One of the finest things about South Africa is its abundance in diversity spanning fauna, flora, megafauna, architecture, and vibrant cultures. Whether you're seeking luxury car rentals or affordable car hire, South Africa’s countryside offers an unparalleled range of experiences, from sprawling deserts and extensive savannah landscapes to snow-capped mountains, weathered cliffs, and subtropical beaches.

For those who believe that life is about the journey, and not just the destination, this collection of unforgettable road trips and routes is for you. South Africa's magnificent landscapes will create memories that last a lifetime. Hire a car with First Car Rental to see this country up close and personal, whether you're opting for a convertible car rental to enjoy the open air or an SUV hire to navigate the rugged terrain.

"Once a year, go someplace you've never been before." – Dalai Lama

First, a few first-hand travel tips:

• Bring a Real Map: Always pack a road atlas. Even with car rental with navigation systems in your vehicle, a paper map is insurance against getting lost. Plus, it doesn’t run out of battery, and kids might even enjoy planning out the route with you.
• Make More Room: Space is at a premium on a road trip. If you don’t own a minibus rental or a van rental service, look for ways to optimize space inside the car.
• Allow for Spontaneity: Although you’ll need to literally map out your trip, keep in mind that part of the fun is being spontaneous. Booking your nightly lodging in advance? Underestimate your daily mileage to allow for unexpected stops like roadside attractions or scenic adventure vehicle hire.
• Adopt an Electronics Strategy: This is a personal choice, but if you're a kid in my car, you get unfettered access to pre-chosen videos. It’s a window into their lives, and it can keep them off the video games, enhancing the overall family car rental deals experience.
• Lay Off the Doughnuts: Whether you're a parent or not, include lots of accessible, wholesome snacks. Stop frequently for fresh air and stretch breaks, especially if you’re on a long term car rental journey. Your mood will stay brighter, and you’ll feel better.
• Splurge Wisely: Saving money by not staying in expensive hotels? Consider indulging occasionally in fine dining or unique local experiences along your route, perhaps using your savings from budget-friendly car hire.
• Meet the Locals: They’re often friendlier and more informed than Google, providing tips that can enhance your road trip car rental experience.

Hitting the open road is a rite of passage. Remember to fuel up before that dash light comes on, especially if you’re enjoying one of these 10 unforgettable road trips across South Africa.

"A road trip is a way for the whole family to spend time together and annoy each other in interesting new places." – Tom Lichtenheld

1. Chapman's Peak Drive, Western Cape

Chapman’s Peak Drive, a 9km route between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, is widely regarded as one of the most scenic stretches of road in the world. Opt for a sports car rental to fully appreciate the 114 bends along this coastal roadway, which offers abundant viewpoints where you can pull over and soak in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

2. Long Tom Pass, Mpumalanga

Named after a large cannon used during the Anglo-Boer war, Long Tom Pass between Lydenburg and Sabie is Mpumalanga’s most famous pass. The pass’s complex network of curves, including 10 hairpin bends, makes it a favorite for those on a road trip car rental adventure seeking spectacular mountain vistas.

3. Lichens Pass, Free State

Travel along the R712 through the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, where Lichens Pass offers breathtaking scenery, including the striking black and orange sandstone cliffs. It’s a route best explored in a 4x4 hire for safari, providing stability and comfort as you navigate the foothills of the Maluti Mountains.

"I love road trips, I love driving, I love finding little towns. I just think it's the best way to travel." – Scarlett Johansson

4. Clarence Drive (R44), Western Cape

Journey between mountains and ocean on the 50km Clarence Drive, a part of the "Whale Route." Rent an SUV to enjoy the abundant whale-watching spots and take in views of False Bay, Table Mountain, and more.

5. "The Breakfast Run", Gauteng

From Johannesburg to Hartbeespoort Dam, this scenic drive offers curving roads through bushveld and grassland. A luxury SUV rental will ensure you travel in comfort while enjoying the spectacular vistas and unique sights like the Arc de Triomphe replica.

6. Sani Pass, KwaZulu-Natal

One of the world’s most famous hair-pinned roads, Sani Pass is a challenging drive in a 4x4 hire, summiting at 2876m above sea level. The pass connects KwaZulu-Natal to Lesotho, and the summit boasts the Highest Pub in Africa, offering views that are as thrilling as the drive itself.

"Make sure you control the radio on a long road trip. You don't want to listen to some old-fashioned music the whole time." – Preston Shay

7. Panorama Route, Mpumalanga

Centered around the Blyde River Canyon, the Panorama Route offers panoramic views of mountains, canyons, and valleys. It’s an ideal journey for those opting for long term car rental or weekend car hire specials, with highlights including six waterfalls and the famous God’s Window.

8. Magoebaskloof Pass, Limpopo

A favorite for adventurers, Magoebaskloof Pass, with its series of twisting S-bends, is fringed by plantations and offers wonderful views. Adventure vehicle hire is recommended to explore the surrounding area’s hiking, mountain biking, and more.

"If we were meant to stay in one place, we would have roots instead of feet." – Rachel Wolchin

9. Naude's Nek, Eastern Cape

Connecting the towns of Maclear and Rhodes, Naude’s Nek Pass is a gravel road zig-zagging over the southern Drakensberg. Best conquered in a 4x4 vehicle, this 33km route offers magnificent mountain scenery and spectacular views of the Bell River.

10. Spektakel Pass, Northern Cape

Nestled in Namaqualand, Spektakel Pass features great corners, fast sweeps, and steep gradients. For those visiting during the wildflower season, a convertible car rental would be perfect to take in the vivid colors that bring the arid landscape to life.