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

Gîte

From €68 /person

2.9 Sustainability Rating

Contemporary barn-style suites in a picturesque farm setting in the Franschhoek Valley

In the famed Franschhoek valley, an hour from Cape Town, enjoy self-catering luxury with mountain vistas. Gîte provides the ultimate retreat: upscale suites amidst serene farmland making use of solar power, yet steps away from the town's culinary treasures. Indulge in luxurious spa treatments, local wine and wood-fired hot tubs that also serve as plunge pools for warmer days. Embrace panoramic views, unwind by the mountain stream bordering each suite, and immerse in relaxation or a good book. The French word, ‘Gîte’ signifies a unique holiday lodging, often old farm buildings near the owner's residence, an apt name for the barn-style suites.

In the famed Franschhoek valley, an hour from Cape Town, enjoy self-catering luxury with mountain ...

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Gîte Unit 1

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The Gîte Unit 1 offers a comfortable retreat with a queen-sized bed. This suite has a full kitchen, a dining area, a TV area, a separate bedroom and en-bathroom with a walk-in shower, as well as its own private patio with a hot tub overlooking a mountain stream.

Gîte Unit 2

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The Gîte Unit 2 offers a bachelor-style retreat with a queen-sized bed and picturesque views over the vineyards and mountains. Boasting a dining area and kitchenette, this cosy suite is ideal for couples looking for peace, stylishness and romance.

Gîte Unit 3

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The Gîte Unit 3 offers a queen-sized bed, a dining area, a kitchenette and beautiful views over the vineyards and mountains. This suite is ideal for couples who want quietude and romance in a

Gîte studio

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The Gîte studio is a stylish space ideal for romantic escapes, featuring a queen-size bed, a sitting area and a plunge pool with loungers. Enjoy breathtaking vineyard and mountain vistas from the studio.

Gîte Unit 1

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Gîte Unit 2

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Gîte Unit 3

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The Gîte Unit 3 offers a queen-sized bed, a dining area, a kitchenette and beautiful views over the vineyards and mountains. This suite is ideal for couples who want quietude and romance in a

Gîte studio

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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