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South Africa has an excellent road infrastructure, making self
guided travel a viable alternative to coach tours. There are a
number of toll roads, the costs of which are clearly signposted.
Ensure you have cash readily available, to pay for the toll.
Drivers licence
- By law, drivers are required to have their drivers licence in
the vehicle with them. For foreign visitors this should be in
English and include a photograph. An international drivers
licence, together with your original licence is also acceptable.
Rules of the road
- The rules of the road conform to international conventions,
including road signage.
- Driving is on the left side of the road.
- Distance is measured in kilometres.
- The speed limit is 120km/h on highways and 60km/h in built up
areas. Variations to these are indicated by signage.
- Law requires the driver and passengers to wear seat belts.
- Only hands free cell / mobile phones may be used while
driving.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol is a punishable
offence.
Filling stations
- A large number of filling stations, or garages as they are
commonly referred to here, exist in towns and on highways. The
latter, for example the Shell Ultra City and Engin One Stop,
frequently have restaurants and other facilities for the
traveller.
- Filling station attendants are responsible for filling up
vehicles and providing other required services. It is custom to
tip for these services.
- Credit cards are not accepted and travellers will need to
carry sufficient cash for this purpose.
Accidents
- All accidents should be reported to the police and car hire
company, as soon as possible.
Personal Safety
- Keep doors locked.
- It is inadvisable to pick up hitchhikers.
- Avoid stopping at isolated roadside locations.
- Don’t leave valuables, visible in the car.
- Park in well-lit, busy areas.
- Be vigilant at intersections and traffic lights, especially
after dark.
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