Introduction
Africa is a vast and diverse continent, with stunning landscapes and breathtaking views waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Africa is by embarking on a road trip. From the rugged coastlines to the rolling hills, Africa’s scenic road trips offer something for every traveler. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the most scenic road trips in Africa, highlighting the unique features and attractions of each route.
The Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is undoubtedly one of the most popular and scenic road trips in Africa. This 300-kilometer stretch along the southern coast of South Africa offers a diverse and picturesque landscape, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The route starts in the city of Mossel Bay and ends in Storms River, passing through several charming towns and stunning natural attractions along the way.
The first stop on the Garden Route is the charming town of Knysna, known for its scenic lagoon and Knysna Heads, a pair of rocky cliffs that mark the entrance to the lagoon. From Knysna, the road winds through dense forests, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Outeniqua Mountains. The route also passes through the Tsitsikamma National Park, home to indigenous forests, rugged coastlines, and the world’s highest bungee jumping bridge.
Another highlight of the Garden Route is the town of Plettenberg Bay, known for its golden beaches and abundant marine life. Visitors can take a detour to the nearby Robberg Nature Reserve, a protected area that offers stunning hiking trails and opportunities to spot whales and dolphins. The route ends in the town of Storms River, where visitors can explore the famous Storms River Mouth and the nearby Tsitsikamma National Park.
The Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Located in the northwest of Africa, the Atlas Mountains span over 2,500 kilometers across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This mountain range offers some of the most scenic and challenging road trips in Africa, with winding roads that pass through dramatic gorges, lush valleys, and traditional Berber villages.
One of the most popular routes through the Atlas Mountains is the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which connects the cities of Marrakesh and Ouarzazate. The road reaches an altitude of 2,260 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, visitors can stop at the Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been featured in several films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.
For those seeking a more challenging road trip, the Tizi n’Test Pass is a must-visit. This route starts in Marrakesh and ends in Taroudant, passing through some of the most remote and untouched areas of the Atlas Mountains. The road offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and traditional Berber villages, making it a photographer’s paradise.
The Garden Route, South Africa
The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
Known as one of the world’s most scenic and challenging roads, the Transfagarasan Highway is a must-visit for any road trip enthusiast. This 90-kilometer route runs through the Fagaras Mountains in central Romania, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The Transfagarasan Highway was built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, but it has now become a popular tourist attraction. The road reaches an altitude of 2,042 meters, making it the second-highest paved road in Romania. Along the way, visitors can stop at the famous Poenari Castle, also known as “Dracula’s Castle,” which sits atop a steep cliff and can only be reached by climbing 1,480 stairs.
The route also passes through the Balea Lake, a glacial lake that offers stunning views and opportunities for hiking and camping. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Transfagarasan Highway also offers hairpin turns and steep descents, making it a challenging and exciting road trip destination.
The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500-kilometer route that runs along the west coast of Ireland, from the Inishowen Peninsula in the north to Kinsale in the south. This road trip offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and charming towns and villages along the way.
One of the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way is the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer circular route that passes through the Iveragh Peninsula. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Skellig Islands, and the beautiful Killarney National Park. Visitors can also stop at the picturesque towns of Killarney, Kenmare, and Cahersiveen, where they can explore traditional Irish pubs and sample local cuisine.
Another must-visit stop on the Wild Atlantic Way is the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic and breathtaking natural attractions. These sheer cliffs rise 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Aran Islands. Visitors can also take a boat trip to explore the cliffs from a different perspective.
The Cape Winelands, South Africa
The Cape Winelands in South Africa is a must-visit for wine lovers and anyone seeking a scenic and relaxing road trip. This region, located just outside of Cape Town, is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and world-renowned wine estates.
The route starts in the town of Stellenbosch, known as the “City of Oaks” due to its many oak-lined streets. Visitors can explore the town’s historic center, which is filled with Cape Dutch architecture and offers a variety of wine tasting experiences. From Stellenbosch, the route winds through the scenic Winelands region, passing through the towns of Franschhoek and Paarl, both known for their award-winning wine estates and stunning views.
One of the highlights of the Cape Winelands is the Franschhoek Pass, a mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. Visitors can also stop at the iconic Cape Point Vineyards, known for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Conclusion
Africa’s scenic road trips offer the perfect combination of adventure, breathtaking views, and cultural experiences. Whether you are looking packing essentials for tropical climates (see more) a challenging drive through the mountains or a relaxing journey through the countryside, Africa has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty of this diverse continent.