South Africa Travel Tips

The scenery in South Africa is as varied as it is dramatic. Rolling plains, majestic mountains, vast deserts, lush subtropical forests and golden beaches offer diversity to rival any other country on the African continent. The variety of wildlife is a special attraction. The Kruger Park supports more varieties of wildlife than any other park in Africa. Numerous smaller parks and private reserves offer opportunities to view game at close quarters rarely rivaled elsewhere.

The People

The cultures of South Africa mix in this vast land of Christian, Tribal Hindu and Islamic peoples to again offer a stunning diversity. Tribal African traditions seek your attention alongside western theatre and art galleries. Fine department stores and colorful markets abound.

(English and Afrikaans as well as 9 major tribal languages as official languages!)

Safety

In the cities, adhere to the following:

Don't walk alone in apparently deserted areas, especially in and around the cities. It is preferable and usually more enjoyable to walk with company or in groups. Don't carry large sums of cash in your purse or pocket, or display expensive jewelry. Be aware of the possibility of pick-pockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas. Make photocopies of the first few pages of your passport, air ticket and other important travel documents. Keep this separate from the originals. Don't leave money or valuables in a hotel room. Most hotels offer safety deposit box service, and ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage before leaving home.

In the wildlife areas:

Always remember that while some animals have become accustomed to the presence of people they are still wild animals. Keep your distance. It is illegal to feed any animal, make excessive noise to attract their attention, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph. Never get out of your vehicle except at designated points. Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent and spray it with insect repellant.

The best way to get the most out of your safari is to take an active interest in everything going on around you, not just the number of species you can see in the shortest possible time. Ask all the questions you can think of and take reference books on not only wildlife but birds, insects and trees and read up about everything you see.

Health

No compulsory vaccinations are needed.

Malaria is virulent in northern and eastern regions of South Africa. We strongly advise you8 to take ant-malaria prophylactics. Your personal physician will advise you of the most suitable drug available as certain drugs have lost their effectiveness.

It is advisable to buy travel insurance covering accidents, illness or hospitalization for the period of your stay.  People who may require emergency medical attention on safari are flown to any major city for the best medical attention available in Africa.

Water

Tap water in the major towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. In the more remote areas always boil it first, except if you’re staying at a lodge or hotel where drinking water is perfectly safe.

Chemists / pharmacies

Most chemists in the major towns are open from 08h30 to 12h30 and 14h00 to 17h00. Monday to Friday and 08h00 to 13h00 on Saturdays. Modern medical facilities and pharmaceutical supplies are available in all towns.

Accommodation

Superb facilities greet every traveler. The country's hotels and lodges are amongst the world's finest. Luxurious lodges are set in exotic locations, while comfortable tented camps are found in the main game parks.

Electricity

Power supply is 220/240 volt 50 cycle. Plugs are usually 13-amp 3 pin square (British type)

Banks

Banking hours are from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekdays (in country towns banks close between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.) and from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 on Saturdays.

Currency

Currency is the Rand. It is divided into 100 cents. Coins are issued in denominations of 2c, 5c, 10c, 50c, R1, R2, and R5, and bank notes in denominations of R10, R20, R50, R100, R200 and R500. Foreign currency may be converted into Rands at banks Hotels. 

Value Added Tax

V.A.T. of 14% is levied on all goods and accommodation. Prices displayed on all goods are inclusive of VAT. Keep receipts for goods purchased, as VAT payments can be refunded before your departure at any of the International Airports.

Credit Cards, Cash and Traveler's Checks

International credit cards are accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, lodges, camps, car rental firms, etc. However, many small shops in rural areas will not  accept them. American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa and MasterCard Traveler's Checks are widely accepted.

Take note that gas stations do not accept credit cards!

Tipping

A tip of 10% for good service is adequate. Service charges are frequently added and it is usual to tip a tour driver or guide at least US $5 a day.

Communications

Postal services are well organized in South Africa and you should have no problem sending or receiving letters. All major hotels have fax machines at the disposal of their guests as well as telex services. Telephone directories will list all the international dialing codes. Both local and long-distance calls are metered on a time basis.

When to go

The ideal time to visit South Africa is during the Winter/Spring months between May and September  to best view wildlife. Bear in mind that the seasons are exactly the opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. While days are warm during this time of the year, nights can be quite cool. Summertime is great, if one is keen on visiting coastal resorts.

Climate

The climate is dry and hot throughout the year, with sporadic rainfall occurring mainly in the summer between November and April.

Clothing

Lightweight casual clothes can be worn all year round, with a jacket or sweater for early winter mornings and evenings. On safari keep clothes to a minimum and mostly of neutral coloring - khakis, browns and greens. A sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant are a must. Bring a hat, good walking shoes and sun screen. Don't forget swim wear and binoculars. Some city restaurants  and clubs have dress codes - casual jacket and tie for men, informal dresses for women.

Laundry

Most hotels and lodges will offer a laundry service. In most places one could hire someone to do your washing.

Photography

South Africa offers breathtaking scenery,  wildlife and photographic opportunities which is unique in Africa. Remember, it is indeed a world in one country!

Be sure to bring your own photo supplies including plenty of film (video cassettes if you're bringing a camcorder) and batteries - they are readily available, but likely to be more expensive. A telephoto lens of at least 200 mm is useful for wildlife photography, and an ultra violet filter and lens cap are strongly recommended.

Driving

Driving is done on the left side of the road. Drivers require a valid license that must include a picture of the holder.

Be very careful in towns and villages not to leave your vehicle open and unattended. Take note that gas stations do not accept credit cards!

Car Rental

Car rental companies are represented at the major airports and in the cities.

Transportation by Air

Johannesburg International Airport and Cape Town International Airport are the main points of entry into the country.  Regular domestic flights are available daily. There are landing strips throughout the country and air charter services are available in in the major centers.

Customs Requirements

Visitors to South Africa are subject to clearance through customs. All visitors must have a valid passport. Visitors from the USA do not need visas to enter the country.

Time Differences

Throughout the year, Standard Time in South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time in the U.S.

African Safari Consultants
1042 Willow Creek Road # A101 - 240
Prescott, AZ 86301