What to Expect
A self-drive safari holiday is perfect for visitors wishing to explore independently and at their own pace. Whilst the majority of African countries are not conducive to self-drive vacations, Great African Adventures organizes self-drive tours throughout South Africa, eSwatini and Namibia.
Self-drive safaris and tours are not just for the seasoned traveller – they are extremely popular with families and friends looking for an affordable African safari. Many of our clients return each year on self-drive tours, exploring new destinations with us. A self-drive vacation with Great African Adventures offers you complete freedom, knowing that we “have your back” from start to finish. We work with you to create a well-paced and innovative safari holiday itinerary specifically for you, your family and/or friends, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy each destination, rather than simply driving from place to place. We make all your reservations and take care of all the logistics – local and regional flights, hire cars, accommodations and safaris – and for your peace of mind, we’re on call 24 hours a day whilst you’re here.
Prior to your self-drive holiday we provide you with a bespoke and detailed tour itinerary, together with other useful travel information. We’ll also give you lots of ideas of things you can see and do along the way, ensuring you get the most out of your African adventure.
South Africa, eSwatini and Namibia all have excellent road networks. Roads surfaces are either tarred or gravel and are generally in good condition. Road signs are clear, frequent and easy to follow. Petrol is widely available, and most parts of these countries are covered by mobile phone networks. We drive on the left side of the road, and you will probably find that there are fewer vehicles on the roads here than in your home country. And with a superb selection of guesthouses, farm stays, safari camps and lodges and boutique city hotels, we will craft a unique holiday itinerary, where every day is a new and memorable experience!
Where to Go
South Africa
Explore Cape Town and the Winelands, the West Coast with its whitewashed fishing villages, or the world-famous beaches and beautiful lakes of the Garden Route. Head inland to hike or cycle in the magnificent Cedarberg Mountains, or meander through the small towns of the Karoo. Self-drive safaris in the Kalahari, Addo or Kruger National Parks are popular with locals and tourists alike.
eSwatini (Swaziland)
eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) is an exceptional self-drive holiday destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. With its scenic landscapes, from the lush Ezulwini Valley to the rugged mountains of the Malolotja Nature Reserve, visitors can explore at their own pace. The country’s diverse attractions include game reserves, traditional villages, vibrant markets and great adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, white water rafting and horse riding. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, relaxing by a secluded waterfall, or immersing yourself in local traditions, eSwatini offers a memorable and flexible getaway for independent travellers.
Namibia
A firm favourite with self-drive tourists, Namibia offers spectacular and diverse scenery, from the arid desert landscapes of the Namib Desert, Sossusvlei Dunes and Fish River Canyon, to the salt pans of Etosha and the lush greens of the Zambezi region. With plenty to do, including quad biking, Big 5 Safaris, fishing, birding and sensational star gazing, Namibia is an easy and rewarding country to explore independently. Excellent accommodation, good roads, and widely spoken English.
