FAQ South Africa

Your passport will need to be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry to South Africa. You can find out more information on entry requirements our Visa, Passport and Money Advice page.

If you are a British Passport holder, you do not need a visa to visit South Africa for stays of up to 90 days.

Yes, we would always recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, especially overseas, that is suitable for your requirements and needs.

The seasons in South Africa are completely reversed. During our summer it is winter there. Are you travelling in our summer? Then we advise you to also bring some warm clothing because it can cool down in the evening. Are you travelling in our winter (summer in South Africa), then we advise you to bring short clothing, but also long and airy clothing because of malaria areas. In addition, the most practical tips to take are: anti-mosquito spray (DEET) and a lock for your suitcase/luggage.

It is always best to get the advice of a GP or travel nurse before travelling overseas to check which vaccinations you might need or if any boosters are required. The Fit for Travel website provides a comprehensive guide on all the vaccinations you should consider.

We know heading off on holiday is always a little bit stressful, especially on the day you leave, so we would advise doing these things before you depart:

• Check you have all your necessary documentation, including your passport!
• Take a photo of your documents and email it to yourself and travelling partners. Having a copy on your phone always comes in handy too.
• Ensure you have all your chargers and converters for any phones, cameras, tablets you are taking. A portable battery pack is a handy item to have in your hand luggage.
• Take snacks and a big bottle of water for your flight.
• Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, we advise arriving 3 hours prior to your flight departure.
• Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage and take a photo of your checked bag in case it goes missing en route.
• Sit back and relax knowing we have your holiday 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 cuisine is a rich and diverse blend of flavours, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. It combines indigenous ingredients with culinary traditions brought by settlers and immigrants from Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa. Here’s a taste of what South African food is like:

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.

These dishes showcase the diversity and rich flavours of South African food.

South Africa has a growing vegetarian and vegan food scene, especially in urban areas like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. While traditional South African cuisine is often meat-centric, there’s an increasing awareness and demand for plant-based options.

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

1. Respect Diversity

• Acknowledge Different Cultures: South Africa is a melting pot with 11 official languages and various ethnic groups. Be open and respectful towards the diverse cultures you encounter.
• Be Mindful: Different groups have unique customs and traditions. Show interest and respect without making assumptions.

2. Greetings and Interactions

• Greeting Styles: A handshake is common, but in Zulu culture, a two-handed handshake or a slight bow might be used with elders. Follow local cues.
• Use Titles: Address people with “Mr.” or “Mrs.” followed by their surname, especially in formal situations.
• Ubuntu Philosophy: Embrace the idea of community and mutual respect in your interactions, reflecting the local value of Ubuntu.

3. Cultural Practices

• Respect Ceremonies: If invited to a wedding, funeral, or other ceremony, participate respectfully and be mindful of local customs.
• Acknowledge Traditional Dress: Traditional clothing is often worn for special occasions. Show appreciation if you encounter it.

4. Language

• Learn Basic Phrases: While English is widely spoken, learning a few words in Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans can help you connect better.
• Adapt Communication: Be aware that communication styles may vary. Pay attention to non-verbal cues and be flexible in your interactions.

Following these guidelines will help you engage respectfully and enrich your travel experience in South Africa.

You can move safely through the cities. Especially in Cape Town. We do recommend that you stay on the beaten track and among the people. A city like Johannesburg or Pretoria are less safe and we therefore advise not to go out on your own. If you travel with Rickshaw you usually go out into nature from Johannesburg and we will make sure you avoid the unsafe places.

In general, we also advise to be careful with jewellery, expensive watches, camera equipment, etc.

We are contactable in the UK during office hours and our local partners in the destination are available 24/7 for any support or help you might need. They are in the best position as they will be on the same timezone, they should be your first contact in a case of emergency.

In South Africa, tipping is customary whenever you use a service such as guides, drivers, and in restaurants. It’s your way of showing that you are satisfied with the service provided. We recommend tipping 10% as standard in restaurants and recommend 150 – 250 ZAR per guide per day.