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

Moonglow Guesthouse

From €46 /person

Where serenity meets rustic charm in Simon's Town on the Cape Peninsula

Nestled amidst the serene slopes of the Simon's Town Mountain Range, Moonglow presents spacious rooms with a balcony that gazes upon False Bay. Within Moonglow's rooms, you'll find modern comforts, a private bathroom set against a backdrop of soft colours, wooden furnishings, and vibrant bedspreads that embody rustic charm. Begin your day with a hearty English breakfast on the outdoor terrace, soaking in panoramic views of False Bay and Hangklip Mountain. Or, lose yourself in a good book within the lounge's oversized lounge chairs. Located just a short 10-minute drive from Simon's Town, Moonglow Guesthouse provides complimentary on-site parking. This intimate retreat is particularly beloved by couples for its idyllic location and soulful ambiance.

Nestled amidst the serene slopes of the Simon's Town Mountain Range, Moonglow presents spacious rooms ...

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Queen Bed Room with balcony

1•

Enjoy the coziness of a queen-sized bed and the convenience of an en suite shower in this room. Discover thoughtful amenities like a tea tray, electric blankets, a climate-controlling fan, and well-equipped kitchenware to elevate your stay. Furthermore, delight in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of False Bay from this room.

Twin Bed/King Room with balcony

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Relish the coziness of single beds and the ease of an en suite bathroom, complemented by electric blankets, a climate-controlling fan, and fully-equipped kitchenware to elevate your experience. Additionally, your room offers a convenient tea tray, all while affording breathtaking panoramic views of False Bay.

Queen Bed no direct balcony access

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The Nautical Room immerses you in a captivating maritime atmosphere, featuring elegantly white-washed wooden furniture. Room one, in particular, offers a slightly more secluded haven, ideal for guests in search of privacy. Relax in the embrace of a queen-sized bed with a private en suite shower, though the sea view from this room is more understated in its charm.

Queen Bed Room with balcony

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Twin Bed/King Room with balcony

2•

Queen Bed no direct balcony access

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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