After the coastlines, lagoons and rainforests of the Garden Route (Part 3), the final leg of our South Africa road trip takes us back inland. The scenery becomes wider, drier and more remote. This stretch is defined by long drives, constantly changing landscapes and one final, unforgettable highlight: safari. The perfect way to round off a South African adventure:

Overview: Plettenberg Bay → Johannesburg (via Addo Elephant National Park & Bloemfontein)

Leaving the Garden Route – Saying Goodbye to the Coast

After relaxed days in Plettenberg Bay, leaving the coast isn’t easy. But just a few kilometres after departure, the landscape begins to change noticeably. Lush forests give way to open plains, farmland and increasingly dry bushveld. The destination for the day: one of the best safari areas in the Eastern Cape.

Stop 1: Addo Elephant National Park – A Safari to Remember

Addo Elephant National Park is one of the standout highlights of this entire road trip. While it’s best known for its large elephant population, the park is also home to lions, buffalo, zebras and a variety of antelope species.

Why Addo is an absolute must:

• Excellent chances of seeing elephants
• Malaria-free safari destination
• Ideal for self-drive safaris
• Good infrastructure and several rest camps

Tip: Plan at least one overnight stay in or near the park. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances for wildlife sightings.

Heading North – Experiencing South Africa’s Vastness

After Addo, the longest driving section of the entire journey begins. The route leads from the Eastern Cape into the Free State. Towns become fewer, the landscape opens up and distances feel immense. This is where you truly grasp the scale of South Africa.

Stop 2: Bloemfontein – A Break in the Heart of the Country

Bloemfontein, known as the City of Roses, sits almost exactly in the centre of South Africa and makes an ideal stopover on the way to Johannesburg.

Why Bloemfontein works well as a stop:

• A logical break on a long driving day
• Good hotels and restaurants
• Quieter than South Africa’s major cities
• A chance to slow down and recharge
• Optional: Take a short walk through Kings Park or visit the Naval Hill Viewpoint for panoramic views over the city – including the Nelson Mandela statue and the chance to spot free-roaming ostriches and antelope.

Onward to Gauteng – The Final Stretch

As Johannesburg draws closer, traffic gradually increases. Farms and small towns slowly transition into suburbs. After days immersed in nature, this shift feels surreal – and at the same time highlights just how diverse this road trip has been.

Stop 3: Johannesburg – An Urban Finale

Johannesburg may not be a classic postcard city, but it’s a fascinating and complex place to end the journey. It represents history, transformation and modern South Africa all at once.

What to plan in Johannesburg:

• Apartheid Museum
• Maboneng Precinct with cafés, street art and galleries
• Soweto & Vilakazi Street
• Pilanesberg National Park (great safari alternative close to the city)
• Excellent restaurants and accommodation options for the end of your trip
• Recommended read: 48 Hours in Johannesburg: Your Ultimate Weekend Guide

Our conclusion: The drive from Plettenberg Bay to Johannesburg is long and driving-intensive – but the reward is significant. A final safari, vast landscapes and a powerful sense of journey make this route a truly special way to end a South Africa road trip. If you want to experience the country’s scale and fly home from Johannesburg, this is the route to take.

Would you head back to Cape Town from Plettenberg Bay – or continue on to Johannesburg?
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