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

La Petite Ferme

From €192 /person

4.2 Sustainability Rating

An opulent wine estate stay in Franschhoek boasting phenomenal cuisine and views

Situated on the slopes of the Oliphants Pass and Middagkrans Mountain Range, La Petite Ferme offers a manor house and vineyard suites, each enhanced with spectacular views and comfort. La Petite Ferme is set amidst the historic, beautiful, and captivating Cape Winelands town of Franschhoek. The beautiful Franschhoek Valley allows views of the vineyards and mountains of the Cape Winelands. The wine estate is perfect for any season as guests can snuggle up next to the fireplace in winter or cool down in private splash pools during summer. Le Petite Ferme Restaurant offers an exquisite culinary experience. The menu showcases seasonal produce from the area in a blend of country and contemporary cuisine.

Situated on the slopes of the Oliphants Pass and Middagkrans Mountain Range, La Petite Ferme ...

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Trips we think you'll love whilst staying at La Petite Ferme

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Vineyard Suite - Florentin

Inspired by the greenery of the vineyards, this suite is the perfect Winelands hideaway. The room features a king-size, extra length bed, en-suite bathroom complete with a bath and walk-in shower, underfloor heating, and heated towel rails. Outside, guests can enjoy a private plunge pool.

Vineyard Suite - Provencal

A moment for romance is reflected in the soft powder palette of this suite. With a bath that overlooks the lush vineyards of the estate, this suite is perfect to reconnect and recharge. The room features a comfy king-size, extra length bed and is complete with a private plunge pool.

Vineyard Suite - Africa

Inspired by the beautiful continent and its joyous celebration of adventure, the Africa Suite features warm colours and creature comforts. Guests may enjoy a private patio overlooking the vineyards and an exclusive outdoor plunge pool. The suite boasts a king-size, extra length bed and an en-suite bathroom.

Vineyard Suite - Moresque

Morocco's alluring landscape and its famous spice markets are depicted in this suite. The bath overlooks the vineyards and invites guests to soak up the beauty and emerge refreshed and revived. A king-size bed offers the perfect place to retire to, while the suite also boasts a private patio and plunge pool.

Vineyard Suite - Leman

In a nod to the Huguenot heritage of Franschhoek, this suite reflects the blue colours of Lake Geneva. Elegant and subtle, the colour palette was inspired by Monet’s watercolours. The ideal place to enjoy and celebrate the finer things of life, this suite offers a private patio and plunge pool.

Manor House Suite - La Petite

This suite features a comfortable double bed and an en-suite bathroom complete with a walk-in shower, heated towel rails, and underfloor heating. Air conditioning and underfloor heating allow guests to remain comfortable no matter the season. Outside, the suite boasts a private veranda and a shared family-sized pool.

Manor House Suite - Library

The Library Suite is equipped with a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom complete with a walk-in shower, heated towel rails, and underfloor heating. The spacious room boasts a separate lounge area with a guest bathroom complete with a sleeper couch. The room’s patio overlooks the vineyards and the shared swimming pool.

Manor House Suite - Verandah

The Verandah Suite is equipped with a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom complete with a walk-in shower, heated towel rails, and underfloor heating. The room overlooks the vineyards and has access to a private patio and shared swimming pool.

Manor House Suite - Bridal

Featuring a king-size, extra length bed and en-suite bathroom with heated towel rails and underfloor heating, the Bridal Suite is uber comfortable and stylish. With both air conditioning and underfloor heating, the room is perfect for summer and winter stays. The room is complete with a private patio and a shared swimming pool.