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

Leeuwenbosch Country House

From €286 /person

Experience the natural beauty of the Eastern Cape at this classical, luxurious stay

A gorgeous renovated homestead, Leeuwenbosch Country House is settled amongst rolling gardens in the fantastic Amakhala Game Reserve. The lodge offers guests a combination of classical accents with a truly spectacular African safari experience. Visitors can head out on a game drive to spot the Big 5, before coming back and enjoying afternoon high tea. Amakhala Game Reserve is a fantastic location to experience the magnificence of the Eastern Cape. The reserve has been carefully cared for and those who do so have established various sustainable practices over generations. These include rhino conservation, removing invasive species, anti-poaching and various community initiatives through the Amakhala Foundation.

A gorgeous renovated homestead, Leeuwenbosch Country House is settled amongst rolling gardens in the fantastic ...

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Luxury Suite - Country House

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The Luxury Suite, located in the beautiful and classically decorated Country House, includes a fitted double bed with an en-suite bathroom with complimentary amenities. The suite also features a luxurious lounge with a sleeper couch that can accommodate a child.

Double Room - Country House

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The Double Room, located in the classically decorated and luxurious Country House, offers guests a luxurious place to relax on a veranda overlooking the gardens. The room includes a fitted double bed and a private bathroom with complimentary amenities.

Family Suite

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The spacious Family Suite offers the perfect setting for a safari holiday. The room includes 1 fitted double bed and 2 twin beds, as well as a private bathroom with complimentary amenities. The suite also includes a coffee and tea station, a heater and a hairdryer.

Luxury Suite - Country House

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Double Room - Country House

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Family Suite

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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