Why would you want to take solo trips
I’ve taken my fair share of solo trips. In fact, most of my travel, until I met my partner a few years ago, was done alone.
That includes everything from local drives up north to Sun City, to quadbiking in the Winelands, to exploring Route 62. On that route, I spent a night at Warmwaterberg Hot Springs and a few more in a game reserve, camping in tented lodges and spotting the Big Five on my game drives.
I loved the freedom. I could visit places that truly interested me, travel at my own pace, and make last-minute changes without having to check in with anyone.
Sure, I had a few challenges, from worrying about safety to dealing with a car breakdown that required a tow truck. But even then, I never felt unsafe.
Over time, I’ve picked up a few tips, some learned the hard way, that now help me travel stress-free. These cover everything from planning and safety to driving and route planning.
My goal is to take away the nerves that come with solo travel so you can focus on having fun through it all.
Table of content
Essential planning tips for solo travel
Pre-trip prep is everything, especially if you’re traveling alone as a woman in South Africa. You’ll be relying on yourself to drive, navigate, keep your spirits up, and stay safe.
Start by planning your route. Choose roads that are both scenic and safe, and make sure you know where your main stops will be.
Know your driving limit and use that to set your pace:
When you’re traveling alone, there’s no one to swap driving duties with. That means your pace depends entirely on your energy level.
Plan your stops and overnight stays around how much driving you can comfortably do in a day.
Don’t try to cover too much ground. If 5 -6 hours behind the wheel is your limit, build your trip around that. You’ll enjoy the journey a lot more if you’re not exhausted when you arrive.
Plan your stops
Now you know your pace, start mapping out your stops. Use navigation apps like Google Maps to pin your fuel stops, rest breaks, accommodations, and restaurants.
This gives you a clear picture of your route and helps you plan your days more smoothly.
A big tip: don’t rush yourself. If you’re driving six hours a day, aim for a quick stop every two hours to stretch, use the bathroom, throw out the trash and grab a snack.
Take your time at each destination. Spend a few days at major attractions instead of trying to fit everything into one day.
You’ll enjoy it far more, and remember more of it, too. If not, you’ll end up spending all your time driving and very little time enjoying the destination.
And before you hit the road, download your offline maps. That way, you’ll still have directions if your signal drops in remote areas.
Plan your snack
Always plan your snacks before you hit the road. Keep your food and water open and within easy reach, opening packages while driving is tricky and dangerous.
I’ve learned that my body feels better when I choose light, healthy options like fruit, nuts, or sandwiches. Junk food might sound tempting, but it usually leaves me tired and sluggish on long drives.
A small bit of prep goes a long way. Pack enough snacks to keep you going between stops, and refill your water every time you refuel.
Prioritize safety on your solo trips
South African roads are generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s still important to stay alert.
One common risk is car remote jamming. It happens when thieves use a device that blocks your key fob’s signal, preventing your car from locking properly. You walk away thinking it’s locked, but it’s not.
And once you’re far from the car, they can approach, open it and take all your valuables and your cash.
Because there’s no “forced entry,” insurance often won’t cover what’s stolen.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Maintain situation awareness and pay attention when parking. Don’t get distracted while locking your car.
- If something feels off, find another parking spot.
- Always tug the handle to double-check that it’s locked.
- Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
- Don’t carry expensive items in public.
And a few more solo-travel safety habits worth keeping:
- Avoid driving at night when possible.
- Share your route and live location with a friend so they can check in.
- Stick to well-lit, busy areas.
- Use Uber or Bolt if you’re exploring cities without your own car.
- Skip townships or unfamiliar areas unless you’re going with a local guide.
A little vigilance makes a big difference. Most of the time, you’ll find South Africans friendly and helpful.
Should you rent a car when traveling alone
One of the best parts of solo travel is independence, setting your own schedule, choosing your own routes, and moving entirely at your own pace. Renting a car is a natural extension of that freedom.
Before you do, make sure you’re comfortable driving long distances and, if you’re a foreign visitor, driving on the left-hand side of the road.
Renting cars for solo trips in South Africa
- Car rental options: South Africa has several major car rental companies, but many locals now prefer car-sharing platforms like Tarlen. Renting through Tarlen often means better prices, fewer fees, and no long queues at the rental counter. The car can even be delivered to your hotel or directly to the airport curb.
- Age & license: Most rental companies require drivers to be over 21 and to have held a valid licence for at least a year. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): If your licence isn’t in English, carry both your IDP and your original licence. Apply for the permit in your home country before you travel.
- Airport and location surcharges: Traditional rental companies often charge an extra 10 – 15% if you collect your car at the airport. You can avoid this by renting directly from an owner on Tarlen and arranging delivery to your accommodation or to the airport curb.
- One-way fee: If you pick up a car from one branch and return it to another, even in the same city, you might be charged an “inter-branch transfer” or one-way fee. These costs rise sharply if you drop off the car in another province. See our guide on how to avoid hidden fees when renting cars on Tarlen.
- Vehicle safety and inspection: Before you hit the road, check the car’s tyre pressure, oil, and lights, including indicators and your spare tyre. If you’re renting from a traditional company, do a walkaround inspection and photograph any scratches or dents. If you’re using Tarlen, you can document everything directly in the app.
- Know your car’s capabilities: Is your car low or high clearance? Is it all-wheel or four-wheel drive? What range do you get on a full tank or charge? Knowing your car’s capabilities helps you match it to your route, for example, avoiding low sedans on rough roads or ensuring you have enough range for long stretches without petrol or charging stations.
- Half-tank rule: Don’t wait until you’re nearly empty to refuel. Top up when your tank hits halfway. That way you’ll never have to stop at random petrol stations in the middle of nowhere or worse, run out of fuel.
- Booking tip: Reserve early, especially when you’re traveling in high season and choose a car class you’re comfortable with, compact hatchbacks for cities, high-clearance SUV for dirt roads.
Also read: How to save fuel on long road trips
Follow the rules of the road when driving
Once you’ve picked up your car, stick to the basics of safe and responsible driving. South Africa’s roads are beautiful, but they demand attention, especially if you’re driving long distances on your own.
Here are a few essentials to keep in mind:
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- Wear your seatbelt at all times.
- Carry a valid driver’s licence. (Minimum age is 18, and your licence must be valid for at least one year.)
- Avoid using your phone while driving. If you need navigation, use a hands-free holder.
- Follow all speed limits and road signs. They can change suddenly between towns and provinces.
- Never drive under the influence. South Africa’s new “zero tolerance” law means even a small amount of alcohol can land you in serious trouble.
How to find accommodations during solo trips
Always book your accommodation in advance, especially when you’re visiting small towns or remote areas. There’s nothing worse than arriving after a long drive only to find that your chosen hotel is fully booked.
Planning ahead takes the stress out of your trip and lets you relax when you arrive.
When booking, check for secure parking, especially if you’re renting a car or driving alone.
Here are some of the main accommodation options in South Africa:
Hostels
Hostels are great for meeting other solo travelers and keeping costs low. Look for highly rated ones that offer lockers and security features. They’re perfect if you like a social atmosphere.
Guesthouses & BnBs
Guesthouses and BnBs offer more privacy while still giving you that local touch. They’re often run by friendly local hosts who serve breakfast and share insider tips about the area.
Hotels & Lodges
If you prefer a bit of comfort, hotels and lodges are ideal, especially in cities. Many offer airport transfers, concierge services, and round-the-clock security.
Airbnb
For longer and more unique stays, Airbnb can be a great option. You’ll have more space and flexibility, often at a lower cost than hotels. Always read host reviews carefully and check ratings before booking.
Best travel routes for solo trips
South Africa was made for road trips, whether you’re exploring alone or with friends. Once you’ve driven along its coasts, crossed its mountain passes, or spotted wildlife on the open plains, you’ll understand why.
Almost any long drive here can turn into an adventure. From the famous coastal routes to the vast Karoo and lush forests, every region has its own rhythm and charm.
Here are a few classic solo routes to try:
Cape Town: 5 days + beginner trip
- Wander around the V&A Waterfront and enjoy the sea views.
- Hike up Table Mountain and take the cable car down.
- Walk through the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood.
- Take a day drive along the Cape Peninsula to Cape Point.
- Visit nearby wine estates and join a wine-tasting tour.
Cape Town is compact, safe to navigate, and full of beautiful day trips, perfect for a first solo adventure.
Garden route: 7 - 10 days
One of South Africa’s most loved road trips, the Garden Route offers breathtaking views, relaxed drives, and endless things to do.
Suggested itinerary:
- Cape Town → Hermanus: Drive east along the coast. Stop in Hermanus for whale watching between August and October.
- Hermanus → Oudtshoorn: A shorter drive (2 – 4 hours) with plenty of attractions along the way. Take an ostrich farm tour or explore the Swartberg Mountains at Oudtshoorn.
- Oudtshoorn → Wilderness: Drive through the Outeniqua Pass and stop at a viewpoint overlooking George and the mountains.
- Wilderness → Knysna & Plettenberg Bay: Leave Wilderness and head to Knysna. Explore the lagoon and sea cliffs at Knysna. Sample some oysters at the waterside restaurants, then head to Plettenberg Bay, a beach lover’s paradise. Walk the Robberg Nature Reserve Peninsula and find the seal colonies.
- Tsitsikamma & Storms River: The final stretch of the Garden Route trip takes you through Tsitsikamma. Follow the N2 east from Plet to Tsitsikamma National Park and the Storms River mouth. Here you can walk the suspension footbridge across the gorge, or even bungee from Bloukrans Bridge (the world’s highest commercial bungee). Find the Otter Trail along the coast. From the Storms River Village, you can either continue to Port Elizabeth or back towards Cape Town.
Read more: Driving the Garden Route
Kruger park
If your goal is to discover wildlife, book a guided safari (day or multi-day) from certified operators rather than driving yourself into remote reserves unless you have a specific 4×4 experience in mind.
Want more stories like this?
