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

Future Found Sanctuary

From €266 /person

A regenerative retreat in a nature sanctuary on the slopes of Table Mountain

Experience the 5-star regenerative journey at Future Found Sanctuary, nestled on Cape Town's Table Mountain. Connect with nature and admire elemental design and local art in the villas and gardens. This secluded sanctuary is a Regenerative Hotel (TM) and serves as a central hub to explore the region's biodiverse wonders. Guests can also enjoy guided hikes, a fitness centre, heated pools, 5 serene gardens, and a natural plunge pool, or indulge in top wellness experiences, including yoga and spa treatments. Explore the boutique curio store selling locally-made items and stay connected with Wi-Fi at all villas. Personalised service from butlers and housekeeping ensures a splendid stay, while talented chefs craft delectable farm-to-table dishes that will delight the senses.

Experience the 5-star regenerative journey at Future Found Sanctuary, nestled on Cape Town's Table Mountain. ...

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Our top picks

Trips we think you'll love whilst staying at Future Found Sanctuary

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Maison Noir - Noon

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The Noon Luxury Suite at Maison Noir Villa features a king-size bed and en-suite bathroom with a sink-in concrete bath and shower. Immerse in nature with an additional outdoor shower. Enjoy mountain views from the top floor deck area and unwind in the private lounge/study area.

Maison Noir - Solstice

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The Solstice Master Suite within Maison Noir Villa boasts a king-size bed, an oversized en-suite bathroom, and a lounge enclave. Enjoy complete privacy with your own enclosed private garden, entrance, and parking. The luxurious design features botanical wallpaper in the TV lounge and a cosy fireplace.

Villa Verte - Day Break

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The Day Break suite at Villa Verte Villa offers breathtaking mountain and treetop views from every window. Indulge in velvety sofas, a luxurious king-size bed, and vibrant floral wallpaper, perfect for design-lovers. Enjoy the convenience of an en-suite bathroom, lounge, walk-in closet, and a private office. Wake up to valley and mountain vistas from the balcony.

VIlla Verte - Twilight

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The Twilight room at Villa Verte Villa boasts breathtaking views of Hout Bay Valley and the surrounding mountains. The room includes local craftsmanship, chic strelitzia wallpaper, a king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom, and a work area. Unwind on the balcony while taking in the valley and mountain vistas.

Maison Noir - Nightfall

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The Nightfall Luxury Suite at Maison Noir Villa features a king-size bed, an oversized en-suite bathroom, and a lounge enclave with a cosy fireplace. Embrace nature with an outdoor shower and access a rooftop patio from the loft studio, perfect for an additional bedroom, or via the private garden, courtyard and swimming pool.

Maison Noir - Sunrise

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The Sunrise Luxury Suite at Maison Noir Villa boasts a king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with a sink-in concrete bath and shower, as well as an additional outdoor shower for a nature-inspired experience. Enjoy mountain views from the top floor deck area, and unwind in the private lounge/study area or small garden.

Maison Noir - Equinox

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The Equinox Grand Master Suite at Maison Noir Villa offers stunning views of Cape Town's mountain ranges from the king-size bed and stylish TV lounge with a built-in fireplace. The en-suite bathroom features a bathtub and shower. With direct access to the enormous garden, heated swimming pool, and mountain views.

Villa Verte - Dawn

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The Dawn room at Villa Verte Villa brings nature indoors with sansevieria leaf wallpaper and a tranquil ambiance. Specially curated furnishings add a designer touch to this luxurious 37m2 room. Enjoy a king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom, and a work area. Unwind on the balcony while marvelling at the valley and mountain views.

Villa Verte - Dusk

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The Dusk suite in Villa Verte Villa offers sweeping views of Hout Bay Valley and surrounding mountains. The suite boasts a king-size bed, a generous en-suite bathroom, and a private lounge area. Stay productive with a work desk and unwind on the cantilevered balcony.