Africa is a vast continent with diverse landscapes, cultures, and people. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful continent is by taking a road trip to appreciate the diversity and range of landscapes and cultures. While many popular destinations in Africa attract thousands of tourists every year, there are also several underrated road trips in the Southern part that offer breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Check out these 6 underrated road trips across Southern Africa that you should add to your bucket list.
The Garden Route, South Africa
The famous Garden Route is a 300-kilometer stretch of coastline that runs along the southwestern coast of South Africa, from Mossel Bay to Storms River. The route offers stunning scenery, including rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Along the way, you can visit charming towns such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, ocean kayak and hike along the famous suspension bridge in Tsitsikamma National Park, snorkel with seals, and spot whales and dolphins in the ocean. You can also include a scenic drive along the R62—an inland drive from the Garden Route that includes the red rocks and mountains of the Klein Karoo region and stop for ostriches, wine, and historic towns. While this is a popular road trip for locals and those in the know, this is still a must-do trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Skeleton Coast, Namibia
The Skeleton Coast is a rugged and desolate stretch of coastline that runs from the Ugab River to the Kunene River in Namibia. The name is inspired by the shipwrecks, whale bones, and rusted oil barrels that characterize this area. Despite its eerie appearance, the Skeleton Coast is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants, lions, and hyenas. A road trip along this coast offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s a safe and remote part area where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
The Wild Coast, South Africa
The Wild Coast is an undeveloped stretch of coastline that runs from Port Edward to Port St. Johns in South Africa. The route offers breathtaking scenery, including cliffs, beaches, and rolling hills. Along the way, you can visit traditional Xhosa villages, hike in the Dwesa-Cwebe Nature Reserve, and go on a horseback safari. The Wild Coast is a hidden gem that offers a unique and authentic South African experience. This road trip is great for those seeking a less touristy trip along South Africa’s vast coastline.
The Sani Pass, Lesotho
The Sani Pass is a 9-kilometer winding mountain gravel road full of hairpin turns that links South Africa and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. The mountain road climbs 1,332 meters and reaches an altitude of 2,874 meters, offering stunning views of the Drakensberg Mountains. Along the way, you can visit the highest pub in Africa, which is located at the top of the pass, go on a horseback ride, or visit the local Basotho Village in the surrounding hills. You can do this as a day trip from Durban through a tour company or a road trip yourself. Traveling the Sani Pass requires a 4×4 vehicle with decent or high clearance. This road trip is for the adventurous traveler who has prior 4×4 experience and is not scared of heights, or sharp turns.
The Caprivi Strip, Namibia
The Caprivi Strip is a narrow strip of land that protrudes from the northeast corner of Namibia, bordered by Angola, Zambia, and Botswana. The area is characterized by its rivers, wetlands, and wildlife. Four of Southern Africa’s most impressive rivers (Chobe, Kavango, Zambezi, and Cuando) all run through the Caprivi Strip at various points. There’s only one main road, the B8 that runs from Rundu to Katima Mulilo, so it’s hard to get lost! A road trip through the Caprivi Strip offers incredible wildlife opportunities, is also a true birder’s paradise, and allows you to visit traditional villages and learn about the cultures of the local tribes. This road trip is ideal for those seeking an adventure that’s genuinely off-the-beaten path.
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa & Botswana
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is an incredible untamed semi-arid wilderness area spanning the border between South Africa and Botswana. Kgalagadi even includes one-third of the Kalahari Desert. It features challenging off-road trails ideal for 4×4 enthusiasts and photographers. Kgalagadi is best known for its incredible predator sightings from birds of prey to big cats, including more elusive big cat species. The park is known for its red sand dunes, dry riverbeds, arid pans, and wildlife. A 4×4 road trip through the park offers opportunities to observe these animals and experience the stark beauty of the Kalahari Desert. This road trip is perfect for those seeking a truly remote, dry, and desolate wildlife and desert experience.
Southern Africa is a region that offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. A road trip is a great way to experience the diversity of its landscapes, cultures, and people. Whether you prefer mountains, coastlines, deserts, or wildlife, there is a mind-blowing road trip in Southern Africa that will capture your heart and soul. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful continent. Happy travels!
If these awe-inspiring travel destinations have ignited your wanderlust, I hope you prioritize them on your travel bucket list! If you’re left yearning for the perfect luxurious getaway or backroads road trip and leave the planning and logistics to an expert, please reach out to me today at hello@venturexgain.com.
