Exotic South Africa - Self Drive

9 Nights / 10 Days

Self Drive Tour

Winter Special

Tour Code: FIT/4072

Cities :Johannesburg (1N), Knysna (2N), Private Game Reserve (2N), Cape Town (4N)

Sightseeing

George, South Africa

Cango Caves Entrance
Ostrich Farm Entrance

Cape Town, South Africa

Entrance to Table Mountain Cable Way
Entrance to Boulders Beach
Entrance to Seal Island Cruise
Entrance to Cape of Good Hope
Flying Dutchman Funicular

Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Game Drive

Flight and transport

All Sightseeing transfers on private basis
Johannesburg Airport to Johannesburg hotel transfers on private basis
Johannesburg Hotel to Johannesburg Airport transfers on private basis
George Airport to Knysna hotel transfers on private basis
Knysna Hotel to Private Game Reserve transfers on private basis

Meals

9 Breakfast

Hotel Included

Sightseeing Included

Private Vehicle Included

Exclusions For Car Rental – All below charges to be paid directly by the client:

One way drop off fees
Remote location Car Pick up & Drop fees
Fuel Cost for your car
Car Insurance
E-tolling fees
Young driver surcharge per day, per driver
Delivery and collection fees
Cross Border charges
Document Administration fee
Traffic fine handling fee
Claim handling fee
Assessor’s fee
Water and under-carriage damage to vehicles
GPS unit
Mobile WiFi device and any services not specified

Please Note:

For a few hotels in South Africa, triple sharing is not allowed, hence in some of the hotels mentioned here the rates for triple will be inclusive of the single sharing room rate, we request you to please re-check with the consultant before confirming the same.
Child policy differs in each hotel in Africa, hence we request you to check with us for the hotels accordingly before confirming the same.

Sightseeing

Gallery

South Africa

Africa Map

South Africa Facts And Figures

Johannesburg city

Gondwana Uulubisi House

Gondwana Wild Lifein

Botlierskop Main Lodge

Lions On Game Drive

Gondwana Game Reserve

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve

Cape Town City

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

Boulders Beach Cape Town

Seal Island Cruise

Funicular

Cape Town Cape Peninsula

Chapmans Peak

Sky Diving ( Optional )

Optional Shark cage diving

Calculate Your Price

Departure City

Date

Transfer :

Hotel Type

Land Package
Hotel

per person

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Tour Information

Inclusions

Accommodation
All Sightseeing transfers on private basis as mentioned below
Dinner transfers
Johannesburg Airport to Johannesburg hotel transfers on private basis
Johannesburg Hotel to Johannesburg Airport transfers on private basis
George Airport to Knysna hotel transfers on private basis
Knysna Hotel to Private Game Reserve transfers on private basis
Private Game Reserve to Cape Town transfers on private basis
Cape Town Hotel to Cape Town Airport transfers on private basis

Exclusions

Airfare
Internal airfare from Johannesburg to George
Insurance
4$ Tips per day per person
Visa Cost
Cost of Meals (Lunch and Dinner)
Cost of Sightseeing (Except Above)
Any personal expenses i.e. Laundry, Tips, And Phone calls etc.
Anything which is not mentioned in Inclusions.
Any surcharge applicable during your travel dates.
Rate of Exchange will be determined on the day when you make the final payment and 0.20p will be charged additional due to international remittance charges.
Drinking water expenses - other than the ones provided by the hotels as per their policies.
2% TCS* (If PAN & Aadhaar are not linked 5% TCS)

Payment Policy

Initial deposit – USD 1000/-per person to confirm you're booking with us.
100% payment to be made at least 45 days before departure, Payment to be collected in USD as per the prevailing Rate of Exchange on date of final Payment
Refer Payment Process details on Payment Procedure for more detail

Cancellation Policy

45 Days or more prior to Departure – USD 1000
44 Days to 35 Days prior to Departure – 50% of the Tour Cost Per Person
35 Days to Date of Departure – 100% of The Tour Cost Per Person

TCS Terms and Conditions

TCS on Overseas Tour Packages:

TCS (Tax Collected at Source) is mandatory for International Holiday Packages.

TCS will be collected at the time of receipt or invoice, whichever is earlier.

As per Govt rules, 2% TCS will be applicable on purchase of International Holiday Package.

In case PAN is Inoperative i.e. PAN is not linked to your Aadhar then 5% TCS will be applicable.

The amount of TCS paid is non-refundable in case of cancellation of tour.

TCS is neither a cost nor additional tax, it can be fully adjusted against final income tax liability in your return of income and excess, if any, can be claimed as refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Every individual has a different perception of their perfect holiday. Some may opt for adventure activities while others want to pamper themselves with the world's most exotic spa or massages while others want to just relax and laze around.

Just a few questions to ask to you and your family, and you will know what kind of holiday you prefer!

Do you want a vacation where exploration is more outside the accommodations, prioritising full day tours of the places?
Do you want a vacation where your first priority is to relax and enjoy the property more than stepping out of the accommodation?
Are you interested in history, architecture or scenic beauty or city life and night life or beaches or mountains, etc..
Do you have a specific budget in mind?

And there would be a long list of questions you could ask yourself, or take the perfect guidance from Flamingo instead!

South Africa's climate varies from region to region, so it's important to consider your interests and preferences when planning your trip.

Summer (December to February): This is the peak tourist season in South Africa. The weather is warm to hot, and it's a great time for beach activities, outdoor adventures, and wildlife viewing. And this is also one of the most expensive times of the year.

Autumn (March to May): This is considered one of the best times to visit. The weather is still pleasant, the crowds have decreased, and it's a good time for wildlife viewing, particularly in game reserves. The landscapes are often lush after the summer rains.

Winter (June to August): Winter is a good time for wildlife viewing, especially in Kruger National Park and other game reserves, as the drier vegetation makes animals easier to spot. It's also the low tourist season, which means fewer crowds and potentially better rates for accommodations.

Spring (September to November): Spring is a lovely time to visit, as the weather starts warming up, flowers bloom, and the landscapes become vibrant. It's a good time for whale watching in the coastal areas. However, keep in mind that September can still be chilly in some regions.

Temperature Chart(in Celsius)

Cape Town

Jan

26/16

Feb

26/16

Mar

25/14

Apr

22/12

May

19/09

Jun

18/08

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

Jul

17/07

Aug

18/08

Sep

18/09

Oct

21/11

Nov

23/13

Dec

24/14

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

Johannesburg

Jan

26/14

Feb

26/14

Mar

24/13

Apr

22/10

May

19/06

Jun

17/04

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

Jul

17/04

Aug

20/06

Sep

23/09

Oct

21/12

Nov

22/14

Dec

26/14

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

George

Jan

26/16

Feb

26/17

Mar

24/16

Apr

23/13

May

22/10

Jun

20/07

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

Jul

19/07

Aug

20/08

Sep

20/10

Oct

21/12

Nov

22/14

Dec

24/15

Average Daily Max - Min ºC

Airline Name	South Africa cities	Layovers (Via Point)
Ethiopian Airways	JNB, CPT	Addis Ababa
Air Mauritius	JNB, CPT	Mauritius
Emirates	JNB, CPT	Dubai
Qatar Airways	JNB, CPT	Doha
Kenyan Airways	JNB, CPT	Nairobi
Air Seychelles	JNB	Seychelles
Etihad Airways	JNB	Abu Dhabi
Air Tanzania	JNB	Dar Es Salaam
Uganda Airways	JNB	Entebbe

Please note that airline routes and schedules can change, and new options may have become available.

South Africa has a well-developed domestic air travel network with several airlines operating flights between major cities and regions. Some of the main internal flight options in South Africa include:

Cemair, FlySafair,Airlink, South African Airways, etc….

These airlines usually operate flights between major hubs like Johannesburg, George, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Durban, and smaller towns or cities across the country.

Yes, South Africa can be considered a modern country. It has a developed infrastructure, a diverse economy, a democratic political system, and access to modern technologies.

Infrastructure: South Africa has well-developed infrastructure, including modern transportation networks, communication systems, and urban amenities.

Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary widely throughout the country. But the overall conditions of roads in the city areas are very well developed.

Economy: The country has one of the most diverse and industrialized economies in Africa. It is a significant player in various sectors such as mining, manufacturing, finance, and services.

Education and Research: The country is home to several reputable universities and research institutions, contributing to advancements in various fields.

Democracy: South Africa is a democratic nation with a constitution that guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms. It held its first fully representative democratic elections in 1994, marking the end of apartheid.

Cultural Diversity: The country's rich cultural diversity and history contribute to its modern identity. It is known for its vibrant arts, music, and literature scenes.

Tourism: South Africa is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and landmarks like Table Mountain and Kruger National Park.

Diversified Economy: South Africa's economy is one of the most diversified in Africa, with sectors including mining, agriculture, manufacturing, services, finance, and tourism.

Mining: The country is rich in mineral resources, particularly gold, platinum, and diamonds.

Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector is important and contributes significantly to the country's GDP. Industries include automotive manufacturing, steel production, chemicals, and textiles.

Services: The services sector is a major contributor to GDP, encompassing finance, telecommunications, tourism, and other professional services.

Financial Services: Johannesburg is known as the financial hub of Africa and hosts the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), one of the largest stock exchanges in the world.

Tourism: South Africa is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Tourism contributes to both economic growth and job creation.

Agriculture: Agriculture plays a significant role in providing employment and contributing to rural development. Key agricultural products include citrus fruits, wine, maize, and sugar.

Infrastructure: South Africa has well-developed infrastructure compared to many other African countries, including road networks, ports, and energy production.

The differences have been explained below as per different factors that affect the tour planning.

Factor	Escorted Group Tours	Individual Tours
Itinerary	Fixed	Customizable
Dates	Fixed	Customizable
Co-travellers	Yes	No
All inclusive	Yes	Depends on the accommodation
Tour leader/manager	Yes	No, local guides (wherever applicable)
Follow Timings	Yes	Yes

OPTION 1: SELF DRIVE

Choosing self-drive in South Africa can be an excellent way to explore the country for several reasons:

Flexibility: Self-driving gives you the freedom to create your itinerary and explore at your own pace. You can choose when and where to go, allowing for spontaneous detours and discoveries along the way.

Scenic Routes: South Africa is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from the Garden Route along the coast to the Drakensberg Mountains and Kruger National Park. When you self-drive, you have the opportunity to take in these scenic routes at your leisure, stopping for photos or to enjoy the views.

Cost Savings: While renting a vehicle and paying for fuel might seem like an added expense, it can be cost-effective when compared to guided tours, especially if you're traveling with a group or family.

Privacy and Comfort: Self-driving provides you with privacy and control over your travel experience. You can stop for breaks when needed, enjoy private accommodations, and have a more personalized journey.

Adventure and Challenge: If you enjoy adventure and a bit of challenge, self-driving in South Africa can be a rewarding experience. Navigating the roads and terrain can add an element of excitement to your trip.

Customization: You can tailor your trip to your specific interests, whether it's wildlife photography, hiking, wine tasting, or historical exploration. Self-driving allows you to choose activities and destinations that align with your preferences.

International Driving Permit (IDP): While your Indian driver's license is generally valid in South Africa for a short-term visit (tourism or business). So there is no requirement for an IDP.

Safety: It's essential to prioritize safety at all times.

OPTION 2: PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR-DRIVEN VEHICLE

Choosing a chauffeur-driven vehicle in South Africa can be a great option for travelers who prefer a more relaxed and convenient experience, especially in certain situations. Here are some reasons why you might opt for a chauffeur-driven vehicle:

Convenience: Having a chauffeur means you don't have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads, dealing with traffic, or finding parking. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Local Knowledge: Chauffeurs are usually locals who know the area well. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations, and information about the places you visit, enhancing your overall experience.

Safety: If you're concerned about safety, especially in areas with high crime rates or challenging road conditions, having a professional driver can provide peace of mind.

Comfort: Chauffeur-driven vehicles often offer a higher level of comfort and luxury. You can choose the type of vehicle that suits your preferences, whether it's a sedan, SUV, or even a limousine.

Time Efficiency: With a chauffeur, you can utilize your time. You won't need to waste time searching for directions, refueling, or dealing with other logistical aspects of driving.

Business Travel: For business travelers, chauffeur services can provide a professional and comfortable way to get around the city, attend meetings, and make a positive impression on clients or colleagues.

Language Barrier: If you're not proficient in the local language, a chauffeur can help bridge the language gap, making it easier to communicate with locals and navigate your way.

Compact Cars: Small cars like hatchbacks or sedans are popular for their fuel efficiency and ease of driving on South Africa's roads.

SUVs : SUVs provide more space and comfort, especially for longer journeys.

Luxury Vehicles: If you prefer a more upscale experience, options like Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, or Audi A6 with a private driver can provide both comfort and style during your travels.

While self-driving in South Africa offers many advantages, it's essential to be well-prepared, as mentioned in the previous response, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Private Sedans: Comfortable sedans like Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, or similar models are suitable for small groups or individuals looking for a straightforward transportation option with a driver.

Minivans: Vehicles like Hyundai H1, Splinter, Toyota Quantum, or similar minivans provide ample space for larger groups, with seating typically ranging from 7 to 13 passengers. They are well-suited for tours, airport transfers, and day trips.

Coaches or Buses: For very large groups, coaches or buses can be arranged with a driver to accommodate up to 50 passengers. These are often used for organized tours or group transfers.

In South Africa, you can find a variety of dining options, including vegetarian and Jain meals, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

Many restaurants in South Africa offer different Indian vegetarian options, and some even have dedicated vegetarian menus.

There are also a lot of Indian restaurants in big cities like Cape Town & Johannesburg and if advised to the restaurant earlier, they can assist in making some jain items as well if needed.

The cars are right-hand drive vehicles in South Africa and everyone drives on the left side of the road.

If you are an Indian passport holder, an English printed local licence is required, no international driving permit is compulsory.
A valid passport is necessary for identification purposes, especially for international visitors.
A credit card in the name of the primary driver is typically required for the rental deposit, with a minimum credit card limit of INR 2,00,000 (approx. $2400)
Please read the agreement before signing the document for rental car, it is all subject to change on arrival, and is compulsory to be signed during collection of the car
On the departure day, the car has to be returned with the petrol/diesel tank full and not empty.
Please note that the car hire company can charge amount on the credit card if any damages are done to the car and company will not be liable to pay/refund these charges
Please follow all traffic rules, since if you're charged for traffic fines they will charge on your credit card 1 month later as per govt rules.
Any charges can be charged by the car rental company such as taxes, government fees, etc even after 2-3 months after the departure date, our company will not be liable to pay/refund these charges
Minimum age for vehicle hire 21 years of age. Additional charges applicable if hire below 21 years
An international credit card (e.g. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) is required for insurance and bonds; these cannot be paid in cash and the hire must be the cardholder of the credit card, no RuPay cards are accepted.
Fuel Cost will be extra to be paid by the client directly.
Rates quoted on a 24 hour period include insurance (subject to excess), unlimited kilometers and GST Tax.
Airport Concession fee will apply for any hire commencing from an airport. This fee is to be paid by the hirer directly to the rental company at hire commencement. Request quote at time of booking the hire for current charges
Remote location pick-up fee is excluded. This fee is to be paid by the hirer directly to the rental company at hire commencement.
GPS Navigation units are available at additional Charge, payable to Car Hirer Company directly.
Cars are confirmed per category and not by make or model, all confirmations subject to availability
Parking charges /Toll taxes if applicable will be extra
Do not drink alcohol before driving. Drinking and driving laws are strictly enforced

When opting for a self-drive vehicle, several additional costs may be applicable beyond the base rental fee. Some of the charges might be included when you are confirming the bookings, but depends on the vehicle type as well. Some of the major charges include:

Any specific upgraded insurance type
Toll taxes & entrance fees
GPS Navigation, Child Safety Seats, Ski Racks, Bike Racks
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Theft Protection
Supplemental Liability Insurance
Personal Accident Insurance
Fuel Charges
Additional Driver Fees
Young Driver Fees
One-Way Rental Fees
Late Return Fees
Deposit and Security Hold

Fuel costs in South Africa can vary depending on several factors, including global oil prices, local taxes, and distribution costs.

Petrol: Ranges from ZAR25 – ZAR35 per liter (fluctuation possible through the months/years)
Diesel: Ranges from ZAR21 – ZAR31 per liter (fluctuation possible through the months/years)

It's always a good idea to check the latest fuel prices before traveling, as they can change frequently due to various economic and geopolitical factors.

How are the roads for self-driving in South Africa?

South Africa offers an incredible opportunity for an unforgettable road trip adventure. Driving yourself allows you to explore the country's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace.

Fortunately, South Africa's national road network is in very good condition overall, with plenty of interesting sights, convenient rest stops, and ample cell phone coverage along most routes.

With proper planning and awareness, a self-drive trip through South Africa's cities, small towns, and wilderness areas is a fantastic way to experience the country's rich culture, history, wildlife, and stunning scenery.

To maximise your safety while driving in South Africa, always maintain a high level of situational awareness. Plan routes carefully, steering clear of high-crime locations. Share your itinerary with a trusted contact. Provide your accommodation with your phone number and ETA and obtain their contact info as well.

It's recommended to avoid driving at night, especially during winter months when darkness falls early (around 5 pm). Some roads lack proper lighting, and wildlife activity increases at dusk. If nighttime driving is unavoidable, let someone know your route and estimated arrival time.

South Africa is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and those looking to explore a variety of activities.

Always check weather conditions and seasonal variations for the specific activity you’re interested in.

South Africa's weather can vary widely depending on the region and time of year

Wildlife Safaris
Canopy tours
Kayaking & Canoeing
Hiking and Trekking
Shark Cage Diving
Bungee Jumping
Cape Winelands
Mountain Biking
Caving and Spelunking
Cultural Experiences
Paragliding

South Africa can be a safe destination for tourists, but safety varies by location and situation.

Cape Town: Famous for its stunning landscapes and attractions like Table Mountain, Cape Town is generally safe in tourist-friendly areas.

Johannesburg: A major urban center with rich cultural offerings, Johannesburg has areas with higher crime rates. Popular spots such as Sandton and Rosebank are relatively safer, but it's wise to remain cautious and avoid less reputable areas

Durban: Known for its beaches and warm climate, Durban is generally safe in tourist areas. As with any city, exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings.

Garden Route: This scenic area along the southern coast is popular with tourists and is generally safe, offering beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

Generally the E-visa procedure for South Africa visas takes approximately 7-10 working days excluding any public holidays.

Kruger National Park is one of South Africa's most iconic and renowned national parks. Kruger National Park is not only the largest national park in South Africa but also one of the largest game reserves in Africa.

It covers an area of approximately 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles)

Kruger National Park boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five" –

1) Lions

2) Leopards

3) Elephants

4) Buffalos

5) Rhinoceroses.

In addition to these iconic animals, the park is home to an astonishing array of other species, including cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, various antelope species, and over 500 bird species.

Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the park's rich birdlife. Kruger is home to a diverse range of bird species, from eagles and vultures to brightly colored bee-eaters and kingfishers.

Yes, Kruger National Park is also accessible by flights. There are several airports you can use to reach the park, depending on your starting point and travel preferences

1) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQ)

2) Skukuza Airport (SZK)

3) Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS)

A game drive is a popular safari activity that involves traveling through natural wildlife habitats, such as national parks, game reserves, or private wildlife conservancies, in search of wild animals and an opportunity to observe them in their natural environment.

Game drives are typically conducted in specially designed vehicles, which provide an elevated vantage point for better wildlife viewing and photography.

South Africa's history is marked by early indigenous kingdoms, followed by Dutch and British colonial rule. The country faced racial segregation and apartheid from 1948 until the early 1990s. In 1994, Nelson Mandela became the first black president after the end of apartheid. Today, South Africa is a democratic republic with a rich, complex cultural heritage.

Cities	Distance (in KMs)	Driving Hours
Johannesburg to Sun City	196 Kms	Approx. 2 Hrs
Sun city to Pilanesburg National Park	27 Kms	Approx. 1 Hr 15 Mins
Johannesburg to Kruger National Park	406 Kms	Approx. 5 Hrs
Cape Town to George	430 kms	Approx. 5 Hrs
Cape Town to Mossel Bay	384 Kms	Approx. 4 Hrs 15 Mins
George to Mossel Bay	50 Kms	Approx. 45 Mins
George to Hermanus	352 Kms	Approx. 4 Hrs
George to Knysna	63 Kms	Approx. 1 Hr
Cape Town to Knysna	488 Kms	Approx. 5 Hrs 45 Mins
Hermanus to Cape Town	122 Kms	Approx. 2 Hrs

South Africa is well-connected by air and land to neighboring countries, making it relatively easy to plan multi-country trips, some of the destinations that can be combined, are:

Namibia

Botswana

Zimbabwe

Mozambique

Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

Zambia

Kenya

Tanzania

Mauritius or Seychelles

International Hotel Chains

There are several international hotel chains operating in South Africa.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Hilton operates several properties in South Africa, including:

Hilton Sandton
Hilton Durban
Double Tree by Hilton Cape Town Upper East Side

Marriott International: Marriott has a strong presence in South Africa with brands like

Marriott Hotels
Protea Hotels
African Pride Hotels

Radisson Blu:

Cape Town
Johannesburg
Port Elizabeth

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG):

Holiday Inn
Holiday Inn Express
Crowne Plaza

Local Chains

South Africa has several local hotel chains that offer a diverse range of accommodation options across the country.

Southern Sun Hotels
Tsogo Sun Hotels
Aha Hotels & Lodges
Peermont Hotels, Casinos, and Resorts
Sun International
Legacy Hotels & Resorts

South Africa boasts numerous luxurious private game reserves that offer discerning travelers an opulent safari experience. These reserves are known for their exquisite accommodations, top-notch service, gourmet dining, and, of course, exceptional wildlife encounters

Shamwari Game Reserve
Amakhala Game Reserve
Gondwana Game Reserve
Singita Private Game Reserve
Royal Malewane
Londolozi Private Game Reserve
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Phinda Private Game Reserve
Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
Kapama Private Game Reserve