Great Driving Roads in South Africa to Enjoy This Festive Season

Over the last decade, the state of roads across the nation has become a sore point for most South Africans. Potholes seem to multiply at the sight of a few raindrops. And kerbs fall away into the bush next to them. With all this, driving on local roads can cause levels of anxiety that are matched only by news of load-shedding returning. Yet, there are still great driving roads in South Africa. Roads with views that will make your jaw drop, and provide a driving experience that rivals some of the best routes in the world. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best of these roads in different parts of the country. Here’s your next road trip to experience great driving experiences that SA offers.

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Clarence Drive (R44)

Like most of the best driving roads in the world, some of the best in SA are mountain passes. Despite hugging the coastline and appearing to be skirting the edge of the mountains, Clarence Drive (or the R44) is classified as a mountain pass. The 22-kilometre stretch of perfectly smooth asphalt runs alongside the coast between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi-Els. It is frequented by tourists who do the drive to take in the incredible sights it offers, so don’t expect to go fast on this scenic route.

The road is dotted with multiple rest stops. These points allow you to pull over and admire spectacular views of False Bay and Table Mountain. You can even catch a glimpse of the Cape Peninsula. The inviting coastline also stretches out almost as far as the eye can see. It is often dotted with anglers or those hoping to spot some whales in the glistening waters below. If you pay close attention, you’d have seen some part of this route doubling for an international coastline in movies.

The Harties Run (R563)

Attracting cyclists and car enthusiasts alike, the Harties run (shortened from Hartbeespoort run) is one of Gauteng motorists’ most popular driving paths. Although the Harties run features several routes that twist and wind through the lush scenery of Magaliesburg, one is particularly great for a slow (or fast) drive to the incredible view of Hartbeespoort Dam: the R563. Beginning with the Satellite Road turnoff and stretching more than 10 kilometres until the Hekpoort T-junction. This stretch offers incredible sights of the rolling fields and climbing mountains of the Magalies. The road features a few turns and corners that ensure you won’t get bored driving in a straight line. And to ensure you are kept alert, there are a few ripple bumps halfway through the route.

Swartberg Pass (R328)

Thomas Bain is not a household name, but the man was a road-building icon. Bain is responsible for designing more than 20 mountain roads and passes in SA. The last pass credited to Bain is the Swartberg Pass. It is situated in the Klein Karoo and runs over the Swartberg mountains. It is the only road access to Gamkaskloof and was opened to the public in 1888.

The Sabie Road (R536)

It is officially named the Bergvliet Pass after the plantation through which it cuts. This incredible stretch of road between Sabie and Kiepersol is rated as one of the best motorcycling roads in the country. The road begins in Sabie and heads towards Hazyview. In between it road snakes its way through the gorgeous greens of local forests and fields. It offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities to test your driving skills on the many, many corners. Along the way, the sweet smell of pine needles from the surrounding trees will invite you to roll down your window and slow down to enjoy the moment. Just ensure you savour it as the road loses much of its charm (and smoothness) once you reach Hazyview and continue your journey.

Sani Pass (P318)

Climbing up the highest region of southern Africa, Sani Pass is one of the most famous roads in the country. The gravel track snakes up the Drakensberg Mountains and reaches 2 876 metres at its peak. The actual climb, however, is only 1 332 metres, as the pass starts at 1 544 metres above sea level. Stretching between Himeville in KZN and Mokhotlong in Lesotho, the pass covers just 18 kilometres but feels much longer. Even though numerous upgrades have been made over the years, only those with proper 4x4s are encouraged to attempt it. Offering views of the surrounding peaks and valleys that can leave one speechless, many have planned trips to experience its wonder. It has even been featured on Top Gear and other television programs covering great driving roads.

Route 62 (R62)

Unlike the roads above, Route 62 isn’t a simple pass or stretch of a few kilometres. Instead, it is an 850-kilometre trip that offers enough to ensure that passengers won’t want to nap or pass the time reading. The route goes through multiple vineyard towns. These include Wellington, Tulbagh, Worcester, Robertson, and the Klein Karoo. Other incredible areas it passes through include Barrydale, Montagu, Oudtshoorn, and Calitzdorp. Along the way, the route offers a seemingly endless list of activities you can enjoy. From having a cold one at Ronnie’s Sex Shop (not what it sounds like) to ostrich riding, caving, taking a cultural tour, or even going skydiving, the route has something for everyone.