In South Africa a car is an essential part of travel. This is due to the vastness of the county and the lack of public transport. In the major cities there are busses but they tend to have limited routes.

Therefore it is vital to get a car as soon as you can.

Driving in South Africa
If you are immigrating from the UK or any other former English colony you will be pleased to find out that in South Africa they drive on the left hand side of the road. To drive you will need an international drivers license or to retake your license once you arrive. It is compulsory to carry your license on you when driving. The AA will be able to assist you in providing the necessary advice on licensing issues.

The roads in South Africa are excellent except for the odd pothole if the rains have been heavy that season. Remember to lock your car doors when driving and never leave anything on the seat next to you - put it in the boot or on the floor as smash and grabs are common at traffic lights.

When comparing the cost of a car - it is relatively expensive. Your repayments could be the same (or even more) than the rent you pay on your house! The insurance is also high due to the crime rate. Expect to pay around R1,500-R1,900 per month on insurance for a car worth R160,000 to R180,000. Use your international cell phone rental to rent a car in South Africa.

Public Transport
Public transport is non-existent in most areas out-side city centers. However there are mini-busses (black taxi's) that ferry the vast population around South Africa. Our advice is not to use them as a lot of them are driven by unlicensed drivers and the taxi's themselves are un-roadworthy. They also tend to be a law unto themselves and drive like lunatics. Your South Africa mobile phone rentals will help you keep track of bus shedules.

Domestic flights in South Africa
South Africa has a number of airlines flying between its major cities, and to some of its smaller ones, with fares ranging from first-class to cut-price economy. Flights can be booked online from anywhere in the world. Use your international cellular phone rental to make an airline reservation easily.