8 Days South Africa Self Drive Tour

This is a great 8 Day / 7 Night Self-Drive Tour and Safari, where we provide you with a rented vehicle and GPS Unit to explore South Africa, including Cape Town and its beautiful surroundings, the Panorama Route, Hoedspruit with a hot air ballooning experience and the famous Kruger National Park!

8 Days South Africa Self Drive Tour

Itinerary at a Glance:

  • Day 1

    Victoria & Alfred Hotel, Cape Town

  • Day 2

    Full Day to Explore the Cape Peninsula

  • Day 3

    Full Day to Explore the Cape Winelands

  • Day 4

    Cape Town to Kruger Park Area

  • Day 5

    Hot Air Balloon flight and onto Kruger National Park

  • Day 6 to 7

    On Safari at Rhino Post Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

  • Day 8

    Drive back to Johannesburg

Day 1

Victoria & Alfred Hotel, Cape Town

On arrival at the Cape Town International Airport, South Africa, you will make your way to the Avis Desk, where you will collect your rented vehicle (Group C - Toyota Corolla or similar with manual gears and air-conditioning and a GPS Unit). From the airport, you will make your way to the V&A Waterfront area, where you will check in at the Victoria & Alfred Hotel to spend the next (3) nights on a bed and breakfast basis.

Victoria & Alfred Hotel, Cape Town
Walk through the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a complex of shops and restaurants that form part of Cape Town’s Harbour. It is centrally located and enjoys beautiful views of Table Mountain.

Day 2

Full Day to Explore the Cape Peninsula

Today we suggest you take a full day to explore the Cape Peninsula by driving the M6 coastal road that takes you through the beaches of Camps Bay, Llandudno and the small village of Hout Bay. From Hout Bay, you continue along the craggy Chapman’s Peak drive that was carved into the ocean cliffs between 1915 and 1922.

Cape Point, near Cape Town, South Africa

You continue south to the Cape Peninsula (also known as Cape Point) for spectacular ocean views. From here continue with the coast through the naval town of Simons Town and then head north back to the city with a possible stop at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Day 3

Full Day to Explore the Cape Winelands

Today we would suggest you take a drive through the nearby Cape Winelands. The old towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl are just three examples of quaint historic villages rich in the Dutch & French influence of years gone by.

The Franschhoek Valley, Cape Winelands, South Africa

Not to mention the many exquisite wine farms in the area, many with top-rated restaurants, wine & cheese tastings, organic food offerings and much more!

Day 4

Cape Town to Kruger Park Area

Early this morning after your breakfast, you will make your way back to the Cape Town International Airport, returning your rented vehicle to board your flight to the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. On arrival in Johannesburg, you will make your way to the Avis Desk, where you will collect your rented vehicle (Group C - Toyota Corolla or similar with manual gears and air-conditioning and a GPS Unit).

Khaya Ndlovu, near Kruger Park
View from the deck at Khaya Ndlovu

From the airport, you will make your way east over the grasslands and farmlands of the Highveld to the mountainous Mpumalanga Escarpment area. You could take in some of the breathtaking viewpoints that look over the Blyde River Canyon (the world’s greenest canyon), before continuing down the escarpment into the bushlands of the Greater Kruger Park, also known as the Lowveld. You continue to the small town of Hoedspruit, and just outside the town you enter the Blue Canyon Conservancy and check in for (1) night on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at the Khaya Ndlovu Manor House.

Day 5

Hot Air Balloon flight and onto Kruger National Park

Early this morning you will make your way before sunrise, to the launch field where you will enjoy a sunrise hot air ballooning flight experience. This is followed by a full English breakfast and citations for bravery! (A light-hearted tradition of hot air balloonists).

Hot Air Balloon Flight near Khaya Ndlovu, South Africa
Lions are the most sought after animals in Kruger Park, South Africa

From here you make your way south and then east and enter the Kruger National Park at the Paul Kruger Gate. You continue to the Rhino Post Safari Lodge.  Here you will spend the next (3) nights on a fully inclusive basis. Included in your stay are: Accommodation, brunch, high tea, dinner, teas/coffees, twice daily game viewing activities and the services of professional ranger and camp staff.

Day 6 to 7

On Safari at Rhino Post Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

Days are spent under the expert guidance of the local rangers on morning and after-game drives, during which you explore the vast wilderness areas of the great Kruger National Park!

Elephants in front of Rhino Post Safari Lodge
Room Interior, Rhino Post Safari Lodge, Kruger Park

Day 8

Drive back to Johannesburg

Today marks the end of your journey and you will end your tour with a drive back to the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.  Here you will return your rented vehicle and board your late afternoon/evening outbound flight back home.  (Flight at own arrangements)

Tour Cost

2025
R49,360 per person sharing (May - Aug 2025)
R54,430 per person sharing (Sep - 17 Dec 2025)


2026
R63,640 per person sharing (Jan - Mar 2026)
R62,240 per person sharing (Apr 2026)
R42,065 per person sharing (May - Aug 2026)
R69,095 per person sharing (Sep - 17 Dec 2026)

Included

03 Night’s accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
01 Night’s accommodation on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis
03 Night’s accommodation on a fully inclusive basis:  Rhino Post Safari Lodge only:  Brunch, high tea, dinner, teas/coffees, twice daily game viewing activities and the services of professional ranger and camp staff. 01 Hot Air Ballooning Experience as per itinerary in the Hoedspruit region

Flight: Cape Town - Johannesburg one way excl. taxes

07 Days use of a Group C Vehicle (Toyota Corolla or similar with manual gears and air-conditioning)
Premium Collision Damage Waiver (zero liability)
Premium Theft Loss Waiver (zero liability)
Unlimited Mileage
Third-Party and General Public Liability Insurance
Sandblasting / Water and Undercarriage Damage / Rim and Hubcap damage
Windscreen / Tyre Damage Waiver
Location Surcharge
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
1 x GPS Rental
Claim Admin Fee – only in the event of an accident or theft
Value added tax 15%
Young Driver Surcharge

Excluded

Visas if required
Flights not specified
Airport taxes
Meals not specified
Bar accounts / beverages & premium imports
Laundry
Additional activities/sightseeing/entry fees/park fees
Personal items and gratuities

Car Rental notes and excludes:
All these charges will be billed directly to the renter and are subject to change without notice
In the case of tyre damage, only Avis-approved suppliers may be used for the purchase and replacement of tyres. This will ensure the correct brand and specification of tyre is fitted at the Avis negotiated price. Avis will only refund if the correct brand and specification of tyre has been fitted.
Accident towing fee
Additional Driver fee
Additional Spare Tyres
After-Hours Check-out Fee
Call-out Fee – negligence
Claim Administration Fee
Collision Damage Waiver
Cross Border Fee
Delivery and Collection Fees
E-toll Administration Fee
Fuel
Location Surcharge
E-tags
One Way Cross Border fees
One-Way Fees within South Africa
Overdue Rental Administration Fee
PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) – per day per Rental Agreement
Paraplegic Hand Controls Free of charge
Refuelling Service Fee
Refundable Rental Deposit
Rental Contract Fee
Replacement Tyre Delivery Fee
Sandblasting
Special Equipment one-way fees (GPS, Baby Seats, Bicycle Racks, Wifi)
Theft Loss Waiver
Tourism Levy 1% of T&M
Traffic Fine Administration Fee
Tyres, Rims and Hubcaps
Under-carriage and Water Damage
Valet (Vehicle cleaning fee)
Young Driver Surcharge
GPS accessory replacement
Road Side Assistance
Windscreen, Tyre Damage Waiver
Worldwide Adapter

Your Safari Planning starts here.

Learn from our experience.

Expert advice on safaris & logistics.

Supportive ‘one on one’ service.

Quick Enquire

Read Why Our Clients Love Us

Profile logo
William McCormack
20 November 2025
I cannot say enough about the service received from African Travel Agent Petru. From beginning to end it was excellent. The detail and the professionalism is to be attained by others. Ive had 3 trips over number of years and each time I am delighted with the engagement, suggestions, etc and most importantly the trips we highlights to me. Ive recommended Petru to friends and those who did reach out were also very pleased. I highly recommend this agent and company. Till we engage again, Thank you Petru and continue delivering a top service.
Profile logo
Guy Hudson
20 November 2025
We’ve been booking through African Travel Gateway for over 25 years now and honestly, they’ve never dropped the ball once. They have looked after us for ages and just get what works for our family. This last trip we took the three kids (11, 9 and 6) to South Africa – Cape Town, a few nights camping in the Karoo, and then Kruger. They put the whole thing together perfectly: nothing felt rushed, everything suited the kids, and the logistics were completely painless. Cape Town was great fun (Table Mountain, penguins, the works). The Karoo nights were something else – massive sky full of stars, big campfire, total peace and quiet the kids still go on about. And Kruger… wow. We saw the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino – plus heaps of giraffe, zebra and everything else, pretty much every single drive. The guides were brilliant with the children and kept everyone safe. Everything just worked – flights, transfers, the lot. They checked in along the way and tweaked little things when we needed. Proper personal service. If you’re thinking of taking kids to South Africa, we can’t recommend African Travel Gateway enough.
Profile logo
Pierre Boucher
30 September 2025
A heartfelt thank you to Bianca for arranging our unforgettable journey through South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Everything went smoothly from start to finish, and your attention to detail made all the difference. Alex and I enjoyed every moment — from the breathtaking landscapes to the incredible wildlife and the welcoming people we met along the way. It was truly the trip of a lifetime, and we are so grateful for all the care and effort you put into making it perfect. With sincere appreciation,
Profile logo
Jon Son
02 September 2025
Very bad service
Profile logo
Mark Montague
04 August 2025
We had a wonderful time visiting South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. We had a party of 10, including 4 grandchildren ages 10 and 8 and everything went beautifully. Lize did a great job helping us plan the itinerary, booking flights within Africa and identifying the best lodging and camps for us to visit. We saw the Big 5 on two separate days and also saw African wild dogs. Each of our camps in Sabi Sands, Victoria Falls and Moremi Game Reserve had a distinct style but all were welcoming and comfortable and animals proliferated. We would definitely use African Travel Gateway if we return to Africa. Thanks Lize!
Profile logo
Andrew Beardmore
18 July 2025
Working with Lize, we crafted our second fully customized self-drive adventure through Southern Africa - this time in Northern Namibia. The itinerary was a perfect blend of rugged campsites and luxurious lodges. Lize’s expert knowledge and thoughtful advice were invaluable, everything was planned to perfection. We had the most incredible time, experiencing so much of what this stunning region has to offer, yet it feels like we’ve only just scratched the surface. We can’t wait for our next adventure!
Profile logo
TJ Hefele
11 July 2025
We had an amazing trip! Petru did an outstanding job putting everything together for us! Truly couldn't imagine having a better experience. We are incredibly thankful!
Profile logo
gary afford
13 June 2025
Just returned from a safari with my partner and 2 friends. 3 countries South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana. We stayed at Wilderness camps, accommodation and service was great and the wildlife sightings were excellent. All the arrangements and connections went like clockwork, Thanks again Lize from ATG.
Profile logo
Michael Sump
13 June 2025
We had a wonderful trip to Africa with everything arranged by Bianca Gersbach. She was extremely attentive to our wishes, and we couldn't have asked for a better experience. We wanted a full overview for our first trip to Africa, and we received it. We went on Safari in 3 countries: South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. We saw so many animals! But that wasn't all, we had a delightful visit to the South African wine country, and deep-dive experiences in both Cape Town and Johannesburg. The township tours and trip to the Apartheid Museum really opened our eyes. At times, Bianca knew what we wanted better than we did. She insisted that we'd enjoy the Okabango Panhandle, and we did! It was magical. A real highlight. A less engaged travel consultant might have let me make a suboptimal choice. We also enjoyed several days in Victoria Falls. I can't praise Bianca and African Travel Gateway enough. We will certainly use them again when we decide to return, and we will return. Once is not enough!
Profile logo
Jim Campbell
01 May 2025
We asked for a holiday of a lifetime for my wife's birthday ... and Lize Enderstein and ATG certainly delivered!!! We could not have experienced such a magnificent trip without all Lize's organisation and planning. It was an absolute dream! So much so, we're looking to visit again and will certainly be using Lize for our next adventure. Nothing was too much trouble and all the planning made everything work so very smoothly. We felt like royalty throughout our trip with all sorts of birthday surprises already booked at every location. Incredible!!! We are so very grateful for everything Lize arranged and can't thank her enough and would heartily recommend Lize and ATG. Jim and Melanie xxx
Profile logo
Teresa Harrison
29 January 2025
I have been using African Travel Gateway for about 30 years and not once have they let me down. My travels have been varied, visiting different countries and cultures in Africa, but with their help, it is always a magic carpet ride. Lize has been my contact for many years, and the intineries devised have been spectacular. She really understands our requirements and goes the extra mile to ensure all is OK. This time, we visited South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Everything was amazing. Our highlights, however, were La Fontaine in Franshoek and Camp Xakanaxa in the Okavango Delta in Botswana. We HIGHLY recommend African Travel Gateway
Profile logo
Debbie Isaacs
21 January 2025
We used African Travel again for the second time over Xmas and New Year. Once again, every little bit of our trip ran smoothly and without a hitch. Their communication was great throughout and we will, no doubt, be returning to them in the future too. Thanks Petru.
Profile logo
Daniel Stewart
08 January 2025
We had the most amazing time on our self drive tour of Namibia organised through African Travel Gateway. Everything from the planning and booking process, to the arrival and welcome in Windhoek, to the app with the itinerary and directions made for a really relaxed and well organised holiday. But the most important part was getting to experience Namibia - what a spectacular country! The only negative was that we should have booked for longer!
Profile logo
Hilda Stanfliet
27 December 2024
Amazing hotel booked by Lize of African Travel Gateway, the most attentive service leading up to holiday
Profile logo
Zoe Heelas
27 November 2024
ATG were fantastic from start to finish organising our trip 3 week trip in South Africa.Communication with Debbie was excellent before and during our trip. All accommodation and trips chosen by ATG was fantastic. This is our third trip with ATG and we are already thinking about our next.

Recommended on