South Africa Self Drive Tour from Durban to Gqeberha
Quick Itinerary Overview:
Travel independently on this budget South Africa Self Drive Tour from Durban to Port Elizabeth. This private self-drive South Africa tour allows you to explore the highlights of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape at your own pace. Experience the stunning natural scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains, the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal coastline, the untouched beauty of Chintsa in the Eastern Cape, an unforgettable wildlife safari in Addo Elephant Park, and the friendly atmosphere of Port Elizabeth. This self-drive South Africa tour includes accommodation and rental car bookings, along with expert recommendations for attractions along the way, while giving you the freedom to plan each day of your journey as you wish.
Itinerary for this Tour
Please note: This Self Drive South Africa Tour is merely a sample itinerary and can be customized to create a unique self-drive experience tailored to your preferences.
Self Drive Tour Highlights
- Durban: Begin your journey in the coastal city, known for its beautiful beaches and the balmy Indian Ocean waters.
- Drakensberg Mountains: Experience incredible views of the unspoiled mountain range that stretches for several hundred kilometers.
- Chintsa East: Stopover in this picturesque seaside village, with deserted beaches, vast sand dunes, and coastal bush.
- Addo Park: Enjoy a wildlife safari in South Africa’s third-largest national park, home to the Big 5 and more.
- Port Elizabeth: Discover the hidden treasures of South Africa’s ‘Friendly City’ on the shores of Nelson Mandela Bay.
Day 1: Durban – South Africa
Your Self Drive South Africa Tour starts in the coastal city of Durban, one of South Africa’s most popular seaside holiday destinations. Upon arrival at King Shaka International Airport, pick up your rental vehicle and enjoy the city at your leisure. Relax on one of Durban’s beautiful golden sand beaches, where you can dolphin spot or simply bask in the sun.
Accommodation: Riverside Hotel (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant), or similar.
Day 2 & 3: Drakensberg Mountains – South Africa
On day two, drive inland to the Drakensberg Mountains for an unforgettable two-night stay. The Drakensberg, a World Heritage Site, offers stunning landscapes, rocky cliffs, untamed indigenous forests, and crystal-clear mountain streams. Known as ‘uKhahlamba’ in Zulu, the Drakensberg is South Africa’s largest mountain range, offering a variety of remarkable vistas.
Accommodation: Drakensberg Garden (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant), or similar.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (x2)
Day 4 & 5: Chintsa – South Africa
Leave the mountains behind and head towards the beach for a two-night stay in Chintsa. This secluded seaside village offers deserted beaches, towering dunes, and lush coastal bush, making it a perfect destination for relaxation or outdoor activities. Enjoy the pristine coastline and the tranquil environment.
Accommodation: Crawfords Beach Lodge (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant), or similar.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (x2)
Day 6 & 7: Addo Elephant Park – South Africa
Next, embark on a wildlife safari in Addo Elephant National Park, renowned for its elephant population. This 1,640 km² park also hosts the Big 5, including lions, leopards, buffalos, and black rhinos. Explore the park at your own pace in your rental vehicle or join an optional open-vehicle game drive for an up-close safari experience.
Accommodation: Zuurberg Mountain Inn (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, bar, and restaurant), or similar.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (x2)
Day 8: Port Elizabeth – South Africa
On day eight, drive from Addo Park to Port Elizabeth, known locally as Gqeberha. Port Elizabeth, also called the ‘Friendly City,’ offers many attractions and activities, with several beautiful beaches lining the coast. Spend your afternoon exploring the city or relaxing by the sea.
Accommodation: The Beach Hotel (rooms with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pool, and restaurant), or similar.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Port Elizabeth – South Africa (End of Tour)
After breakfast, enjoy some final exploration of Port Elizabeth before heading to the airport. Return your rental vehicle in time for your onward flight, concluding your South Africa Self Drive Tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Pre-Departure Tour Information
South Africa Tour Transport: This self-drive South Africa holiday includes vehicle rental of a VW Polo Vivo or similar (Avis Car Hire Group B), with Premium Insurance covering collision damage, theft waiver, and more. It does not include fuel, refundable rental deposit, or additional charges for items like GPS or child safety seats.
Self Drive Tour Accommodation: Accommodation will be in mid-market or standard South African lodges, featuring en-suite bathrooms, swimming pools, and dining options.
Self Drive Tour Meals: Breakfast is included at all accommodation establishments. Special dietary requirements should be notified in advance.
South Africa Tourist Visas: Ensure you have the necessary visas to enter South Africa prior to departure.
Travel Insurance: Travel and cancellation insurance is required, covering personal injury, loss of personal items, medical costs, and more.