FAQ South Africa

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in South Africa. For more details on entry requirements, check out our Visa, Passport, and Money Advice page.

If you hold a British passport, there’s no need to worry about a visa for your family trip to South Africa—you can stay for up to 90 days without one.

 

We always recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, especially when traveling overseas. Make sure it covers everything your family might need while you’re away.

Seasons in South Africa are the opposite of ours—when it’s summer here, it’s winter there. If you’re traveling in our summer, pack some warm clothes as evenings can get chilly. If you’re visiting in our winter (South Africa’s summer), bring light, short clothing, but also pack some long, breathable clothes for malaria-prone areas. A few practical essentials for your family trip include anti-mosquito spray (DEET) and a lock for your suitcase or luggage.

 

Before heading overseas, especially with the family, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP or travel nurse to find out if any vaccinations or boosters are recommended. The Fit for Travel website is a great resource, offering a complete guide on the vaccinations you might need to consider.

 

We know that heading off on a family holiday can be a bit stressful, especially on travel day! To help things run smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind before you set off:

• Double-check that everyone’s got their passports and any necessary documents!
• Snap a photo of your important paperwork and email it to yourself and your travel companions. Having a copy saved on your phone is super helpful too.
• Don’t forget to pack all the chargers and adapters for your phones, tablets, and cameras. A portable battery pack in your hand luggage is a great idea for keeping devices charged on the go.
• Make sure to pack plenty of snacks and grab a large water bottle for the flight.
• Aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departs to give yourselves plenty of time.
• Toss a change of clothes into your hand luggage, and take a photo of your checked baggage just in case it doesn’t make it to the other side.

And most importantly, relax! We’ve got your trip sorted!

In South Africa, there are 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and by the business community. Here are some key phrases in a few of the most commonly spoken languages:

Zulu (widely spoken across South Africa):

• Hello: Sawubona
• Goodbye: Hamba kahle (to someone leaving) / Sala kahle (to someone staying)
• Yes: Yebo
• No: Cha
• Thank you: Ngiyabonga
• Please: Ngicela

Xhosa (common in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape):

• Hello: Molo (to one person) / Molweni (to more than one person)
• Goodbye: Hamba kakuhle (to someone leaving) / Sala kakuhle (to someone staying)
• Yes: Ewe
• No: Hayi
• Thank you: Ndiyabulela
• Please: Nceda

Afrikaans (spoken primarily in the Western Cape and by many South Africans across the country):

• Hello: Hallo
• Goodbye: Totsiens
• Yes: Ja
• No: Nee
• Thank you: Dankie
• Please: Asseblief

These phrases can help you navigate interactions and show respect for the local languages in South Africa.

South African food is a delicious mix of flavors, showcasing the country’s diverse cultural background. It blends local ingredients with cooking traditions brought in by settlers and immigrants from places like Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa. Wondering what to expect from South African cuisine? Here’s a little peek:

1. Braai (Barbecue): A popular social event where a variety of meats like boerewors (traditional sausage) and sosaties (skewered meat) are grilled.
2. Bobotie: A Cape Malay dish of spiced minced meat topped with an egg custard, often served with yellow rice.
3. Bunny Chow: A street food from Durban, consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically chicken or lamb.

When visiting South Africa, keeping these practical tips in mind will help you navigate the country’s rich cultural landscape:

1. Respect Diversity

• Recognize Different Cultures: South Africa is super diverse, with 11 official languages and lots of ethnic groups. So, be open-minded and respectful when you meet new people!
• Be Thoughtful: Each culture has its own customs and traditions. Show genuine interest and respect, and try not to make assumptions.

2. Greetings and Interactions

• How to Greet: A simple handshake works, but in Zulu culture, you might use a two-handed handshake or even a slight bow with elders. Just follow the local vibes!
• Use Titles: It’s polite to call people “Mr.” or “Mrs.” followed by their last name, especially in more formal situations.
• Community Spirit: Keep the idea of Ubuntu in mind, which is all about community and respect. It’s a big part of the culture here!

3. Cultural Practices

• Respect Ceremonies: If you’re invited to a wedding or any ceremony, be respectful and follow local customs.
• Appreciate Traditional Dress: You might see traditional clothing at special events—it’s a nice touch to acknowledge and appreciate it.

4. Language

• Learn a Few Words: While English is commonly spoken, picking up a few phrases in Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans can go a long way in connecting with locals.
• Be Flexible: Communication styles can differ, so watch for non-verbal cues and be ready to adapt.

Getting around the cities in South Africa can be safe, especially in Cape Town. Just stick to the main areas and stay among the crowds. When it comes to places like Johannesburg or Pretoria, it’s best to avoid wandering around solo, so keep that in mind. If you’re traveling with Rickshaw, you’ll often head out into nature from Johannesburg, and we’ll make sure you steer clear of any sketchy spots.

Also, a little tip: it’s smart to be cautious with flashy jewelry, expensive watches, and camera gear while you’re out and about. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure!

When you’re heading to South Africa, you’ll be using the South African Rand (ZAR) for your spending. Since exchange rates can change, it’s smart to check the latest rates before you go. The UK pound isn’t accepted everywhere, so it’s best to swap your money once you arrive. You can easily exchange currency at banks, major exchange offices, or even at some hotels. Just keep an eye out for smaller currency exchange shops and double-check their rates and fees.

For safety, make sure to stash your cash, passports, and any extra money in the hotel safe. It’s a good idea to leave your valuables behind when you head out, especially at night. This way, you can relax and enjoy your family adventure without worrying about losing anything important!

In South Africa, tipping is part of the culture whenever you receive a service, like with guides, drivers, or at restaurants. It’s a nice way to show appreciation for good service. A good rule of thumb is to tip around 10% at restaurants, and for guides, consider giving between 150 and 250 ZAR per day. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way!