Self drive in South Africa is easy; as is flying between our major cities. Our coaches service the main highways across the length and breadth of the country, but our train service is limited to localised travel around the major cities, and not recommended if you are visiting the country for the first time. We do have metered taxis and Uber is very popular here.
Airtravel
South Africa has 10 international airports, the two major ones being Cape Town International and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
Baggage theft at airports is common especially at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg so avoid putting valuables such as jewellery and expensive devices in your main luggage if you can. Rather place them in your hand luggage. Lookout for kiosks at the airports that offer an industrial cling wrap solution - perfect for broken zips and for keeping your luggage safe. At around R85 per bag, it’s great value.
Roads and Road infrastructure
South Africa has an extensive road infrastructure including national highways and secondary roads. Speed limits are set at 120km/h on highways; 100km/h on secondary roads; and 60km/h in urban areas. The roads within South Africa, connecting most major cities, and between its immediate neighbours are very good. There are many national and regional roads connecting the cities and larger centres, including the N1 running from Cape Town through Johannesburg and Pretoria up to Harare, Zimbabwe, the N2 running from Cape Town to Durban, which passes through the world-famous Garden Route and the N3 between Durban and Johannesburg.
The large fuel companies have rest stops every 200-300km along these highways where you can fill up, eat at a restaurant, buy takeaways, do some shopping or just stretch your legs. Restrooms at these facilities are well maintained and clean. Most (but not all) of these rest stops also have ATMs.
Fuel stations are full service with lead free petrol, lead replacement petrol and diesel available. Pump attendants will offer to wash your windscreen and check oil and water in addition to just filling up the car. There is no self service at fuel stations in South Africa!
It is usual to tip the attendant approximately R5 - if you don't have change filling up R195, for example, and let the attendant keep the change, it is a courteous idea. Most fuel stations are open 24 hours a day. Major chains include international chains Shell, Total, and Caltex (the last one is part of US oil giant Chevron), as well as domestic chains Engen and Sasol. Only the most remote or rural fuel stations are still cash only. If a fuel station is in a reasonably sized town (at least a few thousand people), you can safely assume that it will accept major credit cards. Thus, you do not need to carry large amounts of cash to pay for fuel, unless you are absolutely certain you will need to purchase fuel in a very remote area that does not yet support credit cards. Some portions of the national roads have limited access, dual carriage freeways (the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban is freeway almost all the way) and some sections are also toll roads with emergency assist telephones every couple of kilometres. Toll roads generally have two or more lanes in each direction. Some of the main roads have only one lane in each direction, especially where they are far from urban centres.
When driving on such a road, it is common that a truck or other slow-moving vehicle will politely move onto the hard shoulder (often marked by a yellow line) to let you pass. Once you have passed it is customary to flash your hazard lights once or twice. This is considered a “thank you” and you will very likely receive a “my pleasure” response in the form of the slow vehicle flashing its headlights once. Bear in mind that it is both illegal and dangerous to drive on the hard shoulder - although many people do.
In many rural areas, you will find unpaved "dirt" roads. Most of these are perfectly suitable for a normal car, although a reduced speed might often be advisable. Extra caution is required when driving on these roads, especially when encountering other traffic - windscreens and lights broken by flying stones are not uncommon. Often fences are broken or absent in these areas so it is advisable to be on the lookout for domestic and farm animals.
Whilst it is not compulsory, more and more drivers are adopting the practice of driving with their headlights on at all times. This greatly increases their visibility to other road users. The N1 between Gauteng and Cape Town and the N3 between Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal can become very busy at the start and end of Gauteng school holidays, due to many people from Gauteng spending their holidays at the coast. If you are planning on using these two highways, it is wise to try and avoid the two days after schools break up and the two days before they open again.
The N3 normally has a Highway Customer Care line during busy periods, ☎ 0800 203 950, it can be used to request assistance for breakdowns, accidents or general route information. Current toll fees, road and traffic condition can also be found on the N3 website Should you be entering from one of the other countries in Southern Africa you might want to do so by car. To acquire a car in South Africa, there are basically three options: you can hire a car, buy one or use the so-called buy-back option. Hiring a car is fairly easy and bookings can be made online and in all major cities, although you can get better rates by calling some of the smaller operators. Buying a car takes a bit more work (Roadworthy license, registering the car, insurance), but there is a lively used car market in South Africa. The third option is a combination of both, as you buy a car with a guarantee that the rental company will buy-back your car at the end of the contract. Car Hire Renting a car in South Africa can range anywhere from US$15 per day and upwards of US$200 per day depending on the car group, location and availability. The major rental agencies are Avis, Hertz, Budget Car Hire, Europcar, Tempest Car Hire, Thrifty Car Rental, Dollar Rent A Car and http://www.exequecarrental.co.za/ Long Term Car Rental Most rental fleets in South Africa largely have manual transmissions and vehicles with automatic transmission are limited and tend to be much more expensive. Renting a vehicle with complete loss damage waiver (as is available in the United States) is expensive and hard to find; most agencies will provide only reduced waiver ceilings or waivers for certain types of damage such as to the glass and tires. If you plan to drive on dirt roads in South Africa, check with the rental agency about (1) whether that is authorized for the vehicle you intend to rent and (2) do your own research into whether the vehicle(s) offered are adequate for expected driving conditions. If however you don't have a driving licence or are uncomfortable with driving yourself around then you can hire a pre-booked taxi service or a chauffeur driver from the various service providers in this industry. www.wikitravel.org Cabs/Taxi’s Hail taxis are generally not available in South Africa; and to get a meter taxi you need to walk to a public rank or pre-book a private taxi service through a call centre which usually gives the price of your trip. Uber is a brand new addition to the South African landscape. www.wikitravel.org Rules of the Road Road traffic in South Africa (and its neighbouring countries) drives on the left hand side of the road. Make sure you familiarize yourself with and understand South African road signs. South Africa previously used an unusual system of road signs which combined American typefaces with English and German design elements. This was problematic as American typefaces were not designed to accommodate the long place names typical of Afrikaans. The result was that place names were often abbreviated or hyphenated and broken across two lines to fit on signs. Since 1994, South Africa has been implementing a system of road signs almost identical to Germany's system, with suitable modifications for local conditions (German, like Afrikaans, also has long place names). However, many of the older signs are still in use. A special kind of intersection is the 'four way stop' where the car that stops first has right of way. You will not encounter many traffic circles (roundabouts), but when you do, take special care since the general attitude of some South African drivers is that traffic circles do not constitute a traffic management roadway structure and they often treat them a four way stops. They do not use their turn indicators in a safe and predictable fashion, if at all. A noticeable number of South Africans tend to ignore speed limits. They are prone to selfish or aggressive driving behaviour, such as tailgating and hooting. On multi-lane roadways, the principle of keep-left, pass right, is often not adhered to. On two-lane roadways, cars often pass slower vehicles in the centre of the roadway despite oncoming traffic. Cars are expected to merge into the emergency lane as much as possible to permit passing down the centre, even in heavy traffic. Left (or right) turns on red at traffic lights are illegal. You will, however, find traffic lights and 'four way stops' that have an accompanying yield sign (or a flashing green arrow) explicitly permitting a left turn. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory. The front seat occupants of a car are required to wear seat belts while travelling, and for your own safety, it is recommended that those in the rear seats do so as well. If you are caught without that, you will be subjected to a fine. The use of hand-held cell (mobile) phones whilst in control of a vehicle is illegal. If you need to speak on your cell phone, use either a vehicle phone attachment or a hands-free kit. Or even better (and safer), pull off the road and stop. NOTE: only pull off the road at safe places, eg, a petrol station. Pulling over and stopping along roads can be dangerous. The majority of petrol stations are open 24/7. www.wikitravel.org
South Africans are generally polite, friendly and accommodating to tourists. Men generally greet with a handshake, which may be firm or gentle depending on culture, while women will do the continental kiss on the cheek. Public behaviour is very similar to what you might find in Europe. Heterosexual displays of affection in public are not frowned upon unless you overdo it. Homosexual displays of affection may generate unwelcome attention although they will be tolerated and respected in the more sophisticated and cosmopolitan areas of Johannesburg (Sandton, Rosebank and Parkhurst), Cape Town (Greenpoint, Clifton and De Waterkant) and Durban. South Africa is the first and only African nation where the government recognizes same-sex relationships and homosexual marriages are recognized by law. Except for the few designated beaches, nude sunbathing is illegal, although topless sunbathing for women is sometimes acceptable along Cape Town's Clifton and Camps Bay beaches. Thong bikinis for ladies and swimming trunks for men (speedos if you really must) are acceptable. Eating places are casual except when otherwise indicated. Eating is generally done the British way with the fork in their left hand and the tines pointed downward. Burgers, pizzas, bunny chows and any other fast foods are eaten by hand. It is generally also acceptable to steal a piece of boerewors from the braai with your hands. Depending on which cultural group you find yourself with, these rules might change. Indians often eat biryani dishes with their hands, a white person from British descent might insist on eating his pizza with a knife and fork or a black person might eat pap-and-stew with a spoon. Be adaptable, but don't be afraid to also do your own thing; South Africans are used to diversity. If your table manners are really unacceptable, people will generally tell you so rather than take offence. South Africans are proud of their country and what they have achieved. Although they themselves are quick to point out and complain to each other about the problems and shortcomings that still exist, they will likely defend it against any outsider doing so. One thing you need to understand is that South African people are very straight-forward. If you do or say something that offends a South African, they will tell you so, in a very straight-forward manner. So, you must not be offended if this happens, but just apologise and change the manner in which you do things so that you don't offend any other people. www.wikitravel.org
Make sure you have one blank page (two if you require a visa) and that your passport is valid for at least 30 days after your intended date of departure, or you will be sent back! Most international airlines that serve South Africa now check for these specific issues at check-in. They will not let you check-in or board your flight if your passport does not meet both of these strict requirements, because they know from painful experience that you will be summarily denied entry.
In addition, if you do not have a return ticket (knowing the reservation number is enough), you will need to pay a refundable deposit. Be wary of arriving with a damaged passport as new security measures might trip up your entry into the country.
South Africa requires a valid yellow fever certificate from all foreign visitors and citizens over one year of age travelling from an infected area or having been in transit through infected areas. Infected areas include Zambia and Angola in southern Africa.
The following nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of 90 days or less:
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania (90 days per 1 year), United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, and citizens of British Overseas Territories.
The following nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of 30 days or less: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Gabon, Guyana, Hong Kong (BNO passports or SAR passports), Hungary, Jordan, Lesotho, Macau, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Peru, Poland, Seychelles, Slovakia, South Korea, Swaziland, Thailand, Turkey, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Citizens of India have to apply for tourist visas but the visa is issued gratis. The same applies to South Africans visiting India. This is because of the reciprocity that India shares with a lot of countries like Argentina, Uruguay and Mongolia.
Make sure to apply for visas and visa extensions as early as possible. Also check their website for updated regulations as these do change from time to time.
Be warned. Do not show up without a visa if you are required to have one. Visas cannot and will not be issued at ports of entry.
If needed, you can extend your visa in South Africa. With an extension the total amount of time you are allowed to stay is 6 months.
Additional information as well as Visa application forms can be found at the Department of Home Affairs ☎ +27 12 810 8911.
Embassies and consulates
• Australia, 292 Orient St, Cnr Schoeman St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 423-6000. High Commission
• Austria, 1109 Duncan St, Brooklyn, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 452-9155 (pretoria-ob@bmaa.gv.at). Embassy
• Belgium, 625 Leyds St, Muckleneuk, 0002 Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 440-3201 (pretoria@diplobel.fed.be). Embassy
• Brazil, Block C, Hatfield Office Park, 1267 Pretorius St, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 426-9400 (pretoria@brazilianembassy.org.za). Embassy
• Canada, 1103 Arcadia St, Hatfield, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 422-3000 (pret@international.gc.ca). High Commission
• Germany, 180 Blackwood St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 427-8900 (GermanEmbassyPretoria@gonet.co.za). Embassy
• Greece, 1003 Church St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 430-7351 (embgrsaf@global.co.za). Embassy
• India, 852 Schoeman St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 342-5392 (indiahc@hicomind.co.za). Embassy
• Ireland, 2nd Floor, Parkdev Building, Brooklyn Bridge Office Park, 570 Fehrsen Street, Brooklyn 0181, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 452 1000 (pretoria@dfa.ie). Embassy
• Japan, 259 Baines St, Groenkloof, Pretoria (Cnr Frans Oerder St), ☎ +27 012 452-1500 (enquiries@embjapan.org.za). Embassy
• Netherlands, 210 Queen Wilhelmina Ave, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 425-4500 (nlgovpre@cis.co.za). Embassy
• Portugal, 599 Leyds St, Muckleneuk, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 341-2340 (portemb@satis.co.za). Embassy
• Russia, 316 Brooks Street, Menlo Park, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 362-1337/8 (ruspospr@mweb.co.za). Embassy
• United Kingdom, 255 Hill St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 421-7500 (media.pretoria@fco.gov.uk).
• United States of America, 877 Pretorius St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 431-4000. Embassy If your country is not listed here, have a look at the list provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
• New Year's Day (1 January)
• Human Rights Day (21 March)
• Easter weekend (4-day long weekend in March/April) - Consisting of "Good Friday", "Easter Saturday", "Easter Sunday", and "Easter Monday", the dates are set according to the Western Christian tradition.
• Freedom Day (27 April)
• Workers Day (1 May)
• Youth Day (16 June)
• Woman's Day (9 August) • Heritage Day (24 September) • Day of Reconciliation (16 December) • Christmas Day (25 December) • Day of Goodwill (26 December) - Often referred to as 'Boxing Day'. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, then the Monday following it will be a holiday School holidays occur early December to middle January, early in April, middle June to middle July and late September. Most South Africans go on leave during these times and accommodation will be harder to find and more expensive. www.wikitravel.org
Minor children travelling with one or both parents (or guardians) have to produce a valid passport and an unabridged birth certificate reflecting the details of both parents. A consent form signed by the other parent on the birth certificate (if only travelling with one parent) or a court order granting parental responsibilities (in the case of a minor travelling with a guardian) is also required. In all instances, have copies of identity documents for all parents, guardians and the minor children. This has recently become a controversial issue regarding being granted entrance to South Africa. Airlines will often not let you on to the airplane at your point of departure if you don't have the correct documentation.
Tipping is the “norm” in South Africa – traditionally around 10%, but only if you are happy that you got great service. If you are eating out in a group of 10 or more, it’s most likely that a 10% gratuity will automatically be added onto your bill. Check this before you automatically add on another gratuity. Car guards (a local phenomenon) will claim to take care of your parked vehicle and request a tip. This is entirely voluntary, but if you do, around R5 is the norm. You could tip the petrol attendants who offer to check your oil and water and clean your windows over and above filling your fuel tank. Again, work around R5. If you go for a haircut, the shampooist will probably give you a “died-and-gone-to-heaven” head and neck massage. Tip her R10 if you loved it.
Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, these include public transport, airports, restaurants, shopping malls and theatres. Most restaurants and pubs do have smoking sections - either ventilated indoor areas or outdoor open areas.
www.wikitravel.org
If your driver's license is in any of South Africa's 11 official languages (e.g. English) and it contains a photo and your signature integrated into the license document, then it is legally acceptable as a valid driver's license in South Africa. However, some car rental and insurance companies may still insist that you provide an International Driver's Permit.
It is generally best practice to acquire an International Driver's Permit in your country of origin, prior to starting your journey, regardless of whether your license is legally acceptable or not.South Africa has a high rate of traffic accidents.
South Africans pedestrians in general tend to be rather aggressive, like pedestrians from some Southern European countries, and you must be alert for pedestrians who will step into traffic and expect you to stop or swerve for them. You will also encounter a very large number of people walking along the freeways or running across them simply because that is the fastest route on foot to where they want to go and they cannot afford a car, taxi, or minibus to take them there.
Look out for South Africa's notorious taxi and minibus drivers, who will sometimes even stop on freeways to pick up or drop off fares.
When driving outside of the major cities, you will often encounter animals - wild and domestic - in or near the roadway. The locals tend to herd their cattle and goats near the road. If you see an animal on or near the road, slow down, as they are unpredictable. Should you find yourself waiting at a red traffic light late at night in an area where you do not feel safe, you could (illegally) cross over the red light after first carefully checking that there is no other traffic. If you receive a fine due to a camera on the traffic light, you can sometimes have it waived by writing a letter to the traffic department or court explaining that you crossed safely and on purpose, due to security reasons. The fact remains that, for whatever reason, you have broken the law.
Sometimes when a traffic police officer stops you, they will ask for paperwork. The only paperwork a South African registered car is required to carry is a round licence disc in the front left of the windscreen. You need to produce only your valid driver's licence and passport. Be firm, stay cool and friendly and be patient.
In general, the police want an easy life and can't be bothered to argue for ages if they think you aren't going to offer a "tip."
South Africa currently does not have a merit points system and does not share traffic violation information with other nations. www.wikitravel.org
When stopped at a traffic light at night, always leave enough room between your car and the car in front of you so you can get around them. It is a common hijacking manoeuvre to box your car in.
As far as possible, and especially when driving in urban areas, try not to have any belongings visible inside the car - keep them out of sight in the glove boxes or in the boot (trunk). The same applies, but even more so, when parking your car.
As you would do in any other country, always be alert when driving.
The safest way is to drive defensively and assume that the other driver is about to do something stupid / dangerous / illegal
www.wikitravel.org
Self drive in South Africa is easy; as is flying between our major cities. Our coaches service the main highways across the length and breadth of the country, but our train service is limited to localised travel around the major cities, and not recommended if you are visiting the country for the first time. We do have metered taxis and Uber is very popular here.
Airtravel
South Africa has 10 international airports, the two major ones being Cape Town International and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
Baggage theft at airports is common especially at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg so avoid putting valuables such as jewellery and expensive devices in your main luggage if you can. Rather place them in your hand luggage. Lookout for kiosks at the airports that offer an industrial cling wrap solution - perfect for broken zips and for keeping your luggage safe. At around R85 per bag, it’s great value.
Roads and Road infrastructure
South Africa has an extensive road infrastructure including national highways and secondary roads. Speed limits are set at 120km/h on highways; 100km/h on secondary roads; and 60km/h in urban areas. The roads within South Africa, connecting most major cities, and between its immediate neighbours are very good. There are many national and regional roads connecting the cities and larger centres, including the N1 running from Cape Town through Johannesburg and Pretoria up to Harare, Zimbabwe, the N2 running from Cape Town to Durban, which passes through the world-famous Garden Route and the N3 between Durban and Johannesburg.
The large fuel companies have rest stops every 200-300km along these highways where you can fill up, eat at a restaurant, buy takeaways, do some shopping or just stretch your legs. Restrooms at these facilities are well maintained and clean. Most (but not all) of these rest stops also have ATMs.
Fuel stations are full service with lead free petrol, lead replacement petrol and diesel available. Pump attendants will offer to wash your windscreen and check oil and water in addition to just filling up the car. There is no self service at fuel stations in South Africa!
It is usual to tip the attendant approximately R5 - if you don't have change filling up R195, for example, and let the attendant keep the change, it is a courteous idea. Most fuel stations are open 24 hours a day. Major chains include international chains Shell, Total, and Caltex (the last one is part of US oil giant Chevron), as well as domestic chains Engen and Sasol. Only the most remote or rural fuel stations are still cash only. If a fuel station is in a reasonably sized town (at least a few thousand people), you can safely assume that it will accept major credit cards. Thus, you do not need to carry large amounts of cash to pay for fuel, unless you are absolutely certain you will need to purchase fuel in a very remote area that does not yet support credit cards. Some portions of the national roads have limited access, dual carriage freeways (the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban is freeway almost all the way) and some sections are also toll roads with emergency assist telephones every couple of kilometres. Toll roads generally have two or more lanes in each direction. Some of the main roads have only one lane in each direction, especially where they are far from urban centres.
When driving on such a road, it is common that a truck or other slow-moving vehicle will politely move onto the hard shoulder (often marked by a yellow line) to let you pass. Once you have passed it is customary to flash your hazard lights once or twice. This is considered a “thank you” and you will very likely receive a “my pleasure” response in the form of the slow vehicle flashing its headlights once. Bear in mind that it is both illegal and dangerous to drive on the hard shoulder - although many people do.
In many rural areas, you will find unpaved "dirt" roads. Most of these are perfectly suitable for a normal car, although a reduced speed might often be advisable. Extra caution is required when driving on these roads, especially when encountering other traffic - windscreens and lights broken by flying stones are not uncommon. Often fences are broken or absent in these areas so it is advisable to be on the lookout for domestic and farm animals.
Whilst it is not compulsory, more and more drivers are adopting the practice of driving with their headlights on at all times. This greatly increases their visibility to other road users. The N1 between Gauteng and Cape Town and the N3 between Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal can become very busy at the start and end of Gauteng school holidays, due to many people from Gauteng spending their holidays at the coast. If you are planning on using these two highways, it is wise to try and avoid the two days after schools break up and the two days before they open again.
The N3 normally has a Highway Customer Care line during busy periods, ☎ 0800 203 950, it can be used to request assistance for breakdowns, accidents or general route information. Current toll fees, road and traffic condition can also be found on the N3 website Should you be entering from one of the other countries in Southern Africa you might want to do so by car. To acquire a car in South Africa, there are basically three options: you can hire a car, buy one or use the so-called buy-back option. Hiring a car is fairly easy and bookings can be made online and in all major cities, although you can get better rates by calling some of the smaller operators. Buying a car takes a bit more work (Roadworthy license, registering the car, insurance), but there is a lively used car market in South Africa. The third option is a combination of both, as you buy a car with a guarantee that the rental company will buy-back your car at the end of the contract. Car Hire Renting a car in South Africa can range anywhere from US$15 per day and upwards of US$200 per day depending on the car group, location and availability. The major rental agencies are Avis, Hertz, Budget Car Hire, Europcar, Tempest Car Hire, Thrifty Car Rental, Dollar Rent A Car and http://www.exequecarrental.co.za/ Long Term Car Rental Most rental fleets in South Africa largely have manual transmissions and vehicles with automatic transmission are limited and tend to be much more expensive. Renting a vehicle with complete loss damage waiver (as is available in the United States) is expensive and hard to find; most agencies will provide only reduced waiver ceilings or waivers for certain types of damage such as to the glass and tires. If you plan to drive on dirt roads in South Africa, check with the rental agency about (1) whether that is authorized for the vehicle you intend to rent and (2) do your own research into whether the vehicle(s) offered are adequate for expected driving conditions. If however you don't have a driving licence or are uncomfortable with driving yourself around then you can hire a pre-booked taxi service or a chauffeur driver from the various service providers in this industry. www.wikitravel.org Cabs/Taxi’s Hail taxis are generally not available in South Africa; and to get a meter taxi you need to walk to a public rank or pre-book a private taxi service through a call centre which usually gives the price of your trip. Uber is a brand new addition to the South African landscape. www.wikitravel.org Rules of the Road Road traffic in South Africa (and its neighbouring countries) drives on the left hand side of the road. Make sure you familiarize yourself with and understand South African road signs. South Africa previously used an unusual system of road signs which combined American typefaces with English and German design elements. This was problematic as American typefaces were not designed to accommodate the long place names typical of Afrikaans. The result was that place names were often abbreviated or hyphenated and broken across two lines to fit on signs. Since 1994, South Africa has been implementing a system of road signs almost identical to Germany's system, with suitable modifications for local conditions (German, like Afrikaans, also has long place names). However, many of the older signs are still in use. A special kind of intersection is the 'four way stop' where the car that stops first has right of way. You will not encounter many traffic circles (roundabouts), but when you do, take special care since the general attitude of some South African drivers is that traffic circles do not constitute a traffic management roadway structure and they often treat them a four way stops. They do not use their turn indicators in a safe and predictable fashion, if at all. A noticeable number of South Africans tend to ignore speed limits. They are prone to selfish or aggressive driving behaviour, such as tailgating and hooting. On multi-lane roadways, the principle of keep-left, pass right, is often not adhered to. On two-lane roadways, cars often pass slower vehicles in the centre of the roadway despite oncoming traffic. Cars are expected to merge into the emergency lane as much as possible to permit passing down the centre, even in heavy traffic. Left (or right) turns on red at traffic lights are illegal. You will, however, find traffic lights and 'four way stops' that have an accompanying yield sign (or a flashing green arrow) explicitly permitting a left turn. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory. The front seat occupants of a car are required to wear seat belts while travelling, and for your own safety, it is recommended that those in the rear seats do so as well. If you are caught without that, you will be subjected to a fine. The use of hand-held cell (mobile) phones whilst in control of a vehicle is illegal. If you need to speak on your cell phone, use either a vehicle phone attachment or a hands-free kit. Or even better (and safer), pull off the road and stop. NOTE: only pull off the road at safe places, eg, a petrol station. Pulling over and stopping along roads can be dangerous. The majority of petrol stations are open 24/7. www.wikitravel.org
Make sure you have one blank page (two if you require a visa) and that your passport is valid for at least 30 days after your intended date of departure, or you will be sent back! Most international airlines that serve South Africa now check for these specific issues at check-in. They will not let you check-in or board your flight if your passport does not meet both of these strict requirements, because they know from painful experience that you will be summarily denied entry.
In addition, if you do not have a return ticket (knowing the reservation number is enough), you will need to pay a refundable deposit. Be wary of arriving with a damaged passport as new security measures might trip up your entry into the country.
South Africa requires a valid yellow fever certificate from all foreign visitors and citizens over one year of age travelling from an infected area or having been in transit through infected areas. Infected areas include Zambia and Angola in southern Africa.
The following nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of 90 days or less:
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania (90 days per 1 year), United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, and citizens of British Overseas Territories.
The following nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of 30 days or less: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Gabon, Guyana, Hong Kong (BNO passports or SAR passports), Hungary, Jordan, Lesotho, Macau, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Peru, Poland, Seychelles, Slovakia, South Korea, Swaziland, Thailand, Turkey, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Citizens of India have to apply for tourist visas but the visa is issued gratis. The same applies to South Africans visiting India. This is because of the reciprocity that India shares with a lot of countries like Argentina, Uruguay and Mongolia.
Make sure to apply for visas and visa extensions as early as possible. Also check their website for updated regulations as these do change from time to time.
Be warned. Do not show up without a visa if you are required to have one. Visas cannot and will not be issued at ports of entry.
If needed, you can extend your visa in South Africa. With an extension the total amount of time you are allowed to stay is 6 months.
Additional information as well as Visa application forms can be found at the Department of Home Affairs ☎ +27 12 810 8911.
Embassies and consulates
• Australia, 292 Orient St, Cnr Schoeman St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 423-6000. High Commission
• Austria, 1109 Duncan St, Brooklyn, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 452-9155 (pretoria-ob@bmaa.gv.at). Embassy
• Belgium, 625 Leyds St, Muckleneuk, 0002 Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 440-3201 (pretoria@diplobel.fed.be). Embassy
• Brazil, Block C, Hatfield Office Park, 1267 Pretorius St, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 426-9400 (pretoria@brazilianembassy.org.za). Embassy
• Canada, 1103 Arcadia St, Hatfield, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 422-3000 (pret@international.gc.ca). High Commission
• Germany, 180 Blackwood St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 427-8900 (GermanEmbassyPretoria@gonet.co.za). Embassy
• Greece, 1003 Church St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 430-7351 (embgrsaf@global.co.za). Embassy
• India, 852 Schoeman St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 342-5392 (indiahc@hicomind.co.za). Embassy
• Ireland, 2nd Floor, Parkdev Building, Brooklyn Bridge Office Park, 570 Fehrsen Street, Brooklyn 0181, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 452 1000 (pretoria@dfa.ie). Embassy
• Japan, 259 Baines St, Groenkloof, Pretoria (Cnr Frans Oerder St), ☎ +27 012 452-1500 (enquiries@embjapan.org.za). Embassy
• Netherlands, 210 Queen Wilhelmina Ave, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 425-4500 (nlgovpre@cis.co.za). Embassy
• Portugal, 599 Leyds St, Muckleneuk, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 341-2340 (portemb@satis.co.za). Embassy
• Russia, 316 Brooks Street, Menlo Park, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 362-1337/8 (ruspospr@mweb.co.za). Embassy
• United Kingdom, 255 Hill St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 421-7500 (media.pretoria@fco.gov.uk).
• United States of America, 877 Pretorius St, Arcadia, Pretoria, ☎ +27 012 431-4000. Embassy If your country is not listed here, have a look at the list provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
South Africans are generally polite, friendly and accommodating to tourists. Men generally greet with a handshake, which may be firm or gentle depending on culture, while women will do the continental kiss on the cheek. Public behaviour is very similar to what you might find in Europe. Heterosexual displays of affection in public are not frowned upon unless you overdo it. Homosexual displays of affection may generate unwelcome attention although they will be tolerated and respected in the more sophisticated and cosmopolitan areas of Johannesburg (Sandton, Rosebank and Parkhurst), Cape Town (Greenpoint, Clifton and De Waterkant) and Durban. South Africa is the first and only African nation where the government recognizes same-sex relationships and homosexual marriages are recognized by law. Except for the few designated beaches, nude sunbathing is illegal, although topless sunbathing for women is sometimes acceptable along Cape Town's Clifton and Camps Bay beaches. Thong bikinis for ladies and swimming trunks for men (speedos if you really must) are acceptable. Eating places are casual except when otherwise indicated. Eating is generally done the British way with the fork in their left hand and the tines pointed downward. Burgers, pizzas, bunny chows and any other fast foods are eaten by hand. It is generally also acceptable to steal a piece of boerewors from the braai with your hands. Depending on which cultural group you find yourself with, these rules might change. Indians often eat biryani dishes with their hands, a white person from British descent might insist on eating his pizza with a knife and fork or a black person might eat pap-and-stew with a spoon. Be adaptable, but don't be afraid to also do your own thing; South Africans are used to diversity. If your table manners are really unacceptable, people will generally tell you so rather than take offence. South Africans are proud of their country and what they have achieved. Although they themselves are quick to point out and complain to each other about the problems and shortcomings that still exist, they will likely defend it against any outsider doing so. One thing you need to understand is that South African people are very straight-forward. If you do or say something that offends a South African, they will tell you so, in a very straight-forward manner. So, you must not be offended if this happens, but just apologise and change the manner in which you do things so that you don't offend any other people. www.wikitravel.org
Locally controlled banks • Absa Bank • African Bank Limited • Bidvest Bank Limited • Capitec Bank • Commercial Bank of South Africa PLC • First National Bank • FirstRand Bank - A subsidiary of First Rand Limited • Grindrod Limited • Imperial Bank South Africa • Investec Bank Limited • Nedbank Limited • Sasfin Bank Limited • Standard Bank of South Africa • Teba Bank Limited[2] Foreign-controlled banks • Barclays Africa Group • Albaraka Bank Limited • Habib Overseas Bank Limited • Habib Bank AG Zurich • Mercantile Bank Limited • South African Bank of Athens Limited Branches of foreign banks • Bank of Baroda • Bank of China • Bank of Taiwan • BNP Paribas • Calyon Corporate and Investment Bank • China Construction Bank Corporation • Citibank N.A. • Deutsche Bank AG • JPMorgan Chase Bank • Société Générale • Standard Chartered Bank • State Bank of India • Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation • Royal Bank of Scotland Foreign Bank Representatives • AfrAsia Bank Limited • Banco Africano de Investimentos • Banco BIC • Banco BPI SA • Banco Espirito Santo e Comercial de Lisboa • Banco Santander Totta S.A. • Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM • Bank of America • Bank of Cyprus Group • Bank of India • Barclays Bank Plc • Barclays Private Clients International Limited • Commerzbank AG Johannesburg • Credit Suisse AG • Ecobank • Export-Import Bank of India • Fairbairn Private Bank (Isle of Man) Limited • Fairbairn Private Bank (Jersey) Limited • First Bank of Nigeria • First City Monument Bank Plc • Hellenic Bank Public Company Limited • HSBC Bank International Limited • ICICI Bank Limited • Industrial and Commercial Bank of China • KfW Ipex-Bank GmbH • Lloyds TSB Offshore Limited • Mauritius Commercial Bank Limited • Millennium BCP • National Bank of Egypt • NATIXIS • Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited • Société Générale • Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation • The Bank of New York Mellon • The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Limited • The Export-Import Bank of China • The Royal Bank of Scotland N.V. • UBS AG • Unicredit Bank AG • Union Bank of Nigeria Plc • Wells Fargo Bank • Zenith Bank Plc
• New Year's Day (1 January)
• Human Rights Day (21 March)
• Easter weekend (4-day long weekend in March/April) - Consisting of "Good Friday", "Easter Saturday", "Easter Sunday", and "Easter Monday", the dates are set according to the Western Christian tradition.
• Freedom Day (27 April)
• Workers Day (1 May)
• Youth Day (16 June)
• Woman's Day (9 August) • Heritage Day (24 September) • Day of Reconciliation (16 December) • Christmas Day (25 December) • Day of Goodwill (26 December) - Often referred to as 'Boxing Day'. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, then the Monday following it will be a holiday School holidays occur early December to middle January, early in April, middle June to middle July and late September. Most South Africans go on leave during these times and accommodation will be harder to find and more expensive. www.wikitravel.org
Home of the rainbow nation
There is a very good reason for us being called the Rainbow Nation! We are a melting pot of 11 major cultures and languages; and we each expect to be treated with dignity and respect.
Looking for big global brands or unique, hand crafted mementos? South Africa boasts numerous grand shiny shopping malls, quirky neighbourhood markets and local curio shops to cater for your every whim.
What does your dream holiday involve? Perhaps it is getting up close and personal with our wildlife, or finding a deserted beach to enjoy a beautiful sunset with someone special, or discovering the origins of man amongst ancient African civilisations.
South Africa is THE place to make all this happen!
Whether it is viewing animals in the wild from a hot air balloon, on foot or in an open vehicle; whether it is close encounters with dolphins, sharks or whales or simply chilling with a glass of our world class wines or locally crafted beers, we are supremely confident that we will blow your hair back and send you home with an indelible piece of Africa forever in your heart.
Our dramatic mountain ranges, expansive coastline, beautiful bushveld, luxuriant forests and deserts stretching as far as the eye can see, along with our fantastic weather will set the backdrop for the most incredible, cost effective holiday of a lifetime. Our friendly, hospitable people will put the cherry on the top with their warm welcome - wherever you care to roam in our Rainbow Nation.
Hurry! We’re looking forward to showing you just how incredible our country is.
South Africans love eating out, and the country is fast becoming a culinary hotspot.
We are big meat eaters, but cater very happily for vegetarians and specific dietary requirements including Kosher, Halaal, gluten-free and the very popular Banting diet.
In the Western Cape, many of our top restaurants are found in the Wineland area (Paarl, Franschhoek, Stellenbosch), with quaint speciality restaurants popping up in the city bowl.
Along the west and east coastal towns of the country you will find exquisite sea food menus that will appeal to everyone
There is a big Indian influence in the KZN area, where really authentic curries are not to be missed.
The affluent areas of Johannesburg and Pretoria boast outstanding restaurants that can be more pricey than the average restaurants, but they are worth every cent.
Local African cuisine is gaining in popularity and absolutely worth the experience!
Restaurants are generally open Tuesdays – Sundays will about 10pm, most have liquor licences and areas designated for smokers.
Big brand fast food outlets are found across the country.
Eating out is great value, and you will be spoilt for choice.
Do not stop to feed wild animals!
Don't pay bribes to anyone in uniform. Ask for their name and ID number and report them
Never walk around in deserted areas at night or advertise possession of money and expensive accessories.
Do not accept offers from friendly strangers at ATM’s to “help” you navigate the menu, go into a bank if you are unsure.
Do not wear jewellery or expensive watches, or carry large sums of money .
Do not wear a tummy bag with all your valuables, consider a concealed money belt worn under your shirt instead.
Leave passports and other valuables in a safe or other secure location if you do not need them
Don't advertise that you are a tourist; conceal your camera and binoculars.
Like many developing countries, South Africa is not a good place for solo travellers to use local urban mass transport systems, unless you are a military veteran, a martial arts expert, or are otherwise experienced and confident in your ability to defend yourself against armed muggers in strange foreign environments.
Rent a car, take a taxi, or take an escorted tour.
Do not leave your valuables in plain sight when driving in your car, as "smash and grab" attacks do sometimes occur at intersections (this includes cell/mobile phones). Keep your car doors locked, and windows closed.
Know where to go so that you avoid getting lost or having to read a map in public; that will minimize the risk of inadvertently signalling to strangers that you are a tourist.
If you are carrying handbags, try and hook them under a table or chair leg when sitting down, this will prevent them from being snatched.
Visiting the townships is possible, but do not do it alone unless you really know where you're going. Go with an experienced guide. There are tour companies that offer perfectly safe guided visits to the townships.
South Africa has very few earthquakes, cyclones, tornadoes, floods, terrorist incidents or contagious diseases (with the notable exception of HIV).
Note that taking an evening stroll or walking to venues after dark can be very risky. It simply is not part of the South African culture, as it is in Europe, North America or Australia. It is best to take a taxi (a metered cab, not a minibus taxi), Uber or a private vehicle for an "evening out".
The same applies to picking up hitchhikers or offering assistance at broken-down car scenes. It is best to ignore anyone who appears to be in distress at the side of the road as it could be part of a scam. Keep going until you see a Police station and tell them about what you have seen.
Take extra care when driving at night. Unlike in Europe and North America, vast stretches of South African roads, especially in rural areas, are poorly lit or often not lit up at all. Be extra careful as wildlife and people often walk in the middle of the road. This includes highways.
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South Africa operates a number of land border posts between itself and immediately neighbouring countries. The more commonly used ones are: Botswana border Skilpadsnek, (On the N4, 54km (34 mi) from Zeerust), ☎ +27 18 366 1469. 06:00-22:00. Lesotho border Maseru Bridge, (15km (9 mi) from Ladybrand on the N8 towards Maseru), ☎ +27 51 924 4004. Open 24 hours. Ficksburg Bridge, (Just outside Ficksburg), ☎ +27 51 933 2760. Open 24 hours. Sani Pass, (In the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg park), ☎ +27 51 430 3664. 08:00-16:00. Mozambique border Lebombo, (On the N4 btwn Nelspruit and Maputo), ☎ +27 13 790 7203. 06:00-22:00. Kosi Bay, (R22 btwn Hluhluwe and Ponta do Ouro), ☎ +27 35 592 0251. 08:00-16:00. Namibia border Nakop, (132km (82 mi) from Upington on the N10 towards Ariamsvlei), ☎ +27 054 571 0008. Open 24 hours. Vioolsdrift, (On the N7 N of Springbok), ☎ +27 27 761-8760. Open 24 hours. Swaziland border Oshoek, (120km (75 mi) from Ermelo on the N17 towards Mbabane), ☎ +27 17 882 0138. 07:00-12:00. Zimbabwe border Beit Bridge, (On N1 approximately 16km (10 mi) N of Messina), ☎ +27 15 530-0070. Open 24 hours. Open times are often extended during South African holidays. For a full list of entry points or any additional information (like vaccinations) see the Automobile Association website https://www.aa.co.za/travel/into-africa/cross-border-information.html
The Constitution of South Africa guarantees freedom of worship and official policy is of non-interference in all religious practices. The approximate breakdown of religions is South Africa is as follows:
Christianity 79.8%
Islam 1.5%
Hinduis 1.2%
Judaism 0.2%
Other beliefs 0.6%
No religion 15%
Undetermined 1.4%
Total 100%
African traditional beliefs Because the traditional religion of the African people has a strong cultural base, the various groups have different rituals, but there are certain common features. A supreme being is generally recognised, but ancestors are of far greater importance. They are regarded as being links with the spirit world and the powers that control everyday affairs. These ancestors are not gods, but because they play a key part in bringing about either good or ill fortune, maintaining good relations with them is vital and they have to be appeased regularly by a variety of ritual offerings.
http://www.southafrica.to
Law enforcement on South African Roads
Law enforcement (speed and other violations) is usually done by portable or stationary, radar or laser cameras. Unlike other countries such as Australia, South Africa does not post signs expressly warning you that you are approaching a speed camera. In fact, many speed cameras in South Africa are classic speed traps: positioned just around curves or crests or behind columns so that you will not see them until it is too late to brake.
In major cities, one clue that you are approaching a known speed camera is when traffic in all lanes on an otherwise busy freeway suddenly slows to the speed limit. On less busy freeways and highways, there may not be enough traffic from which that pattern can be discerned until it is too late. Local police forces, especially in rural areas, direct a lot of their efforts in to fining motorists (to raise revenue rather than to improve road safety). If you see an oncoming car flashing his headlights at you then he or she is probably warning you of an upcoming speed trap that has just been passed.
Non camera portable radar and laser systems are also used and you may be pulled over for speeding (or other violations) and given a written fine.
Fines can be sent to the registered address of the vehicle you are driving, but paying on-the-spot fines is also common, usually the policeman will hold your license whilst you go to the local police station to pay the fine, you get a receipt, and drive back to where you were stopped hand the receipt over to the policeman get your license back - this can take a good hour or more, which can be more of an annoyance than the R400 fine.
In general, the police are pretty honest, but they do respond to politeness and deference to their authority.
South Africa's country code is +27.
Phone numbers within South Africa are of the format 0XX YYY ZZZZ and all the digits must be dialled - there is no abbreviated local dialling.
Large cities have area codes 0XX (Johannesburg is 011, Pretoria 012, Cape Town 021, Durban 031, Port Elizabeth 041, East London 043, Kimberley 053, Bloemfontein 051) while smaller towns may have longer area codes (0XX Y for example) with shorter local numbers.
When dialling a South African number from outside the country, one should dial +27 XX YYY ZZZZ.
Dialing within the country one should use all 10 digits, 0XX YYY ZZZZ.
To dial out of South Africa, dial 00 followed by the country code and the rest of the number you are trying to reach.
Pay phones are available at airports, shopping malls and some petrol stations. The number of pay phones in open public areas have been reduced over recent years, but you should still be able to find one when you need one. Pay phones use either coins or prepaid cards that are available at most shops and petrol stations; coin phones are generally blue while card phones are usually green.
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Internet and cell phones
Keeping in touch whilst in South Africa is pretty simple, and less expensive than it used to be. There are 3 large players in the industry – Cell C, Vodacom and MTN.
There are a number of options available to you:
Buy a local prepaid SIM card. Simple, but you will have to present proof of where you are staying in SA, as well as your passport in order for the SIM to be RICA’d. This is a simple legislation that aims at monitoring criminal activity around cellular phone use.
Rent a local cell phone
Also very simple. A more expensive option, but they do all the work for you upfront, and if they are organised, can give you your local cell number so you can share it before you arrive in SA. Make use of a hotel phone and internet If you are planning to go off the grid, and maybe make one or two calls or send sms, make use of the free internet connectivity that your hotel, B&B, or local restaurant has to offer.
Like most other countries, landline calls from your hotel room are likely to be charged at a significant mark-up to your account.