Best Road Trips in the World

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A great road trip isn’t just about covering miles – it’s more about chasing moments you’d never find on a flight. With so many different road trips all over the world, it’s cheesy, but it really is more about the journey than the destination… Well, actually, it’s probably just as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

I’m talking everything you could possibly want, road trips that combine epic scenery with just the right dash of chaos. Think South Africa’s dazzling Garden Route, America’s legendary Route 66, and Pakistan’s jaw-dropping Karakoram Highway. Whether you’re keen on a summertime beach vibe or a wintertime meander through the countryside, there are so many options just waiting to be explored.

It’s the freedom to follow winding backroads, stumble upon quirky roadside cafés, and marvel at landscapes that shift with every bend in the road. With no rigid schedule and no one telling you when to board, the open road offers a kind of adventure that’s wonderfully unpredictable. It will set you free.

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Why road tripping rocks:

• Freedom on tap: You’re the boss. Want to pull over for a spontaneous swim, snap a photo of a wild vista, or chase the sunset a little longer? Go for it, honey! The joy is in steering your own journey, not following a timetable. Lean right into the fact that you don’t need to be anywhere specific at any specific time.
• Scenery overload: Few things beat the thrill of watching the world transform outside your window. One moment it’s rolling hills, the next it’s jagged mountains, vast deserts, or glittering coastlines stretching to the horizon. Driving is the best way to really see all the local scenery.
• Hidden gems galore: Road trips unlock the treasures no guidebook can capture. Think roadside diners dishing out the best pie of your life. Tiny towns with colourful characters, or trails that start right off the highway – all things that you’d miss on a more formal, planned holiday.
• Bonding time: Hours on the road create space for conversations, shared playlists, and inside jokes that become part of the trip’s folklore. Whether with friends, family, or even solo, the connections you make stick, and it’s such an incredible experience.
• Adventure guaranteed: Wrong turns, flat tyres, or surprise detours often become the highlights. The unpredictable twists are what make road trips unforgettable, and sometimes even better than the original plan.

Karakoram Highway, Pakistan – 5 Days

Route 66, the USA – 4 Days

The Garden Route, South Africa – 4 Days

Deciding that you want to go on a cool road trip is one thing. Figuring out exactly where and what that road trip is going to be is another kettle of fish entirely.

• From: Islamabad, Pakistan
• To: Khunjerab Pass (Pakistan-China border)
• Total Distance: 500 miles
• Days: 5 Days
• Top Road Trip Stops: 6 Stops

The Karakoram Highway offers a five-day road trip from Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass, an incredible trip if you’re backpacking in Pakistan. This is an adventure showcasing some of Pakistan’s most fantastic landscapes – and let me tell you, they’re dramatic.

Along the way, you’ll pass rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and winding valleys, with stops in Gilgit, Hunza Valley, Attabad Lake, and the striking Passu Cones. This route suits travellers who enjoy scenic drives, photography, and a mix of natural beauty and local culture.

Each day balances long, relaxing stretches on the road with opportunities to explore villages, viewpoints, and landmarks. This Pakistan road trip is an immersive journey where every turn reveals a new, jaw-dropping view.

Road Trip Highlights:

The best parts? Look, everyone’s got a different opinion, but in mine, these are the highlights of this epic Pakistan road trip.

• Hunza Valley: Stunning terraced landscapes, Baltit and Altit Forts, and panoramic mountain views, the Hunza Valley has so many epic sights and things to do.
• Attabad Lake: Vibrant turquoise waters formed by a landslide, perfect for photos or even a quick boat ride.
• Passu Cones: Dramatic jagged peaks and scenic suspension bridges that make for unforgettable sights!
• Gilgit: Bustling town with local markets, cultural stops, and a chance to experience the region’s lifestyle.
• Khunjerab Pass: The world’s highest paved international border crossing at 4,693m, offering breathtaking high-altitude views.

Day 1: Islamabad to Besham (6–7 hours)

Start your journey, leaving the capital’s hustle behind, heading north into the mountains. The road follows the Indus River, with rugged cliffs and occasional riverside villages passing by. Stop for a quick stretch at Havelian or Thakot to admire the first glimpses of the towering peaks ahead.

Besham is a super practical first overnight stop, giving you time to rest before the longer drives. Enjoy a casual evening stroll and a local dinner to prepare for the adventure ahead before getting a good night’s sleep.

• Best Stops: Havelian, Thakot, Besham
• Where to Eat: El Momento, 1969 Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Villa Vista, Islamabad Regalia Hotel

Day 2: Besham to Gilgit (8–9 hours)

Today’s drive is longer but spectacular, following the Indus River through steep gorges and dramatic landscapes. You’ll pass Chilas, with its ancient rock carvings, and enjoy views of glacial rivers and terraced mountainsides.

Gilgit makes a lively base for the night, with markets and viewpoints to explore. Take breaks along the way to stretch and capture the rugged beauty of northern Pakistan.

• Best Stops: Chilas, Nanga Parbat viewpoints, Gilgit Bazaar
• Where to Eat: Dewanekhas Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Madina Hotel, Das-e-Basi

Day 3: Gilgit to Hunza (3–4 hours)

A shorter drive allows you to spend more time soaking up the scenery. The road climbs into the Hunza Valley, passing turquoise rivers and small villages. Stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint and explore Altit and Baltit Forts in Karimabad.

The valley’s terraced fields and snow-capped peaks make it a photographer’s paradise. Spending the night in Hunza lets you enjoy the evening glow over the mountains – it doesn’t get more picturesque than this.

• Best Stops: Rakaposhi Viewpoint, Baltit Fort, Karimabad village
• Where to Eat: Yak Grill, Hunza
• Where to Stay: Eagle’s Nest

Day 4: Hunza to Passu and Attabad Lake (2–3 hours)

Drive along the northern edge of Hunza, reaching the striking Passu Cones and the shimmering Attabad Lake. Short walks on suspension bridges and lakeside strolls let you stretch your legs and admire the dramatic peaks. This day is all about visual highlights and slow exploration.

Rest your head at the gorgeous Attabad Lake. Here you’ll find accommodation options that are both relaxed and opulent, depending on your preference.

• Best Stops: Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Hussaini Suspension Bridge
• Where to Eat: Glacier Breeze
• Where to Stay: Passu Tourist Lodge

Day 5: Hunza/Passu to Khunjerab Pass (3–4 hours)

The final stretch climbs steadily toward Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border in the world (so I hope you’re not afraid of heights!). Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude plains dominate the scenery. Make sure you stop for photos, breathe in the crisp air, and enjoy the sense of achievement of getting all the way up there.

• Best Stops: Khunjerab Pass, Khunjerab National Park viewpoints
• Where to Eat: Khunjerab Wild Garden Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Ambiance Boutique Hotel, The 108 Hotel

• From: Albuquerque, New Mexico
• To: Santa Monica, California
• Total Distance: 790 miles
• Days: 4 Days
• Top Road Trip Stops: Petrified Forest National Park, Winslow (Arizona), Flagstaff, Seligman, Hackberry General Store, Kingman, Oatman (wild west town with burros), Mojave Desert stretch, and Santa Monica Pier (the official Route 66 endpoint).

This four-day Route 66 adventure takes you from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to the sun-soaked shores of Santa Monica, California. Packing the very best of the Mother Road into one unforgettable trip. Along the way, you’ll cross painted deserts, quirky (and downright weird) small towns, and stretches of highway straight out of an old road movie.

Highlights include the otherworldly Petrified Forest, the retro charm of Winslow and Seligman, wild burros roaming in Oatman, and the neon glow of roadside diners. Perfect for nostalgia lovers, photographers, and free spirits, this journey ends at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Route 66’s legendary finale. It doesn’t get much better!

Road Trip Highlights:

• Petrified Forest National Park: Surreal landscapes of ancient fossilised wood and colourful painted desert views.
• Winslow, Arizona: Made famous by the Eagles’ song, complete with the “Standin’ on the Corner” park.
• Seligman: The quirky birthplace of Route 66 revival, packed with retro diners and neon nostalgia.
• Oatman, Arizona: A wild west town where friendly burros roam the streets and cowboy charm lives on.
• Santa Monica Pier: The perfect finale, marking the official end of Route 66 with ocean views.

Day 1: Albuquerque to Gallup (2.5 Hours)

Set off on your great American adventure, heading west from vibrant Albuquerque (after you’ve done all the fun things) into the painted desert. First stop, the Petrified Forest National Park for incredible ancient log-jewel landscapes and bursts of ochre hues.

Continue to Gallup, a town pulsating with neon nostalgia and Native American art galleries. This is just perfect for stretching your road trip legs and diving into local culture, an absolute must on this trip.

• Best Stops: The Petrified Forest, Route 66 murals, Gallup’s Main Street
• Where to Eat: 66 Diner, Albuquerque – a retro Route 66 classic with jukebox charm
• Where to Stay: Hotel ZAZZ or The Imperial

Day 2: Gallup to Flagstaff (4 Hours)

Hit the road through Arizona, with a side-trip to Winslow – stand “on a corner,” Eagle’s style (if you know, you know). Then, loop through the Petrified Forest or roll on to Flagstaff, nestled beneath ponderosa pines with cool mountain air and vibrant Old Town vibes.

• Best Stops: Winslow corner, Painted Desert overlooks, Flagstaff Old Town
• Where to Eat: The Northern Pines
• Where to Stay: Residence Inn, Americana Motor Hotel, Bespoke Inn

Day 3: Flagstaff to Kingman (3 Hours)

This stretch captures Route 66 nostalgia at its absolute finest. This is what you’re taking a USA road trip for. Take a detour through Seligman, birthplace of Route 66’s revival, where quirky diners and gift shops ooze retro charm. Onward to Peach Springs, which, besides having the cutest name ever, is the gateway to the Grand Canyon Caverns.

From there, cruise scenic desert highways dotted with classic roadside signs. By evening, you’ll reach Kingman, a laid-back desert town with a rich car culture and vintage vibe.

• Best Stops: Seligman, Grand Canyon Caverns, Route 66 Museum in Kingman
• Where to Eat: Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner
• Where to Stay: Best Western Kingman, La Quinta by Wyndham Kingman

Day 4: Kingman to Santa Monica

Your final push is the most dramatic – leaving the best for last, as they sat! From Kingman, wind your way through Oatman, a wild west town where burros roam the streets. Cross the legendary Mojave Desert, a stretch of pure open-road magic with ghost towns and long, empty straights.

Stop in Barstow for a Route 66 snack (essential, IMO). Then roll into Los Angeles, where the palm trees and neon signs guide you toward Santa Monica Pier. Dip your toes in the Pacific – you’ve made it, baby! Time to lean into the California lifestyle.

• Best Stops: Oatman, Mojave Desert, Santa Monica Pier
• Where to Eat: Birdie G’s
• Where to Stay: Ocean Lodge, Large Luxury Studio with View

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• From: Cape Town, South Africa
• To: Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa
• Total Distance: 470 miles
• Days: 4 Days
• Top Road Trip Stops: Stellenbosch, Victoria Bay, Plettenberg Bay, Nature’s Valley, and most of all, Addo Elephant Park.

Road Trip Highlights:

• Scenic Mountain Passes: Including Sir Lowry’s Pass and the Outeniqua Pass, with an optional detour through Stellenbosch’s beloved wine country (compulsory, in my opinion).
• Iconic Wineries on the Way: Both on the way and just slightly off the beaten track, you’ll find oodles of incredible wineries and tasting rooms, including Beaumont Family Wines (Bot Rivier) and Luak Vineyards (near Plettenberg Bay).
• Surfer’s Paradise at Victoria Bay: Victoria Bay is basically a beach, a restaurant, and a handful of houses and holiday homes – the cutest little stop on the way.
• Addo Elephant Park: You may have to drive a little further, but Addo Elephant Park allows you the opportunity to see the most majestic animals in their natural habitat.
• Storm’s River Mouth: Located in the breathtaking Tsitsikamma National Park, Storm’s River Mouth is a sight to behold – not something to miss out on.

Day 1: Cape Town to Swellendam (3 Hours)

Leaving Cape Town, you’ll follow the N2 past rolling vineyards and right over the majestic Sir Lowry’s Pass. Stop in at Elgin for farm-fresh cider or Peregrine for a coffee and one of their infamous pies (10/10 worth stopping, believe me). If you have the time, take a detour to Betty’s Bay to watch the cheeky penguins.

Arrive in Swellendam, a quiet little town framed by the Langeberg Mountains, perfect for hiking or wandering its historic streets. Swellendam is an often forgotten gem of a South African small town, and it’s a gentle start before the Garden Route gets wilder.

• Best Stops: Elgin Valley, Peregrine (or Houhoek, the pies are great at both), Betty’s Bay, Swellendam Old Drostdy Museum
• Where to Eat: La Belle Alliance
• Where to Stay: Schoone Oordt Country House, The – View Swellendamn Country House

Day 2: Swellendam to Knysna (4 Hours)

Swellendam to Knysna is where this road trip really gets beautiful, from rolling farmlands to coastal vistas. Head over the hill and into Mossel Bay, where you’ll be greeted by golden beaches and riverside views.

Carry on past George and have a quick surf or stop in at Victoria Bay. This is a tiny little seaside town (hardly even a town, to be honest) that’s known for its gnarly swell and beautiful views.

Further along, you’ll find the sleepy, lush town of Wilderness, where you can have a dreamy lagoon paddle or a hike to a waterfall. About an hour from there, you’ll reach Knynsa, surrounded by lagoons and forested hills, just in time for sunset over the Heads.

• Best Stops: Victoria Bay Beach, Half-Collared Kingfisher Trail (Wilderness), Knysna Heads
• Where to Eat: Blend, Ile de Pain, East Head Cafe
• Where to Stay: Turbine Hotel and Spa, Knysna Hollow Country Estate

Day 3: Knysna to Jeffrey’s Bay (4.5 Hours)

Cruise up the mountain, past Plettenberg Bay, where beaches and Robberg Nature Reserve’s coastal trails make a perfect morning stop. Storm’s River in Tsitsikamma National Park is next, and this one’s well worth a couple of hours. Check out Storm’s River Mouth, towering bridges, forest canopy zip lines, and all the ocean spray you could possibly wish for to set the scene.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa’s surf capital, ready to relax or catch your first waves on the legendary Supertubes. It’s a sweet little town, perfect for a laid-back getaway. Relax on the beach, go for a swim or a surf, and don’t be afraid to enjoy a sunset beer.

• Best Stops: Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve (Storm’s River Mouth in particular), St. Francis, Jeffrey’s Bay
• Where to Eat: Die Walskipper, Gisters Restaurant
• Where to Stay: The Mandyville, Funky Town

Every road trip comes with its own considerations, and what feels easy in one place might be challenging in another. Sometimes, it’s tough to know exactly what to expect (unless you have this guide).

In South Africa, you’ll encounter winding mountain passes, sparse fuel stops, and the occasional rough road (and maybe some dodgy drivers). While in Pakistan, signage can be limited, but the dramatic scenery makes it worth the effort.

America, by contrast, has excellent highways and plenty of roadside services, though traffic can be heavy near cities. Some routes are best for confident, experienced drivers, while others are perfectly manageable for beginners. If you’re ever unsure, just ask a local.

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Renting a Vehicle When Travelling

Renting a car is generally straightforward in South Africa and the USA, with plenty of agencies at major airports and city hubs. In Pakistan, however, rentals can be trickier. They often require local contacts or hiring a driver rather than self-driving (so do some research on the area from where you’re starting).

Globally, renting at the airport is usually easier thanks to wider vehicle choice and longer opening hours, though city rentals may be cheaper. For most travellers, though, starting at the airport saves time and hassle, or you could try Discover Cars Rental.

You should always be ready to show your ID, but sometimes, you’ll also need an International Driver’s Permit (especially in the USA and Pakistan). You’ll most likely need to pay with a credit card, too, so prepare for that.

Before renting, you should be aware of the following things before picking up your car:

Age Requirements and Surcharges:

• South Africa: 18–23 may face surcharges; 23+ will be more flexible (also depends on gender).
• USA: Usually 21+, surcharge under 25.
• Pakistan: 21–25, surcharges may apply.

Deposit and Bond:

• South Africa: $200–$1,000 credit card hold.
• USA: Typically $200–$500 credit card hold.
• Pakistan: This varies a lot; often, cash deposits are accepted.

Extra Drivers:

• South Africa: $5–10/day.
• USA: $10–15/day.
• Pakistan: Often negotiable, sometimes free (if you’re lucky).

Insurance Options:

• Pakistan: Coverage is pretty limited; third-party sites are often most useful.
• South Africa: Basic cover is included; upgrades are generally advised.
• SA: Minimal cover, comprehensive, highly recommended.

Road Rules in Pakistan, the USA, and South Africa

Many people find driving abroad daunting, and understandably so! It means adjusting to local rules that can feel very different from home. It’s time to toss aside the rules of the road that have become second nature, no easy task.

Driving in South Africa, you’ll be on the left-hand side with the steering wheel on the right. Road signs are in English, and rules are generally clear, but you’ll quickly notice the unique rhythm. Four-way stops are respected, but minibus taxis often bend the rules (and don’t try to argue with them, they dominate the roads!).

Watch out for sudden pedestrian crossings (and J-walking) and wildlife near rural roads. Also, the locals refer to traffic lights as “robots”, so don’t be alarmed!

In the United States, driving is on the right-hand side, and rules vary by state (which can be very confusing if you’re travelling around). Highways are usually well-marked and organised, but quirky laws exist – like being allowed to turn right at a red light in most places. Speeding fines are strict, and police often use radar, so sticking to posted limits is essential – save your money for margaritas!

Pakistan also drives on the left-hand side, like South Africa, but the experience is much more unpredictable. Expect dense traffic, frequent honking, and motorbikes weaving between lanes, even on the Karakoram Highway. It’s common to share the road with donkey carts, rickshaws, or even cows, so patience (and liberal horn use) goes a long way!

Insurance for Road Tripping

When driving abroad, having the right insurance is just as important as knowing the local road rules. It protects you from costly accidents, damage, or theft that can quickly turn a trip into a nightmare.

It may feel expensive upfront, but for peace of mind, services like RentalCover.com offer affordable, flexible protection tailored for international drivers. Trust me, just bite the bullet, it’s worth it.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Here’s a packing list for your road trip, blending practicality with off-grid essentials. This list works whether you’re cruising in a rental or living that van life:

Essentials

• Passport
• Valid driver’s license + International Driving Permit (recommended)
• Offline maps (Google Maps / Maps.me)
• Cash (lots of rural areas are cash-only)
• Printed hotel bookings + ID for checkpoints

Product

Description

First Aid Kit

Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

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Aux Cord

One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxiliary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker

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Phone mount

It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and whatnot, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

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Headtorch

Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable, I never have to buy earth-polluting batteries.

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Roadside Emergency Kit

Just like you never know what could happen to yourself, one never knows what can happen to their car. A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch, all that and then some. Most emergency kits include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

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Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

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For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out our full road trip packing list.

Don’t feel quite ready to pack your bags and get going? Not to worry, here are some FAQs to help you make up your mind.

No matter where you’re heading – South Africa’s Garden Route, the wide-open highways of the US, or the dramatic mountain passes of Pakistan. The best road trip is the one that fits your travel style.

Some prefer fast-paced adventure with lots of stops, others enjoy slow, scenic exploration. Either way, hitting the road gives you freedom that flights and trains simply can’t match. You set the pace, choose the detours, and discover hidden gems along the way.

So pack your playlists, snacks, and maps, and get ready, because there’s no better way to see the world than from behind the wheel. Get in touch with Discover Cars if you need help finding a rental.

What are your favourite road trips? Key items you won’t travel without? Unhinged hacks or car games? Let me know in the comments!