Planning a trip to South Africa can be daunting, especially if you haven’t visited before. Not to worry, to make things easier for you we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about South Africa to help you prepare for your South African adventure.
- When is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit really depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. You can visit South Africa at any time of the year but certain seasons are better for certain activities. If you’re planning to go on safari, August to October is a great time. June to October is the best time to whale watch, and if you love diving and surfing, April until September is the ideal time to visit. November to February is the prime time to come to South Africa if you want to visit the beaches and enjoy warm temperatures and sunny skies!
- Where can I stay once I’m in South Africa?
South Africa offers a wide variety of accommodation. You can choose anything from ‘bed and breakfasts,’ safari camps and game lodges, to five-star hotels and guest houses. Here are a few of our top recommendations at some of South Africa’s most exquisite destinations: Kruger, Madikwe, Cape Town, and the Cape Winelands.
- What is South Africa’s time zone?
South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), and it is eight hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time. It is one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and it is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time. South Africa doesn’t have daylight saving and there is no difference in time between South Africa and its neighbouring countries. There is also no time difference between any of the provinces of South Africa.
- What type of currency do I need for a South African holiday?
You will need the South African Rand. Because the Rand is weaker than the Pound and Dollar, South Africa is the perfect destination for an affordable holiday for international visitors. International travellers can enjoy great value for money when it comes to accommodation, eating out at restaurants, and shopping.
- How much should I tip?
It is customary to tip for good service in South Africa. You should tip your porter R5.00 for every item, taxis should be given 10% of the bill, and you should tip your waiters and waitresses 10-15% of the bill depending on the service you receive. If official and unofficial parking guards assist you with parking your car, or if they look after it while you’re shopping, you should give them a tip too—any small change will be greatly appreciated.
- Can I use my cell phone in South Africa?
There are four mobile phone service providers in South Africa, namely Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Virgin Mobile. You can purchase pay-as-you-go airtime and a sim card easily and cheaply.
- Can I use my credit card in South Africa?
Yes, all major credit cards are accepted by most hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, you need to make sure that you carry your passport with you because it may be requested.
- Where can I change currency?
You can exchange your foreign currency at most of the local banks or through a Bureaux de Change. There are plenty of banks and ATMs all over South Africa.
Please do let us know if there are any other questions or worries that we can help you with?