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

Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge

From €264 /person

4.1 Sustainability Rating

Experience an authentic 5-star getaway in the malaria-free, animal-rich Nambiti Game Reserve

Settled in the 22.000 acres of untouched bushveld, with plenty of natural water that draws in game of all sorts, is the bespoke Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge. When on a safari through the lush expanses of KwaZulu-Natal, guests can expect to see the Big 5, eland, cheetah and many rare birds, including the Martial Eagle. As well as being mindful of the lodge's impact on the surroundings, Nambiti is involved in various ongoing projects that uplift the local community through Pack for a Purpose and protect the land on which it sits, through a dedicated anti-poaching unit. Nambiti also offers up a gourmet, sustainable culinary experience tailored to most dietary needs.

Settled in the 22.000 acres of untouched bushveld, with plenty of natural water that draws ...

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Executive Honeymoon Suite

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The Executive Honeymoon Suite offers guests a private, luxury getaway with panoramic views of the wilderness from a private deck. This free-standing suite features a fitted king-size four-poster bed and an en-suite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a large stone bath with bush views.

Luxury King/Twin Suites

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The Luxury Suites boast gorgeous views of the bushveld via a private deck. The suites feature either a fitted king-size bed or 2 twin beds, as well as an en-suite bathroom with a luxurious stone-carved bath. The suites are grouped in 2 with an optional interleading foyer for families.

Executive Honeymoon Suite

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Luxury King/Twin Suites

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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