Question 1

Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

How long should I stay in the Cape Town area?

Accepted Answer

For the ideal first-time experience, we suggest a 4-night stay. This allows enough time to cover Cape Town's top attractions: Table Mountain, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape Point, Cape Peninsula, and the Cape Winelands. If possible, extending your stay is worthwhile to fully relish the city's offerings. Cape Town also serves as an excellent hub for exploring numerous attractions from a central location.

Question 3

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

Can I combine Cape Town with a safari?

Accepted Answer

For those with limited time, the reserves in Cape Town’s surrounds are ideal. The Western Cape game reserves near Cape Town promise remarkable safari moments. Reserves like Sanbona and Melozhori can be reached within a 2-3 hours drive from the city, while the Garden Route area offers various thrilling options with a unique experience of its own. Find out more on our blog How to Combine a Cape Town Holiday with a Safari.

Question 5

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.

Question 6

Why go to Cape Town and surrounds?

Accepted Answer

With an indescribable allure best experienced in person, Cape Town stands as one of the world’s best cities. What’s more, it holds another must-see in South Africa, an incredible flat-topped mountain towering over the city, a.k.a. Table Mountain. A well-rounded destination, travellers can look forward to natural sights like majestic mountain ranges, white sandy beaches, and rolling vineyards. Add to that scenic coastal drives, a blend of diverse cultures, world-class fine dining, gourmet markets and shops, and even the opportunity to access a malaria-free realm of wildlife. Read Our Complete Guide to Cape Town to learn more.

Question 7

What currency is used in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

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.

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