When driving in South Africa, it’s not just the baboons one has to think about.
First, they drive on the British/Japanese side of the road so the driver is on the right side of the car. Using stick shift/manual with their left hand (you can rent an automatic but it is more expensive).
When renting a car, make sure to get a bigger one as most rental cars are tiny. Ask for automatic if you need that. And get all the extra insurance as they are extremely picky about dings and scratches. When dropping off, don’t worry too much about filing up the tank (just pay the extra – it won’t be as expensive as in the USA). The gas prices are controlled by the government.
As for etiquette, when on the road, drive on the shoulder if you want to let the other cars pass you.
Most importantly, if other cars let you pass them, make sure to thank them by putting on your hazard lights for a quick second after you have passed.
Try and keep small change (100 rand) for the parking “guards” who watch out for your car when you go into a store or restaurant.
Shesha is the term for express lane.
Be prepared for sights you have never seen before.
And some you have.
There are pit stops along the highways, but some are far from each other. Use online maps to figure out where to stop. Many of the stops we went to had their toilets out of service and had portapotties outside. These were surprisingly clean. They even had sinks with running water.
