If you are planning to visit South Africa, feel excited – it is a wonderful country to visit! Here is some information you need to know to make planning your visit easier.
Visa requirements
UK and US travellers don’t need a visa if they are visiting South Africa for fewer than 90 days. If you are not from the UK and US, you can find out if you are exempt from applying for a visa to visit South Africa here. If you need a visa, find more information on the requirements and process here.
Vaccinations required
When visiting South Africa, the following vaccinations may be required:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever
- Rabies
It is always best to speak to a travel clinic near you for the latest requirements for travelling to South Africa.
South Africa has good private healthcare. Just make sure to take out travel insurance before your trip. Consider using Insubuy, World Nomads or Safety Wing. Both provide cover for COVID-19.
Language
South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is spoken throughout the country. Most road signs are in English. South Africans have their own slang which you will quickly get used to.
Currency
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). You can exchange foreign currency at banks and foreign exchange dealers in the major cities. Learn more about South Africa’s money here!
Getting around
South Africa does not have good public transport. Renting a car is the best way to explore the country. Here are some things you need to know if you want to rent a car:
- South Africans drive on the left.
- Most cars in South Africa will have a manual transmission. To get an automatic car, you may have to request it from the car rental agency in advance. It will also be more expensive.
- The main South African routes are in good condition. Less popular routes may not be in the best condition and require careful driving to avoid large potholes.
- To rent a car, any driver’s licence is accepted as long as it has a photograph of the driver, their signature and is in English. Some rental car companies may require an international driver’s licence. It is best to find out whether the one you plan on using requires an international driver’s license.
Public transportation
South Africa does not have a good public transportation system. In larger cities, such as Johannesburg and Cape Town, there are public transportation options, such as Uber and trains (in some areas). There are also different bus options on the more significant routes and between main cities, but other than that, public transportation is limited. Renting a car will be best if you plan on travelling long distances or exploring cities in-depth.
Read here about travelling between Johannesburg and Cape Town by bus.
Tipping
Tipping is expected in South Africa for any service delivered, including eating out and personal services. The tip is not automatically included in bills, so you must add it yourself before paying. The norm is to give a tip between 10% and 15%.
Safety
South Africa is not a safe country to visit. But with proper care and diligence, you can have a safe trip without any unpleasant situations. Never display valuables, such as cell phones, in public. Never leave valuables unattended.
Read here about the safety of tap water in South Africa.
Best time to visit South Africa
The best time to visit South Africa is between May and October. Here you can learn more about the best months to visit South Africa.
Read more about Johannesburg’s weather and what to wear!
Find out about Cape Town’s weather and what to wear!
Official Public Holidays
See the South African public holidays here
South Africa Time Zone
Click here to compare South African times with major cities and/or countries worldwide.