Scenic drives to enjoy in South Africa

CLINTON MOODLEY

If you dont feel comfortable flying, rather opt for a road trip that will provide some stunning views. Here are six scenic drives we recommend this holiday season.

Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

Drakensberg

The Drakensberg, which translates to the mountain of the dragons, is a world heritage site. This KZN attraction is famed for its natural beauty and awardwinning accommodation.

The two-and-a-half-hour drive from Durban, and three-and-a-half-hours from Johannesburg, offers some pretty incredible views. It’s a road trip everyone should experience once in their lifetime. You get to enjoy views of the mountain, rural towns and cattle grazing in the fields. Popular pit stops include All Out Adventures, Cathedral Peak Wine Estate and a tour of the village, eMazizini.

ROUTE 62

Route 62 is famed for its towering cliffs, vineyards, valleys and its proximity to places like Barrydale, De Rus and Montagu.

According to its website, it meanders between Cape Town, Oudtshoorn, Langkloof and Port Elizabeth.

There’s plenty to do, whether you want to spot animals at a game reserve, visit cultural and historical attractions or try something adventurous like hiking, mountain climbing or canoeing.

The route is also famous for its wine valleys, including the famous Robertson Wine Valley and the Klein Karoo Wine Route.

Travellers need a few days to explore the route. Try to plan your pit stops and book your accommodation before departing.

Chapman's Peak, Western Cape

Known as one of the world’s most scenic drives, Chapman’s Peak in Cape Town weaves its way across Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the southwestern tip of South Africa.

The route also forms a gateway between Cape Town and the Southern Peninsula.

“Chappies”, as it’s often referred to, was constructed during World War II and is a must-see for any travel enthusiast.

Besides the alluring views, there are plenty of photo opportunities along the route.

Try the famous Chapman’s Peak walk (there’s a designated area to park your car) or drive north to Simon’s Town and Cape Point.

Garden Route

Known as one of the world’s most remarkable coastal stretches, the Garden Route is the area between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth.

While you’re on the Garden Route, visit Bloukrans Bungy, which is the world’s highest bungee bridge, situated at Bloukrans River Bridge.

This once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline high is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Eastern Cape.

Other recommended stops include Redberry Farm, which is home to the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere, Hedge Maze, and ziplining at Tsitsikamma forest.

Panorama Route

The Panorama Route is a stretch of road in Mpumalanga that starts at the foot of the Long Tom Pass just outside Lydenburg and ends at the border of the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces.

A six-hour drive from Johannesburg, this road trip will take you to some of the most incredible sites across SA.

Make sure you capture the largest man-made forest of pine and eucalyptus plantations that stretch along the route. Attractions on this route include Lisbon Falls, Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Travellers should spend two or more nights on the route.

KZN MIDLANDS

KZN Midlands lies an hour and a half from Durban and has become a popular attraction for travellers yearning to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Marvel at the stunning views on offer, from the large stretches of farmland, quaint shops and eateries to a range of small towns along the way.

There’s plenty to see and do. Travellers can visit art shops, dine at restaurants boasting unique views (there’s plenty of options to choose from) or book some leisure activities.

Popular pitstops include Piggly Wiggly, the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, Blueberry Cafe and Nottingham Road.

If you dont feel comfortable flying, rather opt for a road trip that will provide some stunning views. Here are six scenic drives we recommend this holiday season