Tips for Sustainable Travel Road Trips in South Africa

So, you want to plan a road trip, but you’re also concerned about your impact on the environment. Don’t worry – you’re not alone. Sustainable travel isn’t just a new trend. In fact, it’s the only way that we as avid adventurers can safeguard our world for future generations – and for the wildlife and plants we share it with.

South Africa’s sensational natural landscapes and biodiverse ecosystems offer numerous opportunities for memorable road trips. For environmentally conscious travelers, making these journeys eco-friendly isn’t just possible – it’s also highly rewarding.

This guide explores how to make your road trip more sustainable, highlighting practices to reduce your environmental impact and ensuring that your adventure is both enjoyable and responsible. We’ve also included three iconic South African road trips to get your creative juices flowing. Let’s take a look.

You might also like: Our Picks for Family-Friendly Road Trips in South Africa.

Photo: Getty

Essential Tips for an Eco-Friendly Road Trip

Before embarking on your green adventure, you’ll need to do some thorough planning. Here are several tips to help you get started.

Planning and Preparation

• Route Optimisation: Plan your route to minimise fuel consumption. Use apps or maps to find the most efficient paths and avoid unnecessary detours.
• Vehicle Choice: Choose a fuel-efficient vehicle. Drive South Africa offers a range of modern, fuel-efficient cars that help reduce emissions and save on fuel costs. For example, the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL manual has a fuel economy of just 4.9 l/100km.
• Travel Light: Pack only what you need to reduce the weight in your vehicle. Not only will this improve fuel efficiency, but it will also make for a more comfortable drive.

Sustainable Practices

• Waste Reduction: Bring reusable items such as water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils to minimise single-use plastics.
• Local Support: Support local businesses, artisans, and farmers markets. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also contributes to the local economy.
• Wildlife Respect: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding animals, and follow local guidelines to protect natural habitats. Remember: animal interactions are never okay – that baby lion really doesn’t want to be cuddled.

Eco-Friendly Activities

• Nature Walks and Hikes: Choose activities that have minimal environmental impact, such as walking, hiking, and bird watching.
• Eco-Tours: Participate in guided eco-tours that educate about conservation efforts and sustainable practices in the region. The more you learn, the better.
• Water Activities: Engage in non-motorised water activities like kayaking and snorkelling to enjoy nature without disturbing it.

Photo: Getty

The West Coast Flower Route: A Blooming Marvel

The West Coast Flower Route, also known as the Daisy Route, is a spectacular journey through one of the world’s most vibrant annual wildflower displays. Every spring, the normally arid region transforms into a sea of colourful blooms, attracting nature lovers from all over. This route is not only visually stunning but also emphasises the importance of preserving delicate ecosystems.

Must-Visit Attractions

• West Coast National Park: Located near Langebaan, this park is renowned for its wildflowers, especially during August and September. The Postberg section, open only during flower season, offers the best views.
• Namaqua National Park: Further north, this park is famous for its incredible floral displays. Visitors can explore the Skilpad Wildflower Reserve for some of the most concentrated and diverse flower sightings.
• Clanwilliam: A quaint town known for its rooibos tea and beautiful flower gardens. The Ramskop Nature Reserve offers an excellent spot for picnics amidst the blooms.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• • Stay on Paths: Stick to designated paths and roads to protect the fragile wildflowers and prevent soil erosion.
  • Waste Management: Carry reusable bags and bottles, and ensure you dispose of any waste properly.
  • Leave Your Pets at Home: We all love our pets, but they aren’t allowed into most wilderness areas.

You might also like: 5 Best Places to See the West Coast Wildflowers.

Photo: Getty

The Garden Route: A Coastal Eco-Adventurer’s Dream

The Garden Route, stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, is renowned for its dense forests, pristine beaches, and enigmatic wildlife. This area is a haven for eco-tourism, offering numerous opportunities to explore South Africa’s natural beauty while engaging in sustainable practices.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Tsitsikamma National Park: Known as the “Garden of the Garden Route”, this park offers activities such as canopy tours, hiking, and marine exploration. The Storms River Mouth is a must-see.
• Knysna Forest: Explore the dense, ancient forest with its towering trees and diverse wildlife. You can even camp on wooden decks hidden among the trees.
• Wilderness National Park: This park is perfect for canoeing and bird watching. The Serpentine River and Ebb-and-Flow Rest Camp are special highlights.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Driving Habits: Drive smoothly and avoid rapid acceleration and braking to maximise fuel efficiency. Maintaining a steady speed can significantly reduce fuel consumption.
• Eco-Lodges: Stay in eco-friendly accommodations that utilise sustainable practices such as solar power and water conservation. Options like the Hog Hollow Country Lodge provide luxurious, yet sustainable stays.
• Local Cuisine: Support local businesses by dining at restaurants that use locally sourced, organic ingredients.
• Public Transport and Biking: In areas like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, use public transport or rent bicycles to explore the surroundings in an eco-friendly way.

Photo: Getty

The Drakensberg: Majestic Mountains and Green Travel

The Drakensberg Mountains offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in South Africa, featuring the tallest peaks in southern Africa, grassy valleys, and ancient rock art. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for those looking to combine adventure with sustainability.

Must-Visit Attractions

• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park: Home to over 600 examples of San rock art, this park offers numerous hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs.
• Royal Natal National Park: Known for the Amphitheatre, a stunning cliff face that is a highlight of the region. In fact, the world’s tallest waterfall, Tugela Falls, plummets from this geological feature. Hiking, bird watching, and horse riding are popular activities here.
• Giants Castle Game Reserve: This reserve offers both cultural and natural attractions, including well-preserved rock art sites and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Low-Impact Hiking: Stick to established trails to minimise your impact on the environment. Carry out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Reusable Gear: Use reusable and eco-friendly hiking gear, such as water bottles and food containers.
• Energy Conservation: Choose accommodations that implement energy-saving measures, such as solar panels and energy-efficient lighting.

Photo: Getty

Embarking on an eco-friendly road trip through South Africa allows you to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty while preserving it for future generations. From the vibrant wildflowers of the West Coast Flower Route to the lush landscapes of the Garden Route and the majestic peaks of the Drakensberg, each journey offers unique opportunities to travel sustainably.

By adopting eco-friendly driving habits, supporting local businesses, and practising mindful travel habits, you can enjoy a memorable adventure that respects and protects the environment. With Drive South Africa’s range of fuel-efficient rental options and your commitment to sustainable travel, you can set off on a journey that is both enriching and environmentally responsible. Book with us today.