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

Hlosi Game Lodge

From €445 /person

4.1 Sustainability Rating

Tranquil family-friendly safari retreat in the Eastern Cape

The 4-star rated Hlosi Game Lodge is a tranquil grassland retreat offering rich game-viewing and luxurious accommodation for the whole family. Nestled along the gentle curve of a hill with the river below, the private luxury suites at Hlosi have stunning views over the surroundings. Guests can enjoy spotting animals from the comfort of their deck or even the indulgent deep-soaking bath in their suite. The main lodge includes an elegant lounge and dining area, and a hard-to-leave bar overlooking the swimming pool and waterhole. Activities include safari drives around the Big 5 Amakhala Reserve, guided by experienced rangers.

The 4-star rated Hlosi Game Lodge is a tranquil grassland retreat offering rich game-viewing and ...

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Luxury King Suite

1•

The Luxury King Suite is open plan, with a lounge and either 1 king-size or 2 twin beds. The en-suite bathroom comes with both an indoor and outdoor shower, plus a bath. A private deck is perfect for game viewing and sundowners.

Luxury King / Twin Suite

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King or Twin Beds, Spa baths, Indoor and outdoor showers, Air-conditioning, Private outdoor deck, Air-conditioning, Fireplaces, Under floor heating Bar fridge and coffee/ tea facilities.

Family Suite

3•

The Family Suite at Hlosi is a 2 bedroom en-suite with a separate lounge opening up onto the beautiful deck. The main bedroom has a king-size bed with both indoor and outdoor showers, and a deep-soak bath. The second bedroom has 2 twin beds, a bath, and an indoor shower.

Luxury Family Safari Tent

3•

The Luxury Family Tent is a tented suite with 2 bedrooms, built on a raised wooden platform with 180-degree views, and is perfect for families. The main bedroom has a king-size bed, while the second bedroom has 2 twin beds. A full en-suite bathroom joins the rooms.

Luxury Safari Tent

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The Luxury Safari Tent offers a large en-suite bedroom complete with modern conveniences as well as a lounge and viewing deck overlooking the surrounding bush. Amenities include air-conditioning, electric blankets and a mini-bar fridge.

Luxury King Suite

1•

Luxury King / Twin Suite

2•

King or Twin Beds, Spa baths, Indoor and outdoor showers, Air-conditioning, Private outdoor deck, Air-conditioning, Fireplaces, Under floor heating Bar fridge and coffee/ tea facilities.

Family Suite

3•

Luxury Family Safari Tent

3•

Luxury Safari Tent

1•

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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