South Africa

01 Feb 2025Updated last time

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Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town Itinerary

From Johannesburg to Cape Town: A Journey through South Africa's Wonders

Embark on an epic road trip from the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the majestic shores of Cape Town. Your adventure begins in the economic heart of South Africa, where you can explore urban parks and historic museums. As you venture southward, you'll stop in Bloemfontein, the 'City of Roses', to enjoy its peaceful ambiance and cultural treasures. Further along, the historic town of Graaff-Reinet awaits, with its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture and dramatic Valley of Desolation.

Continuing to the renowned Oudtshoorn, you’ll get up close to ostriches and explore the vast, mysterious Cango Caves. Heading towards the coast, Mossel Bay offers a chance to relax on sandy beaches and learn about the area's maritime history. Next, you'll find Hermanus, an ideal spot for whale watching and enjoying the seaside charm. Finally, Cape Town's unparalleled beauty captivates you with its iconic Table Mountain, bustling waterfront, diverse neighborhoods, and nearby Cape Winelands, concluding a journey of unforgettable sights and sounds.

Recommended Activities

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Johannesburg
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As the largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg is a bustling economic hub and melting pot of cultures, offering a dynamic urban experience, rich history at places like the Apartheid Museum, and access to large markets and shopping districts such as Sandton.
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Bloemfontein
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Bloemfontein, known as the ‘City of Roses’ due to its abundance of these flowers, is the judicial capital of South Africa and offers a more relaxed atmosphere with charming historical sites, museums like the Anglo Boer War Museum, and the Naval Hill Planetarium.
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Graaff-Reinet
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Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in South Africa, is surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park and is known for its well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch architecture, as well as the nearby Valley of Desolation with its striking rock formations.
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Oudtshoorn
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Oudtshoorn is recognized as the ostrich capital of the world, offering unique experiences at ostrich farms and the stunning Cango Caves, which is a series of magnificent, ancient underground caves.
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Mossel Bay
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Mossel Bay is a harbor town known for its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and historical significance, being home to the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex which marks the first landing of European explorers on South African soil.
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Hermanus
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Hermanus is renowned as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Visitors flock here to witness the Southern Right Whales during their yearly migration to Walker Bay.
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Cape Town
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Cape Town is a stunning, cosmopolitan city known for its breathtaking scenery, iconic Table Mountain, rich history at Robben Island, vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and world-class cuisine and wine.

Restaurants

Carnivore Johannesburg
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Carnivore Johannesburg
A restaurant that specializes in a variety of meats, including some game meats; a unique 'all you can eat' dining experience.
Modern Artisan
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Modern Artisan
Bloemfontein's hidden gem where dining is both a visual and culinary experience, with each dish resembling an artwork.
Polka
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Polka
Situated in Graaff-Reinet, Polka offers a mix of traditional Karoo dishes with an innovative twist, housed in a charming historic building.
Nostalgie
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Nostalgie
At Oudtshoorn, this restaurant is almost like stepping back in time with its vintage décor and home-cooked, hearty meals.
The Oyster Catcher
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The Oyster Catcher
In Mossel Bay, they serve seafood delights in a casual setting with an emphasis on fresh oysters straight from the ocean.
Creation Wines
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Creation Wines
Near Hermanus, this is a winery-cum-restaurant that pairs exquisite wines with gourmet meals amidst stunning vineyard views.
The Test Kitchen
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The Test Kitchen
Located in Cape Town, renowned as one of the world's best restaurants, offering an innovative, multi-sensory tasting menu.
Gold Restaurant
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Gold Restaurant
Experience a taste of Africa with a 14-course menu accompanied by interactive traditional performances, right in Cape Town.

Hotels

The Peech Hotel
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The Peech Hotel
Boutique hotel set in the leafy suburbs of Johannesburg, with an emphasis on modern, sustainable design.
The Hobbit Boutique Hotel
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The Hobbit Boutique Hotel
This whimsical Bloemfontein hotel with a Tolkien theme offers a unique stay inspired by the 'Lord of the Rings' saga.
Karoo Art Hotel
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Karoo Art Hotel
An eclectic, art-focused hotel in the Little Karoo's Barrydale, known for its quirky design and local South African art.
La Plume Boutique Guest House
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La Plume Boutique Guest House
Victorian-style luxury in Oudtshoorn on a working ostrich farm, offering a taste of farm life with elegant accommodations.
Santos Express Train Lodge
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Santos Express Train Lodge
A novel Mossel Bay accommodation experience on a stationary train with rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean.
The Grand Daddy Hotel
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The Grand Daddy Hotel
Famous for its rooftop Airstream trailer park in Cape Town, offering a funky and retro urban accommodation experience.

Local Events & Happenings

James Blunt: The Who We Used To Be Tour
James Blunt: The Who We Used To Be Tour
The event will take place at Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
12 Sep 2024
Visit Website
Atlantic Starr Live
Atlantic Starr Live
The event will take place at Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
28 Sep 2024
Visit Website

The Magic of Rob Lake
The Magic of Rob Lake
The event will take place at Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
5 Oct 2024
Visit Website
Jim Jefferies: Give ‘Em What They Want Tour
Jim Jefferies: Give ‘Em What They Want Tour
The event will take place at Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
21 Nov 2024
Visit Website
Kool & The Gang - special guest Al Mckay's Earth,Wind &Fire Experience
Kool & The Gang - special guest Al Mckay's Earth,Wind &Fire Experience
The event will take place at Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
28 Nov 2024
Visit Website
Cigarettes After Sex
Cigarettes After Sex
The event will take place at Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town.
Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town (293.16 mi)
5 Mar 2025
Visit Website
Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams
Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams
The event will take place at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
DHL Stadium in Cape Town (299.88 mi)
22 Jan 2025
Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

Somewhere to discuss travel. Not to dump your vacation photos. Pose a question. Share a trip report. Recount a funny/unique travel related story. Offer advice or ask for it. *...
Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town
Somewhere to discuss travel. Not to dump your vacation photos. Pose a question. Share a trip report. Recount a funny/unique travel related story. Offer advice or ask for it. *...
/r/southafrica
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Western Cape roads were fantastic--huge, clean, well-marked, a real pleasure to drive on (this coming from a Texan who is used to long road trips!). The first 15 minutes-ish o...
Trip Report: 25-day South African Road Trip--Cape Town to Johannesburg
Western Cape roads were fantastic--huge, clean, well-marked, a real pleasure to drive on (this coming from a Texan who is used to long road trips!). The first 15 minutes-ish o...
/r/travel
View on Reddit

I have been doing this trip twice a year for about 20 years. Hanover is exactly halfway between JHB and CT. You can split the trip into 3 relatively equidistant sections JHB-B...
Best place to stop on road trip from Joburg to Cape Town?
I have been doing this trip twice a year for about 20 years. Hanover is exactly halfway between JHB and CT. You can split the trip into 3 relatively equidistant sections JHB-B...
/r/southafrica
View on Reddit
Avoid crowds you may run into on a road, especially if you see things burning or rocks laying in the road etc. Rather turn around and try a different route - NEVER try to driv...
Traveling with car Johannesburg to Cape town
Avoid crowds you may run into on a road, especially if you see things burning or rocks laying in the road etc. Rather turn around and try a different route - NEVER try to driv...
/r/southafrica
View on Reddit
While we're there, we'll be renting a car and driving from Cape Town to Kruger via the Garden Route, Lesotho/Drakensburg, and Blyde Canyon. We'll fly out of Johannesburg. We'r...
Driving Route Recommendations for Road Trip?
While we're there, we'll be renting a car and driving from Cape Town to Kruger via the Garden Route, Lesotho/Drakensburg, and Blyde Canyon. We'll fly out of Johannesburg. We'r...
/r/askSouthAfrica
View on Reddit
Rather leave in the morning, drive during the day till beaufort west in the evening (using the N1), sleep then start again the next morning and finish the rest of the trip and...
Best Route and Time to Drive
Rather leave in the morning, drive during the day till beaufort west in the evening (using the N1), sleep then start again the next morning and finish the rest of the trip and...
/r/southafrica
View on Reddit
Mouille Point is a good base for Cape Town. Ocean on your doorstep, Green Point Park, V&A Waterfront, scenic beaches and Town just around the corner. You've got eight days to ...
One week trip to Johannesburg and Cape Town. Need advice.
Mouille Point is a good base for Cape Town. Ocean on your doorstep, Green Point Park, V&A Waterfront, scenic beaches and Town just around the corner. You've got eight days to ...
/r/travel
View on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

TOTO - Africa
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TOTO - Africa
The iconic song with its epic chorus is a nod to the continent's vast beauty and enriches the spirit of adventure.
Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]
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Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]
This energetic song captures the vibrant and diverse cultures of Africa, ideal for keeping spirits high on the road.
Paul Simon - Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes
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Paul Simon - Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes
A joyful, uptempo song infused with South African rhythms, celebrating the country's rich musical heritage.

Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)
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Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)
An infectious hit with its roots in South African house music, perfect to uplift and inspire as you explore.
Miriam Makeba - Pata Pata - Stereo Version
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Miriam Makeba - Pata Pata - Stereo Version
A lively dance track that's synonymous with South African music history, it's bound to get everyone in the car moving.
Rush - Closer To The Heart
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Rush - Closer To The Heart
A powerful and moving track that reflects the enduring spirit of the South African people and landscape.
Straatligkinders - Kaptein (Span Die Seile)
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Straatligkinders - Kaptein (Span Die Seile)
A catchy Afrikaans pop song that's great for singing along to while cruising the open roads.
Lemuel Tay - Homeless Expansion
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Lemuel Tay - Homeless Expansion
This poignant song, featuring Ladysmith Black Mambazo, offers a sense of connection with South Africa's soul.
The Tokens - The Lion Sleeps Tonight (Wimoweh)
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The Tokens - The Lion Sleeps Tonight (Wimoweh)
A classic tune that embodies the spirit of the African savannah and fits the mood of a quintessential safari.
Sun-El Musician - Bamthathile
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Sun-El Musician - Bamthathile
A modern song with traditional elements that capture the essence of contemporary South African music.

Your Trips Will Appear Here

Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town Itinerary

From Johannesburg to Cape Town: A Journey through South Africa's Wonders

Recommended Activities

Johannesburg

Bloemfontein

Graaff-Reinet

Oudtshoorn

Mossel Bay

Hermanus

Cape Town

Restaurants

Carnivore Johannesburg

Carnivore Johannesburg

Modern Artisan

Modern Artisan

Polka

Polka

Nostalgie

Nostalgie

The Oyster Catcher

The Oyster Catcher

Creation Wines

Creation Wines

The Test Kitchen

The Test Kitchen

Gold Restaurant

Gold Restaurant

Hotels

The Peech Hotel

The Peech Hotel

The Hobbit Boutique Hotel

The Hobbit Boutique Hotel

Karoo Art Hotel

Karoo Art Hotel

La Plume Boutique Guest House

La Plume Boutique Guest House

Santos Express Train Lodge

Santos Express Train Lodge

The Grand Daddy Hotel

The Grand Daddy Hotel

Local Events & Happenings

James Blunt: The Who We Used To Be Tour

James Blunt: The Who We Used To Be Tour

Atlantic Starr Live

Atlantic Starr Live

The Magic of Rob Lake

The Magic of Rob Lake

Jim Jefferies: Give ‘Em What They Want Tour

Jim Jefferies: Give ‘Em What They Want Tour

Kool & The Gang - special guest Al Mckay's Earth,Wind &Fire Experience

Kool & The Gang - special guest Al Mckay's Earth,Wind &Fire Experience

Cigarettes After Sex

Cigarettes After Sex

Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams

Calabash South Africa 2025 | Robbie Williams

Travel Gems from Reddit

Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Trip Report: 25-day South African Road Trip--Cape Town to Johannesburg

Best place to stop on road trip from Joburg to Cape Town?

Traveling with car Johannesburg to Cape town

Driving Route Recommendations for Road Trip?

Best Route and Time to Drive

One week trip to Johannesburg and Cape Town. Need advice.

Music for Your Journey

TOTO - Africa

TOTO - Africa

Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]

Shakira - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) [The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup (TM) Song]

Paul Simon - Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes

Paul Simon - Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes

Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)

Master KG - Jerusalema (feat. Nomcebo Zikode)

Miriam Makeba - Pata Pata - Stereo Version

Miriam Makeba - Pata Pata - Stereo Version

Rush - Closer To The Heart

Rush - Closer To The Heart

Straatligkinders - Kaptein (Span Die Seile)

Straatligkinders - Kaptein (Span Die Seile)

Lemuel Tay - Homeless Expansion