Costs of a South Africa Self-Drive trip
A realistic breakdown for European travelers
One of the first questions travelers ask when planning a self-drive trip through South Africa is:
“What does it actually cost?”
The honest answer?
It depends on what you want to do — but we can give you a clear, realistic range so you know exactly what to expect.
A self-drive trip in South Africa can be incredibly affordable compared to other safari destinations, yet it can also be as luxurious as you choose.
Below, we break down the real costs, without sugarcoating. All prices are indicative and subject to change.
Car Rental & Fuel
A self-drive journey starts with the right vehicle.
Car rental (per day):
Economy car: €35 – €55
SUV: €55 – €85
4×4 (recommended for remote areas): €90 – €140
Fuel costs:
± €1.30 – €1.50 per liter
Expect €200 – €400 for a 2–3 week trip depending on distance
Pros
Full freedom and flexibility
Excellent road infrastructure
Fuel is affordable compared to Europe
Cons
Insurance excess can be high
Long distances = more fuel
Accommodation Costs
South Africa offers an exceptional range.
Per night (per room):
Guesthouses / B&Bs: €40 – €90
Boutique lodges: €120 – €250
Safari lodges (non-private): €180 – €350
Private game lodges (all-inclusive): €350 – €700+
Pros
Outstanding value for money
High service standards
Many unique, small-scale stays
Cons
Top lodges book out far in advance
Prices increase during European school holidays
Safari & Park Fees
If safari is part of your route (and it should be):
National parks (self-drive):
Kruger National Park: ± €25 per person per day
Car entry fee: ± €5 – €10
Guided game drives:
€25 – €60 per person (SANParks)
€60 – €120 per person (private reserves)
Pros
Self-drive safari is budget-friendly
Private reserves offer deeper wildlife experiences
Cons
Self-drive requires patience and time
Guided drives add to the budget
Food & Dining
Eating out in South Africa is excellent — and affordable.
Average costs:
Casual lunch: €8 – €15
Dinner in good restaurant: €15 – €25
Fine dining: €35 – €60
Groceries:
€60 – €100 per week for two people
Pros
Exceptional quality for the price
Great local wines at low cost
Cons
Remote areas have limited restaurant options
Activities & Extras
Optional but often unforgettable.
Wine tastings: €5 – €15
Whale watching: €40 – €70
Guided hikes: €20 – €50
Domestic flights (optional): €60 – €150 one way
Total Cost Estimate (2–3 Weeks)
Budget self-drive
€1,800 – €2,500 per person
Mid-range comfort
€2,800 – €4,000 per person
High-end self-drive
€4,500 – €7,000+ per person
(Excluding international flights)
Is a Self-Drive Trip Worth It?
Absolutely — if done right.
Pros
Freedom to explore at your own pace
Excellent value compared to guided safaris
Safe and accessible for European travelers
Cons
Requires planning and local knowledge
Not ideal for everyone or every region
Our Honest Advice
A South Africa self-drive trip can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country — but it’s not just about cost.
The real value lies in:
Choosing the right route
Knowing where to splurge and where to save
Avoiding long, tiring driving days
Combining self-drive with guided safari where it makes sense
That’s where local expertise makes all the difference.
Planning Your South Africa Self-Drive Trip
Whether you’re planning your first African road trip or refining a return visit, we help design well-balanced self-drive journeys that feel effortless — while staying true to your budget and travel style.
Every journey starts with a dream.