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South Africa’s Most Breathtaking Drives
If you’re someone who believes that life is all about the journey, then you’ll truly appreciate the beauty of a scenic route. South Africa is home to some of the most stunning drives in the world, where every moment behind the wheel becomes a memorable adventure. Here are my personal picks for the top 13 scenic drives in South Africa.
Discover the Western Cape
1. Chapman’s Peak Drive
Prepare to be enthralled by the world-renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive. This picturesque route, which stretches between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, features incredible road engineering that will leave you in awe. It’s no surprise that this drive has a toll – the 180-degree views of the surrounding landscape are simply breathtaking. If you find yourself in the Cape, a journey along Chapman’s Peak Drive is an absolute must.
2. Experience the Swartberg Pass
The breathtaking Swartberg Pass (yes, my favorite mountain passes in the Western Cape) cuts through the Swartberg mountains, stretching from East to West across the Little Karoo in the Western Cape. To experience the Swartberg Pass at its best, start your journey in Oudtshoorn and head towards De Rust. From there, make your way to Prince Albert, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch before continuing your adventure along the pass. By following this route, you’ll have the added safety of descending the mountain and ending your trip at the Cango Caves, where you can take a break and stretch your legs. Trust me, it’s worth it! So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
I’m excited to tell you about a fantastic road trip that takes you from Cape Town to Grabouw by way of Franschhoek and Villiersdorp. It’s a drive that winds its way through the picturesque winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. To start, take the R45 over the Franschhoek Pass and be prepared to be amazed by the scenery. After that, continue on the R45 and then take the R43 to the N2. Finally, take the N2 back to Cape Town via Elgin and Grabouw. Along the way, you’ll be treated to a mix of beautiful sights ranging from sweeping vineyards and rugged mountains to apple and peach orchards. It’s a road trip you won’t want to miss!
The Little Karoo is anything but dull. Every time I drive on the mesmerizing Meringspoort Road, I can’t help but be amazed, even though I’ve been there countless times before. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the picnic spots, go for a short walk, and appreciate the fascinating indigenous plant life, like the stunning fynbos and restios.
Let’s Explore the Eastern Cape
Journey from Port Elizabeth to Colesberg via Graaf Reinet (N9)
Embark on an adventure from Port Elizabeth to Colesburg (or vice versa) along the N9 highway. This route will take you past the magnificent Addo Elephant Park before leading you up a jaw-dropping escarpment pass that eventually merges with the N1, connecting Cape Town and Johannesburg. If you have some extra time, don’t miss the opportunity to take a detour and explore the delightful town of Graaff-Reinet and the famous valley of desolation in the nearby Camdeboo National Park (you can read more about it in our article: Camdeboo: Graaff-Reinet’s heavenly valley).
Northern Cape
6. Take the scenic gravel road
If you want to experience stunning views in the Northern Cape, you have plenty of options. Over the past few months, I’ve traveled the entire Northern Cape on my bike, searching for captivating stories. It’s really difficult for me to pick just one scenic route because there are so many amazing choices.
“You know what I think makes for the most amazing gravel road? It’s that narrow road that winds its way from Strydenburg to Vosburg. There’s something special about it – it passes by the deserted Sodium train station. And let me tell you, that desertedness adds a whole new level of intrigue to this route. I’ve actually never come across another vehicle on this road. It’s simply marvelous. Now, if you want a real treat, take the alternative gravel road from Vosburg to Carnarvon. Just drive 10 kilometers out of Vosburg on the Van Wyksvlei gravel road and make a left turn. This road takes you close to the stunning Karee mountains and it’s way prettier than the main gravel road to Carnarvon,” Willem shares with enthusiasm.
7. Unrestricted Exploration along the Molopo Border
If you’re looking for another exciting road trip, I recommend the Molopo border road. While it’s no longer maintained by the police, local farmers still choose this route. It follows the Botswana border and is perfect if you’re heading to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Discover Gauteng
8. Explore Derdepoort
Pretoria is known for its beautiful Jacaranda trees, but that’s not all it has to offer. Just a few minutes from the city center, you’ll find Derdepoort, a charming rural village. Here, you can visit the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, the Roodeplaat Dam Nature Reserve, and many other exciting attractions.
9. Exploring the Way to Hartebeespoort Dam
Come along on a breathtaking journey from Johannesburg to Hartebeespoort, where you’ll find yourself winding through roads adorned with blooming aloes during the winter months. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Hartebeespoort Dam, where you can partake in an array of thrilling water sports, explore a local bird sanctuary, and embark on both challenging hikes and serene strolls.
Mpumalanga
10. Barberton to Bulembu to Badplaas: A Tranquil Expedition
Although the round trip from Barberton to Bulembu to Badplaas spans approximately 160 kilometers, it may take you up to 4 hours or more to complete. Yet, it’s not because of any particular obstacle along the way — rather, it’s the multitude of captivating spots where you’ll want to pause and drink in the breathtaking landscapes. Dubbed as one of the most scenic routes in Southern Africa, this journey never fails to leave travelers in awe.
11. The Panorama Route: A Journey not to be Missed
The majestic Panorama Route is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, towering mountains, and stunning sunsets over the Klein Drakensberg escarpment. These views are so remarkable that they have earned the route its name, “Panorama.” The viewpoints along the route are aptly named to capture the awe-inspiring beauty they offer. God’s Window and Wonder View, for example, give you just a glimpse of the grandeur that awaits you.
Now, let’s explore some other beautiful routes to consider. In the Free State region, there is a scenic drive known as the Sandstone Route. This route takes you from Clarens to Ladybrand, allowing you to witness the remarkable sandstone rock formations that adorn the eastern Free State area.
And if you’re a fan of mountains, the Maluti Route is perfect for you. This route offers an opportunity to admire the majestic peaks and explore the stunning landscapes of Lesotho.
With these routes in mind, the choice is yours to embark on a scenic adventure that will leave you in awe of nature’s splendor. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the beauty of these routes inspire you.
As I journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Free State Highlands, I find myself following a route that winds its way through the majestic Maluti Mountains and leads me to the Seekoei Nature Reserve. This remarkable journey begins in Harrismith, takes me through the enchanting Free State, and then meanders across the Orange River into the Eastern Cape, finally culminating in the magnificent Wild Coast. The Maluti Mountain Ranges, which dominate this picturesque route, offer me an array of choices, from immersing myself in art, culture, and history, to discovering ancient rock art sites and relishing in the awe-inspiring scenery whilst engaging with the rich cultural experiences this region has to offer.
If you’re constantly searching for routes that capture the breathtaking beauty of South Africa, let me guide you on your quest for that perfect, picturesque route for your self-drive holiday. Trust me, this guide will certainly help you in discovering the most scenic drives in South Africa that will take your breath away.
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What scenic drives in South Africa do you consider your favorites? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!