South Africa travel guide
South Africa Tourism | South Africa Guide
You're Going to Love South Africa
In the diverse country that is South Africa, you'll see magnificent lions in the wild, marvel at mountainous backdrops, and enjoy beaches and the ocean.
All those natural beauties are paired with the cultural atmosphere in Cape Town and Johannesburg and the vast wineries in Cape Dutch.
What to do in South Africa
1. Spot the Big Five
South Africa's National Parks are the best spots to go on a safari and observe the local wildlife in their natural habitat. Kruger National Park is one of the country's most famous.
2. Learn About Zulu Culture
The Zulu, the largest ethnic group in South Africa, takes visitors on tours of local villages to learn more about their culture. The experience is enhanced during special ceremonies that tourists are invited to attend.
3. Follow the Liberation Trail
Understand South Africa's recent history with a visit to historical sites on the Liberation Trail between Constitution Hill and Robben Island.
4. Discover South Africa's Winemaking Industry
Explore the most famous wine regions in South Africa around Constantia, Cape Town, Durbanville, and Paarl.
5. Explore Cape Town
Cape Town is the oldest urban settlement in South Africa and one of the most multicultural cities in the country.
When to visit South Africa
The low season, from June to August, is the perfect time to visit South Africa if you want to observe wildlife.
September is the best month for whale watching and for the festival season in Johannesburg, which lasts for two months.
How to Get to South Africa
Entry Requirements
Passengers are requested to have a return ticket, by air or overland, when entering South Africa.
Citizens from most nationalities are issued a visa on arrival, valid for stays of up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry.
Plane
South Africa is served by two major international airports: Cape Town International Airport and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
Car
You can enter South Africa through Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Mozambique, Swaziland, or Zimbabwe.
If you're bringing your car, you'll need proof of ownership, insurance, your local driver's license, and a document for international customs. If you're renting a car to cross the border, check with the car rental company first.
Bus
Getting into South Africa overland by bus is one of the most convenient ways. Several bus companies have regular connections with neighboring countries.
At the border, passengers will need to disembark to go through customs and board the bus again after being processed.
Boat
South Africa is part of most large cruise ships routes, which include at least one stop in Cape Town.
Popular airports in South Africa
Popular airlines serving South Africa
Where to stay in South Africa
South Africa is well equipped with hotels and hostels, that range from affordable to luxury options.
Where to stay in popular areas of South Africa
Most booked hotels in South Africa
How to Get Around South Africa
Public Transportation
Most of the urban areas are well-equipped with local bus networks, efficient and cheap ways to get around.
Larger cities will also be served by private taxis. In some cities like Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg, and Cape Town, you can also opt for ride-sharing services.
Trains
The Shosholoza Meyl trains connect major cities in South Africa regularly. The tourist and economy classes are the most affordable, with a one-way ticket from Johannesburg to Cape Town costing approximately 690 ZAR (47 USD).
Bus
Most major cities are connected by regular long-distance buses. Ticket prices are calculated by distance, but short distances tend to be more expensive than longer ones.
Car
You can drive in South Africa with your local driver's license if it's in English and has your photo. Otherwise, you'll need to get an International Driving Permit. To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a credit card.
Plane
The more airlines flying a route, the cheaper the tickets will be. Local airline South African Airways operates a lot of the domestic flights, alongside its low-cost carrier Mango.
Best car hire deals in South Africa
Intermediate
5 adults, 3 Bags
£15/day
Compact SUV
4 adults, 2 Bags
£17/day
The Cost of Living in South Africa
A weekly trip to the grocery store can cost around 300 ZAR (20 USD). A meal at a cheap restaurant is 120 ZAR (8 USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though cash is best for smaller transactions. ATMs are also easy to find.