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

Woodbury Lodge

From €382 /person

3.4 Sustainability Rating

Secluded stone-and-thatch luxury lodge in Amakhala Game Reserve

Opened by the Gush family in 1999, Woodbury Lodge is an intimate, family-run lodge on Amakhala Game Reserve. Many of our staff at Woodbury Lodge have grown up in the area and take pride in ensuring that your African safari experience is a memorable one. Woodbury Lodge offers a secluded base from which to experience exciting Big 5 game viewing in the heart of the Eastern Cape bushveld. Nestled discreetly against a cliff in the lush riverine bush, the Lodge offers spectacular views of the Bushman’s River valley. Guests are accommodated in 7 comfortable stone–and–thatch sleeping lodges, surrounded by indigenous trees alive with birdsong. Each room has air conditioning, en–suite bathrooms with heated floors and a private deck with magnificent views over the plains. Within the portfolio are 2 family lodges that sleep up to 4 guests, allowing families to enjoy the African bush together. The seclusion of each suite, along with the design of the bathrooms and individual outdoor relaxation areas, enable our visitors to enjoy the unique setting and breathtaking views at their leisure. The dining area and lounge are perfectly positioned with expansive decks overlooking the Woodbury plains, taking centre stage for unforgettable sunrises or evening drinks around the fire under the African stars.

Opened by the Gush family in 1999, Woodbury Lodge is an intimate, family-run lodge on ...

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Family King/twin Rooms

3•

Family Rooms with ensuite bathrooms, airconditioning and viewing decks. Bathrooms have bath, shower and underfloor heating. Includes partitioned off room with two single beds for children.

King/Twin

1•

Double or Twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms, airconditioning and viewing decks. Bathrooms have bath, shower and underfloor heating.

Family King/twin Rooms

3•

Family Rooms with ensuite bathrooms, airconditioning and viewing decks. Bathrooms have bath, shower and underfloor heating. Includes partitioned off room with two single beds for children.

King/Twin

1•

Double or Twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms, airconditioning and viewing decks. Bathrooms have bath, shower and underfloor heating.

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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