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Tourism Information for South Africa
People
South Africa is home to some 43 million people - a colourful population as diverse in makeup as the country's geography is varied. Almost 77% are black (or African), 11% white and 9% "coloured", the local label for people of mixed African, Asian and white descent. Just over half the population live in the cities. Three-quarters are Christian and most of the other major world religions are represented here.
Languages
South Africa currently has 11 official languages. English is spoken throughout the country. French, Italian and German are spoken by staff members in many of the larger hotels and shops that cater to the tourist markets.
Time Differences
South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year, making it an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Winter Time and seven hours behind Australian Central Time.
Passports and Visas
All persons travelling to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport. For some of the neighbouring countries, a visa is needed. In terms of existing arrangements, passport holders of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements as for instance Australia, USA, New Zealand and countries which belong to the European Union (EU).
For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for vacation, entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa.
Travellers from certain regions of the world (Scandinavia, Japan, the USA, and most Western European and Commonwealth countries) do not need to formally apply for a visa. Upon arrival in South Africa, countries falling into this category will automatically be given a free entry permit sticker that outlines how long they may remain in the country. This automatic entry permit is usually for a maximum of 90 days, though the immigration officer may tailor the time period according to the airline tickets held. Foreign nationals from some other countries are offered this service, but for a maximum of 30 days. If visitors want to stay for a longer period, they will have to apply formally for a visa, as opposed to relying on the automatic entry permit. In case of travelling to more than one neighbouring country it is advised to apply for a multiple visa.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs website, or contact your local South African mission.
Arriving in Cape Town
Most people coming to Cape Town will arrive at Cape Town International Airport. The airport is situated 20km east of Cape Town. Door-to-door minibus services are available for the journey to the city, taking approximately half an hour (R150). Many hotels operate courtesy buses, and taxis are available and cost R9 per km. A number of car rental companies including Avis, Budget, Hertz, Campbells, Imperial, Europcar, Levitts and Tempest are represented at the airport.
There are ATMs, bars, restaurants and currency exchange facilities are available throughout the airport. As well as several shops, including duty-free in the International Departures' section. A VAT refund service is available by the International check in desk. There is a Vodacom shop in International Arrivals where visitors can buy local SIM cards for their mobile phones. A free magazine called The Other Guide is handed out in International Arrivals; it's packed with ideas on where to eat and what to do in Cape Town that month.
There is no departure tax.
Banks and Money
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up R1 (one Rand). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. The exchange rate can be viewed at this Rand exchange rate website.
Credit Cards
Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted. Be aware that with Master cards you can withdraw a maximum of 1000 Dollars cash per week. We advise people to make sure that they have other possibilities to get hold of money if needed. Best is to get information from your bank.
Traveller’s Cheques
Traveller’s cheques are generally accepted, assuming that the cheques are made out in a valid currency and can be exchanged at South African banks and foreign exchange offices. Many shops and hotels also accept traveller cheques. It is best to find out at your bank which traveller's cheques are acceptable in South Africa.
Tipping
Most restaurants do not add a service charge to bills - thus it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip. Be aware that big groups at Restaurants might incur a 10% surcharge.
Parking and petrol station attendants should be given whatever small change you have available. This is always appreciated, even though it may seem a small amount.
Tax
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 14% VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced. It is advisable to plan an extra hour at the airport for tax refunds, and the best is to have the goods with their receipts ready for the controlling officer.
Weather
Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate meaning cold, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The summer months run about October until April when most days are warm and sunny. The average maximum temperature is 26°C although many days are much hotter than this, the temperature often exceeding 30°. For these summer months, lightweight (cottons and linens), short-sleeved clothes are best, although a light jersey/jumper might be needed for the cooler evenings. Winters are generally a bit cooler with a few days of rainy weather when a cold front passes between warm sunny days. The average maximum temperature is 13°C. Warmer clothes are needed for the winter and it is advisable to have an umbrella or raincoat. For a daily weather forecast of Cape Town and the Western Cape you can check out the local newspapers or go to Weather SA.
Electricity
South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz
Exceptions: Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V)
Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. Adaptors can be purchased at most retail stores but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.
Post Offices
Opening times: Mondays - Fridays: 08:00 - 16:00
Stamps can be bought at all post offices, as well as some hotels and shops.
Phoning
When calling overseas, you first dial 09, which is South Africa's international access code, followed by the country code, area code of the city or region, and then the number of the person you wish to call.
For example, if you make a call to Sydney, Australia, telephone number 456 1234 you must dial 09 61 2 456 1234.
The connecting lines are generally very good in South Africa.
Crime
For tourists, South Africa is as safe as any other destination in the world. South Africa boasts a vast array of cultures, communities, sites and attractions. Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists provided they take basic common-sense precautions (for example not walking alone in deserted areas at night and being circumspect about how much photographic equipment or flashy jewellery you carry Most of the crime that takes place in South Africa is between people who know each other and random acts of violence are the minority of cases. Most major cities run organized crime prevention programmes
Basic Safety Tip guidelines will be available at hotels and tourism information offices. The best advice is to avoid walking at night and driving into areas that are unknown to you. The Cape Town central city area is generally safe to walk around as is the Waterfront precinct as they have a very high security presence.
Never accept any help from strangers at ATM's (Automated Teller Machines). Try to stand as close as possible to the machine to avoid strangers seeing your pin number. It is safest to never let your credit card out of your sight, especially in restaurants etc. In case of a lost or stolen card, report the theft as soon as possible at any police station and stop your card at your bank.
We all know that these incidences happen all over the world not only in Cape Town.
If you are in doubt as to the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism information and Safety Line on 083 123 2345. This number may also be used for practical assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.
Health and Safety
Many foreigners are unaware that South Africa has a well-developed infrastructure, high standards of water treatment and medical facilities equal to the best in the world. Here we address any health and safety questions you may have.
Hospitals and medical care
In a great many medical disciplines, South Africa is a global leader. In fact, South African trained doctors are sought after all over the world, so this should give an indication of the standard of medical care available. There is a large network of public and private hospitals countrywide, offering excellent service. However, clients must have adequate health insurance to cover the fees private hospitals charge.
Malaria
Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is not much of a risk in the winter months. Although the incidence of malaria is rare, it would be best to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas.
Our government has embarked on an extensive anti-malaria programme (in co-operation with Swaziland and Mozambique) and the incidence of malaria is decreasing. One reassuring thing about malaria is that there is absolutely no way at all that you can contract it unless you are bitten by an infected mosquito. And with modern insect repellents and some common sense one can reduce the chances of being bitten to close to zero.
The cheapest, safest and most effective measures against malaria are physical barriers such as a mosquito net, and the use of a good insect repellent. If you decide to take malaria prophylaxis, it is essential that they take the drugs according to the directions on the package insert. You will need to start a week or two before entering a malaria-endemic area and should continue taking the drugs for four weeks after leaving the malaria risk area. It is advisable to consult a medical professional before embarking on a course of malaria prophylaxis. Note that expectant mothers should avoid malaria medications.
Vaccinations
The Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is the only vaccination needed from travellers, whom are over the age of one, entering South Africa within six days of leaving an infected country. Visitors who travel through or stay over in these areas, are advised to be vaccinated against the disease before travelling to South Africa. Immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required and no other vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa
Food and Water
As a rule, tap water in South Africa is safe to drink as it is treated and is free of harmful microorganisms. In hotels, restaurants and nightspots, the standards of hygiene and food preparation top-notch. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads and to put as much ice as you like in your drinks - a good thing, too, after a day on the beach or in the bush.
Disabled Facilities
Generally speaking many accommodation providers have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Most public buildings cater for wheelchair access and most sports stadiums have areas accessible to wheelchairs. You can rent wheelchairs and other aids in most cities. The larger car rental companies can provide vehicles with hand controls. Table Mountain, Cape Point Nature Reserve and Kirstenbosch Gardens all provide good access for the disabled, and Kirstenbosch even has a special "touch and smell" area for visually impaired visitors.
Smoking
Law prohibits smoking in most public places, including airports and railway stations. Most restaurants have designated smoking and non-smoking areas.
Driving
All visitors intending to drive are required to obtain an international drivers permit, visitors found driving without a permit will be fined and not permitted to continue on their journey. Visitors will also not be able to rent a car without a valid driver's permit. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory and strictly enforced by law.
In South Africa we drive on the left side of the road and give way to traffic approaching from the right. On multiple lanes it is advised to overtake on the right-hand side. Our speed limits are 120kmph on the open road, 100kmph on smaller roads and between 60 and 80kmph in towns. Be aware that even major national roads cut through residential areas so there may be a speed limit of 80 or 60kmph on a road that looks like an autobahn. This is to protect pedestrians, especially children, so we really do encourage people to comply.
Parking
In South Africa we park in the direction that we drive. Always make sure that your vehicle is locked properly and no goods are lying around inside as this leads to theft. Car radios are one of the favourite items to be stolen so assure that it is always taken out and locked away.
Road Safety
Our transport infrastructure is excellent and our roads are in good condition. However, the distances between towns are significant, so if you're planning to self-drive, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary to ensure they don't drive long distances as fatigue is a major cause of road accidents. Avoid long car journeys that necessitate driving at night as it always carries more risk. Also, in some of the more remote rural areas, the roads are not fenced so there may be stray animals on the road - which could be very dangerous at night. (Cows don't have headlights.)
South Africa does not tolerate drunk driving. There are strict drinking and driving laws in place with a maximum allowable alcohol blood content of 0.05%. Translated that means about one glass of wine for the average woman and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average or large man.
In Cape Town there are frequent road block set up at night on the main roads heading from popular night spots. Please be careful and if you are over the limit catch a taxi and come fetch your car the following day.
Taxis
Taxis come in two types - the metered variety which is normally a sedan car with an identifying light box on its roof. Their rates are about R8-00 per Km and they can be found in Taxi ranks or called by phone. The other variety is a mini-bus which travels a set route for a set fee, normally crowded, sometimes unsafe and in my opinion only for the adventurous tourist. They can be hailed on their route.
Shopping
Most major shopping centres and malls operate 7 days a week, but you will find that in the smaller towns and rural areas that shops are closed on a Sunday.
Monday - Saturday: 09:00 to 17:00
Sunday: 09:00 - 14:00