Can you drive from South Africa to Tanzania?

It is possible to travel by car from South Africa to Tanzania, but it is a long journey across what is considered the "Overland Route". Adventurous travelers will have the chance to cross countries of Africa to see different wildlife, landscapes, and cultures.

Driving from South Africa to Tanzania

The road distance between South Africa and Tanzania is approximately 3,000–4,500 kilometers, depending on your starting point, destination, and chosen route. Most travelers driving from Johannesburg or Pretoria to Tanzania pass through neighboring countries such as:

Botswana
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Malawi
Mozambique (alternative route)

The most common route is:

Johannesburg → Botswana → Zambia → Tanzania

Under normal road conditions, the journey takes around 4 to 7 days of driving, although many travelers extend the trip to explore attractions along the way.

What are the road conditions like?

Road conditions vary significantly across countries.

Generally good roads

Major highways in South Africa are well-maintained.
Main roads in Botswana and parts of Zambia are generally paved and suitable for regular vehicles.

Areas requiring caution

Rural sections in Zambia and Tanzania may have potholes or uneven surfaces.
Heavy trucks are common on international transport corridors.
During the rainy season, some roads can become difficult to navigate.

For the best experience, many travelers use:

SUVs or 4x4 vehicles
GPS navigation and offline maps
Emergency repair kits and spare tires

Documents required for the journey

Before starting your journey, make sure you have:

A valid passport
A valid driver's license and, where required, an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Vehicle registration documents
Multijurisdictional car insurance
Any temporary import permits required for the countries on your route
Your visa(s) for countries along your route

Travelers should check border crossing requirements in advance as they may vary.

Is driving safer than flying?

There are differences in road conditions from country to country.

Benefits of driving

Major highways in South Africa are generally well maintained and suitable for most vehicles.
Many primary roads in Botswana and along key transport routes in Zambia are paved and accessible year-round.
Driving allows travelers to visit attractions and towns that are not easily reached by air.

Benefits of flying

Flights significantly reduce travel time compared to long overland journeys.
Air travel avoids risks associated with road accidents, driver fatigue, and varying road conditions.
Major cities in South Africa and Tanzania are connected by regular international flights.

Some roads may be impassable during the rainy season.

Popular stops along the route

Many overland travelers include destinations such as:

Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe)
Chobe National Park (Botswana)
South Luangwa National Park (Zambia)
Mbeya (Southern Tanzania)
Dar es Salaam
Zanzibar (via ferry from mainland Tanzania)

These stops can transform the drive into a memorable African adventure rather than simply a transportation route.

Final thoughts

Yes. Driving from South Africa to Tanzania is possible and remains a popular option among overland travelers and road-trip enthusiasts. It is a journey that is possible and one that attracts road-trip lovers, overlanders and adventure travellers each year. With proper planning, the drive can be a rewarding way to experience several African countries before reaching Tanzania.

Check the latest immigration requirement(s) before coming to Tanzania. The Tanzania e-Visa system allows most eligible travelers to apply online for their visa before traveling to Tanzania, which would help minimize the hassle of applying for a visa at the border post.

Can you drive from South Africa to Tanzania?

Driving from South Africa to Tanzania