Braeside Guest House :: Driving in South Africa

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Driving in South Africa
We drive on the left side of the road as do the majority of Commonwealth countries. If this will be your first experience of driving 'on the other side of the road' then remain very alert when driving, as your reflex actions may lead you into trouble. Therefore do not drive when tired, or on 'subconscious autopilot,' or when intoxicated (illegal in South Africa, as in most countries). You are then an accident waiting to happen! Take frequent rest stops when driving long distances, and long distance driving at night is not advisable at first, as oncoming headlights may disorientate you, and your perception of your relative position on the road. Become used to driving on the left first ... this is just commonsense.

	CAR RENTAL Daily rental rates in South Africa will appear to be low, thanks to the depressed state of our currency on world financial markets. You benefit. All rates quoted following, both domestic and for international exchange, are current as of March 1,2005, but will fluctuate. Dollar values are in US currency. The rates may, or may not, include VAT ... More»

	CAR PURCHASE & PERMITS A transportation solution rarely considered by visitors is to buy a used vehicle in South Africa, use it, then resell it when you leave. This is almost always cheaper in than hiring, especially for extended visits, and using your own vehicle allows you more travel freedom, not to mention unlimited mileage ... More»

	RULES & REGULATIONS A Stop / Halt sign works the same way as in most countries. If you are the only vehicle at the intersection then stop, look right first (closest oncoming traffic), then left, then right once more, then proceed if it is safe to do so. Where there are multiple Stop signs at an intersection, then it is 'first come, first served,' vehicles arriving first, ... More»

Fuel in South Africa Leaded, unleaded and diesel fuel is widely available. Some very remote filling / service stations may still have only leaded fuel available. Available octane levels will vary between different provinces, but will be typically 95. Fuel prices are strictly government controlled, so don't go searching for the best price, just use the nearest filling station. You will pay the same price everywhere ... Our filling stations are 'full service' not 'self-service.' The attendant will fill your tank, and also check your oil, tyre / tire pressures and coolant level if you ask, and clean your windshield / windscreen. Cash in Rand is the ONLY method of payment at service stations. Credit cards and cheques are not accepted. Tipping is optional, but appreciated. One or two Rand will do, but R10 will make their day.

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