Here's all the practical information you need to know to enjoy a smooth visit to South Africa!
Time Differences
South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year, making it an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.
Getting here
Johannesburg International Airport is the major airport in South Africa and is the hub for 45 airlines from all five continents. Flights from Europe are generally overnight and just a sleep away - an aperitif, dinner, sound sleep, and a good breakfast - and voila, you're in South Africa! The direct flights between the USA and Johannesburg or Cape Town are about 15 hours, and flights between London and Johannesburg take about 12 hours.
Passports and Visas
For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for vacation, entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa.
Travelers from certain regions of the world (Scandinavia, Japan, the USA, and most Western European and Commonwealth countries) do not need to formally apply for a visa. Upon arrival in South Africa, countries falling into this category will automatically be given a free entry permit sticker that outlines how long they may remain in the country. This automatic entry permit is usually for a maximum of 90 days, though the immigration officer may tailor the time period according to the airline tickets held. Foreign nationals from some other countries are offered this service, but for a maximum of 30 days. If visitors want to stay for a longer period, they will have to apply formally for a visa, as opposed to relying on the automatic entry permit.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website at:
http://home-affairs.pwv.gov.za. For South African missions abroad, visit
http://www.dfa.gov.za/foreign/sa_abroad/index.htm.
Banks and Money
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up R1 (one Rand). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureau de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted.
Tipping
It is customary, but not obligatory, to tip to anyone who performs a service, such as waiters and waitresses, petrol pump attendants, porters, parking attendants etc. Tips for waiters and waitresses are usually 10% of the cost of the meal, or more if the service was excellent. Otherwise R2 - R5 is given depending on the service provided and the environment.
Tax
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 14% VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced.
Currency
The currency in South Africa is the Rand. The Rand is divided into 100 cents.
Notes that are issued are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10.
Coins are available as R5, R2, R1, 50c., 20c. 10c, 5c, 2c and 1c.
Travelers Cheques and Overseas currency can be exchanges for South African Rands at travel agency offices, banks and some businesses. Various rates of commission are charged. Banking hours are generally from 09h00 to 15h30 on week days and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. Banks are closed on Sundays.
Disabled Travelers
Generally speaking, our facilities for disabled visitors can be improved, and this is an area our government is working on. An increasing number of accommodation establishments have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Almost every national park has at least one accessible chalet and many accommodation establishments have one or two wheelchair-friendly rooms. Most of our sports stadiums have accessible suites, stands or areas for wheelchairs near accessible parking as well as special toilet facilities. Most public buildings also caters for wheelchair access.
Clothing
The seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are directly opposite to those of the Northern Hemisphere. For summer months, lightweight (cottons and linens), short-sleeved clothes are best, although a light jersey/jumper might be needed for the cooler evenings. Umbrellas and raincoats are essential for the summers and the Western Cape winters. Warmer clothes are needed for the winter months.
Electricity
South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz
Exceptions: Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V)
Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. Adaptors can be purchased but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer.
Health and Safety
Many foreigners are unaware that South Africa has a well-developed infrastructure, high standards of water treatment and medical facilities equal to the best in the world. Here we address any health and safety questions you may have.
Hospitals and medical care
In a great many medical disciplines, South Africa is a global leader. In fact, South African trained doctors are sought after all over the world, so this should give an indication of the standard of medical care available. There is a large network of public and private hospitals countrywide, offering excellent service. However, clients must have adequate health insurance to cover the fees private hospitals charge.
Road safety
Our transport infrastructure is excellent and our roads are in good condition. However, the distances between towns are significant, so if you're planning to self-drive, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary to ensure they don't drive long distances as fatigue is a major cause of road accidents. Avoid long car journeys that necessitate driving at night as it always carries more risk. Also, in some of the more remote rural areas, the roads are not fenced so there may be stray animals on the road - which could be very dangerous at night. (Cows don't have headlights.)
We have very strict drinking and driving laws - with a maximum allowable alcohol blood content of 0.05%. Translated that means about one glass of wine for the average woman and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average or large man. Our speed limits are 120kmph on the open road, 100kmph on smaller roads and between 60 and 80kmph in towns. Be aware that even major national roads cut through residential areas so there may be a speed limit of 80 or 60kmph on a road that looks like an autobahn. This is to protect pedestrians, especially children, so we really do encourage people to comply.
Driving
All visitors intending to drive are required to obtain an international drivers permit, visitors found driving without a permit will be fined and not permitted to continue on their journey. Visitors will also not be able to rent a car without a valid driver's permit. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory and strictly enforced by law.
Shopping
Shops in South Africa are generally found in malls and shopping centers which are well frequented - especially at month end and during weekends. Most shopping centers have a comprehensive range of banks, retailers, entertainment and eateries. Locally produced goods are generally of a high quality, and are widely available. Imported goods are also available from some stores. Shopping hours vary widely in rural and cosmopolitan areas, but in the major shopping centers, business hours for retailers are 09h00 - 17h00 Monday to Saturday and 09h00 - 13h00 on Sundays. This doesn't include banks. In small towns and rural areas, many businesses close at 13h00 on Saturdays and don't open at all on Sundays. Businesses in predominantly Moslem areas are closed between 12h00 and 14h00 on Fridays.
Security
Because of the high crime rate in South African cities, it is unwise to travel alone at night and caution should be exercised during the day as well. Avoid deserted areas, and don't display valuables such as cash, jewelry or photographic equipment which will make you a target.
What to Bring on your holiday to South Africa
1. If you're going on safari, pack comfortable walking shoes and khaki, brown or beige casual clothes. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers will help protect you against the sun and insect bites. Take a warm jacket for game drives; and, if you're going in summer, make sure it's water-proof.
2. Smart-casual clothes for eveningwear, although a few up-market destinations will expect something more formal - check with your travel consultant if you're not sure.
3. Malaria tablets, insect repellent and (if necessary) a mosquito net.
4. Sun block, sunglasses, hat
5. Prescription medications: make sure you have enough to last during your trip, as well as a copy of the prescription's
6. Over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medicine (just in case!) if you think you'll have trouble finding a pharmacy on your trip
7. Visa or MasterCard credit card and/or Travelers Cheques - Diners and American Express are not always accepted. Keep travel documents in a safe place - many airlines no longer resubmit lost tickets and require a police affidavit if you want to avoid paying the full fare for their replacement.
General Safety Tips
1. If you're on a guided tour, your chances of encountering problems are minimal - tour operators make it their business to know the areas they travel to so you are never at any undue risk.
2. If you're traveling alone, keep up-to-date with local news so you know about potential "hot spots". http://www.africanews.org/ carries top stories from most of Africa's local newspapers, and is updated daily.
3. Get a local perspective - ask someone where you're staying to give you a run-down on any unsafe areas, and codes of dress and behavior.
4. As with anywhere in the world, when you're in a city err on the side of caution. Don't openly carry valuables. If you must carry your passport and money, keep them in a buttoned-down pocket or well-concealed on your person.
5. Driving in Africa can often be a pretty adventurous undertaking. In many countries, and particularly in rural areas, roads are often poorly maintained and it's not unusual to come across large domestic animals such as sheep and cattle. The best advice: stay alert, use your seatbelts and avoid traveling at night.
6. Avoid deserted areas, particularly at night. If you're in a car, try and park in well-lit populated areas; always keep it locked - even when you're in it; and don't leave valuables where they can be seen.
7. If you're thinking of hitchhiking, you'll need to understand the high risks involved. It is often exciting, always potentially dangerous - particularly in around urban centers or after dark - and isn't advised if safety is a priority.
8. The best advice for security when you travel: simply stay aware of what's going on around you. If you do this, you have a good chance of enjoying a problem-free holiday.
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