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

West Coast Luxury Tents

From €35 /person

Epic 4x4 accessible West Coast glamping tents -enjoy a private beach access and scenic surroundings

Concealed behind a sand dune, 500 meters from a pristine 40 km sandy shoreline. These self-catering tents offer a private retreat with exclusive access to the unspoiled beach, reachable by a scenic walk or a 4x4 adventure. Ensuring an intimate escape, this spot on a private beachfront farm bars public intrusion. For aviation enthusiasts, a 400-meter private airstrip awaits. Between Dwarskersbos and Elands Bay, our location is a sanctuary for birdlife enthusiasts, with the nearby Verloren Vlei area hosting diverse species. Revel in unique Atlantic Ocean sunsets, casting a soulful charm over Elands Bay, renowned for crayfish during the season. Only a 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town, our Luxury West Coast beach tents beckon for a peaceful and adventurous escape.

Concealed behind a sand dune, 500 meters from a pristine 40 km sandy shoreline. These ...

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Trips we think you'll love whilst staying at West Coast Luxury Tents

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Fork North

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Indulge in our luxury tent, boasting a private en-suite bathroom, fully equipped with a fridge, stove, and catering utensils. Each tent features a small kitchenette and a private braai area, perfect for two people in a comfortable double bed.

Middle Fork

1•

Experience our luxury tent with a private en-suite, fully equipped kitchen, fridge, and stove. Each tent includes a small kitchenette and a private braai area, accommodating two in a comfortable double bed.

Fork South

3•

Experience our luxury tent with private en-suite, fully equipped kitchen, and a private braai area. The main tent offers a double bed, and an adjoining tent sleeps two in single beds, sharing the bathroom.

Fork North

1•

Middle Fork

1•

Fork South

3•

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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