Road Trip to Africa Travel Indaba 2026: Finding Joy on the Open Road

On a cold autumn morning in Johannesburg, I joined a diverse group of hosted media from across Africa for an epic road trip to Durban, KwaZulu Natal, for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026. What lay ahead was a route stitched together with adventure, small town charm, rich culture and some of South Africa’s most memorable stays. As the lights of Joburg faded in the rear view mirror, it was clear this would be no ordinary transfer, it was a carefully curated journey through South Africa’s tourism story.

Clarens: The Jewel of the Free State

Our first stop was Clarens, tucked near the Lesotho border and affectionately known as the Jewel of the Free State. Life immediately slowed down. Craft shops, art galleries and boutique clothing stores line the streets, adding colour and character to this little village.

After a hearty meal by the fireplace at Clementines, we dialled up the adrenaline at Clarens Xtreme with quad biking and ziplining against a backdrop of sweeping mountain views. The day ended with a warm, comfortable stay at Protea Hotel by Marriott Clarens, the kind of place that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Walking with Dinosaurs and Basotho Heritage

Day two took us millions of years back in time. At the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre in Golden Gate Highlands National Park, we stepped into a world where Southern African dinosaurs once roamed. The oldest dinosaur embryos, estimated at around 190 to 200 million years old, were found in this very area, and the centre weaves that history together with the Basotho mythology of Kgodumodumo in a way that feels both educational and deeply rooted in place.

Just down the road, the Basotho Cultural Village offers a vivid visual journey through the evolution of the Basotho homestead, culture and food, from the 16th century to the present day. Moving from hut to hut, you feel the layers of history, tradition and resilience that continue to shape daily life.

Sunrise Safaris and Drakensberg Escapes

An early start on day three took us to Nambiti Private Game Reserve for a sunrise game drive. Watching wildlife move through their natural environment at first light is the kind of experience that sits with you long after you leave. Our guide, also a wildlife researcher, shared a wealth of insight about animal behaviour and conservation along the way.

From there, we headed toward the Drakensberg mountains. With a dramatic mountain backdrop, we explored the countryside on horseback before winding down with spa treatments and a stay at the Drakensberg Sun Hotel. The photos and videos simply don’t capture the full magic of this setting, it is a place you have to experience in person.

Midlands Stories: Heritage, Wine and Zulu Culture

Day four began at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, an important stop that anchors the journey in South Africa’s broader story of struggle and freedom. From there, we travelled into the KwaZulu Natal Midlands to Highgate Wine Estate for a relaxed lunch and wine tasting. Their Pinotage quickly became a favourite, rich, smooth and perfectly suited to the cool Midlands air.

The final leg of the road trip took us to Indlondlo Cultural Village, where we were welcomed with powerful traditional Zulu dance and music. The visit offered a fascinating glimpse into Zulu heritage, from demonstrations of how traditional food and beer are prepared to the rhythmic performances that seem to pulse through the entire village.

One of the standout moments was sitting down with the village chief, who generously shared insights into Zulu customs, values and daily life. It was an intimate, grounded conversation that deepened our understanding of the culture beyond what any brochure could convey.

Coastal Finish in Umhlanga

We ended our journey at Rockets Umhlanga, perched along the Indian Ocean coastline, for an evening that matched the rest of the trip in atmosphere and attention to detail. With sweeping views, polished interiors and an energy that manages to be both laid back and luxe, it was a fitting final stop, all refined dining, good conversation and that unmistakable coastal ease.

A Journey That Lives Beyond the Itinerary

As road trips go, this one was something special, not just for the destinations, but for the way they were woven together. From mountain passes and game reserves to cultural villages and coastal nights, the journey offered a cross section of what makes South Africa such an extraordinary place to explore.

More than anything, it reminded us that travel here is as much about people and stories as it is about landscapes and landmarks. It is the guides, hosts, dancers, chefs and community leaders who turn a route on a map into a memory you can feel.

A huge thank you to South African Tourism for being such gracious hosts. On this road to Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026, we truly did find our joy, and it is a journey that will stay with us for a long time to come.