TRAVEL GUIDE Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to South Africa

Welcome to South Africa, a land of stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. When touring this beautiful country, be sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. Don't forget to explore iconic destinations such as Cape Town, the Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route. Embrace the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions that make South Africa truly unique.

Safety tips for travelers in Africa

Avoid blatant displays of wealth, cash, and valuables when in public so as not to draw unwanted attention your way. Criminals are always on the lookout for potential opportunities, so the less you come across on their radar the better.
Speaking of which, the most common type of crime is in the form of petty theft, so it is important to trust your instinct and to maintain common sense at all times.
Avoid walking alone in quiet dark areas. Traveling in groups is always the safer option.
Other places to be more wary include busy areas such as public transportation, markets, and tourist hotspots as well as deserted beaches.
Know your end destination before you head out, especially at night.
As far as possible, make use of ATMs that are located inside a bank, shopping malls, or in well-lit public areas.
Even though safari camps and lodges are guarded, wild animals may venture within the boundaries of the camp. Children should never be left unattended in these areas and avoid walking around after dark.
It always makes life easier to know a few words in the language of the African country you’re visiting. This helps to understand your surroundings and to make communication easier in times of need.
Be aware of your surroundings when in public spaces so that you’re never placed in a position where you’re vulnerable. Don’t place yourself in a position that would make you an easy target.
Speaking of being an easy target, dress and act appropriately, resembling the locals as much as you can, so as not to stand out as a foreigner.
Avoid going to informal settlements unless you’re visiting with someone who is knowledgable about the area.
It is important to remember to keep the doors and windows to your room locked.
Speaking of doors, the doors of cars should always be locked. This is non-negotiable. In addition, windows should also be rolled up when driving through busy areas.
Missing road signs, roaming livestock, and poorly maintained roads make driving more difficult. Outside of the main capital cities in Africa, four-wheel drives are recommended. Avoid stopping unnecessarily on deserted roads to avoid carjackings. Monitor fuel levels to ensure that the tank levels never drop below the halfway point.
If you use a taxi or transport service to get around, ensure that it is part of a reputable company. Also, avoid using a taxi that has been called for you by a random acquaintance and be sure to ask for identification from the driver.
Always keep your belongings securely and in sight when walking out and about.
This one is directed towards solo female travelers — do not leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers and be cautious of accepting anything that has the potential to be laced with drugs from random people.
I know this is a tough one, but keep the use of gadgets to a minimum when in crowded spaces.
An important Africa safety tip is to keep abreast of the news and educate yourself on the current affairs of the country or region you’re traveling in. This will help in avoiding any unrest, instability, and political demonstrations.
It is practical to register with your consulate before traveling abroad.

Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to South Africa Passport

If you’re travelling anywhere in the world, it’s good to know as much as you can about the basics of the country you’re visiting. From entry requirements and currency to whether you need a converter for your gadgets, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know when planning your South African vacation.

Travellers of all nationalities will need passports that are valid for at least 30 days beyond the period of intended stay. A return ticket or ticket to another destination is also required, as well as evidence of sufficient funds.

Visitors to South Africa are required to have at least one blank, and unstamped visa page in their passport, every time they enter the country. This page is in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. Nationals of countries requiring a visa before travelling to South Africa require two unstamped, blank pages in their passport, for issuing a visa prior to departure and stamping upon entering South Africa.

Note: South African Immigration Authorities do not accept loose leaf temporary travel documents. Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. It is important that all travellers confirm the entry requirements with their relevant embassy or consulate.

Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for people travelling to South Africa are subject to change at a moment’s notice, so travellers are advised to confirm with their relevant embassy or consulate prior to departure.

Entry requirements for United States citizens: United States nationals require a passport valid for at least 30 days beyond intended travel. No visa is necessary for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for UK citizens: British nationals travelling to South Africa require a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days if the passport is endorsed British Citizen or British Overseas Territories Citizen. Those whose passports state British National (Overseas) may stay up to 30 days without a visa.
Entry requirements for Australian citizens: Australian nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, however, no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for German citizens: German nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is necessary for says of up to 90 days.

Travelling with Children

Travelling to South Africa with children who are considered minors (children under 18 years of age) can be an arduous process if you’re not fully prepared. The South African Department of Home Affairs issued new regulations from 1 December 2018, specifying that all minors are required to produce an Unabridged Birth Certificate, in addition to their passport, for all international travel to and from South Africa.

Travellers may also be required to produce supporting documents if they fall into a specific category, such as one parent travelling with a minor who may need to produce a written letter of consent from the parent who isn’t travelling, but whose details are listed on the Birth Certificate. For this reason, we urge all visitors travelling with children to confirm entry requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before departing for South Africa.

For more information, visit the South African Department of Home Affairs.

Currency

The currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major international credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country and ATMs are widely available in major cities.

Commercial banks and Bureau de Change will exchange foreign currency. Visitors should be vigilant when drawing cash from ATMs, as con artists are known to operate there. All commercial banks will exchange foreign currency.

For the latest exchange rates, have a look at XE.

Vaccinations

Travellers planning to visit South Africa are not required to receive any vaccinations prior to arrival unless they are travelling from areas infected by yellow fever, in which case they must carry a vaccination certificate.

Travellers planning to visit the bush should consider malaria prophylaxis as there is a malaria risk in the low-lying areas of the Northern Province and Mpumalanga (including the Kruger National Park), as well as northeastern KwaZulu-Natal.

Medical facilities in South Africa are good in major cities, but travellers are advised to take out medical insurance prior to their travels, as many private doctors and hospitals require upfront payment.

Things to Do in South Africa

When travelling to South Africa, don’t miss out on these amazing activities. Contact one of our team members to begin planning your bespoke itinerary.

Explore one of the many hiking trails within the Table Mountain National Park.
Cruise along one of South Africa’s most picturesque coastal roads, the Garden Route, stopping at popular holiday towns such as Hermanus, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and more along the way.
Sample some of the world’s best wines from a vast collection of acclaimed wine estates in the Cape Winelands.
Journey to the Cradle of Humankind to learn about the first discoveries of hominid fossils.
Visit the historic Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefield sites and discover the stories of the Anglo-Boer war.
Find a new appreciation for the natural world after heading to the Kruger National Park for an incredible safari escape.

Let’s not beat about the bush: South Africa has a bit of a scary reputation. Much is said about the country’s unenviable crime rate, but so much more can be said about all the things that make this diverse destination so magnificent. You shouldn't let anxiety about possible dangers put you off visiting this amazing African country.

Huge and diverse, South Africa never stops doling out gifts to the traveler – world-class surf breaks, eclectic local cuisine, mountains to climb, cities to visit, tiny towns to hide away in, desert landscapes to photograph and, of course, plenty of wildlife to watch.

The country’s extraordinary variety is both its biggest draw and its biggest challenge, at least when it comes to planning a trip. Much research is needed to decide where to go, what to do and how long to stay. Visiting for less than two weeks is not ideal – three weeks or more would be a better bet if you can manage so much time away.

With tips to help you plan as well as information on health, safety and etiquette, here's what you need to know for a successful trip to South Africa.

If you come to South Africa as a family, bring the right paperwork. Getty Images

1. Carry the relevant paperwork if you’re traveling with kids

If you’re entering or leaving South Africa with a child under the age of 18, you’ll need to have a few extra bits of paper in your carry-on bag. In a bid to stamp out child trafficking, all minors need to have an "unabridged" birth certificate – that is, one that lists both parents’ names. If only one parent is traveling with the child, you’ll need an affidavit from the other parent confirming that they give consent for the child to travel. The rules keep changing and papers are not always checked, but it’s wise to have the documents on hand just in case.

2. Carry cash, just not too much

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, there are still a few places in South Africa that only take cash. It’s best to keep a small stash of notes and coins for purchases at corner stores, buying things from market traders and for the various tips you’ll be expected to give throughout the day (more on tipping below).

Of course, it’s not wise to walk around with large wads of cash on your person, so keep the bulk of your money hidden away in the hotel safe, or withdraw modest amounts from ATMs while you are out and about. Be wary of using ATMs on the street; theft and card scams are common, so it’s best to stick to machines inside malls or banks.

3. Buy a South African SIM card and use local Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is fairly easy to find in larger cities and more touristed towns, but if you’re planning on wandering far from the main population centers, it’s worth picking up a South African SIM card on arrival at the airport. The card costs just a few rand, but like pretty much everything in South Africa, it does come with a bit of paperwork. You’ll need to “RICA” your SIM card – a fairly simple registration process that requires a photo ID and confirmation of your address in South Africa (a simple booking confirmation will suffice).

Book a car with one of the major rental companies to see more of the country.

4. If you really want to see SA, you need to rent a car

There's no sugar-coating it – public transport in South Africa often falls short. Long-distance bus services exist but routes tend to bypass many smaller destinations, and fares can be expensive for shorter hops. Long-distance trains are unreliable, and hitchhiking is most definitely not recommended. If you really want to see the country, you’re going to have to rent a car. Fortunately, there are plenty of fantastic road trips to choose from, and all the big car hire companies are represented in South Africa – just be sure to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling in the November to March peak season.

5. Be more cautious when driving in cities

When I first moved to South Africa, there was so much talk of carjackers that I expected to find balaclava-clad people lurking at every intersection waiting to appropriate my vehicle. I remember panicking at the gas station because I had to lower the window to pay, then passing my cash through an inch-high gap before driving away, stressed and sweating.

These days I often drive with the windows down, but I do approach "robots" (the local term for traffic lights) with caution, always leaving a car-length gap in front of me just in case I need to make a quick escape. Be cautious while driving, but not paranoid. Keep your doors locked and be extra vigilant when driving at night, keeping your windows up and your wits about you.

6. Listen to the locals (but be ready for a little exaggeration)

Local advice is always important, particularly in countries that have a reputation for crime and social problems. In South Africa, the host at your accommodation is a good person to ask about the best bars or restaurants, how to get around and which areas to avoid.

Just be aware that there are many awesome attractions found in areas that South African locals – particularly older locals – wouldn’t consider visiting. Once, while staying in a guest house in suburban Durban, I asked the owner if there were any places to avoid and she replied “The CBD” (city center), which would have cut my sightseeing rather short. South Africans have a tendency to exaggerate the danger posed by crime – it’s almost a part of the national psyche, and a favorite topic of conversation. You might have to do a bit more research to sort out the worthwhile warnings from the sometimes-inevitable scaremongering.

Expect to tip at restaurants, gas stations and even parking lots. Shutterstock

7. Be prepared to tip

South Africa has a strong tipping culture. In many customer-facing industries, salaries are low and workers make much of their money from tips. Restaurant staff will expect a top of around 10%, but leaving 12–15% will generate bigger smiles. Drivers never pump their own gas in South Africa; you’ll be expected to pay at least R5 to the person filling your tank, or R10–20 if the attendant also checks your tires, oil or water.

Then there are South Africa’s informal parking attendants. While larger cities and towns have areas with pay-as-you-go street parking, in most places, you can park at the side of the road for free… sort of. Ubiquitous car guards will offer to keep an eye on your car while you’re away, and they come in a range of helpfulness levels.

Some will go the extra mile, stopping traffic to help you back out into a busy street. Others are opportunists who approach as you pull out your keys, claiming they were keeping a close eye on your car while you were shopping. Reward car guards according to the service they provide – a R5 coin is the standard thank you but R10 is more appropriate for someone who provided a more useful service.

8. South African English takes some getting used to

While there are 11 official languages in South Africa, you’ll almost always find someone who speaks English, unless you’re in a remote rural area. There will still be a few local phrases that trip you up. One thing that often baffles foreigners is the (extremely liberal) use of the word “shame.” It’s a versatile word in South Africa. A cute child fell asleep in the car? Shame. A close family member passed away? Shame. Busy week at the office meaning you couldn’t make Friday drinks? Shame. The word is often preceded by the utterance "ag" and followed by the word "man." So the phrase "Ag, shame man" can mean anything from “awww” to “Oh no, that’s terrible!”

Also frequently used is the word “hectic.” While it can be used to discuss a particularly busy intersection, it could also be used to describe a ridiculously tall building, a very long line at the bank, an insanely windy day or a particularly large baby being born. In South Africa, hectic doesn’t really mean busy – it usually means "wow."

The bright lights don't stay on all day in many parts of SA. Zach Louw/Getty Images

9. Expect lots of talk about politics and power outages

Certain subjects are off-limits in every country, but in South Africa, politics is not one of them. Everyone has an opinion on the government’s latest endeavors, whether that’s discussing the abundance of potholes, the latest corruption scandal or – more often than not – the government's failure to provide (electrical) power to the people. You'll very quickly become familiar with the inconvenience of what locals call "load-shedding."

Basically, load-shedding is a never-ending series of planned power outages designed to take pressure off the ailing electricity grid. Cities and towns are split into zones, and depending on the severity of the load-shedding, you might end up without power for anything from two to 12 hours a day. There are eight "stages" of load-shedding, broken up into two-hour slots. Larger hotels won’t be affected thanks to backup generators, but if you’re staying in a guesthouse, hostel or private home, you are bound to encounter load-shedding at some point in your stay.

Many places come equipped with fail-safes such as emergency lights, backup power for fridges and Wi-Fi hubs, and sometimes generators big enough to power the whole property. Your host will likely give you daily updates on when the power will be off, or there’s a handy app – EskomSePush – that has all the details and comes with a handy warning notification.

10. Driving in the emergency lane is standard practice

While greetings, table manners and general day-to-day etiquette in South Africa should largely be familiar, the way South Africans drive can be a bit of a culture shock for visitors. One of the most idiosyncratic rules of the road is “yellow line driving” – many roads are single-lane highways, and enterprising drivers often use the emergency lane (hard shoulder) as a backup.

If you’re on a highway and a driver behind you indicates that they want to get by, you'll be expected to briefly move across the yellow line into the emergency lane to let them pass. If you don’t, you’re likely to find yourself privy to another favorite local driving habit: tailgating. Drivers will usually flash their hazard lights in thanks as they pass, but be aware that obliging drivers aren’t the only thing to be found on the hard shoulder. Always make sure there is good visibility before you pull over, for around the next corner you might find a troop of baboons, a stray cow or a bunch of school kids walking home.

If you’re traveling with kids

South Africa is an excellent destination for family trips.

With its diverse wildlife, delightful beaches, exciting theme parks and fascinating museums, there are many attractions that are perfect for both adults and children. The country is particularly well-suited to older kids who can make the most of the many outdoor experiences.

What makes South Africa good for kids?

Traveling with kids in South Africa is relatively easy, with child-friendly facilities and accommodations. Most larger hotels will provide a cot for babies and toddlers, and sometimes there are extra beds available, but it pays to check when you book. There are apartments with kitchens available for rent as well as holiday homes.

Many family restaurants and cafes have high chairs and offer kids' menus that include dishes such as pizzas, burgers, pasta, toasted sandwiches and fish and chips. Some restaurants and cafes serve variations on local dishes for children. If you want healthier options, there's usually something suitable in the entrée or sides section of the main menu.

Public transport in South Africa is limited, so hiring a car is recommended when you're traveling as a family. You’ll find all major car rental brands in South Africa, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget, and there are desks at the airport, although you’ll usually get lower prices if you book in advance. Tourist destinations are safe and you should be able to visit the places on this list independently without any issues, however taking tours through Soweto and downtown Johannesburg is recommended.

One important thing to know before you go: bring your child's full birth certificate as well as their passport when traveling to South Africa. If both parents are not traveling with the child, you will also need additional documentation, including a letter from the other parent and potentially a court order. Contact your South African embassy for more information about these requirements.

The penguins of Boulders Beach are popular with curious children © Bkampath/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Where is the best place to go in South Africa for kids?

The larger cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are great for kids, with facilities for young children, excellent food and accommodation options. They also have a wealth of family-friendly activities, including theme and water parks, indoor and outdoor play areas, and museums and zoos. Children will also love seeing the animals and flowers in the nature reserves and national parks. The smaller towns along the coast are the places to go if you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation.

Best things to do in South Africa with babies and toddlers

Take the cable car up Table Mountain, Cape Town

Table Mountain dominates the skyline in Cape Town, and seeing the view from the top is remarkable. If you’re traveling with young children, take the cable car to the top – children aged four and under travel for free. Prams and strollers can be wheeled straight on too, but if you're planning on doing any walks at the top of the mountain, you might prefer a baby carrier or sling.

The cable car ride itself is an adventure as the car slowly rotates as it travels up the mountain, offering panoramas of Cape Town and the surrounding region. Once at the top, drag your eyes away from the views to look out for a dassie, a small, guinea pig-type animal, or take one of the accessible hikes and walking routes.

See the penguins on Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula

This white sand beach dotted with huge boulders is home to a colony of endangered African penguins. Children can see the penguins up close and watch them waddling on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, and interacting with each other.

The water is cold, but the beach itself is sheltered with gentle waves and shallow waters, making it perfect for young children to play and splash around. Just remember that the penguins are wild animals and you should keep your distance. Other activities to keep babies and toddlers entertained include rock pooling and exploring the boulder formations.

It's likely that a safari experience in South Africa will appeal to most of the family

Best things to do in South Africa with young children

Go on a safari

Easily one of the best things to do in South Africa is going on a safari. While some younger children may find the drive times a bit challenging, most will be enchanted by seeing wild animals in real life.

Take an organized game drive to have the best chance of seeing the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhino and Cape Buffalo – up close. If you have younger children, consider doing a game drive in a private reserve, as the smaller area means you can see more animals in a shorter amount of time. For older children, head to Kruger National Park to see animals living in their natural habitat and get a snapshot of what the country (and much of the continent) would once have been like.

Visit Gold Reef City, Johannesburg

This gold-mining-themed amusement park has rides and entertainment suitable for all age groups, from toddlers to adults. You can also learn about Johannesburg’s gold-mining history, and go on an underground mine tour (suitable for children over six). If you’re visiting with older kids, you may want to combine a visit to Gold Reef City with the nearby Apartheid Museum.

Explore the Cango Caves

If you’re spending a few days in the Cape Winelands or driving along the Garden Route, take a detour to the Cango Caves. Kids will love exploring the vast underground chambers, tunnels and fascinating rock formations, some of which are millions of years old.

The basic guided tour of the caves is accessible to all ages, and the knowledgeable guides are great at keeping kids engaged and entertained. On the way to the caves, a couple of other attractions are also worth visiting – an ostrich farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch where kids can meet cheetahs, snakes, crocodiles and more.

Spend a few days at Sun City

The popular resort of Sun City in South Africa's North West Province offers a range of exciting activities for children of all ages, including water parks, game reserves and adventure parks. The Valley of Waves, with its thrilling water slides and wave pool, is a favorite among kids.

Supervised activities are available for younger children, including mini-golf, outdoor movies and arts and crafts. The resort's game reserves offer the opportunity to see Africa's Big Five, while the zip line and Segway tours provide adrenaline-pumping adventures for older kids.

See fossils at the Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind in South Africa is an excellent destination for kids who are interested in history and science. This Unesco World Heritage site is home to some of the world's most important hominid fossil discoveries, including the famous "Mrs Ples" and "Little Foot." Kids can learn about the evolution of humankind through interactive displays and exhibits and take a guided tour of Sterkfontein Caves, where some of the fossils were discovered.

South Africa's vast coastline means there are plenty of superb places to have some family time on the beach.

Best things to do in South Africa with tweens and teens

Learn about South Africa’s history

Older kids and teenagers can learn about apartheid through some of South Africa’s excellent museums and tours. In Johannesburg, visit the Apartheid Museum or go on a historical walking tour of Soweto to learn about the events that shaped the country’s history.

If you’re in Cape Town, take a trip to Robben Island, a former prison for political activists, including Nelson Mandela. Tours take you to various historic sites around the island as well as through the prison, giving you a glimpse of Mandela's cell. The boat ride with views back towards the beautiful city are a bonus.

Explore Johannesburg’s street art

Known as the street art capital of Africa, Johannesburg’s vibrant and colorful street art scene is not only visually stunning but also offers insight into the city's past. Johannesburg's street art evolved out of the city's degeneration in the 1980s and '90s, and is part of the city center's regeneration today. The Maboneng Precinct, in particular, is known for its street art, with some (although not all) of the major works commissioned by the government.

Teenagers can learn about the significance of the city’s murals, graffiti, and street art on guided street art tours of Johannesburg. These tours also highlight the works of established and emerging artists, and some offer opportunities to engage with local creative communities. If you're short on time, you can also get a taste of local street art while learning about local history. Most Soweto tours include a visit to the impressive Orlando Towers. The artwork on the old power station makes for a great photo opportunity, and adventurous teens can climb the towers or even bungee jump down from them.

If you really want to see SA, you need to rent a car

South Africa is the ninth-biggest country in Africa and figuring out how to get around efficiently takes some serious thought and planning.

How do you move between bustling cities and epic countryside safely, quickly and cost effectively without damaging the environment as you go?

Whether you're going by rail, road or air, here's everything you need to know about getting around South Africa.

Travel by plane if you're short on time

South Africa is almost five times the size of England and twice the size of Texas, so it can be worth taking to the air if you have a lot of ground to cover in a limited time.

South Africa’s main cities are well connected by convenient flights. The domestic airline with the most extensive network is Airlink, which flies through 17 South African airports, along with others in southern and central Africa. FlySafair is also reliable and recommended but reaches less than a dozen destinations.

If you have time constraints, flying is the best – though least climate-friendly – option for getting around South Africa. However, airports are often a considerable distance from the city, and it’s worth remembering that you will incur costs and travel time getting into the city center.

Almost every city and town is connected by bus

Greyhound pulled out of South Africa in February 2021 after nearly four decades of service, so Intercape and TransLux are now the major options for travelers moving between cities in South Africa. Both of these networks have efficient online booking systems and between them, they connect almost every city and town in the country with safe, comfortable and affordable vehicles. All long-distance coaches are equipped with air-conditioning and toilets.

Tickets vary according to distance and route, but figure on paying roughly R54 for each hour of traveling. In high season, specifically during the school Christmas holidays, prices can rise by as much as 30%.

Up close with an African elephant in Pilanesberg National Park .

Renting a car will get you into wilderness areas and national parks

Public transport in South Africa is limited when it comes to remote, rural communities and almost nonexistent if you want to explore the wilderness and the all-important national parks and reserves. If you want to experience the thrill and charm of backcountry South Africa, you’ll need your own wheels.

The entire country is networked by top-quality and beautifully scenic roads, along with enough endless stretches of gravel top to appeal to any adventurous road-tripper. There are several reliable and relatively inexpensive car rental companies, including Avis, Hertz and Tempest Car Hire. If you’re traveling in a group, car rental often turns out to be the most affordable option, with rates starting around R540 per day. Prices are usually lower if you book in advance rather than upon arrival at the airport.

Bear in mind that many parks – specifically Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park – have such excellent road infrastructure that a 4x4 is not necessary and, as long as you confine yourself to the tarmac routes, you can get around even in a small hatchback.

If you’re driving in a Big Five country, do some research regarding etiquette and safety precautions, especially in dealing with elephants. An environmentally sound 4x4 rental company is Tread Lite, which offers affordable, compact and delightfully quirky Suzuki Jimnys with all the necessary camping kit for a price tag of around R1547 per day, depending on the time of year and length of your stay. Tread Lite is also an absolute mine of information when planning your route.

Hop-on hop-off tour buses take you to the main sights on South Africa's Garden Route .

Tour buses provide affordable, flexible travel in South Africa

Aimed at backpackers, Bazbus is a perfect option for solo travelers looking for a more sociable mode of transport. The hop-on-hop-off travel pass means that you can take as long as you want to go from A to B.

For example, a one-way hop-on-hop-off ticket between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth starts around R4700 and passes through the coastal highlights of the Garden Route, while an eight-day Bazbus travel pass lets you hop off and on as many times as you want in any direction for R4600. The company even offers a three-day all-inclusive Kruger safari from R12,200 per person.

Highly recommended, Oasis Overland offers a 17-day trip from Cape Town to Jo’burg that takes in most of the main sights, including Addo, Royal Natal National Park and even a visit to the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, for about R29,050. If you want to make South Africa part of a once-in-a-lifetime African trip, look into the 93-day Grand Adventurer trip from Nairobi to Johannesburg.

Splash out on a sleeper cabin on the Blue Train between Pretoria and Cape Town © Michael Heffernan / Lonely Planet

Trains in South Africa run from basic to luxury

If you’re not in a hurry, the train is often the most pleasant way of getting around South Africa. You can settle in for a relaxing overnight journey, watching the countryside slip past and chatting to fellow passengers. Sadly the tourist-class Shosholoza Meyl sleeper service is still not back to its pre-Covid operations but there are other options available with an unfortunately heftier price tag.

The Blue Train raises comfort levels to sumptuous extremes: you’re expected to dress formally for dinner, and the price tag can run to R67,715 for a trip from Pretoria to Cape Town. Meanwhile, on the luxurious Rovos Rail service, the four-day 1600km (994-mile) journey between Pretoria and Cape Town costs from R31,700, and you can carry on all the way to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for an extra charge.

Local taxis or minibuses are another inexpensive option

Be aware that in South Africa the word “taxi” is most commonly applied to the privately owned minibuses that connect virtually every town and village in the country. Often overloaded and dangerously driven, it is a mode of transport avoided by most people with sufficient funds to use another option.

If you decide to give it a shot, know that you won't have much room for luggage, the schedules are rarely set and you'll have to ask around to find out where to wait.

Hired taxis (normal sedans or hatchbacks) run in the major cities only, but the ubiquitous ride-sharing app Uber is a convenient, secure and reliable service that you can count on in most parts of the country.

South Africa has good infrastructure for travelers with disabilities .

Accessible transportation in South Africa

For travelers with mobility issues, South Africa might just be the easiest country on the continent to get around. Facilities include boardwalks and braille signage at the most developed national parks and reserves. Wheelchair users have easy access in getting around city centers, especially in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Avis and Budget are the nationwide rental companies that supply vehicles with hydraulic lifts and wheelchair restraints. Disabled Travel is a great resource for listings, compiled by an occupational therapist, detailing a vast range of accommodations and resources for travelers with disabilities.

Durban-based Access 2 Africa Safaris runs everything from day trips to 12-day tours taking in Zululand, Kruger and eSwatini (formerly Swaziland). Travel with Renè is a fantastic tour operator that runs a range of exciting tours, including whale-watching and winelands tours, in the Cape area. Renè, a Black woman who became quadriplegic as a result of a motor accident in 1995, has a vehicle that can take six passengers, including three wheelchairs at a time.

South African National Parks has produced the Comprehensive Guide to Universal Access in South African National Parks for Guests with Disabilities, an excellent 24-page PDF.

Find more accessible travel information by downloading Lonely Planet’s free Accessible Travel eBook.

South Africa Travel Tips for Your First Trip in 2024

Published October 6, 2023 · Updated October 6, 2023

Oh hey traveler… You’ve read my 20 reasons why you should travel to South Africa, and are now planning your very first trip to the tip of Africa.

Yeeaaaah!

Today you get to find out my best travel tips to South Africa in preparation for your adventure, on arrival at the airport and when travelling through the country. This article will ensure you are well-informed and well-prepared for that trip of a lifetime.

Read on to discover my essential South Africa tips worth knowing before you go ⇓

Reading time: 8 minutes

South Africa is often referred to as a rainbow nation with a melting pot of diverse people, languages, and African and Colonial cultures. This is location dependent somewhat, but you will fit in no matter the language you speak, the clothes you wear, or the colour of your skin.

A trip to South Africa should be on the bucket list of every intrepid traveler. The country at the tip of Africa welcomes thousands of visitors each year looking to experience its diversity, its beauty, its landmark attractions, and its endless possibilities for adventure.

You often hear visitors saying, “I wish I had known …”

What follows is my travel guide and tips for visitors planning on traveling to South Africa for the first time.

Whether you’re going on a safari, planning a road trip along the coast, or visiting the lively cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, I’ve got you covered ↓

Useful South Africa Travel Tips

Before I continue, note that I don’t think you have to know everything before you arrive. Part of the pleasure and gratification of travel is discovering and exploring the unknown without any preconceived ideas or expectations.

It is good to be prepared, but leave some revelations and encounters for the actual journey.

>> Read next:
The best places to visit in South Africa

If you’re looking for more travel preparation tips, check out this guide about
what to know before travelling to Egypt.

To help you prepare you for the unexpected and to arrange a stress-free trip, here are my top tips for your first trip to South Africa!

Let’s get into it. First up….

Before Travelling to South Africa: Tips

Planning a trip to South Africa:

It is worth having, in advance, a practical list of what to expect and know before travelling to and on arrival in South Africa. I know you’re wondering:

IS SOUTH AFRICA SAFE?

This is a question I get asked a lot. “Yeah, but is South Africa as a country a safe destination?”

Yes, within reason and with precaution.

Safety is a major concern of first-time visitors to South Africa. Although the country has a high crime rate and crime is an issue, the majority of incidents occur in areas that are away from the usual tourist trail and so the risk to tourists is low.

It is imperative to use common sense and to always be aware of your surroundings. It is also helpful to know which actions and places to avoid to stay safe in South Africa. With proper precaution and preparation, many problems can be avoided.

How to remain safe in South Africa as a traveller:

— Do blend in
To stay safe avoid looking like a tourist.

— Avoid ostentatious displays
of expensive possessions such as jewellery, cameras, mobile phones and other valuables.

— Do not keep any items unattended…
like you may do so back home.
Store valuables (including passports) in the safety deposit box of your accommodation.
Keep huge camera equipment, handbags, phone and other valuable belongings out of view to avoid attracting any unwanted attention.

— Better safe than sorry
As a preventative measure and common caution, remember to keep your car doors locked at all times.

— Pay attention to your location and surroundings
as you would in every major city around the world

— Know where you are going before you head off
particularly at night

— Do not put any valuables in suitcases
Carry all valuables with you in hand luggage as opposed to leaving in the checked luggage. I hear things are better now, but Johannesburg airport, in particular, had a bad reputation for things going missing from luggage.

>> Related reading:
The safest African countries in 2024 ranked + essential safety tips when in Africa

WEATHER IN SOUTH AFRICA

The Best Time to Visit

South Africa experiences a sub-tropical temperate climate that is warm and generally dry.

The weather is pleasant and sunny for most of the year. Winters (June – August) are mild with snowfall in the mountainous regions.

Check the weather before arrival in South Africa and make a note of the season.

Many visitors incorrectly think that it’s constantly hot, this being Africa after all. No, there are district seasons each with their own climate.

The Western Cape, including Cape Town, receives most of its rainfall during winter, so it’s best to travel here outside of this period. On the flip side, when it is hot, you can easily get sunburnt. So pack some sunscreen.

Seasons:
Summer – December to February
Autumn – March to May
Winter – June to August
Spring – September to November

AVOID: if at all possible, avoid visiting South Africa during the peak summer months of December – February.

You will have to put up with inflated prices and also enlarged crowds as both international and local visitors take a break in the holiday season. You will also want to avoid school holiday periods that include mid-June to mid-July.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: VACCINATIONS

— Malaria tablets are advisable should you be travelling within a malaria region in malaria season.

— Currently, no vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa, however, proof of yellow fever vaccinations on arrival are needed if you travel through a country with a risk of yellow fever.

Travel Tip: Don’t forget to pack some insect repellant that is essential in helping to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.

[Covid19]: Travelling to South Africa

All visitors to South Africa are expected to follow the rules set out by the government. These include following social distancing in public spaces, regular washing or sanitizing of hands, and a compulsory wearing of masks.

In addition to this, all international travellers arriving at the designated airports will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result, recognized by the World Health Organization, that was obtained less than 72 hours from the time of departure.

Failing to submit a negative COVID-19 test result, will lead to an antigen test being conducted on arrival at own cost. Testing positive for COVID-19 will result in compulsory isolation at own cost, for a period of ten days.

❗ Update:
All of South Africa’s COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted on June 22, 2022.

As a result:

· No proof of negative pre-departure COVID-19 test results are required.
· No proof of vaccination is required to enter South Africa.

Yeaahhhh!

SOUTH AFRICA PACKING LIST

Don’t overpack.
This common mistake should be avoided.

Be sure to leave some room space in the luggage for souvenirs and other stuff you will come across. South Africa is a relatively affordable vacation for visitors and you will want to make purchases along the way.

What To Wear

Bring a mix of stylish and old clothes. You will have use for both depending on your activity or occasion.

Most hotels and game lodges offer an extremely quick laundry turnaround, often a same-day service, at additional services. It is not necessary to bring a separate change of clothing for each day and evening. I would recommended that you keep luggage to a minimum for your own comfort and ease of transport, especially if you are using light aircraft transfers.

Summer

Bring clothes that are lightweight, cool, and comfortable made of a natural, “breathable” fabric. Summer temperatures can reach well into the 30 – 40 degree Celsius range in some areas. Definitely bring a swimming costume and possibly an umbrella or raincoat as this is when most of the country gets its rain.

Winter

The winters are generally mild, but there are periods when a cold front makes an appearance, so be prepared with a warm jacket, fleece or sweater. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s recommended to bring rain gear.

General

— Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.

— Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round.

— Some establishments stipulate smart casual and a collard-shirt and trousers or slacks, a blouse and skirt is needed.

— For game viewing, a couple of lightweight, khaki or neutral-toned items will be useful. A scarf and hat for the dust and heat is recommended.

— Binoculars

— Camera and accessories

— Personal toiletries, lip balm and insect repellent

Wide variety of shopping

Don’t dread if you forget to pack something.
Great shopping malls are dotted throughout the country, ensuring you’ll find what you need.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

You will find a variety of accommodation options available, from world-class hotels and safari lodges to guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and backpacker lodges.

The accommodation you choose will be entirely based on your budget, purpose of travel, and itinerary within South Africa.

If travelling during the peak season of November – January, it is important to book your accommodation in advance to get first pick and the best rates.

SOUTH AFRICA IS A DEVELOPED COUNTRY

No, you won’t find wild animals roaming the streets, according to a popular misconception.

What you will find is everything from world-class shopping centres, paved roads, and highways to gourmet restaurants, farmers’ markets, and museums here.

While some villages that border animal reserves have to deal with the occasional predator stalking their domestic cattle, you won’t spot any wild animals outside the game reserves.

Did you know: South Africa does not have one capital city, but three. Pretoria is the executive capital, Cape Town is the legislative capital, while Bloemfontein is the judicial capital.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do You Need?

I’ve said it before, South Africa certainly is one of the adventure capitals of the world. An adventure-traveler’s delight. You can swim with sharks, jump off the highest commercial bungee in the world, go on epic hikes, or paraglide off mountains.

If you’re planning on getting your adventure on during your travels in South Africa, do make sure that yourtravel insurance covers extreme sports activities.

You’ll also need general comprehensive travel insurance. With this country in Africa being a relatively far destination for most visitors, it is always a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any flight cancellations and unwanted trips to the hospital.

South Africa Travel Tips On Arrival at the Airport

TRAVEL PASSPORT

Entry and Exit Requirements

Make sure to have at least two blank pages available in your passport should you require a visa to travel to South Africa. Otherwise one blank page is sufficient, even though only half a page is needed for the stamp at immigration.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of departure from South Africa.

SOUTH AFRICA VISA REQUIREMENTS

You may need a visa to enter South Africa, depending on your nationality.

Citizens of 48 countries, including Canada, USA, Australia, Ireland, and the UK, can enter South Africa for tourism for up to 90 days, while passport holders from an additional 28 countries can spend up to 30 days visa-free.

All other travellers and foreign nationals need a visa to enter.

Apply in person in the country of your ordinary residence or citizenship from a South African Embassy or Consulate. A system is in the process of implementing the online tourist eVisa application that will make it easier and faster to get a travel visa arranged before the trip.

No extension is available on tourism visas.

MONEY MATTERS IN SOUTH AFRICA

The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents.
There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes.
Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.

Automatic teller machines (ATM) are situated in every mall and outside most banks in towns and cities, operating 24 hours a day.

Always advise your bank of our intention of travelling outside of the country so that your purchases are not blocked while abroad.

Credit Cards

All major international credit cards such as MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are widely accepted. You can’t purchase fuel with a credit card but you can pay road tolls with MasterCard or Visa.

In some small towns and smaller shops, you may find you’ll need to use cash. You will also need cash for tips.

I recommend withdrawing cash from the ATM when you arrive. You will get a better exchange rate from the machines when compared to using a currency exchange service at the airport.

There are plenty of ATM’s around so just take out as much as you think you may need for a few days, rather than carrying large amounts of cash.

Current exchange rate: 1 ZAR = 0,066 USD

IS SOUTH AFRICA CHEAP

How to save money

South Africa is an affordable destination, particularly when visiting from a country with a stronger currency exchange. Nevertheless, here are some ways to save money while travelling through the country:

Visit South Africa during the shoulder or off-peak season

This means planning a trip to South Africa in Autumn (March to May) or Spring (September – November). The weather is pleasant and costs are not inflated.
A great way to get around South Africa on a budget over longer distances is by using the bus.

My recommendation for a reliable, efficient company: Greyhound. They have an extensive long-distance network or routes across the country.
Choose outdoor activities that are free or cost little to nothing.

Hiking is a particularly good option and the abundance of routes will delight you.
Choose from Lion’s Head or Table Mountain in Cape Town to the Fanie Botha Trail in Mpumalanga and the Drakensberg Grand Traverse in Kwa Zulu Natal to Wild Coast Hike in the Eastern Cape. The options are almost endless.
Include camping

There are variety of well-maintained, affordable campsites throughout South Africa, from Tsitsikamma National Park to Kruger National Park and a handful in-between.

Is South Africa Africa’s wealthiest country?
Check out the full list here.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN

All minors require the consent of their parents when travelling into or out of South Africa.

From 1 June 2015, parents or guardians travelling with children under the age of 18 will need to carry and yield on request an unabridged birth certificate along with a valid travel document.

There are additional settings for minors travelling with only one parent or unaccompanied. These rules should be checked confirmed prior to arrival in South Africa.

Although no longer compulsory as of December 2018, South Africa immigration officers still reserve the right to request a copy at their individual discretion.

BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

Do take note of the following baggage restrictions applied at OR Tambo International Airport:

Only regular-shaped bags will be allowed to be checked in. This means that the bags must have at least one flat surface to be accepted.
Round or irregular-shaped bags will not be allowed.
Bags with longs straps will not be allowed.

Passengers who try to check in bags that don’t conform to these rules will have the option of having their baggage wrapped with one flat side at airport-approved baggage wrapping stations.

AIRPORT CUSTOM ALLOWANCES

Currently the following duty-free allowance applies per person:

200 cigarettes, 250 grams of tobacco and 20 cigars, two litres of wine, one litre of other alcoholic beverages, , 50 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette. Also, gifts, souvenirs and all other goods to the value of R 500.00. No person under 18 is entitled to the alcohol or tobacco allowance. Duty is levied at 20% thereafter.

Tax Value Added Tax (VAT)

Tax Value Added Tax (VAT) of 15% is levied in South Africa.

International travelers taking goods out of South Africa are able to reclaim the VAT that they paid on these goods. Reclaiming VAT is only applicable for goods that you are able to produce at the airport and not for any services whatsoever. When purchasing your products you should request a tax invoice.

VAT Reclaim Offices are found at Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town Airports. Before departing, visit the customs official offices where your invoices and goods purchased will be inspected. Once your invoices have been approved and stamped, the VAT Reclaim Office will refund you the appropriate amount.

MOBILE SERVICE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Mobile data connection

If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local pay-as-you-go SIM card from one of the many vendors around the country. The big four network operators in South Africa are Vodacom, Cell C, MTN, and Telkom.

You can also get a SIM card at the airport on arrival, but it’s a usually more expensive.

You do need to show identity, such as passport, and address/proof of where you’re staying, in order for the card to be activated.

You can get data bundles that will help you stay connected as well as airtime for any phone calls you need to make. Do note that data costs are relatively high, so save all the browsing and downloading for when you’re able to connect to free wifi. Also, internet speeds are not the greatest, for the most part. But, good enough to get things done.

Mobile Phone Coverage

Cellphone coverage and network availability is extensive and easy to access. This means you’re not going to be unplugged from the outside world or family and friends back home while travelling in South Africa.

However, it is worth noting that many remote areas, don’t have cellular reception or internet connection.

The international dialling code for South Africa is 27.

Emergency numbers: 112 for any emergency from a cell phone, 10111 for police response, 10177 for ambulance response.

Tips when Travelling through South Africa

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

Power Adaptor

The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts with sockets accepting either two-pin or three-pin rounded plugs. Hotels often have 110 volt sockets for electric razors and a USB socket for other electronic items.

A travel (power plug) adaptor will be needed for the South African round 3-pin plug.

TIPPING ETIQUETTE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Whilst tipping is certainly not obligatory, the amount of the gratuity should express the degree of satisfaction that you have obtained. Tipping 10 – 15% of the service fee is common practice (e.g. restaurant bills, taxi fares etc.)

The above are merely guidelines and you should be comfortable with the gratuity you give. On safari it is customary to tip your guide and tracker, and this is variable based on the length of your stay, group size, experience, service, etc.

Remember, even a little (a couple rands) goes a long way.

CAN YOU DRINK THE WATER

Testing and treatment of the tap water is up to general standards and as a result it is perfectly safe and good to drink straight from the tap.

Remember to bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up throughout the day.

You don’t have to worry about buying bottles of water while travelling in South Africa. Bottled water can be used as an individual preference or when in areas where the mineral content is higher than normal. This could happen, for example, when staying at a safari lodge, but the accommodation will be able to advice in this regard. These remote locations when on game drives often have a water filtration system in place to make the water drinkable.

Water shortages: There have been water restrictions throughout the country in recent years and there were real fears that Cape Town would run out of water in 2018. The situation has drastically improved since, but even if water seems plentiful, please don’t waste it.

GETTING AROUND SOUTH AFRICA

Public transport is certainly not up to standard and there isn’t much of a system in place.

However, travelling around South Africa is possible by air, road, and rail.

It is recommended to use Uber or Bolt for shorter trips and to get around in the major cities. This service is convenient, practical, and cheaper than metered taxis. Background checks are done on the drivers to make sure their driver’s licenses are real.

There is also the Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport.

Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux.

DRIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA

Car rentals are legit

Another worthwhile recommendation is to hire a car to get around.

Having a car is the most viable way of seeing the region. It makes it convenient and easy to explore the country, whether it be along the Garden Route, through the Drakensberg mountains, or a self-drive safari in the Kruger National Park.

A couple things to note about driving in South Africa:

— Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

— Keep in mind that the speed limit on major motorways is 120km/h (75mph).

— Do take note in preparation and implementation, that distances take longer to drive than Google Maps suggests.

— A valid international driver’s licence is required.

— Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cellphones can only be used ‘hands free’.

— Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa

— When renting a car: get full insurance protection, be vigilant of speed drivers, and keep nothing of value in the vehicle (or keep it in the boot, if you must).

— Manual/stick shift drive cars are particularly common in Southern Africa. If you are not comfortable with manual drive, ensure you select an automatic drive car when renting.

FUEL STATIONS: GARAGES

The fuel stations (called garages) are not self-service like in some parts of the world, but are staffed by attendants who will fill up your car for you. Here you will also be asked if you want your windscreen washed, tyre pressure checked, oil and water replenished.

It’s polite and customary to tip the attendant a couple rands for their service. Even a small amount goes a long way and is always appreciated.

CAR GUARDS

Parking attendants

Often, wherever you park, be it outside restaurants, at the beach, supermarket, amongst others, will find young men offering to watch over your car and protect it from break-ins while you’re away, in exchange for some payment (a few rand) on your return.

Some of these car watchers are officially hired by the venue and some are young unemployed guys just trying to earn some money.

STOPPING AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Speaking of traffic lights, don’t be surprised to see guys selling all sorts of items at busy intersections. These items range from newspapers to toys, bags, and electronic accessories, among others.

Apart from selling items, you will also find some guys begging, collecting rubbish or handing out flyers. I politely decline if not interested.

PEOPLE OF SOUTH AFRICA

People are generally friendly, willing to help should the need arise, and excited to share their stories and culture with you.

Don’t let the misconstructions and impressions of the apartheid days make you think otherwise.

Men generally greet each other with a handshake, while women greet with a kiss on the cheek. If you’re not sure, a handshake is a safe bet.

LANGUAGE IN SOUTH AFRICA

There are 11 officially recognised languages, most of which are indigenous to the country.

English is spoken everywhere you go so it is fairly easy to communicate as you go around. English is the language of the cities, of commerce and banking, of government and official documents. All the road signs and official forms are in English and service staff will speak English.

Official languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Sotho, SiSwati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, and Zulu!

>> Related reading:
Learn how to say hello and thank you in South Africa and around the world here.

LOCAL PHRASES

In South Africa, roundabouts are called circles and traffic lights are referred to as robots!
So, don’t be surprised if you’re told to continue past the circle and turn left at the first robot.

Howzit is a common greeting that is used instead of hi or how are you while lekker is an Afrikaans word that is now mainstream, meaning nice, awesome, or good.

SOUTH AFRICA TIME

Time zone: South African Standard Time is Greenwich Mean Time GMT + 2 hours.
Central European Winter Time +1 , and Eastern Standard Winter Time +7.

The country does not change its clocks during the year, and there are no regional variations within the country.

Speaking of time, apart from Johannesburg, South Africa operates on a laidback, slow pace. This is the wonderfully slow South African way, as rarely are things on time. Embrace it as you’ll be back home and rushing around before you know it.

Also, locals tend to eat dinner earlier in the evening than the rest of the world average. On the same note, attractions tend to close earlier than the rest of the world average. Take note of this when planning.

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE IN SOUTH AFRICA

A trip to South Africa is guaranteed to encompass good food as the country boasts an amazing variety of restaurants from fine dining to casual eateries.

The vast number of supermarkets are also stocked with a wide range of produce, making self-catering simple.

>>Related reading:
Crazy weird foods around the world
(including mopani worms in South Africa) Full details HERE

The ever popular braai

The country is big on meat. “Braais” the Afrikaans word for grilled meat, comparable to a BBQ, is insanely popular all over. Any social gathering is bound to have a braai going on.

Confession: I am not a fan of the braai, in the least. I know, what kind of local am I?

Other popular dishes to try include chakalaka, potjiekos, malva pudding, bobotie, mealie pap, bunny chow, melktert, and the ever popular biltong.

Dining out

At restaurants, waiters do not automatically bring the bill at the end of the meal, but will wait until you ask for it.

Post-meal etiquette

Taking your meal home in a “doggy bag” is completely normal.

SMOKING LAWS

In accordance with South African law, do note that smoking is prohibited in public areas and buildings, unless they are specifically designated as smoking areas.

SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA

There is a plethora of game reserves where you have the potential of seeing some incredible wildlife, including the big 5, in their natural habitat. If you’ve been about seeing animals in the wild, South Africa is your calling.

It can be dry and very dusty on game drives through the reserves. Be sure to take a scarf and sunglasses along, as this will come in handy. It is also recommended to bring your own pair of binoculars along.

National Park fees

Each of the SANS national parks are individually gated, even when within a brief distance of each other. This means an entry fee needs to be paid for each park.

The non-residential fee is often three times the rate for locals.

Watch out for baboons

In the national parks and some rural regions, there is a real hazard of baboons going through your belongings should they smell food.

Ocean currents

You won’t be able to spend a whole lot of time in the waters along the West coast, as these tend to be icy cold from the Benguela current. On the other hand, waters on the East coast are perfectly suited for swimming.

DO BRING MORE MEMORY

You may just need more memory cards than initially anticipated for all the moments that you will want to capture while traveling South Africa.

IT MAY BE ADDICTIVE

Yes, many travellers often return to South Africa after that initial experience. You might just become one of them.

>> Get hyped for your trip to SA with this:
Be sure to check out this list of the best places to visit in South Africa for first timers

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