There’s nothing quite like fresh, firsthand travel insights from someone who has experienced it all.

Travel and Transportation

OR Tambo International Airport stands as Africa’s largest travel hub and Johannesburg’s primary airport, opening doors to a myriad of destinations across South and Southern Africa, along with East Africa and the enchanting Indian Ocean islands.

Cape Town International Airport: embark on a direct flight to Cape Town or connect through Johannesburg to explore the stunning destinations of South Africa’s Western Cape, including the Whale Coast, Cape Winelands, and Garden Route.

King Shaka International Airport: travelers heading to the game reserves, historic battlefields, and the stunning Indian Ocean coast of KwaZulu-Natal will arrive here through Johannesburg or Cape Town, with direct flights available from Dubai. A direct flight to Mauritius opens the door to an exciting safari and beach getaway in KZN.

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport: connects the breathtaking Kruger National Park and its exclusive reserves to the vibrant cities of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. A flight to Vilanculos effortlessly connects your journey to Kruger and Mozambique.

Hoedspruit Airport: arrive at the Kruger’s second airport from Johannesburg or Cape Town for seamless entry to the park’s exclusive reserves.

Skukuza Airport, the sole commercial airport within the Kruger National Park, offers daily flights connecting Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Port International Elizabeth Airport: the entrance to the thrilling Big 5 reserves of the Eastern Cape. Port Elizabeth stands out as a perfect destination for those embarking on a self-drive journey from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape through the scenic Garden Route.

George Airport: embark on an exciting journey straight into the heart of the Garden Route with a flight to George via Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Exploring South Africa is a breeze. Daily commercial flights connect all its cities, while private and chartered aircraft traverse the South African skies. Numerous lodges we suggest boast their own exclusive airstrips.

Road transfers take place in sleek and comfortable vehicles, and with its advanced infrastructure, South Africa is a perfect destination for car rentals. Ideal locations for an exhilarating self-drive holiday encompass Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. Numerous travelers heading to Kruger National Park opt for the breathtaking Panorama Route, and upon arriving at their safari lodgings, they will embark on guided game drives alongside fellow guests.

Have you heard that you can arrange your flights with Go2Africa? For additional details and common inquiries, please explore our Flights section.

Finance and Expenditure

The currency of South Africa is the South African rand. Currency from other countries can be easily swapped at banks, exchange offices, and numerous hotels. Many explorers opt to withdraw cash at ATMs, which are conveniently located across South Africa’s vibrant towns and cities. This option is not only more convenient, but it also often provides a more favorable exchange rate.

We suggest avoiding the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash and instead encourage using your credit card for significant purchases. Most major credit cards, including American Express, Mastercard, Visa, and Diners Club International, are commonly accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels, though they may not always be valid at petrol stations.

When you shop in South Africa, you have the opportunity to reclaim the VAT (a 15% value-added tax) on your purchases if you’re taking them out of the country, as long as the total value exceeds R250. Just remember to keep your tax invoices handy and make your claim at the airport before you depart.

Gratuity

In South Africa, tipping is a common practice, but it’s completely up to you. Hotels and lodges frequently implement a system where your tip is shared among the staff members. When dining out, it is customary to tip between 10–15% for service that ranges from good to excellent. As you navigate through bustling cities, you might encounter a friendly figure in a yellow bib, watching over your vehicle while it rests on the street, ready to ensure its safety in exchange for a few rands when you return.

Explore our guide for comprehensive tipping advice on your South Africa safari, or connect with one of our Africa Safari Experts – they’re eager to share their insights with you.

Essential Items to Bring

Your packing choices for a trip to South Africa will vary based on your destination and the time of year you plan to explore. With the country’s predominantly mild climate, you will find yourself at ease in lightweight attire throughout the summer. Be sure to bring a jacket and sturdy shoes for your journey, just in case. Cape Town is famous for its unpredictable weather that can change in an instant, while Johannesburg and the Kruger Park are marked by intense summer downpours.

If you’re heading to South Africa for a beach getaway, don’t forget to bring lots of sunscreen, your favorite swimsuits, and some comfy clothes for your daytime adventures. If you find yourself in the vibrant cities of Cape Town or Johannesburg, consider packing a few more stylish outfits for your evening escapades. South Africans tend to embrace a laid-back style, but it is wise to pack some formal attire if you plan to indulge in the country’s upscale hotels or set off on a lavish train adventure.

If you are heading to South Africa during the winter months, be sure to bring along some cozy layers, a warm coat, and sturdy boots – the temperatures can drop unexpectedly, particularly from June to August.

For your South Africa safari, be sure to check out the packing tips in our Africa Safari Guide travel advice section. Opt for lightweight, practical attire in neutral shades, complemented by a cozy fleece or jacket for those early morning and evening excursions.

And finally, wherever your journey takes you in South Africa, make sure to bring along a pair of comfortable walking shoes – from bustling city streets to breathtaking mountain trails, there’s an abundance of sights and experiences waiting for you to discover on foot!

Visa and Passport Guidelines

Every traveler heading to South Africa needs a passport that is valid for six months from the date of departure, along with at least one entirely blank page in the passport, not counting the last page.

Travelers from the USA, many Commonwealth nations (such as the UK and Australia), numerous Western European countries, and Japan can embark on their journey without the need for visas. Instead, they will receive a complimentary entry permit upon arrival, allowing them to explore for up to 90 days. Travelers from countries not mentioned above must secure a visa from a South African embassy or consulate before embarking on their journey.

It’s important to remember that kids under 18 need to have their own passports with them. Adventurous souls venturing to South Africa with little explorers in tow must ensure they have each child’s passport and unabridged birth certificate ready when applying for visas and upon arrival in the country.

Children journeying with guardians must present necessary documents – like letters of consent from their parents or custody court orders – that demonstrate they have the authorization to travel. Accessing South Africa might require specific documents for both entry and exit.

For comprehensive information on visa requirements and processing times, explore the South African Department of Home Affairs website.

Discovering South Africa

Chronicles and Commerce
Forged through one of the world’s most tumultuous pasts, South Africa stands out as a truly unique destination.

With archaeological sites that stretch back over 3 million years, South Africa’s rich history is intertwined with the lives of the Khoikhoi and San Bushmen, whose stories have been pushed to the edges of time. Iron Age African herders and farmers – the ancestors of today’s Zulu and Xhosa ethnic groups – were the initial settlers to arrive, soon followed by the Europeans, represented by Dutchman Jan van Riebeeck’s arrival in 1652.

Yet, it was the later arrival of the British that sparked 350 years of colonization and conflict, as settlers, missionaries, and empire builders forged a path of white rule. The ongoing fight for freedom has significantly shaped contemporary South Africa, which finally embraced genuine democracy in 1994.

South Africa stands as a formidable force on the continent, akin to the role of the United States on a global scale. Its economic might is evident, contributing a remarkable quarter of the total GDP of Africa. South Africa boasts a diverse economy rich in resources, featuring robust agricultural, mining, manufacturing, engineering, power generation, and financial sectors. Among its most significant exports are gold, platinum, wine, fruit, and coal.

Individuals and Traditions

The term ‘Rainbow Nation’ was introduced by the legendary Desmond Tutu to depict the vibrant tapestry of South African society, and it truly captures the essence of the land. Few countries can rival the rich tapestry of cultures found here, exemplified by its 11 official languages, with English serving as the long-established common tongue. Almost 80% of South Africa’s 50 million inhabitants identify with a black culture, while the remainder includes Indians, mixed-race individuals (affectionately known as coloureds), and English- or Afrikaans-speaking whites. There are also vibrant Jewish and Portuguese communities. In recent years, South Africa has welcomed a diverse array of African migrants and refugees, each bringing their own unique stories and experiences.

South Africa, much like many other African nations, is a land rich in spirituality, with 80% of its population identifying as Christian. Each year, a million people gather for the country’s largest Easter celebration, showcasing the vibrant faith that permeates the culture. Even with contemporary influences, age-old customs continue to thrive across much of the nation – sangomas (witch doctors) are frequently sought after by 60% of the populace, and the practice of using muti (traditional medicine) remains prevalent.

A land brimming with excitement, where every corner invites exploration and the spirit of its people thrives in the face of change. With its rich tapestry of prehistoric rock art and the brilliance of Nobel Prize Laureates, South Africa has given rise to renowned statesmen, writers, athletes, and musicians who have left an indelible mark on the world. The cuisine showcases a vibrant mix of cultures, inviting guests to experience a fusion of European, Asian, and African flavors, complemented by exceptional wines.

Scenery and Creatures

Located at the southern tip of Africa, this land boasts a variety of climates and a stunning 2,500 km (1,550 mi) coastline brimming with vibrant marine life, showcasing its remarkable natural diversity. Characterized by a flat semi-arid interior – the Karoo – South Africa’s landscapes feature towering mountain ranges, sub-tropical beaches, temperate forests, expansive grasslands, and dense bushveld. The Western Cape boasts breathtaking fynbos vegetation and a magnificent coastline, yet it’s in the north and east of the country where the majestic large animals thrive.

The Kruger National Park stands as the premier destination for encountering the Big 5, yet there are remarkable game reserves scattered throughout the nation. The coastal waters teem with the majestic presence of whales and the formidable great white sharks, offering thrilling encounters up close. A vibrant hub of wildlife, South Africa serves as a crucial sanctuary for elephants, rhinos, turtles, and a variety of predators, while its extensive bird list offers exceptional opportunities for bird watching.

South Africa offers an exhilarating array of wildlife experiences, featuring the iconic Big 5 in the Kruger Park and its exclusive reserves. From July to November, the Whale Coast becomes a spectacular site for whale watching, while Gansbaai near Cape Town invites thrill-seekers to try shark-cage diving. For those seeking malaria-free adventures, the Eastern Cape and Madikwe Game Reserve provide incredible opportunities to see the Big 5. Additionally, KwaZulu-Natal is a haven for both game viewing and birding enthusiasts.