SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is a land of contrasts and color—where wild coastlines crash into surf-swept shores, and rugged mountains give way to rolling vineyards and highveld grasslands. This country at the southern tip of Africa is a mosaic of cultures, languages, and landscapes. It’s the only nation in the world with three capital cities and 11 official languages—an emblem of its complex history and vibrant diversity. From the haunting echoes of apartheid to the hopeful strides of the Rainbow Nation, South Africa’s story is one of resilience and reinvention.
Geographically, it’s a dreamscape for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Spot the Big Five in the iconic Kruger National Park, or dive with great white sharks off the coast of Gansbaai. Sip world-class wine in Stellenbosch, hike the jagged cliffs of the Drakensberg Mountains, or drive the legendary Garden Route. With temperate climates ranging from Mediterranean to subtropical, and temperatures varying from 60–85ºF (15–29ºC), South Africa is welcoming year-round.
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 like Kruger, Addo, or Pilanesberg.
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.
Wine Country & Gourmet Dining: South Africa’s Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek) 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.
Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights
Key Advantages:
- Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest. This is particularly true for safari lodges, which often offer significant discounts during this period.
- Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, national parks, and popular cities are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Exceptional Wildlife Viewing (Safari): This is arguably the best time for safari. The dry winter months mean vegetation is sparse, and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
- Mild and Dry Weather: While it’s winter, South Africa experiences mild, dry conditions with sunny days in most regions (excluding the Cape’s winter rainfall).
- Whale Watching (Cape Coast): The southern right whales arrive in large numbers along the Cape coast (Hermanus, False Bay) to calve, offering incredible land-based and boat-based whale watching opportunities.
Main Drawbacks:
- Cold Mornings/Evenings (Safari): Early morning and late evening game drives can be very cold, requiring warm layers.
- Limited Beach Activities (Cape): While the Cape’s beaches are beautiful, the water can be chilly and the weather more prone to rain during winter.
- Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter compared to summer, limiting sightseeing time.
- Some Closures/Reduced Hours: Certain seasonal attractions or smaller guesthouses might have reduced hours or be closed in the deepest off-season, especially in very tourist-dependent areas.
Regions:
- Kruger National Park & Surrounding Private Reserves: This is the prime time for safari. The dry conditions make wildlife viewing excellent, and the cooler temperatures are more comfortable for game drives. Many lodges offer incredible winter specials.
- Cape Town & Winelands: While it’s the Cape’s “winter rainfall” season, you’ll often find crisp, clear days perfect for exploring the city, Table Mountain (when not shrouded in cloud), and the nearby Winelands with fewer tourists and lower prices. Cozy up by a fireplace in a Stellenbosch guesthouse.
- Garden Route & Eastern Cape: The Garden Route is still beautiful in winter, with fewer crowds on popular hikes and attractions. The Eastern Cape’s game reserves also offer excellent winter safari opportunities.
- Durban & KwaZulu-Natal: While other regions are cooler, Durban experiences mild, sunny winters with comfortable temperatures, making its beaches and the Drakensberg mountains (with potential for snow on the peaks) appealing.
Key Advantages:
- Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities across most of the country, without the extreme heat of summer.
- Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer, but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
- Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in summer, though slightly higher than deep winter.
- Blooming Landscapes (Spring): Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, especially in the Western Cape’s Namaqualand region, a spectacular sight.
- Good for Safari & Coastal Exploration: Both seasons offer a good balance for safari (as the vegetation starts to green up in spring, or is still relatively thin in autumn) and coastal activities (as the water warms up in spring or is still pleasant in autumn).
Main Drawbacks:
- Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn): Weather can be more variable, with occasional rain or cooler days, especially in the Cape.
- Spring Showers (Safari): Early spring can see some sporadic showers in safari areas, which can make animals harder to spot for brief periods.
- Limited Whale Watching (Early Spring): While some whales may linger into early spring, the peak whale watching season ends in August.
Regions:
- Cape Town & Winelands: These seasons offer the best of both worlds – pleasant weather for exploring, fewer crowds than summer, and good value. Spring brings blooming fynbos and vineyards.
- Garden Route & Sunshine Coast: Perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and enjoying the coastal towns without the summer rush.
- Kruger National Park & Safari Regions: Still excellent for safari. In spring, you’ll see many newborn animals, and in autumn, the dry conditions are still favorable for spotting.
- Drakensberg Mountains: Ideal for hiking and exploring the dramatic landscapes before the summer rains or after the winter chill.
- Namaqualand (Spring): Absolutely spectacular in September for its world-renowned wildflower displays, though this region is very remote.
Mid-Summer (November – March, excluding holidays): This is South Africa’s peak tourist season, coinciding with summer holidays in the northern hemisphere and local school holidays. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, especially in coastal areas like Cape Town and along the Garden Route. Popular attractions, national parks, and beaches will be crowded. While the weather is generally hot and sunny (ideal for beach lovers), the value for money is significantly lower, and safari conditions can be challenging due to dense vegetation and animals being more dispersed.
Christmas and New Year Holiday Period (Mid-December to Early January): This period sees the absolute highest surge in prices and crowds across the entire country, particularly in popular holiday destinations. Booking well in advance is essential if you plan to travel during this time, and expect to pay premium rates.
Easter Holidays (March/April): Similar to Christmas, the Easter long weekend brings a significant increase in domestic tourism, leading to higher prices and crowded popular spots, especially along the coast.
Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
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.
Currency
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.
Language
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
Safety & Security
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)
Health & Insurance
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.
Transportation
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.
Price Level
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
Planning Your Trip
Best Time To Visit
South Africa’s diverse landscapes and hemispheric location offer year-round travel opportunities, but seasons vary by region.
Summer (December–February):
- Hot and lively, with temperatures ranging from 70–95°F (21–35°C). Perfect for beach holidays in Cape Town or the Garden Route. Peak season for tourists, especially around Christmas and New Year—book early. Afternoon thunderstorms common in Johannesburg and Kruger National Park.
Autumn (March–May):
- Mild and crisp (60–80°F / 16–27°C), ideal for wine tours in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Fewer crowds and great wildlife sightings in the bush. Beautiful fall colors in the Winelands and Drakensberg.
Winter (June–August):
- Cool and dry (45–65°F / 7–18°C) in most of the country—best time for safaris (less vegetation, animals gather at waterholes). Cape Town is wetter and windier, but still scenic. Whale-watching season begins along the southern coast (Hermanus).
Spring (September–November):
- Flowers bloom spectacularly in Namaqualand. Comfortable temperatures (60–75°F / 16–24°C) make it a sweet spot for road trips and outdoor activities. Game viewing remains excellent before the rains.
Tip: For a balanced trip, May–October is ideal for safaris, while November–March is perfect for coastal adventures.
Local Customs And Etiquette
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.
Budgeting For Your Trip
- 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).
Internet & Mobile
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.
Travel Insurance
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.
Accomodation Options
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.
Getting Around
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.