Travel Info
| Here follows some information that might be of assistance as you prepare for your trip to South or southern Africa - with us, of course! |  |
 |
 |
Entry documents / requirements
All visitors need passports valid for 6 months beyond the date of departure from South Africa. Visas are not required by citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union and the Commonwealth. Visitors must have a valid return ticket, and must be able to provide proof that they have enough money to support themselves during their stay.
Health / immunisation
Generally no immunisation is required, unless visitors have travelled through the Yellow Fever zone in Africa en route. Malaria is endemic in certain parts of the country / region (eg. Kruger National Park, Northern KwaZulu Natal, northern Botswana), and it is vital that precautions be taken if visitors plan to enter a malaria zone. A doctor or pharmacist should be consulted prior to departure in this regard.
Money
The South African unit of currency is the Rand. There are 100 cents in one Rand. Travellers’ cheques and foreign bank notes of all major currencies can be exchanged at all commercial banks and most hotels, shops and businesses. International credit cards such as VISA, MASTERCARD and AMERICAN EXPRESS are widely accepted.
Weather matters
South Africa’s climate covers a wide spectrum of different weather zones. The Western Cape has a typical Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters; the temperate central and northern areas have hot summers with spectacular thunder storms and frosty, clear, dry winters. The coastal areas of KwaZulu Natal are sub-tropical, with year-round beach weather and high humidity.Summer (October to March) temperatures range between 15 degrees C (60 degrees F) and 35 degrees C (96 degrees F). Temperatures range from below 0 degrees C (32 degrees F) to 20 degrees C (68 degrees F) in the winter months (April to September). With mid-summer in December, South Africa is a most welcome winter getaway for Northern Hemisphere visitors. South Africa’s sun is strong, with a high ultra-violet rating, so sun-screening products with an SPF of 15 and over are advisable.
Time
South African Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and 7 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Winter Time. There are no time zone changes within South Africa, or between South Africa and her neighbours.
Security
Crime is certainly a problem in South Africa, especially in big cities. However, some basic rules - which would really apply to wherever one is in the world - should keep one out of trouble :
# Passports, money, valuables, cameras should be locked in the hotel safe
# When walking in the cities, carry valuables discreetly and securely. Leavebehind those items you won’t need.
# Never leave your property unattended in a public place.
# Avoid deserted areas even in daylight.
# Ensure that your hotel room door is locked when you are in the room and whenever you leave it.
# When driving, keep your doors locked, and do not pick up hitch hikers.
# In general, use your common sense, don’t look terrified or lost, and smile – make friends!
Electricity
The standard power source in South Africa is 220 / 230 volts AC. Adaptors for hair dryers and razors can be obtained locally.
Trading hours
As a general rule, the following times apply :Banks : weekdays from 09h00 to 15h30; Saturdays from 08h30 to 11h00Shops : weekdays from 09h00 to 17h00; Saturdays from 09h00 to 13h00.In the major cities, these times are very often extended, and Sunday trade is common.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
VAT - set currently at 14% - is included in the retail price of most goods and services. Foreign tourists may claim VAT refunds on goods which they take out of South Africa. In order to do so, the original tax invoice must be retained - with a tax invoice number, date of issue, seller’s Vat registration number, plus name and address, the cost of the goods, a description of the goods, and the buyer’s name. Goods consumed or services rendered in the country do not qualify for VAT refunds.
Tipping
A 10% tip to waiters, barmen, porters and taxi-drivers is customary - but depends on the standard of the service received. Casual, bored, lackadaisical service should NOT be tipped. Restaurants usually do not add service charges to the bill.
Driving
If a visitor’s driving licence is written in English, or includes a photograph, it will be accepted in South Africa. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit should be obtained before arrival.Note that in South Africa, cars travel on the LEFT hand side of the road!
Travel Insurance
A travel insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is strongly advised. Travel agents will be able to advise in this regard.
Water
South Africa is one of the few countries in the world where tap water is drinkable and of a very high standard. Bottled mineral waters are available, but are not necessary. The wine and beer are even better!
