Route), you can head towards the southeast coast of the country.
Stop 2: The Garden Route
From Cape Town, the famous Garden Route is a logical next step; simply follow the N2 eastward. This 300 km long road connects Mossel Bay to Storms River and is a very popular route with stunning coastal scenery.
Stop 3: Durban and the South African Coast
After traversing the Garden Route, head north to Durban. You can continue along the coast and stop to swim or surf with the locals. The subtropical climate is perfect for enjoying the sea year-round. Don’t miss visiting the uShaka Marine World aquarium and the bustling markets to experience the local Indian culture.
Stop 4: Kruger National Park
After Durban, make your way to Kruger National Park, located in the northeast of the country. It is one of the largest wildlife parks in Africa and an essential stop for safari enthusiasts. Here, you can observe the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, and buffaloes. To maximize your chances of seeing these animals, visit the park between May and September.
Stop 5: Blyde River Canyon
After exploring Kruger, head to Blyde River Canyon, located less than two hours away. The third-largest canyon in the world offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Stop 6: Eswatini (Swaziland)
You can easily continue your journey to Eswatini, a small landlocked country situated between South Africa and Mozambique. While there, discover the unique culture of the Swazi people and take time to stop at craft markets. You can also visit Mlawula and Hlane National Parks to see antelopes and rhinoceroses.
Stop 7: Maputo, Mozambique
A must-stop on your road trip is Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. Here, you’ll discover unique architecture that blends Portuguese colonial heritage with African modernity. It’s a great opportunity to taste local specialties, particularly fresh fish and seafood.
Stop 8: Limpopo National Park, Mozambique
Once in Mozambique, continue to explore the local flora and fauna at Limpopo National Park. Located near the border with South Africa, it offers a more wild and authentic experience than Kruger, with elephants, lions, and crocodiles on the agenda.
Stop 9: Tofo and Its Beaches
Just a few kilometers away, head to Tofo, a beach destination known for its white sandy shores lined with palm trees. It’s a perfect spot for diving with whale sharks and snorkeling.
Stop 10: Inhambane, Mozambique
To wrap up your road trip beautifully, visit Inhambane, a picturesque town with Portuguese colonial architecture. Take the time to stroll through the town and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, away from the crowded tourist areas. You’ve earned it!
How to book your trip to South Africa?
To book your adventure in just a few clicks, trust Trazler. Your online travel agency quickly compares offers from hundreds of airlines and partner hotels to provide you with the best prices.
On Trazler, you can easily compare available accommodations in Mozambique and South Africa, mixing and matching options to create a trip that suits your expectations. If you need assistance, we are available 24/7 every day of the week. Don’t hesitate to contact ushttps://trazler.com/fr-fr/about/contacts.You now know the must-see stops for a road trip in South Africa and Mozambique. Need some inspiration? Check out our travel blog!
The ideal time to visit South Africa is from April to September for safaris and from November to March for beach activities. In Mozambique, the dry season from May to October is the best period to visit.
It takes around 11 hours for a direct flight from Paris to Johannesburg or Cape Town. The average round-trip ticket price ranges between €600 and €1,200, depending on the season.
Yes, renting a car in South Africa is straightforward, with prices starting at €25 per day. An international driving permit is recommended, especially for traveling into Mozambique.
