Question 1

What is the best time to travel to South Africa?

Accepted Answer

South Africa can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on the region. The dry winter months from May to September are ideal for safaris, as wildlife gathers around waterholes and vegetation is sparse. The warmer summer months from November to March are better for Cape Town, the Garden Route, and the beaches, although this is also the rainy season in much of the country.

Question 2

Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Visa requirements depend on nationality. Citizens of many countries – including most EU states, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, Israel, and Japan – may enter South Africa without a visa for visits of up to 90 days. Nationals of some countries, such as Malaysia, Turkey, Seychelles, Thailand, Mozambique, and Cyprus, are visa-exempt for up to 30 days.

Travellers from countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before arrival. All passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the entry date and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps.

Question 3

Do I need vaccinations to travel to South Africa?

Accepted Answer

No vaccinations are required for entry unless arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country, in which case a Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory. Travellers are advised to be up to date with routine vaccinations such as hepatitis, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria is present in the north-east, including Kruger National Park and parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, and prophylaxis is strongly recommended for these areas. Malaria is not a risk in Cape Town, the Garden Route, or Johannesburg.

Question 4

What currency is used in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

South Africa uses the Rand (ZAR). Foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, exchange offices, and ATMs, which are widely available in towns and cities. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, lodges, restaurants, shops, and at most petrol stations. Travellers should check with their bank or card provider before travel to ensure their card will work in South Africa. It is also advisable to carry some cash for tips, small purchases, toll roads, and when visiting remote areas where card facilities may be limited.

Question 5

What languages are spoken in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

South Africa has eleven official languages, reflecting its cultural diversity. English is the main language of business, government, and tourism and is widely understood in cities and tourist areas. Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa are also commonly spoken, along with several other regional languages.

Question 6

What is the recommended length of stay for the Garden Route?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

How do you get to and around the Garden Route area?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

South Africa is a popular destination but travellers should take standard precautions. In cities, avoid displaying valuables, keep belongings secure, and do not walk alone in quiet areas after dark. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. When self-driving, plan fuel stops in advance, as distances between towns and petrol stations can be long. In national parks, never leave your vehicle except at designated points and always follow park regulations when viewing wildlife.

Question 9

What plugs and electricity are used in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

South Africa mainly uses Type M plugs with a 230-volt supply at 50 Hz, although Type C sockets are also found in some places. Travellers should carry a universal adaptor to ensure compatibility. Power cuts, known locally as load-shedding, can occur, but most hotels and lodges provide back-up systems such as generators or solar power.

Question 10

Can I self-drive in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

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.

Birkenhead House