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

Makakatana Bay Lodge

4.2 Sustainability Rating

Explore iSimangaliso Wetland Park at this beach safari getaway on Lake St Lucia

Nestled in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, on the western banks of Lake St Lucia is a secluded lodge offering a stay with plenty of luxury and comfort. When staying at Makakatana Bay Lodge, guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site by boat, go on a game drive, or relax by the pool after a beach day. Makakatana Bay Lodge supports anti-poaching units and wildlife vets in the area. They also partner with local communities in Mtubatuba to assist with early childhood development, among other projects. The lodge has various sustainable practices that centre around reducing waste and energy consumption, thus limiting light pollution in the area.

Nestled in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, on the western banks of Lake St Lucia is ...

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Luxury Suites

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The Luxury Suites are set in the wildlife-rich dune forests, where guests can enjoy their morning coffee from a private viewing deck or relax in the outdoor bath. Each room features either 1 fitted double bed or 2 twin beds with an en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Honeymoon Suite

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The Honeymoon Suite offers secluded views of the lush wetland lake. The large private deck offers the perfect spot for sundowners and a candle-lit diner. The suite includes a fitted king-size bed, a separate bathroom and outdoor shower, air-conditioning and a fan.

Family Suite

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The Family Suite offers the perfect getaway for a family or group of friends of 4. The suite features a private outdoor deck frequented by wildlife. The main room features a fitted king-sized bed, while the second bedroom includes 2 twin beds and there is a spacious bathroom with complimentary amenities.

Luxury Suites

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Honeymoon Suite

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Family Suite

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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