South Africa ranks among the scariest countries to drive in

South Africa ranks among the world’s most nerve-wracking countries for tourists to drive in, placing 21st on a list of the top 25 most anxiety-inducing destinations for drivers.

Compiled by UK-based Scrap Car Comparison, this ranking was calculated from a “scare score” survey, where South Africa scored 6.8 out of 10.

The study surveyed 2,000 motorists from diverse backgrounds, including Australia, Canada, France, Italy, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, the UK, and the USA.

Respondents were asked to rate how anxious they would feel about driving in 49 popular travel destinations, from “not nervous at all” to “extremely nervous.”

Participants were also encouraged to share specific concerns about driving abroad, revealing insights into the unique stress factors associated with international driving.

India topped the list with a scare score of 7.15, known for its chaotic roads where cars, motorbikes, rickshaws, and even livestock coexist.

For foreign drivers, navigating India’s roads is not only a test of reflexes but also an immersion into the country’s distinct driving culture, where honking serves as a form of communication rather than just a warning.

Rural roads in India are often underdeveloped, requiring extra caution, especially when passing through villages and agricultural areas.

These conditions can make driving a daunting experience, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the traffic and road etiquette.

Venezuela ranks second with a scare score of 6.97, where unpredictable road conditions and fuel shortages are common.

Potholed roads pose significant risks, and fuel scarcity often results in long lines at gas stations, adding to travellers’ frustrations.

Venezuelan traffic laws are also loosely enforced, leading to erratic driving behaviour and a lack of consistent lane discipline, creating a stressful experience for visitors unaccustomed to these hazards.

In third place, Zimbabwe scored 6.90, where the rough condition of rural roads demands off-road vehicles for those venturing outside major cities.

Fuel shortages are also frequent, and traffic checkpoints are common, where police are known to target tourists with demands for bribes.

These challenges make navigating Zimbabwe’s roadways a daunting prospect for international drivers unfamiliar with the terrain and practices.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum, New Zealand placed 25th, with a scare score of 5.77, while the Netherlands was noted as one of the least intimidating countries to drive in, scoring only 4.41.

Known for its well-maintained infrastructure and clear road signage, the Netherlands offers foreign drivers a relatively stress-free experience.

The extensive cycling culture also contributes to more organised and predictable traffic patterns, easing the anxiety for first-time visitors behind the wheel.

The table below, as compiled by Scrap Car Comparison, details the top 25 most nerve-racking countries for tourists to drive in the world:

The study highlighted that the most anxiety-inducing factor for travellers is driving on the opposite side of the road, with 56.2% of respondents naming this as their top concern.

Close behind, 55.9% of tourists reported feeling nervous about the unpredictable driving behaviour of other road users.

In third place, with 52.7%, was the fear of unknowingly breaking local traffic laws, adding an additional layer of worry for those navigating unfamiliar legal requirements.

This global ranking underscores the challenges that come with driving in a foreign country, where local customs, road conditions, and enforcement of laws can vary greatly, often making the experience more stressful than expected.

For those planning to drive in high-ranking countries like South Africa, Venezuela, or Zimbabwe, thorough preparation and awareness of local driving norms can be crucial in easing some of these anxieties.

The top 10 reasons drivers are nervous about travelling the roads in other countries are summarised below:

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