Exploring South Africa in a camper van gives you a kind of freedom you can’t get from packaged tours or hotel-based road trips.
You’re not tied to check-in times or crowded tourist routes, you bring your own little home wherever you go.
South Africa is made for this kind of adventure. You’ve got towering mountains, ancient forests, wild highveld plains, and over 3,000 kilometres of coastline packed with marine life, whales, penguins, dolphins, and sharks.
Traveling in a camper van means you explore at your own pace. You can stop whenever a view takes your breath away, cook your own meals, and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
It’s your bed, your kitchen, and your sense of freedom all rolled into one.
Combining travel and accommodation saves you both time and money. You don’t have to rush back to a hotel, you bring the hotel with you.
Want to catch the sunrise? Park overnight right where it rises. Want to fall asleep surrounded by wildlife? Many national parks have campsites where you can do exactly that.
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Consider the size of camper van you’ll need
Most camper vans are designed for two people to travel and sleep comfortably. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or planning a longer route, go for a larger model or motorhome. It costs a bit more to rent and fuel, but the extra space pays off in comfort.
Think about how far you’ll be driving, how much gear you’re bringing, and how much indoor space you’ll need on rainy days.
It’s always better to have slightly more room than to feel cramped halfway through your trip.
Equipment You Need for a Comfortable Trip
Before you hit the road, check what’s included in your camper van and what you’ll need to bring along.
A well-equipped van makes the difference between a smooth adventure and a frustrating one.
Here’s what every camper van traveller should have:
Power
If you plan to go off-grid, make sure your camper has a reliable solar charging system or a backup battery. You’ll want enough power to charge your phone, lights, and run your fridge without worrying about running out.
Water
Check the size of the fresh and wastewater tanks. Always travel with extra water jerrycans, they come in handy in remote areas where refills aren’t easy to find.
Leveling Chocks
These small but essential tools keep your camper level when parked on uneven ground. Place them under the tires to stabilize the van and prevent it from rolling. Sleeping on a slant isn’t fun, bring strong, solid chocks.
Awning
An awning adds instant living space outside your van. It’s perfect for shade, cooking, or relaxing with a drink. Look for one that’s easy to fold out and can stand on its own if you need to drive off for a short trip and re-attach when you return.
Privacy & Toilets
A good camper van trip requires a bathroom plan. If you’ll stay in campgrounds or pass regular rest stops, you can use their facilities.
For remote areas, bring your own toilet setup, options include chemical, compostable, or cassette toilets. Choose what fits your comfort level and travel style.
Creature Comforts
You’ll spend a lot of time in your van, so comfort matters. Pack a good-quality mattress, warm blankets, and soft bedding. A cozy night’s sleep keeps your energy up for the next day’s drive.
Cooking Gear
A small camping stove, gas bottle, fridge, and a few pots and utensils will cover most meals. Cooking on the road is part of the fun, it saves money and lets you enjoy your favorite meals with a view. Some camping grounds also have braai facilities.
Other Essentials
Bring a basic toolkit, a first-aid kit, flashlight or headlamp, insect repellent, vehicle documents, and a small padlock for securing valuables.
It’s also smart to pack a power bank and offline maps in case you lose signal.
What to check before booking the camper
Booking a camper van isn’t just about picking the one that looks nicest in photos. A few small details can make or break your trip, so take a moment to check these before you confirm your rental.
Driver Age & Licence Rules
Most rental companies in South Africa require drivers to be over 21, sometimes 25 for larger vans. You’ll need a valid driver’s licence in English, or an international one if yours isn’t.
It’s worth confirming this early to avoid surprises when you pick up your van.
Insurance Cover
Always ask for a full breakdown of what your insurance includes. You’ll often see terms like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), theft cover, and “excess amount.”
Make sure you understand your liability and whether roadside assistance is included. A few extra rands for peace of mind is always worth it.
Mileage & Minimum Booking Days
Most camper rental companies are generous with mileage, perfect for long road trips, but many have a 4-day minimum booking.
If you’re planning a longer route, ask if they offer discounted weekly or monthly rates. Sometimes, the longer you rent, the cheaper it gets per day.
Cross-Border Travel
Dreaming of crossing the borders into Namibia, Mozambique, or Eswatini? You’ll need extra permits and insurance coverage.
Always mention your route when booking so the rental company can prepare the right paperwork and border documents.
Driving Safety tips for camper van travel
South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for road trips, but it’s still important to stay alert and travel smart.
Avoid Night Driving
Try not to drive after dark. Roads can be poorly lit, animals often wander across, and some areas are quieter and less secure at night. Plan to reach your sleeping spot before sunset so you can relax and settle in safely.
Use Designated Campsites
Wild camping is generally illegal and unsafe in South Africa. Most land is privately owned or protected, and parking on the roadside isn’t ideal either.
Stick to recognized campsites, they’re safer, have better facilities, and you’ll meet other travellers along the way.
Hide Valuables & Lock Up
Keep your belongings out of sight and always lock your doors, whether you’re driving or parked.
Avoid isolated areas after dark, and check travel advisories before heading into new regions.
Stay Aware
Be alert in unfamiliar places. Ask locals or campsite hosts about any safety tips or areas to avoid.
Common sense goes a long way, trust your instincts.
Wildlife Encounters
When driving through game reserves or rural roads, keep your doors locked and windows partly up. Wild animals are unpredictable, admire them safely from inside your van.
Fuel Up When You Can
Fuel stations can be far apart, especially inland. Fill up whenever you see a station, and carry a charged power bank, offline maps, and, if possible, a jerrycan with spare fuel.
The best camper-van routes in South Africa
1) Garden Route (4 - 6 days)
The Garden Route is one of the most famous road trips in the world, and for good reason.
It’s a stretch of road sandwiched between the mountains and the coast, offering smooth drives, stunning views, and plenty of campsites.
The driving conditions are always good and the views are always magnificent. Expect lush forests, ocean cliffs, and small charming towns.
Key stops: Mossel Bay, Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay.
2) Cape Town → Kruger (7–10 days or longer)
This coast-to-safari roadtrip experience is one for the books. You’ll start from the coast, driving through the winelands in the Cape and end surrounded by elephants, lions, and open savannah in Kruger.
Most national parks on this route offer great campsites with showers, electricity, and braai areas.
It’s an excellent pick for travelers who want to explore central Cape Town while keeping their furry friend close by. You’ll both enjoy the relaxed vibe and easy access to pet-friendly spots around the city.
3) Route 62, slow Karoo trip
Route 62 runs for roughly 850 km through the heart of the Karoo and is known as the world’s longest wine route.
It’s a slow, scenic journey, perfect for stargazing, lazy afternoon drives, and discovering small towns full of character.
Driving here feels like stepping into a living landscape painting, full of vineyards, big skies and wildlife.
Highlights: Montagu, Barrydale, Oudtshoorn, and Calitzdorp.
4) KwaZulu-Natal & Wild Coast
The Wild Coast stretches about 250 km from East London to the southern border of KwaZulu-Natal, a region locals still call the Transkei.
It’s rugged, raw, and breathtaking. Many tourists avoid it because the roads are a little rough, but that’s part of the adventure.
You’ll travel through hilly grasslands sprinkled with colorful rondavels, across rivers and valleys, and down to hidden beaches.
The waters here are warmer than in the Cape, the surf is fantastic, and the pace of life is beautifully slow.
Ready to hit the road?
South Africa’s camper van routes offer a mix of adventure, comfort, and pure freedom.
Take your time, plan smartly, and enjoy every adventure.
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