Go South Africa

Yes — most young travellers rent cars because it’s the easiest way to explore Cape Town, the Garden Route, and national parks.
Tips:

• Avoid driving at night between cities.
• Keep doors locked at traffic lights.
• Don’t leave bags visible in the car.

Roads are generally high quality and well-signposted.

Depends on the beach:

• Cape Town (Atlantic side): water is freezing, but safe.
• False Bay & Durban: warm Indian Ocean, great for swimming.
• Some beaches have strong currents, so always check posted flags.

Shark nets and patrols exist in popular areas.

Only if you’re visiting certain regions:

• Low-risk/no malaria: Cape Town, Garden Route, Johannesburg, Drakensberg
• Malaria areas: parts of Kruger National Park, Limpopo, Mpumalanga

Most travellers visiting Kruger use tablets; the rest don’t need them.

You can choose:

• Self-drive (cheapest, flexible)
• Guided drives (best for spotting wildlife)
• Lodges (all-inclusive experiences)

Animals roam freely — you stay inside the vehicle, remain quiet, and never feed or touch wildlife.

South Africa is very card-friendly.
Use cards for most things, but keep a bit of cash for:

• tipping guides
• local markets
• parking attendants (“car guards”)
• small vendors

Avoid ATMs in very quiet areas.

South Africa is a climate mix-tape.

• Cape Town: windy, cool evenings — bring layers
• Safari: mornings are freezing, afternoons scorching — pack neutral colours
• Johannesburg: warm but unpredictable

Sun protection is essential everywhere.