The best times to go
The seasons are reversed making South Africa a wonderful summer destination during the European winter period. However, December and January are the summer vacation months in South Africa resulting in higher prices and and reservations must be made well in advance for both vehicles and campsites.
South Africa is one of the few countries that Europeans can visit without the hassle of jetlag and the climate is sunny almost all year round. Spring and autumn are ideal periods to go to get the best value for money.
Holidays and public holidays in South Africa
Although most rental centres are open on public in South Africa, some administration offices may be closed.
Public holidays in South Africa
2020 | 2021 | ||
New Year's Day | Jour de l'an | January 1st | Friday, January 1st |
Human rights day | Journée des droits de l'homme | March 21th | Sunday, March 21th |
National Day | Fête nationale | April 27th | Tuesday, April 27th |
Labour Day | Fête du travail | Mai 1st | Saturday, Mai 1st |
Youth Day | Journée de la jeunesse | June 16th | Wednesday, June 16th |
National Woman Day | Journée nationale de la femme | August 9th | Monday, August 9th |
Heritage Day | Journée du patrimoine | September 24th | Friday, September 24th |
Reconciliation Day | Journée de la reconciliation | December 16th | Thursday, September 16th |
Christmas Day | Jour de Noël | December 25th |
Saturday, December 25th |
Boxing Day | Lendemain de Noël | December 26th |
Sunday, December 26th |
School holidays in South Africa
From 8/12 to 12/01
From 19/03 to 4/04
From 25/06 to 17/07
From 1/10 to 9/10
From 8/12 to 01/12/17
Vehicles Available
Motorhomes in South Africa
4wds in South Africa
Truck Campers in South Africa
Profile Vans in South Africa
General Info
Extraordinary country with many campsites and a developed road network.
Avoid driving at night and always spend the night in established campsites.
It is important to reserve your campsite in advance during peak seasons.
For 5 - 6 passengers we recommend booking long in advance.
For certain park and nature reserve roads (except Kruger) a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Roadtrip in South Africa and Zimbabwe
Read past experiencesA Photographic Review - Highlights of South Africa
Read past experiencesSouth African Road Trip
Read past experiences