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

Oude Werf

Experience Timeless Elegance In The Heart Of Stellenbosch

Situated on historic Church Street, Oude Werf blends heritage charm with contemporary luxury. Guests enjoy stylish rooms, South African cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and easy access to Stellenbosch’s renowned vineyards, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks. Perfect for exploring the Cape Winelands in comfort and style.

Situated on historic Church Street, Oude Werf blends heritage charm with contemporary luxury. Guests enjoy ...

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Plenty room

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These spacious, signature rooms on the Ground, First and Second floors enjoy airy views of our quiet central gardens or courtyard. Open plan-style layouts feature bedrooms with separate en suite bath, shower, vanity and toilet. 21st Century comforts are beautifully blended with soft tones, textures and unique historic styling inspirations.

Comfy room

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Located in the Hotel’s impressive new wing, overlooking the leafy courtyard and pool, these 21 compact open-plan rooms are eclectically styled, with the latest contemporary features and fittings, offset by chic vintage-inspired details and textures and offering twin, double or king size beds. All en-suite with luxury shower, some also feature a separate bath. Ground floor rooms enjoy shady garden patios, while rooms on the 2nd floor have step-out balconies.

Whimsy room

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These 12 rooms are located on both the ground and first floors of the original inn-house building, and in the adjacent Victorian wings overlooking the garden courtyard. With either double or twin beds, all include spacious luxury bathrooms with showers and walk-in dressing rooms. Average room + bathroom dimensions are approximately 35-40m ² + 6m².

Plenty room

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Comfy room

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Whimsy room

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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