Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

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.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

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.

Can I self-drive in South Africa?

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.

What currency is used in South Africa?

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.

South Africa

Ama Casa Cottages

From €39 /person

Cosy self-catering cottages with breathtaking Drakensberg mountain views

Ama Casa Self-catering Cottages is set in the Champagne Valley area of the Central Drakensberg Mountains, offering striking panoramic views of the Champagne and Cathkin Peaks. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool on site, while all units boast hot tubs, braai areas, and cosy fireplaces for winter getaways. Ama Casa is a restful breakaway, ideal for adults with children below 13 only allowed providing prior arrangements. The Central Drakensberg area offers a wide range of things to do, from wildlife viewing to spa therapies, and can be explored by traversing the landscapes with horse riding, hiking, mountain biking, ziplining and hot air ballooning activities.

Ama Casa Self-catering Cottages is set in the Champagne Valley area of the Central Drakensberg ...

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Self Catering Cottage (6 Sleeper)

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The Self Catering Cottage (6 Sleeper), called Sunbird, offers 3 en-suite bedrooms. 2 rooms include queen-sized beds and 1 has 2 single beds. The rooms boast mountain views and the bathrooms have baths and showers. This cottage has a fully-equipped kitchen, a secluded garden courtyard, and a large patio boasting a 6-seater hot tub and a built-in braai.

Self Catering Cottage (2 Sleeper)

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The Self Catering Cottage (2 Sleeper), called Hoopoe and Kingfisher respectively, each offer an open-plan area with a king-sized bed as well as lounge, dining and fully-equipped kitchen areas. The en-suite bathroom has a bath and shower, and each cottage has mountain views in addition to an outdoor shower and a private hot tub on the braai patio.

Self Catering Cottage (6 Sleeper)

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Self Catering Cottage (2 Sleeper)

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Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.

Nicole