South Africa

The official currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is denoted by the symbol “R” and is subdivided into 100 cents. The currency is widely accepted throughout the country, and you can use it for various transactions, including shopping, dining, and transportation. It’s advisable to exchange your currency for South African Rand upon arrival in the country, as it may not be widely accepted to use foreign currencies for everyday transactions.

There are numerous banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs where you can exchange your money. Additionally, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, particularly in urban areas.

In South Africa, the power sockets used are Type D, M, and N. The most common types are Type D and Type M.

Type D sockets have three round pins in a triangular configuration. They are similar to the Indian standard sockets. Type M sockets, on the other hand, have three round pins in a linear arrangement. They are larger and have thicker pins compared to Type D sockets.

Type N sockets are less common but can also be found in some newer installations. They have three round pins in a triangular configuration like Type D sockets, but with larger dimensions.

It’s worth noting that South Africa has a higher voltage than some other countries, operating at 220-240 volts. If you are traveling from a country with a different voltage, make sure to check if your electronic devices are compatible or if you need a voltage converter or adapter to safely use them in South Africa.

When packing for a safari in South Africa, it’s important to consider the climate, activities, and duration of your trip. Here are some essential items to pack:

1. Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing for hot weather.
• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against the sun, insects, and vegetation.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.
• A hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes or boots for walking and hiking.
• Swimwear if your safari includes opportunities for swimming or visiting coastal areas.

2. Safari Gear:

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• A camera with extra batteries or a power bank for capturing memorable moments.
• A small backpack or daypack to carry your essentials during game drives or walks.
• A neck or head scarf to protect against dust or insects.

3. Personal Items:

• Sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Prescription medications and a basic first aid kit.
• Toiletries and personal hygiene products.

4. Travel Documents:

• Valid passport with necessary visas.
• Travel insurance details.
• Photocopies of important documents like your passport and travel insurance.

5. Miscellaneous:

• Cash and cards for expenses and tips.
• A universal power adapter to charge your electronic devices.
• A good book or entertainment for downtime.

Remember to pack light and prioritize essential items. Many safari lodges provide laundry services, so you can reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring. It’s also advisable to check with your safari operator or accommodation for any specific recommendations or requirements based on the area and time of year you’ll be visiting.

South Africa is a linguistically diverse country with 11 official languages. These languages are:

1. isiZulu
2. isiXhosa
3. Afrikaans
4. Sepedi (also known as Sesotho sa Leboa)
5. English
6. Setswana
7. Sesotho
8. Xitsonga
9. siSwati
10. Tshivenda
11. isiNdebele

Among these languages, isiZulu and isiXhosa are the most widely spoken languages in South Africa. English is also widely understood and commonly used for official and business purposes. Afrikaans, derived from Dutch, is spoken by a significant portion of the population, particularly in the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces.

It’s important to note that the prevalence of languages may vary depending on the region and the ethnic composition of the area. In urban areas, English is often the primary language used for communication, but in more rural areas, local African languages are more commonly spoken.

South Africa currently offers visa-free travel to most countries for stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival into South Africa.

Please follow this link to be sure of your countries visa requirements to enter South Africa – http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/applying-for-sa-visa

If you are travelling to South Africa from areas known to be infected with yellow fever, you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. We advise our guests to also have an updated TPD (tetanus, polio, diphtheria) vaccine and a hepatitis A vaccine.

Certain regions of South Africa, including north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal, parts of Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, are known for their high prevalence of malaria. However, Cape Town and the Eastern Cape are free from malaria.

Prior to your trip, it is advisable to consult with your Travel Doctor to determine if you should commence a medication regimen. Some malaria prophylaxes necessitate initiation several days prior to your vacation, as well as continued usage during and after your visit. It is recommended that you discuss with your doctor which specific prophylactic medication would be most suitable for you.