A Road Trip via Pilanesberg, Bloemfontein & the Vast Karoo (N1): Instead of hopping on a quick domestic flight, this road trip is all about slowing down and truly experiencing South Africa. Right at the start, a safari adventure in Pilanesberg National Park awaits, followed by one of the country’s most underrated scenic highlights – Karoo National Park. This journey along the legendary N1 combines wildlife, wide-open landscapes and authentic small towns into one unforgettable drive.
This route follows the N1, South Africa’s most important north–south highway, almost the entire way. It connects the vibrant metropolis of Johannesburg with cosmopolitan Cape Town – and showcases everything the country is famous for along the way: safaris, endless semi-desert plains, rolling steppes, vineyards and charming towns.
Distance in miles
Drive time in hours
Curated destinations
After spending the first 48 hours in Johannesburg – immersed in history, culture and creative neighborhoods – it’s time to hit the road. Our first destination is Pilanesberg National Park, a true highlight right at the beginning of the journey and one of the best self-drive safari destinations in South Africa.
Located inside an ancient extinct volcanic crater, Pilanesberg National Park is home to the Big Five. Thanks to its well-maintained gravel and tar roads, it’s perfect for self-drive safaris without a guide. Plan for 1–2 nights, either inside the park or at a lodge nearby.
Reading tip: Pilanesberg National Park: The Ultimate Self-Drive Guide, Routes & Where to Stay
After the safari, the route leads back to the N1. The scenery becomes flatter, wider and calmer – classic Highveld and Free State landscapes.
Bloemfontein makes an ideal overnight stop to break up the long drive toward the Karoo. The city offers plenty of hotels, restaurants and fuel stations.
This leg takes you deep into the Great Karoo, one of South Africa’s most impressive semi-desert regions. Wildlife sightings may include Cape baboons, black-backed jackals, springbok, gemsbok (oryx), Cape mountain zebras, meerkats and numerous birds of prey. Karoo National Park is located just outside Beaufort West, which serves as a perfect base.
Beaufort West, the largest town in the central Karoo, lies directly on the N1 and offers:
Matjiesfontein is a tiny Victorian village right along the N1 – and feels like a living open-air museum. Founded in the 19th century as a health resort, it is now a National Monument.
The Hex River Valley marks the scenic transition from the arid Karoo to the lush Cape region – and that’s exactly what makes it so special. The drive through the valley is unexpectedly dramatic, with rugged mountains and vineyards lining the river.
After days on the N1, you finally arrive in Cape Town. Here, spectacular nature, vibrant city life and a relaxed coastal atmosphere come together. Just a few highlights to look forward to:
The dry season from May to September is ideal for driving from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Temperatures are pleasant, and wildlife viewing in Pilanesberg and the Karoo is particularly rewarding.
During the rainy season from October to April, the landscapes turn lush and green and are highly photogenic. However, temperatures in the Karoo can exceed 104°F (40°C). Cape Town, on the other hand, is at its best during these months thanks to warm, sunny summer weather.
Highlights from the first part of our South Africa adventure along N1:
Our conclusion: The road trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town perfectly blends safari experiences, vast landscapes and urban highlights. Travelers who take their time for stops in Bloemfontein, Beaufort West and the Hex River Valley will enjoy a relaxed and rewarding journey – and remember: Cape Town and the Garden Route are waiting at the end.
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