South Africa is your gateway to some of the world's most thrilling adventures. Whether you're keen on diving with great white sharks, setting off on a game drive to spot lions, or unwinding on sandy beaches framed by rugged mountains, your South African journey promises endless excitement.
Capital City: Pretoria (Executive), Bloemfontein (Judicial), Cape Town (Legislative)
Population: 60 million (2021 est.)
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone: South Africa Standard Time (GMT+2)
Emergency Number: 10111
Outlet: Types C, D, M and N
Travel Guide
South Africa: Trip Preparation & Destination Information
Your complete travel guide to South-africa
Overview
Packing List
Active Shoes
Perfect for adventuring along hidden trails, exploring hiking paths, and discovering waterfalls. We absolutely adore durable hiking sandals, like Chacos or Keens, especially when venturing in warmer climates!
Protect Your Tummy
We suggest packing Pepto Bismol and Imodium for those unexpected tummy troubles. If you're someone who often feels queasy on the move, having Dramamine on hand can be a real lifesaver!
Hat & Sunglasses
Let's keep those rays away from our eyes and face.
Sunblock with SPF
Nothing spoils a getaway like a lobster-red sunburn. We suggest keeping your skin safe from harmful rays by stocking up on SPF.
Swimsuit
Since we'll be spending plenty of time in the water, having an extra swimsuit on hand is definitely a smart move.
Towel
We always reach for quick-dry options.
Day Pack
For toting around cameras, snacks, sunscreen, water, and more.
Bug Spray
We suggest using bug spray containing DEET or Picaridin to steer clear of pesky bug bites and keep yourself healthy throughout your adventure.
Binoculars
Perfect for catching sight of the Big Five on your safari adventure.
Hand Sanitizer
Do we need to say anything else?
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeping ourselves hydrated is a key ingredient for a successful trip. We'll have access to clean water for refills during our entire stay.
Portable Chargers
Perfect for keeping your batteries charged while you're out and about.
Travel Adapter
We suggest bringing a universal plug adapter as your best option.
Ear Plugs
Are you a light sleeper? It's handy to have if you end up with a snoring roommate.
Day Packs
Perfect for those extended adventure-packed days.
Laundry Soap
Individual packets are ideal for quick sink washes when you're running short on clean outfits.
Local Currency
We suggest grabbing some local currency before you head out. If you wait until you're at the airport, you might end up losing about 15% due to exchange rates. While it's true that many spots accept cards, those charming little local eateries often prefer cash only.
Call Your Bank
Banks can sometimes put a hold on your card if they notice any unusual transactions. We suggest giving them a quick call to inform them about your travel plans, including your destinations and travel dates.
Always pack extra underwear!
Language Information
Language: There are at least 35 languages indigenous to South Africa. The 4 most common languages are Zulu (22.7%), Xhosa (16%), Afrikaans (13.5%), and English (9.6%).
Common Phrases
Good morning
Sawubona (Zulu), Mholo (Xhosa), Goeie more (Afrikaans)
Good night
Ulale kahle (Zulu), Mholo (Xhosa), Lekker Slaap (Afrikaans)
Good bye
Hamba khale (Zulu), Sala kakuhle (Xhosa), Totsiens (Afrikaans)
Thank you
Ngiyabonga (Zulu), Enkosi (Xhosa), Dankie (Afrikaans)
How are you?
Unjani (Zulu), Icomo estas (Xhosa), Hoe gaan dit (Afrikaans)
I’m fine
Ngiyaphila (Zulu), Ndiphilile (Xhosa), Dit gaan goed met my (Afrikaans)
I’m Sorry
Ngiyaxolisa (Zulu), Ngiyaxolisa (Xhosa), Ek is jammer (Afrikaans)
How much?
Malini (Zulu), Yimalini (Xhosa), Hoeveel kos dit (Afrikaans)
Local Weather
Fun Facts
• South Africa is truly a wildlife wonderland! Home to the iconic Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and African buffalo—this vibrant country also offers encounters with great white sharks, adorable African penguins, graceful giraffes, and striking zebras, just to name a few. It's amazing to think that even though South Africa covers just 1% of the earth's land surface, it harbors 10% of the world's bird, fish, and plant species, along with 6% of its mammal and reptile species. What a treasure trove of biodiversity!
• While we often picture lions as fierce predators, during a safari, you're more likely to catch them lounging in the shade or snoozing under a tree. These majestic creatures usually do their hunting at night and spend about 20 hours each day just relaxing.
• Despite its hefty build and round shape, the hippopotamus is surprisingly athletic and can sprint at an impressive speed of 20 miles per hour.
• South Africa proudly wears the title of the 'Rainbow Nation' due to its rich tapestry of diverse cultures. With an impressive array of 11 official languages, including Zulu, Xhosa, English, Afrikaans, Ndebele, Sesotho, Northern Sotho, Setswana, Swati, Tshivenda, and Xitsonga, it's truly a cultural mosaic.
• In 1994, Nelson Mandela made history as South Africa's first democratically elected president. Remarkably, it was also the first time he had the opportunity to vote, at the age of 75.
Tipping Guide
Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.
Guides USD $5-10 per guide and safari tracker
Drivers USD $10 per person/per day
Restaurants(full service) 15% of total bill
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Visa?
Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your return date and contains at least two blank pages. Otherwise, entry into some countries might be denied.
Do you recommend travel insurance?
How much should I pack?
Since we'll be using shared transfers and spaces during our tour, we suggest all travelers pack as lightly as they can. Please take a look at our luggage restrictions below.
What does public transportation look like?
In South Africa's major cities, public transportation options consist of public buses, passenger trains (Metrorail), and public taxis—though it's generally not recommended to use public taxis. Private company taxis are also available.