subject: Car Rental in Cape Town - What You Need to Know About Driving in South Africa [print this page] Car Rental in Cape Town - What You Need to Know About Driving in South Africa
Driving your car rental Cape Town can be overwhelming, especially if you're doing it for the first time. Here are some tips to help you navigate the Cape's busy streets.
4WD or 2WD?
The Cape has its share of rough roads, but there are very few that you will need a 4WD for. In fact, even in safari areas and in self-drive parks such as the Table Mountain National Park (and Bontebok and De Hoop which lie two hours away from Cape Town), the roads are generally good, with only a bit of unevenness here and there. So, go for a 2WD it will take you wherever you need to go in record time!
Fuel Stations
Running low on gas? Do not bother looking for self-service fuel stations; there are none. When you stop for gas, expect an attendant to
- fill your car;
- clean your windscreen;
- check tire pressures; and
- check your vehicle's water and oil levels.
If your attendant doesn't do this, ask him to do so. You need to keep your vehicle in optimum condition for South Africa's sometimes rough terrain. The tip for this service? Anywhere from 3 to 5 South African Rands.
Night Parking
Cape Town is no more dangerous than other big cities. Nonetheless, it pays to be careful where you park especially at night. Park in crowded and well-lit streets. Avoid high-crime areas such as Mowbray, Cape Flats, Salt River, Greenpoint, Seapoint, and Observatory.
Robots on the Street?
The funny thing about driving a car rental in Cape Town is that at some point, you're bound to roll down your window and ask people for directions. Don't be surprised if you get the answer, "Turn right at the next robot."
No, you did not just walk into the filming of the latest Star Wars installment. "Robot" is what South Africans call their traffic lights. So, when someone tells you "Turn right at the next robot," what that actually means is that you turn right at the next stop light. Interesting, huh?
Anything is possible in the Cape, especially if you jumpstart your journey by picking up a car rental Cape Town airport. With a vehicle, you can go right from the airport and straight to the heart of one of the most iconic cities in the world.
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