Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Lauren Melnick
Backpacking South Africa alone is a thought that never crossed my mind.
I was forever dreaming about exploring far-flung countries in Asia or the lost civilisations of South America. However, after spending six months in Thailand, it hit me how much I had seen there and how little I had explored my country. So in December of 2016, I decided to remedy this by setting off on my first solo backpacking trip in South Africa.
It was an incredible month. I saw landscapes I never knew existed and got to see how international tourists experience my country. As corny as it sounds, it was eye-opening, and I recommend it to anyone – whether you are a local like myself or a tourist who wants to sink their teeth into this amazing country.
Here is my complete one-month backpacking South Africa itinerary for solo travellers!
Table of Contents
Backpacking South Africa One Month Itinerary
Johannesburg: 2 days
Photo by: Once in Joburg
Affectionately nicknamed Jozi, or the City of Gold – South Africa’s biggest city has it all. From a thriving live music scene to delicious food and a rich cultural history, this bustling city has a unique character that has a vibe unlike any other city in the country.
While it does have a reputation for being one of the most unsafe areas in the country, if you keep your wits about you as you would anywhere else in the world, you will be okay.
Top Things to See and Do in Johannesburg:
- Start your day at Greenside Cafe with one of their delicious vegan breakfasts.
- If you are looking to understand South Africa’s tumultuous history, make a stop at the Apartheid Museum.
- Explore The Cradle of Mankind, a World Heritage site and discover what life was like for our ancestors more than 3 million years ago.
- Unleash your inner art freak and explore the creative melting pot that is Maboneng District.
Read More: 10 + Best Hiking Trails in Johannesburg (A Local’s Guide)
Where to stay in Johannesburg:
Once in Joburg is one the top-rated backpackers in South Africa and is located in CBD within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, Kitchener’s and the monthly cultural event First Thursdays.
Drakensberg: 3 days
The Drakensberg is one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. Its amphitheatre is regarded as one of the most impressive cliffs faces on Earth, and it is the perfect stop for backpackers in South Africa who love the outdoors.
How to get to the Drakensberg:
- Mainline buses like Intercape stop in a town called Harrismith. Amphitheatre Backpackers then offers a shuttle bus from Harrismith right to their door.
- The most expensive option is BazBus which goes straight from Johannesburg to one of their listed Drakensberg backpackers.
Top Things Things to See and Do in the Drakensberg
- Hike Tugela Falls in the Royal Natal National Park
- Visit Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve. It is home to the largest indigenous forest in the Drakensberg and 3, 900 rock art paintings.
- Sign up for rock climbing day trips to the Swinburne area or the high berg for more advanced climbers.
- Border hop over to Lesotho for a day trip.
Read More: The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away
Where to stay in The Drakensberg
I stayed at Amphitheatre Backpackers and could not recommend it enough. The backpackers has hiking trails on the property, incredible views of the Drakensberg mountains in the distance, pool, restaurant, beautiful accommodation and a tour desk to organise all of the above.
The only thing that I did not like was the poor WiFi connection and the fact that it wasn’t free.
Durban: 1 Day
Photo by: Curiocity Backpackers
I’ll be honest with you. I did not like this city at all. Besides having shit weather the entire time I was there, the only thing that left an impression on me was my couch-surfing host. We had the best time, and I’d recommend ditching the hostel route and meeting up with a host if you can. How this place got featured as 7th out of 52 places to visit in 2015 by The New York Times, I’ll never know.
How to get to Durban
- Take the BazBus from Amphitheatre Backpackers straight to Durban.
- Take the backpacker shuttle back into Harrismith and catch a mainline bus to Durban.
Top Things To See and Do In Durban
- Explore the city on foot with one of Curiocity Backpackers walking tours.
- Get wet with the Durban’s variety of water sports.
- Visit The Chairman, a sophisticated jazz bar and one of the best-kept secrets of the city.
- Head to Cool Runnings on a Thursday and take part or watch their epic drum circle event.
Where to stay in Durban
I spent one night at Curiocity Backpackers in Durban. I loved the decor, the dorm rooms were huge, and my windows opened up onto the busy streets of the CBD. The hostel also organises different communal events daily such as a braai night and plenty of comfortable couches. I miss those couches. However, I did have the same issue I had with Amphitheatre. The WiFi situation is lacking; I am not for this system of limiting me to x amount of data each day.
Umzumbe: 3 days
Umzumbe wasn’t on my radar until my couch surfing host told me all about Mantis and Moon backpackers. It quickly became one of my favourite spots on this trip and is an ideal stop for backpackers in South Africa looking to chill and take things slowly for the next couple of days.
How to get to Umzumbe
- Southern Shuttle buses have pick-up points around Durban CBD and can drop you right outside Mantis and Moon on request.
- Take a mainline bus into Umzumbe but will have to either walk to your accommodation or organise a lift.
- BazBus will take you straight to a backpackers on their list.
Top Things To See and Do in Umzumbe
- Take part in one of the daily yoga classes at Mantis and Moon’s on-site studio, surrounded by the forest.
- Learn how to surf while backpacking South Africa with a professional instructor at Mantis and Moon.
- Explore the Umzumbe blue flag beach and keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, crabs and plenty of other sea life.
- Take a day trip to Lake Eland and choose from a self-drive safari, gorge swinging, abseiling and a zip line that reaches speeds of 160 km/h.
Read More: 50+ Genius Ways To Save Money for Travel
Where to stay in Umzumbe
I stayed at Mantis and Moon Backpackers in Umzumbe. My first night was spent in one of their treehouse dorm rooms before I moved into a glass treehouse for the next three days. The location and the property itself is a private jungle that feels like something out of a fairy paradise. At night you can hear the waves crashing, and the hostel has a lively bar area for those looking to party the night away.
Read Next: 9 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Lake Eland Game Reserve
Coffee Bay: 3 days
Located on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, this small town has a lot to offer travellers backpacking South Africa. The landscapes are incredible, the town has a rustic feel to it, and for those looking to trip balls, it is the only place in all of South Africa that drug dealers have ever tried to sell me drugs.
How to get to Coffee Bay
- The roads to Coffee Bay are not in good condition. So if you are driving make sure your car can handle dirt roads as you dodge cows, sheep, horses and potholes.
- While the BazBus website claims Coffee Bay is on their list, it is not. Baz will drop you off at a small town called Umtata and then you will need to organise and pay for another shuttle with Coffee Shack Backpackers to get into town.
- Backpackers can also take a mainline bus to Umtata, but will once again need to contact the backpackers to get a lift into Coffee Bay.
Top Things to see and do in Coffee Bay
- Learn to surf, hire out gear or go on a day trip to some of the best local surf spots.
- Hike or drive to the area’s most famous landmark – The Hole in the Wall.
- Explore the Mpuzi Cliffs, check out the Bat Cave and bring your GoPro along for some awesome cliff jump shots.
Where to stay in Coffee Bay
Coffee Shack Backpackers is right by the beach and a gorgeous cliff face that drops off into the ocean. This hostel does have a reputation for legendary parties, so I decided to skip staying in their dorms and spend three nights at one of their authentic Xhosa rondavels.
The WiFi situation here is pretty bleak, and Coffee Shack only gives you 50 MB per day. The silver lining? It’s a chance to disconnect from the virtual world for a few days, as you backpack through a part of South Africa where the WiFi is weak, but the views are strong.
Hogsback: 4 days
Hogsback is hands down one of the most magical places in South Africa. Surrounded by the beautiful centuries-old Amathole mountains, staying here is a must for nature lovers and those of us that still believe in fairies.
How to get to Hogsback
- The easiest way to get to Hogsback if you’re backpacking South Africa without a car is to catch a mainline bus into East London or Chintsa. Away With The Fairies Backpackers has a daily shuttle bus that runs between East London, Chinta, and Hogsback.
- Once again, BazBus does say Hogsback is on their list, but you’ll be fetched from Umtata and dropped off in East London or Chinta. And you will still need to pay for the shuttle into Hogsback.
Top Things To See and Do in Hogsback
- Hike a subsection of one of the best hiking trails in South Africa – The Amatola Trails.
- Choose from 1- 8-hour hiking trails starting from the bottom of Away With The Fairies garden.
- Rock climb one of the 60 bolted routes in the area and abseil down the beautiful 35m Madonna and Child waterfall.
- Visit the Crystal Corner and enjoy a stunning photo gallery, stone circle, and labyrinth.
Where to stay in Hogsback
I spent an entire week at Away With The Fairies Backpackers in Hogsback, and it was not long enough. This rustic hostel has a hot water outdoor bath that overlooks the valley below, delicious pizzas, and is within walking distance of all the restaurants and amenities in town. I stayed in their dorms as well as The Dragon’s Lair.
The WiFi situation is fast and free, but the backpackers do turn it off after 6 pm to encourage socialisation.
Port Elizabeth: 2 days
Port Elizabeth is one of the major cities in South Africa and is an award-winning wildlife destination. It is known as the only place in the world home to the Big 7 and has a 40km stretch of protected beaches.
How to get to Port Elizabeth
- From Hogsback, you’ll want to take the Away With Fairies shuttle back into East London and then hop onto a mainline bus to Port Elizabeth.
Top Things To See and Do in Port Elizabeth
- Addo Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big 7 and is home to over 500 elephants.
- Adrenaline Addo boasts South Africa’s longest zip line.
- Go on a three-hour sandboarding adventure and ride some of the biggest dunes in the Eastern Cape.
- Hit the water and surf, snorkel and dive in one of South Africa’s highest-rated cold water dive locations.
Read More: How to Visit Addo National Park: A Complete Self-Drive Safari Guide
Where to stay in Port Elizabeth
I couch surfed for the three days I spent in Port Elizabeth, but I have heard great things about Hippo Backpackers and Lungile Backpackers from fellow travellers.
Tsitsikamma: 3 Days
Tsitsikamma is one of the beautiful spots along South Africa’s famous Garden Route. This coastal reserve is known for its lush indigenous forests, dramatic coastline and one of the most popular hiking trails in South Africa – The Otter Trail.
How to get to Tsitsikamma
- The easiest way to get to Tsitsikamma is to catch a mainline bus to Storms River. Dijeme Backpackers can then organise a shuttle to fetch you from the Engen petrol station and take you into town.
- Alternatively, you can use the BazBus to go from your backpackers in PE to Storms River.
Top Things To See and Do in Tsitsikamma
- Hike the first 3km of the famous Otter Trail or explore the suspension bridges inside Tsitsikamma National Park.
- The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour takes you through the indigenous forest canopy on an exhilarating two-hour tour.
- Jump off a 126 m high bridge – the World’s Highest Commerical Bungy Jump.
- Scuba dive, snorkel or go on an eco-marine safari inside the national park.
- Experience an exhilarating rush by River Tubing down Storms River.
Where to stay in Tsitsikamma
I chose to stay with Dijembe Backpackers in Storms River after hearing backpacker after backpacker tell me I had to stay there. I was not disappointed. The hostel provides free pancakes for breakfast, unique accommodation, a decent free WiFi connection and goes out of its way to create a social and communal vibe.
Read More: An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)
Nature’s Valley & Wilderness: 2-4 days
I, unfortunately, injured my knee in Tsitsikamma and had to cut my backpacking South Africa one month itinerary short by two destinations. Nature’s Valley and the Wilderness were the final two spots I wanted to visit on my month-long backpacking trip. If you plan to follow my route or a similar one, don’t give them a miss.
Both locations are exceptionally beautiful and ideal for backpackers who love hiking and getting outdoors.
Cape Town: 4 days
Before ending your backpacking South Africa trip, make sure you leave enough time to explore Cape Town! The Mother City is a bustling metropolis that needs at least four days with its epic hiking trails, delicious wines, a thriving live music scene and a social schedule that will not leave you feeling bored.
Top Things to Do and See in Cape Town
- Hike up Lions Head or Table Mountain to watch the sunset.
- Explore Cape Point National Park and drive through the Southern Peninsula.
- Go to one of the many summer trance parties or Kirstenbosch summer concerts.
- Try some award-winning cup of joe at Truth Coffee.
- Go on an inner-city walking wine tour with Tuning the Vine.
Read More: The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week
Where to Stay in Cape Town
Once in Cape Town is one of the best backpackers in the city. Located on Kloof street, it is right in the epicentre of Cape Town’s nightlife. The Backpackers boasts a bar and a DJ with numerous day trip and nightlife ideas posted on notice board every day.
After backpacking South Africa for a month, it made me realise how big this place is and how much more I still have to see. I hope you found this itinerary helpful and use either use some or all of it to create your own amazing backpacking experience in South Africa!
If you’re looking to add more items to your backpacking route, check out my Ultimate South African Bucket List. Not sure what to pack in your backpack? Here’s a South Africa packing list that will have you prepared for all kinds of adventures!
Read More: Where to Stay in Cape Town: A Guide to the Best Neighbourhoods
Is backpacking South Africa on your bucket list? Do you have any tips for exploring the Rainbow Nation? Sound off in the comments below!
Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out my other posts below:
- The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week
- 18 Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
- The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
- The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
- The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
- 45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide
?If you like it then put a pin on it?
Meruschka says
Great post Lauren! I would probably add Kruger & Blyde River Canyon to the list – though I realise they’re not that accessible without a tour or self-drive.
Lauren Melnick says
I agree! I haven’t done the Panorama Route yet and it’s high up on my SA bucket list 🙂
Almu Dena says
Hi both!
I’m a Spanish girl who was in South Africa last January for a couple weeks. I was based in Cape Town but also had the chance to travel through the Garden Route. I loved your country so much I am definitely returning this year to stay for some months and explore as much as possible!
I even set up a blog to write about it:
I’ll hopefully see you around!Almudena
Lauren Melnick says
So happy to hear you enjoyed your time in SA and you are coming back 🙂
I’ve been wanting to go to Spain, your coastline looks breathtaking!
Almu Dena says
Spain’s coastline is amazing, but there are also beautiful regions inland. If you ever need any info or advice to travel Spain, I’ll be happy to help :-).
Heather Cameron says
Sad that you got bad weather in Durban and didn’t enjoy it. Its got the coastline and the tranquil valleys further inland; its full of culture, the foodie scene is growing, and the people are some of the nicest and most laid back in the country. It’s not the hustle and bustle of Joburg or the cosmopolitan buzz of Cape Town but Durban has its charm and it ‘s one of the nicest places to visit or live in South Africa if you give it a chance 🙂
Lauren Melnick says
I agree the people are amazing Durban, my couch surfing host was the highlight of my trip that side, but the city itself is not for me. In terms of the lifestyle, I need the stimulation that I get from living in Cape Town where there is always something going on, no matter what day it is.
But I do really like the nature outside of Durban and wouldn’t mind spending time more north to visit Richards Bay and Sodwana Bay next time I’m in there area 🙂
Stevie says
Hi, just discovered your blog. Very informative, looks amazing over there. Just wanted to ask what kind of budget one would need for this kind of month? Seems quite action packed. We are looking to go there in Febuary…. in a few weeks for one month. Thanks
lauren says
Hey Stevie,
I can’t remember my exact budget as I did this over a year ago, but I know I didn’t spend more than R10k. I’d suggest looking up the prices of accommodation, transport and activities so you have 2018 prices as whatever I did pay in 2017 would have changed by now.
Beryl Markham says
Hey Lauren,
It was great meeting you the other day atop lion’s head.
What are the chances that I based a lot of my itinerary on this wonderful blog entry of yours and then I meet you on the second last day of my time in SA on top of a mountain for a sunrise viewing.
I hope to it’s handy to know that what you write meets people all the way on the other side of the Indian Ocean. Thanks for the ride back to Obz. Hit me up if you ever find yourself in Sydney. I’d love to repay the favour and show you around.
All the best,
Beryl
lauren says
Hey Beryl!
Thanks for getting in touch 🙂 I actually took a photo of you yesterday when I was setting up a shot for Taryn. It’s on my Instagram stories at the moment, let me know if you want it and I can email it to you.
And I’ll definitely let you know when I’m in Sydney! My boyfriend is a bit obsessed with Brisbane at the moment, so I’m sure it will happen soon.
beryl says
Hey Lauren, sorry that i’m getting back to you so late. Coming back to my life has been like being hit by a mack truck. I would love that photo. It looks amazing. Can you access my email through this message?
Meghan says
You have no idea how useful this is for me! I just decided to go to South Africa 2 weeks ago and plan to spend a month there backpacking. I will follow your itin or close to it. I wonder if there are any immunization shots or clothing suggestions you can make for September travel? Especially footwear and protective clothing against bugs or whatever… And what can I expect in terms of snakes along your route. Are they always something to ge cautious about it only certain places along your route? I appreciate your insight on daily cost average and also best way to carry cash and whether credit cards can ge used at the hostels etc.
lauren says
Hi Meghan!
So glad to hear you have found this blog useful 🙂
I can’t help you with immunisations. It’s best to ask your doctor about that (I’m also from South Africa).
In September, temperatures will be rising as it’s spring but it will still get a bit cold at night. I think if you have long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and a warm hoodie you should be fine. But layers will be your best friend so you can adjust as the day goes on.
You aren’t really going to see snakes unless you go hiking. Even then, you probably won’t see any. If you’re going into the wilderness just pack a decent pair of hiking boots. I’d recommend waterproof ones as some places will be wetter than others in the spring.
In terms of bugs, depending on where you are mosquitos will be more active. Just cover up as much as possible in the evenings and early mornings. You can buy mosquito repellent from any of the convenience stores.
And for safety, just don’t wander off on your own where there aren’t lots of people or at night in the big cities. Don’t flash your money or belongings around and just be aware of pickpockets. People won’t know you aren’t South African unless they hear your accent. But hiking in Hogsback is safe to do by yourself, but always check with your accommodation as they will have up to date information.
South Africans pay with most things via card in the big cities. As you go to the smaller towns and into the rural areas you will need cash as there might not be a signal for a card machine. But just email the hostel or hotel before you arrive and ask if they have credit card facilities so you don’t carry too much cash on you.
Ben Zweber says
I love how detailed this post is! Thanks Lauren. When do you think is the best time to visit South Africa and try this itinerary? Looking forward to your reply. I’m saving this as reference for our future travels this year.
lauren says
Hi Ben!
I did this at the beginning of January which is half-way through South Africa’s summer months. December to February is when you’re going to get the best weather (but Hogsback can get quite cold due to its high altitude). The only downside is the hostels will be charging their high season rates.
If you want to avoid the crowds, I’d try to come in February. It’s when all the South Africans are back to work and the schools are in session. Otherwise, if you don’t mind the weather being cooler, the autumn and spring months are good. You would just need to plan around the school holidays and public holidays as flight prices get crazy and the long distance buses fill up.
Wojtek says
Hi! I’m thinking of doing this trip in January 2022, but opposite way, from Cape Town to Johannesburg. Is there any reason, saying that from Joburg to Cape Town it is better? I can only think of the left side traffic, which means that driving from Joburg to Cape Town keeps me closer to the coast 🙂
Another thing is the safety. I will arrive to Cape Town alone and probably be looking for a companion to share a car. Is it easy to find one on the spot (in hostels)? Eventually, driving the car by the coast, is it safe to sleep in the car in the middle of nowhere? I know, that Joburg and Cape Town are not safe cities and carjacking is common, but my question concerns rural areas. Does actually carjacking happen also to basic rented cars or only to the fancy ones?
When I finally arrive to Joburg, should I drop the car off in the center area or rather airport, meaning safety. Also it is difficult to pretend to be a local when you have a big backpack on you. On the Hostelworld I saw there are many hostels allocated within the CBD, while in some article I read it is better to avoid CBD. What is Your opinion about it?
I usually navigate with maps.me or google.maps, keeping smartphone in my hand. I guess, I will have to change the habit in SA, by planning my routes in advance.
Last and least question, If 2 or 3 weaker guyes without any weapons try to mug me, should I give in or try to defend?
Best wishes and thanks in advance for replying 🙂
lauren says
Hey!
1.) It doesn’t matter which way you start. You can drive along the coast both ways.
2.) I’m a local and I drive alone with my car on road trips in SA. Don’t know what finding travel buddies in the hostels is like as I haven’t experienced it.
3.) Car jackers target any type of car.
4.) JHB city center is not safe, drop it off at the airport.
5.) I don’t know why foreigners want to go to Joburg CBD and stay there tbh.
6.) Just wear headphones and listen to directions or go into a shop to look at your phone quick. Take an Uber or keep your phone out of sight in the car.
7.) That’s up to you and how much you want to gamble with your life / deal with going to hospital.
Wojtek says
and how about safety in rural areas of SA?
lauren says
shit can happen or not happen wherever you are. just be street smart and aware of your surroundings and you should be okay.