SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa, a nation of diverse landscapes and rich history, offers an incredible journey from its ancient past to vibrant modern culture. From stunning coastlines to dramatic mountains and abundant wildlife, it’s a land of striking contrasts and captivating beauty.

Region: Southern Africa

Capital: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial)

Official Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, including Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu, and more.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Research specific areas and stay vigilant, especially in urban centers.

A map of Africa with South Africa highlighted in green.

Why Visit South Africa?

Diverse Natural Wonders: From the dramatic cliffs of the Cape of Good Hope to the wetlands of iSimangaliso, South Africa is a geography-lover’s dream.

Big Five Safari Experiences: Spot lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo in world-renowned parks.

Cape Town’s Urban & Natural Beauty: With Table Mountain, Boulders Beach, and vibrant neighborhoods like Bo-Kaap, Cape Town combines stunning views and rich culture.

An aerial view of Cape Town, South Africa, with Table Mountain in the background, showing the city, stadium, and coastline.

Wine Country & Gourmet Dining: South Africa’s Winelands offer world-class wines and cuisine in breathtaking vineyard settings.

Cultural Depth & History: Visit Robben Island, the Apartheid Museum, and Zulu and Xhosa cultural villages to understand the country’s complex past and vibrant present.

Mild Climate Year-Round: Enjoy pleasant weather with summer temps ranging from 70–90°F (21–32°C) and winter around 50–70°F (10–21°C) in most regions.

A huddle of penguins gathered on a rocky shoreline with the ocean in the background.

Essential Trip Information

All travelers must check visa requirements in advance. Rules vary significantly by nationality.

Use the official South African Department of Home Affairs website to confirm entry requirements: https://www.dha.gov.za

Most nationalities can visit visa-free for 30 to 90 days, but this is not guaranteed—check your country’s eligibility.

Passports must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and have two blank pages.

Immigration officers may request proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds.

  • South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). Approximate exchange rate: US$1 ≈ ZAR 18–19

  • Bills: R10–R200; Coins: 10c–R5

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; bring a backup credit card.

  • During Your Trip:

    • ATMs in malls and airports offer good rates.

    • Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted—carry some cash for rural areas or tips.

  • Avoid: Airport currency kiosks and DCC (dynamic currency conversion)—always opt to pay in ZAR.

South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Helpful phrases (in Zulu/Xhosa):

  • Hello: Sawubona / Molo
  • Thank you: Ngiyabonga / Enkosi

Exercise caution, especially in large cities.

Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Don’t flash valuables; keep phones and cameras discreet.

Emergency number: 112 (cell phones) or 10111 (police)

No mandatory vaccines, but Yellow Fever is required if arriving from a risk country.

Recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and malaria prophylaxis (for Kruger and Limpopo areas).

Tap water is safe in major cities but stick to bottled water in rural areas.

Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Pharmacies are widely available; private healthcare is excellent.

Domestic Flights: Fastest way to cover long distances (e.g., Cape Town to Johannesburg).

Uber/Bolt: Safe and affordable in major cities.

Trains: Gautrain is modern and safe (Johannesburg-Pretoria).

Driving: Good roads but drive on the left. Renting a car is ideal for the Garden Route and safari circuits.

Taxis: Not recommended unless pre-booked; they often overcharge tourists.

Long-distance buses (e.g., Intercape, Greyhound): Reliable and economical.

South Africa is affordable by global standards, offering great value for money.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses/backpackers (US$25–60/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels/lodges (US$80–150/night)

  • Luxury: Safari lodges, 4–5 stars (US$200–600+/night)

Food

  • Street food/cafés: US$3–8

  • Casual restaurants: US$10–25/person

  • Fine dining: US$40–80/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1.50–3 (bars), US$1–2 (stores)

  • Wine: US$3–8/glass, bottles from US$5+

  • Cocktails: US$6–10

Transportation

  • Minibus taxis: US$1–2 (for locals; not recommended for tourists)

  • Rideshares (Uber/Bolt): US$3–10 for short rides

  • Intercity buses: US$10–30 (e.g., Cape Town to Garden Route towns)

  • Domestic flights: US$50–150

  • Car rentals: US$25–60/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Visit free museums and markets in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

  • Explore public beaches and nature reserves.

  • Take self-drive safaris in national parks (vs private lodges).

Explore South Africa

Often called the “Mother City,” this vibrant metropolis at the southwestern tip of the country is dominated by iconic Table Mountain. Explore its stunning beaches, historical Robben Island, colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and a thriving food scene.

Located in the northeast of South Africa, primarily in Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, this world-renowned wildlife reserve offers unparalleled safari experiences. Home to the “Big Five” and a vast array of other species, it’s a safari enthusiast’s dream.

Stretching along the southeastern coast, primarily in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces, this picturesque route offers a diverse landscape of indigenous forests, pristine beaches, charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and adventure activities.

Just an hour’s drive northeast of Cape Town, in the Western Cape, this region boasts rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Indulge in world-class wine tasting and gourmet dining experiences.

Situated on the east coast in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban is a vibrant coastal city known for its warm Indian Ocean beaches, rich Indian culture, and delicious curries. It offers a subtropical climate perfect for year-round beach holidays.

A magnificent mountain range forming the eastern escarpment, primarily in KwaZulu-Natal. It offers breathtaking scenery, incredible hiking trails, ancient San rock art, and dramatic peaks.

Located southwest of Johannesburg in Gauteng province, Soweto is a historically significant township. Visit Nelson Mandela’s former home, the Hector Pieterson Museum, and experience the vibrant local culture and history of the anti-apartheid struggle.

Situated near Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, this national park is a conservation success story. It’s home to a vast population of elephants, as well as the “Big Seven” (including whales and great white sharks offshore), making it a diverse wildlife destination.

Found in Mpumalanga province, near the Blyde River Canyon, this scenic route offers breathtaking viewpoints over the Lowveld, including God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes, showcasing dramatic geological formations.

Located in KwaZulu-Natal, this is one of Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserves. It’s renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly in saving the white rhino, and offers fantastic opportunities for game viewing in a less crowded setting.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Exceptional Safari Viewing: Drier conditions mean thinner vegetation and animals congregating around waterholes, making wildlife spotting easier in places like Kruger.
  • Lower Prices: Significant savings on flights and accommodation.
  • Fewer Crowds: Enjoy popular attractions with more space and less waiting.
  • Whale Watching: Prime time for Southern Right Whales off the coast, especially around Hermanus.
  • Mild Coastal Winters: Regions like KwaZulu-Natal experience pleasant, warm winter days.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cooler Temperatures: Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially inland (e.g., Johannesburg averages 41ºF/5ºC in July).
  • Rainfall in Western Cape: The Western Cape (Cape Town) experiences its rainy season.
  • Limited Beach Activities (Western Cape): Beaches in the Western Cape may be less appealing due to cooler, wetter weather.
  • Some closures: Certain seasonal attractions or smaller establishments might be closed.

Key Regions:

  • Kruger National Park: Ideal for safaris with excellent game viewing conditions.
  • Hermanus (Whale Coast): Best time for land-based whale watching.
  • KwaZulu-Natal Coast: Enjoys warm, pleasant winter temperatures, great for escaping the chill.
  • Drakensberg Mountains: Clearer, crisp air for hiking, though can be cold at higher altitudes.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather: Generally pleasant temperatures across most of the country.
  • Manageable Crowds: A good balance between low and peak season crowds.
  • Reasonable Prices: Better value than peak season, with good deals still available.
  • Festivals & Events: Various cultural and arts festivals take place.
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring): Namaqualand and other regions burst with wildflowers.
  • Grape Harvest (Autumn): Cape Winelands are vibrant with harvest activities.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn): Can have some unseasonal rain or temperature fluctuations.
  • Increased Safari Crowds (September/October): As conditions improve for safaris, more visitors arrive.
  • Still Some Rain (Autumn): Northern regions might still experience some summer rainfall.

Key Regions:

  • Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek): Perfect for wine tasting amidst beautiful scenery, especially during harvest.
  • Garden Route: Enjoy scenic drives, outdoor activities, and pleasant coastal towns.
  • Namaqualand (Northern Cape): Witness the spectacular spring wildflower display.
  • Johannesburg/Pretoria: Comfortable temperatures for exploring cities and cultural sites.
  • Wild Coast (Eastern Cape): Great for hiking and exploring rugged coastline with pleasant weather.
  • Mid-Summer (December – February): Hot and sunny, especially along the coasts and popular for beach holidays. Cape Town can average highs of 79ºF/26ºC.
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period: Extremely popular with both international and domestic tourists, leading to highest prices and busiest attractions.
  • Major School Holidays: Expect increased crowds and demand during South African school breaks.

Planning Your Trip

Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants. R5–R10 (US$0.25–0.50) for parking attendants or petrol station staff.

Safety: Exercise caution—lock doors, avoid walking alone at night, and use secure ATMs.

Hospitality: Locals are warm and welcoming—greet with a smile and polite “Howzit?”.

Diversity: South Africa has 11 official languages—English is widely spoken, especially in urban and tourist areas.

Bargaining: Acceptable in markets, but always respectful and with a smile.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: US$25–50 (hostels, simple guesthouses).
  • Mid-range: US$70–150 (boutique hotels, national park chalets).
  • Luxury: US$300+ (safari lodges, 5-star hotels).

Food:

  • Street food/local cafés: US$5–10 (bunny chow, vetkoek, braai).
  • Mid-range: US$15–30 (trendy bistros, steakhouses).
  • Fine dining: US$60–100+ (chef’s tasting menus, top wineries).

Transport:

  • Domestic flights: US$40–100 (one-way).
  • Car rental: US$25–50/day plus fuel.
  • Uber rides: US$3–10 within cities.

Activities:

  • National Park Entry: US$20–30/day (Kruger, Table Mountain).
  • Safari drives: US$50–100+ (some lodges include this).
  • Adventure tours: US$50–150 (shark cage diving, bungee jumping).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$60–90 (backpackers, public transport, local meals).
  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (hotels, car rental, guided tours).
  • Luxury: US$400+ (safari lodges, fine dining, private excursions).

Wi-Fi: Free at most hotels, restaurants, and airports. Coverage can be spotty in rural areas.

SIM Cards: Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, Cell C—available at airports or malls. Prepaid data: US$20–40 for 10–20GB.

eSIMs: Supported via apps like Airalo or MTN eSIM packages.

Tip: Register your SIM with your passport.

Highly recommended—especially for medical emergencies, adventure sports, and unexpected trip delays.

Private healthcare is excellent but expensive—ensure your policy includes international medical evacuation.

Popular adventure exclusions to check: bungee jumping, safari walking tours, shark diving—read the fine print.

South Africa offers diverse lodging for every budget.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: One&Only Cape Town, The Saxon (Johannesburg), Royal Malewane (Kruger).
  • Mid-range: Southern Sun, Protea Hotels, City Lodge.
  • Budget: Road Lodges, Signature Lux, Town Lodge.

Guesthouses/B&Bs:

  • Affordable, often family-run with local charm—popular along the Garden Route and Winelands.

Hostels:

  • Great social scene in Cape Town (Once in Cape Town, Ashanti Lodge).

Lodges & Safari Camps:

  • Range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury (check if park fees are included).

Airbnb/Short-term Rentals:

  • Abundant in major cities—especially good for groups and longer stays.

Tip: For convenience, stay central in Cape Town (Green Point, Gardens) or near game reserves for safaris.

South Africa is vast but manageable with the right plan.

Domestic Flights:

  • Affordable and frequent between major cities (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban). Airlines like FlySafair, Airlink, and Lift offer good service.

Car Rental:

  • Highly recommended for road trips (e.g., Garden Route, Drakensberg). Drive on the left; roads are generally good outside of urban areas. Watch for potholes and wildlife in rural regions.

Minibus Taxis:

  • Widely used by locals but not recommended for tourists—confusing routes and safety concerns.

Ride-Hailing:

  • Uber and Bolt are available in cities—cheap and reliable.

Trains: Luxury:

  • The Blue Train or Rovos Rail for iconic scenic routes. Commuter trains (like Metrorail) are not advisable for tourists due to safety issues.

Walking:

  • Safe in central tourist areas (e.g., V&A Waterfront, Sandton) during the day. Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.

Handy Tips

South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR or R). Common banknotes include R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200; coins include 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, and R5.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks. Use ATMs or major banks for better exchange rates. Currency exchange is also available in shopping centers.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted—less so for Amex. Always carry some cash for rural areas, small eateries, or local markets.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants: 10–15% is standard (check the bill—gratuity may be included for groups).

    • Taxis: Round up or tip around 10%.

    • Hotel Staff: R10–R20 per bag for porters; R20–R50 per night for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: R50–R100 per person for group tours.

South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in cities and tourism hubs.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Where’s the nearest ATM?”

  • “How much does this cost?”

  • “Can I pay by card?”

  • Pro Tip: Locals are friendly—a smile and polite tone go a long way. A greeting like “Howzit?” (How’s it going?) is common in casual settings.

South Africa is beautiful but has areas of concern, especially after dark or in less touristy neighborhoods. Remain alert, avoid flashing valuables, and use registered transport services.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 10111: Police Emergency Line
  • 112: Cell phone emergency (redirects to appropriate service)

Private hospitals are generally excellent; keep travel insurance details accessible.

Avoid walking alone at night in Johannesburg or Cape Town’s quieter areas.

South Africa uses 230V/50Hz with Type M plugs (three round pins). Some places use Type C (two round pins). Bring a universal adapter.

In major cities, tap water is safe to drink (e.g., Cape Town, Johannesburg).

In rural areas, it’s recommended to use bottled or filtered water.

On these days, banks, government offices, and some businesses may close or operate with limited hours:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 21 Mar: Human Rights Day

  • Good Friday (date varies)

  • Easter Monday (Family Day)

  • 27 Apr: Freedom Day

  • 1 May: Workers’ Day

  • 16 Jun: Youth Day

  • 9 Aug: Women’s Day

  • 24 Sep: Heritage Day

  • 16 Dec: Day of Reconciliation

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Day of Goodwill

Note: Shops and restaurants are often open on public holidays, especially in tourist areas.

Malls: 09:00–18:00 (some open till 20:00); Sundays till 17:00.

Supermarkets: Usually open daily, 07:00–20:00.

Pharmacies: Clicks and Dis-Chem chains often open late (some until 21:00).

Markets: Great on weekends (e.g., Neighbourgoods Market in Joburg, Oranjezicht Market in Cape Town).

Bunny Chow: Hollowed-out loaf filled with curry—Durban’s iconic Indian-influenced street food.

Boerewors: Spiced farmer’s sausage, often grilled at a braai (barbecue).

Bobotie: Cape Malay dish of curried minced meat baked with an egg topping.

Vetkoek: Fried dough balls stuffed with curried mince or cheese.

Snoek Braai: Smoked Cape snoek (fish) grilled over coals with apricot glaze.

Pap and Chakalaka: Maize porridge with spicy veggie relish—traditional comfort food.

Peri-Peri Chicken: Mozambican-Portuguese influence—grilled chicken in hot chili marinade.

Malva Pudding: Warm apricot sponge dessert soaked in creamy sauce—best with custard.

Koeksisters: Syrupy fried dough braids—crisp outside, sticky sweet inside.

Milk Tart (Melktert): Cinnamon-dusted pastry with creamy custard filling—South African classic.

Alcoholic:

  • Pinotage: South Africa’s signature red—bold, smoky, and uniquely local.

  • Chenin Blanc: Crisp white wine—perfect with seafood and widely produced in the Western Cape.

  • Cape Blend: Red wine blend typically featuring Pinotage—balanced and full-bodied.

  • Amarula Cream: Liqueur made from the marula fruit—smooth and caramel-like.

  • Castle Lager: South Africa’s most popular beer—mild, easy-drinking.

  • Windhoek Lager: Namibian beer widely enjoyed in SA—crisp and clean.

  • Carling Black Label: Stronger local beer with a bit of a cult following.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Rooibos Tea: Herbal red tea grown in the Cederberg—caffeine-free and antioxidant-rich.

  • Mageu: Fermented maize drink—slightly sour and filling.

  • Appletiser: Sparkling apple juice made with no added sugar—refreshing and natural.

  • Ginger Beer: Homemade fizzy ginger drink, slightly fermented and spicy.

  • Sparkling Rooibos: Modern twist on rooibos tea—lightly carbonated and citrus-infused.

South Africa’s past is complex, but its cultural richness is unforgettable.

Apartheid Museum (Johannesburg): A powerful journey through history.

District Six Museum (Cape Town): Learn about forced removals under apartheid.

Nelson Mandela Capture Site (KwaZulu-Natal): Iconic monument and gallery.

Voortrekker Monument (Pretoria): Afrikaner heritage and art.

Zulu Cultural Villages – Interactive experiences in KwaZulu-Natal.

Cape Dutch Architecture – Found in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and the Cape Winelands.

Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift – Battlefields of Anglo-Zulu war.

Cango Caves – Explore stunning limestone formations in Oudtshoorn.

Greenmarket Square – Craft market and historic square in Cape Town.

Freedom Park – Monument in Pretoria celebrating unity and humanity.

Safari Adventures – Kruger National Park, Addo Elephant Park, or private reserves like Sabi Sands.

Table Mountain – Hike or cable-car to panoramic views of Cape Town.

Beaches – Camps Bay (Cape Town), Umhlanga (Durban), or Plett for surfing and sun.

Robben Island Tour – Visit the prison where Mandela was held.

V&A Waterfront – Shop, eat, cruise, or visit the Zeitz MOCAA.

Township Tours – Learn about local history in Soweto or Langa (go with a guided, reputable operator).

Nightlife – Long Street (Cape Town) and Maboneng Precinct (Joburg).

Drakensberg Mountains – Hike through dramatic landscapes and ancient rock art.

Penguin Watching – Boulders Beach, near Cape Town.

Sunset Cruises – Especially stunning along Knysna or the Cape coast.

Long Street (Cape Town): Bustling bars, Afrobeat lounges, and rooftop spots.

The House of Machines: Craft cocktails and live blues in downtown Cape Town.

Mad Giant Brewery: Trendy brewery in Johannesburg with bold design and great beer.

Waiting Room: Eclectic bar with DJ sets above Royale Eatery (Cape Town).

Artivist: Afro-modern bar and art space in Johannesburg’s Braamfontein.

Cape to Cuba (Kalk Bay): Caribbean-inspired cocktails with sea views and salsa nights.

The Gin Bar: Hidden behind a chocolate café in Cape Town—over 100 local gins.

The Orbit (Johannesburg): Legendary jazz bar (check reopening status—currently on hiatus).

Soweto Brewing Company: Taste township-brewed beers with local food trucks.

Cause Effect: Cocktail bar using local botanicals—science meets mixology.