South Africa is a big country so it's perfect for anyone who wants to get behind the wheel and cruise. You'll see some incredible scenery - just remember to check the air-conditioning before you set off. Buy a good map and make sure you don't extend yourself too much especially if you're not used to driving long distances. Sometimes it pays to stop over in a town to break up your journey - it may end up being a highlight of your trip!

Get behind the wheel
They drive on the left hand side of the road in South Africa. Car hire companies are in abundance, but the easiest option is to book it before you leave and pick it up from the airport. Most of the roads are well maintained, but as you venture into rural areas you will find unsealed roads with pot holes.

Popular drives
You're in South Africa, car rental is sorted so where to? There are many fantastic road trip options but here are some of our favourites. Cape Point - this rocky point is at the end of the Cape Peninsula in the Table Mountain National Park. Drive along the coastal road via the Atlantic seaboard and then go back via False Bay. Cape Garden Route - this drive is popular with South Africans and contains lots of natural wonders with picturesque mountains, water features and forests. So you've booked your car hire. South Africa has a good range of hotels from budget to luxury - find one with our hotel search tool.