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Road

Cape Town's road network is excellent, with a combination of highways and smaller scenic routes making hiring a car an attractive option. But visitors should be warned that South Africa has a very high accident rate, although most major accidents happen on the national highways outside of the cities. Driving is on the left, and the speed limit on highways is 120kph (75mph), and in urban areas 60kph (37mph). The wearing of seat belts is compulsory. Foreign licences are valid if they are printed in English; otherwise, an International Driving Permit is essential. Licences must be carried at all times. The maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio for driving is 0.08%. The legal driving age is 18 years. Foreign visitors need to be aware that car hijacking is rampant in South Africa, and it is essential to drive with doors locked at all times. Police advise drivers not to pick up hitchhikers, as it is potentially very dangerous, and to head for the nearest police station or public place, if they feel they are in a threatening situation. The Automobile Association of South Africa (AA; tel: (086) 111 1994) can provide general information on road travel.

Emergency breakdown service:
AA (080) 001 0101, toll free

Routes to the city:
Main routes to and from Cape Town are the N1 to Johannesburg; the N2 to the Overberg and Garden Route; and the N7 to the West Coast and Namibia.

Driving times to Cape Town:
from Somerset West - 30 minutes; Stellenbosch - 45 minutes; Paarl - 45 minutes; Franschhoek - 1 hour; Johannesburg - 16-20 hours.

Coach services:
Cape Town is linked by bus services - air-conditioned, deluxe and ordinary - to all major destinations in South Africa. The main railway station in Adderley Street is the departure point for all buses. Operators include Intercape (tel: (021) 386 4400); Greyhound (tel: (021) 418 4310); Citi Hopper (tel: (021) 934 4440); and Translux (tel: (021) 449 3333).




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