Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens from certain countries may be exempt from obtaining a visa for short stays. To determine if you need a visa, it's best to check with the South African embassy or consulate in your home country. Find out more here . Additionally, South Africa offers a visa waiver program for certain countries, allowing visitors to enter for tourism purposes without a visa for a specified period. Make sure you have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into South Africa and at least 1 blank page in your passport for endorsements.

Is South Africa safe for tourists?

South Africa is safe to visit, but like most developing countries, it's important to be street-smart: Keep a watchful eye on your belongings, whether you're solo or with a group. Avoid displaying valuables like phones and cameras, especially when out and about. Do not walk alone in deserted areas at night. Don’t keep large sums of money on you. When self-driving, be aware of the distance between the towns or petrol stations and know how to handle breakdowns or a flat tire. Admire wildlife from a safe distance –never exit your vehicle in national parks or reserves except at designated areas.

Can I self-drive in South Africa?

When driving in South Africa, travellers can use their valid foreign driver's licence if it meets specific criteria: it should be in English (or any other official South African language) or have an official English translation, and include a photo and signature. Road conditions vary by region. In the Western Cape, roads are generally well-maintained. In areas like the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, occasional potholes may be encountered. To navigate, we recommend using Google Maps for the best routes, which will likely correspond to well-kept roads.

What currency is used in South Africa?

South Africa uses the currency Rand (ZAR) exclusively. You can exchange your currency for Rand at selected airports, banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs. Card facilities are widely available, reducing the need for excessive cash on hand. Before your trip, check if your credit or debit card will work in South Africa for convenient card payments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small tips and when visiting remote destinations.

South Africa

A Boat House

From €74 /person

A well-appointed guesthouse with a maritime charm and harbour views

Indulge in elegant comfort at A Boat House, a classy guesthouse nestled in the Red Hill Mountains. Overlooking the pristine beaches of False Bay, The Boat House provides mesmerising vistas of the ocean, harbour and mountains for a restful and scenic getaway. This fully-equipped haven offers 6 uniquely furnished suites, all featuring kitchens and private entrances. Begin your day with a delightful English and continental breakfast, then take a leisurely stroll to the quaint village, penguin beach, and yacht club, or simply unwind by the pool.

Indulge in elegant comfort at A Boat House, a classy guesthouse nestled in the Red ...

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Our top picks

Trips we think you'll love whilst staying at A Boat House

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Captain Cabin

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The Captain Cabin, situated on the upper deck, is a roomy suite, boasting a king-size bed and full en-suite bathroom. The ideal choice for a romantic escape, guests can enjoy sweeping sea vistas from the private balcony furnished with a bistro table, 2 chairs, and 2 pool loungers.

Upper Deck

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The Upper Deck offers a private entrance and the choice between a king-size bed or twin beds. Additionally, a sunbed or sleeper couch is available for a child. The en-suite bathroom features a shower, while your very own balcony allows you to bask in the sweeping panoramic vistas of False Bay.

Lower Deck

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The Lower Deck offers a sizable room with a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. For added convenience, a mini kitchenette equipped with a fridge, microwave, and tea/coffee amenities is at your disposal. Step onto the large balcony for breathtaking views over False Bay.

Quarter Deck

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The Quarter Deck is located on the upper deck. This extra cosy room features a queen-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Delight in the breathtaking sea and harbour views from your private balcony, furnished with a bistro table and 2 chairs.

The Cabin

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The Cabin offers a vividly adorned room featuring a queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with a shower, accompanied by a mini kitchenette. Nestled on the lower deck, it boasts a private entrance and balcony, complete with a table and 2 chairs, as well as stunning False Bay views.

Chart Deck

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The Chart Deck is situated on the lower deck and has a private entrance. This room exudes a nautical ambience and houses a queen-size bed and en-suite bathroom with a shower. Enjoy a private balcony with a table, 2 chairs, and stunning sea vistas.

Captain Cabin

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Upper Deck

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Lower Deck

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Quarter Deck

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The Cabin

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Chart Deck

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What our travellers are saying

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Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.

Nicole

Verified Traveller

With super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!

Margherita

Verified Traveller

What can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.

Anna

Verified Traveller

Our Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.

Stefano

Verified Traveller

We had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.

Valerie

Verified Traveller

Our South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.

Svein

Verified Traveller

I spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.

Manuel

Verified Traveller

We booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!

Linda

Verified Traveller

We had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.

Michèle

Verified Traveller

I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.

Irina

Verified Traveller

Nicole

Verified Traveller

With super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!

Margherita

Anna

Stefano

Valerie

Our South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.

Svein

Verified Traveller

Manuel

Verified Traveller

We booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!

Linda

Verified Traveller

Michèle

Verified Traveller

I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.

Irina

Verified Traveller

All Reviews