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A test of skill and stamina
Karting
Karting is very popular in South Africa.
© Andre van Rooyen
Did you know?
Myk Prescott karted a world record 2 010 kilometres in 48 hours at Zwartkops in 2010
Karting in South Africa has become a very popular pastime in recent years, and whether you're into recreational go-karting or high-powered kart racing, there's a track available for you.
Superkarts, the fastest category of kart racing available, where speeds of more than 100km/h can be reached, is offered at all the major South African circuits, including Kyalami, Zwartkops and Killarney.
For those who've never tried karting, it really isn't as basic as it looks! This 'recreational activity' is, in fact, a great test of a driver's stamina, concentration, reflexes and general driving skills. It's a great workout too, requiring drivers to use a lot of muscles that they normally wouldn't.
At Zwartkops International Kart Raceway, motor sport enthusiasts can rent a variety of karts for sessions of half an hour to an hour. A junior kart is suitable for anyone older than 10 years; older drivers can rent a Spitfire kart, which easily reaches speeds of over 90km/h.
The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has a dedicated karting section for members of the public to test their skills while a visit to Killarney Race Track in Cape Town allows you to watch Table Mountain flash by as you whiz around the track.
For an exciting indoor karting experience, visit Kenilworth Karting in Cape Town. Not only is the track unaffected by weather, it is also open until late in the evening.
If you are travelling through Durban, you can experience karting at Gateway Mall, one of the largest lifestyle and shopping centres in the Southern Hemisphere.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Kyalami karting
Tel: +27 (0) 11 466 3678
Email: grant@sportstar.co.za
Zwartkops karting
Tel: +27 (0) 12 374 0129
Email: jeff@kart.co.za
What will it cost
Prices vary from venue to venue and according to the size of Kart you wish to drive. A karting experience can thus cost anything from R40 for a few laps in a standard kart, to around R500 for 30 minutes in a Spitfire cart.
What to pack
Helmets and other equipment are always provided at the circuit you are visiting.
What's happening
Visit the Karting in SA and Superkarts Association websites for info on various karting events around the country.