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

Esperanza Guest House

From €70 /person

4.3 Sustainability Rating

Walking distance from the Cape Town City Centre with warm owner-run hospitality

Nestled at the foot of the world-famous Table Mountain, Esperanza enjoys a privileged location among Cape Town guesthouses, situated among pretty parklands and also ideally located within walking distance of the city center. Even as you sit and enjoy sundowners on our balcony, clear views over the city and Table Bay are the order of the day. Our rooms are sumptuously appointed, to match the polished teak floors and pressed ceilings that hark back to the legacy of the luxury of this historic neighborhood. Classic ball-and-claw bathtubs and draping chandeliers add a classy touch. Above all, we've strived to provide you with an excellent value Cape Town Guesthouse. A small splash pool and sundeck add to your relaxation and we can recommend handpicked tours and tourist services that will pick you up. Limited secure parking on request, laundry, and a full English breakfast also come as part of the service.

Nestled at the foot of the world-famous Table Mountain, Esperanza enjoys a privileged location among ...

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Room 1

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large King size bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views. This room can be converted into a twin bedded room.

Room 2

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 3

2•

Just slightly smaller than the rest. Elegantly decorated. Has twin beds, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 4

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 5

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 6

2•

Room 1

1•

Room 2

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 3

2•

Just slightly smaller than the rest. Elegantly decorated. Has twin beds, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 4

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 5

1•

Spacious and elegantly decorated. Has a large queen bed, tea and coffee making facilities. TV, m-net, fan, heater, safe, Wi-Fi internet. Great views.

Room 6

2•

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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