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

theLAB Franschhoek

From €81 /person

A luxurious eco-tech escape in the Winelands of Franschhoek

Set against the culinary epicentre of the Winelands, theLAB Franschhoek is a one-of-a-kind eco-tech stay. Each room features a built-in automation system that can be controlled by remotes or voice activation, so guests can request the system to close the blinds or perform multiple other tasks with complete ease. With an onsite garden and a range of dining options both at theLAB and around vibrant Franschhoek, this stay is the perfect stopover for any foodie who also wishes to travel more sustainably. TheLAB also features a range of sustainable initiatives ranging from solar power to e-Bikes, no single-use plastic and even puts excess green energy back into the power grid.

Set against the culinary epicentre of the Winelands, theLAB Franschhoek is a one-of-a-kind eco-tech stay. ...

Find it on the map

Our top picks

Trips we think you'll love whilst staying at theLAB Franschhoek

View all trips

Superior with fireplace

1•

The Superior Room, which can accommodate 2 guests, features a cosy atmosphere with a fireplace, and theLAB automation system that includes a bedside automated coffee machine, and a smart shower in the en-suite bathroom.

Superior Room

1•

The Superior Room, which sleeps 2 guests, is fitted with theLAB automation system, which includes a smart bedside coffee machine, as well as a smart shower in the en-suite bathroom, a fridge, a TV and wheelchair access.

Deluxe Room

1•

The Deluxe Room features an extra-length king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom and theLAB automation system. The room also includes an automated coffee machine, a fridge, a TV and wheelchair access.

Family Superior

3•

The Family Superior Room features a main bedroom with a king-size bed, 2 single beds in a separate room and a shared bathroom with a shower and bath. The room is fitted with theLAB automation system, and an automated coffee machine and can only accommodate children above the age of 12.

Economy Room

1•

The Economy Room features an extra-length queen size bed, a separate bathroom with both a shower and bath, as well as theLAB automation system. The room is also equipped with a fridge, air conditioning, a TV and an automated coffee machine.

Superior with fireplace

1•

Superior Room

1•

Deluxe Room

1•

The Deluxe Room features an extra-length king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom and theLAB automation system. The room also includes an automated coffee machine, a fridge, a TV and wheelchair access.

Family Superior

3•

Economy Room

1•

Featured Trips

Discover the extraordinary

Have Questions?

Our FAQs about Cape Winelands

Recent postcards

What our travellers are saying

All Reviews

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