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

Grand Dedale Country House

From €129 /person

4.5 Sustainability Rating

A symphony of luxury and nature's Wonders in the hear of the Cape Winelands

Nestled in Doolhof Wine Estate, our historic Manor House boasts six individually designed en-suite bedrooms and suites, offering 5-star luxury. For added privacy, a charming thatched cottage awaits honeymooners. Surrounded by the scenic Bainskloof Pass, the Estate is a gateway to outdoor adventures. Spacious verandas, dining areas, and lush gardens ensure your comfort. Enjoy delightful "Cap Classique" breakfasts and high tea buffets. A spa, wine tasting, and private cellar tours complete your Doolhof experience.

Nestled in Doolhof Wine Estate, our historic Manor House boasts six individually designed en-suite bedrooms ...

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Luxury Loft Room

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A cozy space with a charming thatched roof, accessed via a spiral staircase, offering a choice of king or twin beds, along with modern amenities such as free WiFi, air conditioning, TV, telephone, in-room safe, a tea and coffee tray, and a hairdryer. The bathroom features twin basins, a bathtub with an overhead shower, underfloor heating, and heated towel rails for your comfort.

Superior Loft Room

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A gorgeous space with a thatched roof, accessible via spiral stairs, offering extra-length king or twin beds, WiFi, air conditioning, TV, phone, safe, tea & coffee tray, hairdryer, seating area, and walk-in closet. The bathroom features twin basins, a bathtub with an overhead shower, underfloor heating, and heated towel rails.

Elegant Suite

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A spacious 50 sqm ground-floor oasis with direct access to a patio area, featuring extra-length king or twin beds, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, telephone, in-room safe, a tea and coffee tray, a hairdryer, a cozy seating area, and a luxurious bathroom with twin basins, a separate shower and bath, underfloor heating, and heated towel rails.

Romantic Cottage

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A spacious freestanding thatched cottage featuring free WiFi and air conditioning. On the ground floor, you'll find a large open-plan lounge, two bathrooms with a shower and a jet bath, a private veranda, a bar fridge, a tea and coffee tray, and a TV. Upstairs, a bedroom awaits with an extra-length king or twin bed and a separate toilet room.

Luxury Loft Room

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Superior Loft Room

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Elegant Suite

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Romantic Cottage

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What our travellers are saying

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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