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

Long Lee Manor

From €607 /person

An Eastern Cape manor house showcasing the area’s rich heritage amongst pristine nature

Stay at Long Lee Manor perched above the awe-inspiring plains of Shamwari Game Reserve. With its redesigned Edwardian suites and stunning rim-flow pool, this lodge offers elegance amidst nature. Alongside the breathtaking landscapes, there’s the historic Manor House, originally built in 1910, and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. These include a fitness centre, poolside bar, dining room with indoor and outdoor seating areas, as well as an inviting boma area. Guests can also enjoy spa treatments, birding, game drives, guided walking safaris and a visit to the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. The thoughtfully designed rooms and suites harmonise with the surroundings, while the restored Manor House adds a touch of charm to every visit.

Stay at Long Lee Manor perched above the awe-inspiring plains of Shamwari Game Reserve. With ...

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Long Lee Plains Room

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The Long Lee Plains Rooms offer stunning views of the Shamwari plains. The rooms, of which 1 is wheelchair-friendly, feature an en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower as well as an outdoor shower. Other amenities include a veranda, a minibar, an electronic safe air-conditioning and a Nespresso coffee machine.

Long Lee Manor House Suite

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The Long Lee Manor House Suite offers 2 luxurious suites, each with a balcony allowing stunning views of the rim-flow pool and waterhole, as well as en-suite bathrooms with a bath and shower. This 1910 manor house includes amenities like a minibar, Nespresso coffee machine, electronic safe, and air-conditioning.

Long Lee Garden Room

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The Long Lee Garden Rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding plains, along with private verandas to enjoy the serenity of the perfectly groomed gardens. Perfect for families, friends, or larger groups, the rooms can be interconnected for added convenience. Amenities include an en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower, minibar, electronic safe, and air-conditioning.

Long Lee Family Suite

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The Long Lee Family Suite is ideal for families, providing 2 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms featuring a bath and shower, a living and dining area, plus a veranda and private plunge pool with picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Other amenities include a minibar, Nespresso coffee machine, electronic safe and air-conditioning.

Long Lee Plains Room

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Long Lee Manor House Suite

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Long Lee Garden Room

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Long Lee Family Suite

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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