Whale Route

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens from certain countries may be exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays. To determine if you need a visa, it's best to check with the South African embassy or consulate in your home country. Find out more here. Additionally, South Africa offers a visa waiver program for certain countries, allowing visitors to enter for tourism purposes without a visa for a specified period. Make sure you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into South Africa and at least 1 blank page in your passport for endorsements.

South Africa is safe to visit, but like most developing countries, it's important to be street-smart:

• Keep a watchful eye on your belongings, whether you're solo or with a group.
• Avoid displaying valuables like phones and cameras, especially when out and about.
• Do not walk alone in deserted areas at night.
• Don’t keep large sums of money on you.
• When self-driving, be aware of the distance between the towns or petrol stations and know how to handle breakdowns or a flat tire.
• Admire wildlife from a safe distance –never exit your vehicle in national parks or reserves except at designated areas.

Given the distances, a leisurely exploration is recommended to enjoy the Garden Route to the fullest. For a self-drive journey along the Garden Route, tailor your route to your available time and combine it with other nearby attractions. In 2 weeks, cover both directions, visiting Cape Town, the Whale Route, Route 62, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and other coastal towns, as well as the Eastern Cape's game reserves. A few days allow for the Coastal Route, with Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and maybe a day trip to Oudtshoorn, while extending this to a week can add an Eastern Cape safari. For a more tailored itinerary, plan your trip with the help of our travel experts.

International arrivals commonly use Cape Town or Johannesburg Airports in South Africa, while daily flights connect Port Elizabeth and George along the route. Alternatively, you can drive from Cape Town for an exceptional road trip with ever-changing landscapes. The Garden Route can be best explored by car, offering freedom, spontaneity, and affordability to explore the various stops. The well-maintained roads, ample amenities, and scenic beauty only enhance the journey. Find out more in Our Complete Guide to the Garden Route.

When driving in South Africa, travellers can use their valid foreign driver's licence if it meets specific criteria: it should be in English (or any other official South African language) or have an official English translation, and include a photo and signature. Road conditions vary by region. In the Western Cape, roads are generally well-maintained. In areas like the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, occasional potholes may be encountered. To navigate, we recommend using Google Maps for the best routes, which will likely correspond to well-kept roads.

South Africa uses the currency Rand (ZAR) exclusively. You can exchange your currency for Rand at selected airports, banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs. Card facilities are widely available, reducing the need for excessive cash on hand. Before your trip, check if your credit or debit card will work in South Africa for convenient card payments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small tips and when visiting remote destinations.