South Africa is a country of endless beauty; from golden beaches to towering mountains, vast savannahs to vibrant city streets. If you’ve been craving an adventure, it’s time to make this summer one to remember!
Gather your girls, pack the car, and hit the road for the ultimate road trip experience. Whether you're taking a short detour to Durban’s shores, soaking up the scenic beauty of Cape Town, chasing the sun in Sun City, vibing in Joburg, or getting lost in the lush landscapes of Mpumalanga, there's a whole world to discover right at your doorstep. We’ve put together a guide to get your road trip on track, from what you’ll need to take with you, to making sure your crew is ready for anything.
So…Who’s Who in the Car?
Before you hit the road, it’s important to know your roles. It’s about more than just who’s in the car, it’s about knowing exactly who’s doing what. You need a solid team that can handle anything. Here’s the lineup:
- The Designated Driver The MVP of the trip. Responsible for keeping things on track, this person ensures you actually arrive at your destination. They’ve got the map (or phone with GPS) and a steady hand on the wheel. So, make sure they’ve got a playlist to keep them going!
- The Playlist Queen Every road trip needs a soundtrack. Whether it’s amapiano beats to keep the energy up, throwback hits for sing-alongs, or chill indie vibes for scenic moments, this person is the one responsible for curating the soundtrack of your life. No pressure, but everyone’s vibes are in your hands.
- The Snack PackerSomeone’s gotta keep you fed, right? The Snack Packer is the one with the essential petrol station stops covered. Think chips, biltong, fresh fruit, and those extra-cute ‘road trip’ treats you’ll only enjoy when you’re on the go. Bonus points for the super cute cooler bag.
- The Car Mechanic You know the one who always knows what to do when a tyre pops or the engine makes that weird noise? Yep, that’s your car mechanic. They’ll save the day when you’re stranded on the side of the road, not knowing what happened to the car, and trying to figure out which way the spare tyre goes.
- The Passenger Princess And then there's the Passenger Princess — a.k.a. the person who just wants to chill. They’re the ones living their best life in the passenger seat, keeping the vibes high and making sure everyone else is good. They’ll drop a hot take about the latest gossip, document the journey with selfies, and maybe even spot a cute little cafe you should check out.
What to Pack (Besides the Snacks)
Now that you’ve sorted your crew and chosen your destination, let’s talk packing. Road trips are all about convenience, comfort, and making sure you’re ready for anything.
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring the city, keep that SPF strong and your shades on.
- Portable Charger: Because how else will you keep the Instagram stories flowing? Make sure your phone never dies.
- Road Trip Playlist: Did we mention that? Because it’s vital.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’re probably gonna do a lot of walking, so make sure you’re ready to explore.
- A Camera: You’re gonna want to capture the moments, and yes, we’re all about that aesthetic road trip shot.
- A Map or Navigation App: Even if you think you know the way, it never hurts to have a backup plan (or get lost and find something amazing).
Once you’ve got the crew, the tunes, and the snacks ready, it’s time to hit the open road. Stop at quirky roadside stalls, play the most random car games, and take in the beautiful landscapes. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B, it’s about the journey. The laughs, the inside jokes, the spontaneous pit stops. This is where memories are made.
Some of the places we love…
South Africa is a playground of possibilities, so where will you go? Here are a few epic road trip ideas to get you inspired:
- Durban: Craving a bit of sunshine, golden beaches, and Indian Ocean vibes? Durban’s calling. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, this coastal gem has everything from beautiful beaches to vibrant food markets. Plus, you can make pit stops in places like the Valley of a Thousand Hills for those breathtaking views. Don’t forget the bunny chow!
- Cape Town: Who doesn’t love the Mother City? From the iconic Table Mountain to the picturesque beaches of Camps Bay and the Winelands just around the corner, Cape Town is a road trip dream. Explore the city, take a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak, or check out the hidden gems in Bo-Kaap.
- Sun City: Need a dose of luxury and fun? Sun City’s got it all: from casino nights and water parks to world-class golf courses. Pack your swimsuits, your sunglasses, and your best group photoshoot vibes. After all, it’s not just a resort; it’s an experience.
- Mpumalanga: Looking for a little peace and quiet, with nature as your backdrop? Mpumalanga’s lush, green landscapes will leave you in awe. Whether you’re heading to the Kruger Park or the Panorama Route for some jaw-dropping views, it’s perfect for the adventure-loving crew.
- Johannesburg: If you’re after the vibe, the energy, and the culture, Joburg is where it’s at. The city of gold is buzzing with life — from the latest art exhibitions to the best brunch spots, Joburg’s got it all. Make sure to stop by Soweto, grab a bite at some of the city's coolest food spots, and take a selfie with the famous Mandela Bridge.
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