- Affordable
During these tough times, who doesn’t want an affordable holiday? In SA, you can even afford luxury and have spending money for shopping and other treats!
- Natural Beauty
South Africa’s scenic wonders are legendary. From Table Mountain to God’s Window, our mountains, forests, coasts and deserts will feast your eye and lift your spirit…
- World-class facilities
Whether you opt for Afro-chic or authentic Africa, you’ll find it easy to get around, find a comfortable place to stay, have a great meal, connect.
South Africa is the adventure capital of the world. With over 130 adventures and counting, there is something for everyone from mountain walks to shark cage-diving!
In sunny South Africa, our great weather invites you to enjoy the outdoors, play golf year-round and take advantage of the nearly 3000km coastline…
- Rainbow Nation
The Rainbow Nation celebrates all its African and immigrant cultures. Find out how friendly our people are whilst you try your tongue at 11 official languages!
- Diverse Experiences
Go almost anywhere in SA and experience the ultimate combo of nature, wildlife, culture, adventure, heritage and vibe – you’re spoilt for choice, so pack it in!
- Wildlife
Warning! Watching wildlife is addictive. First you start with the Big Five in so many ways, then whales, penguins, meerkats, wild dogs, birds, dung beetles…
- Freedom Struggle
Discover a nation’s struggle for freedom whilst following the footsteps of Mandela, Hector Pieterson and many other celebrated revolutionaries. It will touch and inspire you.
- Responsible Tourism
In SA you can travel with care as you explore our protected areas, contribute to social and conservation projects, buy recycle art and stay green.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
REQUIREMENTS:
See “CONSULAR SERVICES” page
TIME ZONE
GMT+1 (Summer) GMT+2 (Winter)
FLIGHT TIME
11 Hours – direct flight with Air France
DRIVING
South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road. Hiring a vehicle is one of the most affordable options for getting around and also one of the best ways to experience the nation’s breathtaking scenery.
TRANSFERS
Pre-booked transfers offer a relaxing way of seeing the country.
TAXIS
Metered taxies are widely available throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Popular taxi apps — such as Uber — are great for getting around cities.
CURRENCY
RAND
BANKS
The banks are generally open from 9am to 3.30pm Mondays through Fridays, and 8.30am to 11am on Saturdays, but those at the airports adjust their hours to accommodate international flights. The major banks have branches as well as automated teller machines (ATMs) in most large towns – and all over the cities.
Credit cards and cash
All major credit cards can be used in South Africa, with American Express and Diners Club enjoying less universal acceptance than MasterCard and Visa.
LANGUAGES
South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken throughout the country.
PHONING
South Africa has a well-developed communications infrastructure, with extensive landline phone networks and four mobile phone service providers – Cell C, MTN, Vodacom and Virgin Mobile – with far-reaching coverage. Phonecards and Worldcall can be purchased at most retail stores, petrol stations, post offices and airports. You can rent mobile phones from the airport on arrival.
TIPPING
10-15% in restaurants and for tour guides.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
South Africa is a year-round destination with the climate varying all over the country. Summer runs from November to March, making the southwest hot and dry, while the winter brings mild, dry temperatures to the tropical northeast coast.
MEDICAL SERVICES
Medical facilities in cities and larger towns are world-class, but you will find that in rural areas the clinics and hospitals deal with primary health needs; Trained medical caregivers are deployed round the country, so help is never far away.
Useful websites
Tourist information, South Africa Tourism, wwwsouthafrica.net
To know if you need a visa to get to South Africa, Ministry of Home affairs, http://home- affairs.pwv.gov.za
SA consulates abroad: http://www.dfa.gov.za/foreign/sa_abroad/index.htm.
South African airports, Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) : www.airports.co.za
Driving in South Africa, Automobile Association of South Africa : www.aasa.co.za
Health : www.travelclinic.co.za
Maps and distance between the cities: www.saexplorer.co.za
Car rental :
www.avis.co.za
www.imperialcarrental.co.za
Accomodation
www.sa-venues.com
www.roomsforafrica.com
www.stayanight.co.za
Kruger National Park
www.sanparks.org