South Africans drive on the left side of the road.
Local drivers vigilantly adhere to the keep-left rule. Only drive in the right-hand lane if you are passing a car.
South Africans don't honk (or hoot, as they call it). Rapid flashing of emergency lights at your car can be either a sign of irritation or a gesture of thanks. If a car flashes lights behind you, it wants to overtake you, and you should move left. A repeat of flashing after it passes you means "thank you."
Leave a big gap between your car and any minitaxis; the drivers believe they control the roadways.
Gasoline, called petrol, is full-service everywhere. Always the tip the attendant at least a rand or two.
Parking on central Cape Town streets is controlled by licensed parking monitors who must show their ID. Rates are 25¢ for 30 minutes, 50¢ for an hour.
Everyone jaywalks in Cape Town, so beware of pedestrians.
Note:This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
