It’s Easter, and everyone is bolting from the cities, dispersing in every direction to seek solace in the countryside.
The cost of fuel has soared, so we’re not looking to cover mammoth distances this year. And you don’t have to. A leisurely two or three-hour trip will get you away from the crowds, and also means you have more time at your destination. This long weekend, ditch the holiday heavyweights in favour of seeing some underrated treasures.
Travel search engine Cheapflights has done all the work for us, calculating driving time and estimated fuel cost for a few under-the-radar trips.
Itinerary 1: George to Calitzdorp
Nelsrivier Dam, Calitzdorp. Picture: Tyson Jopson
The Karoo town of Calitzdorp has started seeing interest from visitors in recent months. It seems a pity it wasn’t recognised earlier as an appealing place to visit since it has so much to offer out-of-town guests. Just over an hour’s drive from George – a drive that takes you through the popular town of Oudtshoorn – Calitzdorp is the home of South African port wines.
READ: Do, dine and sleep: getting the most out of Tsitsikamma National Park
In fact, being one of the stops on the lovely Route 62, this is certainly a great place to visit if you’re keen on the fruit of the vine. Other towns on this route known for their wine include Robertson, Worcester and Montagu. There’s also plenty for history buffs: the San and Khoi rock paintings found in the nearby mountains can be a particular treat. Those who love the outdoors will find themselves easily occupied with the fishing, horse-riding and mountain-biking activities available in the area.
Average length of route: 120 km
Driving time: about 1,5 hours via the R62
Estimated fuel spend: about R21,63 per litre (LRP) and about R192 for this mileage in total
Itinerary 2: Cape Town to the Cederberg
A delightful rockpool ear Kliphuis campsite. Picture: Scott Ramsay
Closer to Cape Town – and well worth a drive out from the Mother City – is the Cederberg area. Towns like Citrusdal and Clanwilliam beckon. Passionate rooibos tea lovers will definitely be attracted to the Rooibos Route and those keen on serious climbing in the mountains should venture out to the Northern Cederberg – in particular, to a spot known as Rocklands, a drawcard for adventurous types keen on bouldering.
READ: 12 sensational Western Cape campsites
Average length of route: 180 km
Driving time: two hours via the N7
Estimated fuel spend: R21,11 per litre (LRP) and about R181 for this mileage in total
Itinerary 3: Kruger National Park to Graskop and surrounds
Birdwatching under the canopy at Graskop Gorge. Picture: Melanie van Zyl
If you plan a trip to the Kruger National Park, it’s a good idea to add a few extra days to your itinerary to visit particular places in Mpumalanga. The town of Graskop attracts visitors for its beautiful natural scenery in its Drakensberg Escarpment location.
READ: Exploring the wonders of Graskop Gorge
Leaving from the Paul Kruger Gate at the Kruger National Park, it’s under an hour’s drive to the town of Graskop. From there, explore the incredible sights nearby – God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Blyde River Canyon and Three Rondavels. Numerous impressive waterfalls in the area are also well worth taking a look at.
Average length of route: 90 km
Driving time: 1,5 hours via the R537 and R532
Estimated fuel spend: R21,63 per litre (LRP) and about R144 for this mileage in total
Itinerary 4: Durban/Pietermaritzburg to the Midlands
Somewhere out in Curry’s Post, one quiet autumn morning. Picture: Getaway gallery
A natural product of the Drakensberg Escarpment, the town of Howick and surrounds is a treat just waiting for the eager tourist. This is an area great for enjoying the outdoors – from horse-riding and walks in the mountains to cycling and fishing. Many crafts have become popular among locals so visitors can enjoy numerous homemade treats.
READ: KZN’s Shongweni Farmers Market is an Easter must-visit
Average length of route: 140 km from Durban; about 80 km from Pietermaritzburg
Driving time: Three hours from Durban; about one hour from Pietermaritzburg
Estimated fuel spend: R21,11 per litre (LRP) and about R219 for a trip from Durban in total
Average fuel prices based on current pricing as listed on aa.co.za
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https://www.getaway.co.za/travel-ideas/the-ultimate-road-trip-from-cape-town-to-augrabies-falls-national-park/
