Top overlanding destinations in Southern Africa

Salt‑sprayed coastal tracks, fishing villages, dunes, and fynbos reserves. Expect sand, corrugations, and wind; permits may be required for certain beach approaches.

• Coastal sand and gravel loops with scenic viewpoints
• Route options for stock 4x4s and lifted rigs
• Seasonal wildflowers and cool Atlantic air

Best season: Late winter–spring for flowers; autumn for calmer winds.

Raw desert landscapes along the Orange River. Remote sand and rock tracks, rugged passes, and dramatic wild camping for confident 4x4 drivers with solid recovery plans.

• Low‑range climbs, river plains, and rocky ledges
• Spectacular desert and river scenery
• Requires careful fuel, water, and permit planning

Best season: Apr–Sep (cooler). Avoid peak summer heat.

A remote mountain conservancy road with river crossings, narrow passes, and wildlife. 4x4 is strongly recommended; check gate times and seasonal closures.

• Multiple water crossings and steep, narrow sections
• Rustic campsites and farm stays
• Permit and conservation fees may apply

Best season: Apr–Oct for lower rivers; summer storms can raise water levels.

A classic 4x4 trail along the Orange River through remote Namaqualand. Mix sand, rock, and river‑bank tracks with wild camps and flower season detours.

• 4x4‑only sections with soft sand and rocky ledges
• Wild camping or basic camps; bring water and recovery gear
• Permits and seasonal access rules apply

Best season: Apr–Sep (cooler). Aug–Oct for wildflowers.

Lush coastal forests, lagoons, and mountain passes between Mossel Bay and Storms River. Expect scenic gravel backroads, shaded forest tracks, and short 4x4 detours inside sections of the Garden Route National Park. Beach driving is generally prohibited—use signed access and designated tracks only.

• Gravel passes and forest loops with ocean viewpoints
• Serviced campsites and lodges; easy provisioning in nearby towns
• Day‑entry/permits in park sections; observe fire and trail rules

Best season: Year‑round. Mar–May and Sep–Nov offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Iconic wildlife self‑drives on gravel loops and backroads. Plan gate times, speed limits, and booked rest camps; respect park rules and animal right‑of‑way.

• Graded gravel loops and occasional sandy stretches
• Sightings dictate pace—build buffer time
• Malaria precautions and SANParks permits apply

Best season: May–Sep (dry season, better visibility).

Big‑sky gravel, desert dunes, and remote lodges. Link the Skeleton Coast, Damaraland, and Etosha surrounds with realistic daily distances and fuel plans.

• Long gravel highways and desert scenery
• Remote overnights and wildlife corridors
• Spare tires, compressors, and range planning advised

Best season: May–Sep (dry, cooler). Summers can be extreme.

From the Okavango’s seasonal tracks to Chobe and the pans, expect deep sand, water crossings, and abundant wildlife. Book park permits well in advance.

• Low‑range sand driving and recovery gear essential
• Water crossings vary with season—check depths
• Border, park fees, and veterinary checkpoints

Best season: May–Oct (dry). Rains bring mud and deeper water.

Coastal sand tracks, palm‑fringed beaches, and tidal considerations. Plan border formalities, third‑party insurance, and malaria precautions; respect beach‑driving rules.

• Soft sand, dunes, and tidal windows
• Resort stays or wild‑camp options where legal
• Border paperwork and local regulations

Best season: May–Sep (dry, cooler). Cyclone risk in midsummer north.

Wide‑open Karoo gravel highways meet the sandstone mountains of the Cederberg. Combine quiet farm backroads, gravel passes, and remote camps with short 4x4 trails to viewpoints and rock formations.

• Long gravel stretches, corrugations, and occasional sandy sections
• Mountain passes, rocky outcrops, and river valleys in the Cederberg
• Campsites and farm stays; limited fuel in remote areas—plan range

Best season: Mar–May and Sep–Oct. Karoo summers are very hot; Cederberg winters can be cold and wet.