South Africa Self-Drive Adventure - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg, Drive to Graskop

After breakfast, hit the road for more sightseeing. Travel to the tallest and most romantic waterfalls in the region, which include Lisbon Falls (308 ft/94 m), Berlin Falls (262 ft/80 m), and Lone Creek Falls (229 ft/70 m). After visiting other highlights, like the Bourke's Luck Potholes rock pools, continue on to God's Window, an incredible viewpoint overlooking a 2,952-foot (900 m) ravine. Plan to make this your last stop, as it's another natural wonder best viewed in the golden light of sunset. At the end of the day, return to Johannesburg and check in to your hotel.

Day 4: Drive to Clarens, Optional Activities

In the morning, you'll leave Johannesburg on a 3.5-hour drive south to Clarens. Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, this bucolic town is so lovely it was nicknamed the "Jewel of the Eastern Free State." There's much history here, too, as Clarens was established in 1912 and is named after the Swiss town where exiled South African president Paul Kruger spent his last days.

Upon arrival, you'll check in to your hotel and can then stretch your legs on a walk around town. The area has a couple of cool art galleries, and if you're thirsty after your long drive, you can pop in at the local brewery for a pint. For dinner, there are cozy restaurants and pubs both on and around Main Street. 

Day 5: Drive to Cathedral Peak

After breakfast, you'll drive southeast about 52 miles (84 km) to the Upper Drakensberg and the lovely Cathedral Peak area. Also known as Mponjwana by local tribespeople, this 9,856-foot (3,004 m) mountain is nestled in a secluded valley and is surrounded by other equally majestic peaks. After checking in to your hotel, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing or head out for a brisk walk on a nature trail. If you have the energy, try the three to four-hour hike to Cathedral Peak's summit.

Day 6: Cathedral Peak Optional Activities

Spend the day at Cathedral Peak however you like. Perhaps head out for a leisurely riverside stroll or a more strenuous hike up the mountain. You can also hop in the saddle for a horseback ride or zip along the backroads on an ATV. Maybe take a scenic flight to marvel at this grand mountain range from above. Another highlight is a drive out to Sentinel Point, where you can enjoy incredible views over the plateau.

Day 7: Drive to Durban

In the morning, leave the Drakensberg and drive two-to-three hours to the coastal town of Durban. Located in KwaZulu-Natal province, this hotbed of Afro-Indian culture is known for its sandy beaches, sidewalk cafés, upscale waterfront eateries, and pulsing nightlife. After checking in to your hotel, feel free to venture into the city to experience all those highlights and more. 

Day 8: Drive to St Lucia, Hippo Cruise

After breakfast, hit the road again on a three-hour drive north from Durban up to St Lucia. This settlement sits on an estuary at the southern end of the magnificent iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its diverse flora and fauna. After checking in to your hotel, you'll see its most famous residents on a hippo boat tour. Also making an appearance will be Nile crocodiles as well as birds like pelicans, storks, terns, and perhaps the African fish eagle. 

Day 9: iSimangaliso Safari & Snorkeling

Get ready for another exciting wildlife tour. In the morning, a game ranger will pick you up in an open-topped safari vehicle for an exploration of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The excursion includes game viewing on the open grasslands en route to Cape Vidal, a bay on an unspoiled stretch of coastline. During the drive, you'll have the opportunity to spot various species, including leopards, buffalo, rhinos, and kudus. Upon arrival at Cape Vidal, you'll trade your binoculars for a snorkel as you hit the water at this incredible dive site, which is home to Africa's southernmost tropical reefs. 

Day 10: Drive to Durban & Depart

Unfortunately, today marks your last day in South Africa. In the morning, return to Durban and transfer to the international airport. After dropping off your rental car, you'll catch your flight home. Until next time!

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to South Africa? Check out these other South Africa itineraries, explore more ways to spend 10 days in South Africa, and learn about the best time to visit South Africa.