South Africa

Capital city

Pretoria, Cape Town, Bloemfontein

Language

11 official languages, adminstrative language: English

Currency

South African Rand

Best Time to Visit

all year round

Frequently asked questions about South Africa

Can I drink tap water in South Africa?

In the larger cities, such as Cape Town, you can drink the tap water, but it doesn’t always taste particularly good. In very remote, rural areas, it is advisable to filter the water.

What power sockets are there in South Africa?

At which bank in South Africa can I withdraw cash free of charge?

Unfortunately, all banks in South Africa charge a withdrawal fee. However, cash is now only needed in rural areas in South Africa. In the cities, everything (including a deck chair on the beach) can be paid for without cash.

Do I need travel insurance for South Africa?

Unforeseen circumstances can always occur on a trip, such as illness or medical emergencies. With travel insurance, you are protected and can relax and enjoy your vacation.

➙ Find the best travel insurance*

South Africa Trip: The Ultimate Travel Guide

A trip to South Africa is an unforgettable adventure, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re exploring Cape Town’s stunning coastline, spotting the Big Five in Kruger National Park, or driving along the famous Garden Route, South Africa has something for every traveler. From world-class vineyards in the Cape Winelands to the country’s rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of places to visit in South Africa. This South Africa travel guide provides essential tips to help you plan your journey, from must-see tourist attractions to practical travel advice.

Rental Car in South Africa

How to book a rental car for South Africa?

The easiest way to find a suitable rental car is on comparison sites such as Discover Cars* or Sunny Cars*. This is the easiest way to compare price and service.

What do I have to consider when driving in South Africa?

First of all, left-hand traffic applies. In addition, there are rules of right of way, such as the first one there goes first again at 4‑way stopping points.

Speed limits: 60km/h in towns, 100km/h on country roads, 120km/h on highways.

South Africa Travel Tips

Staying Safe in South Africa

Safety is a crucial consideration when traveling to South Africa, as the country has a relatively high crime rate, and incidents involving tourists do occur. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

Keep your handbags and backpacks close and securely strapped to you at all times.
Always check ATMs for signs of tampering before withdrawing money.
Leave not needed valuables in a safe place.
Only carry the amount of cash you need.
Always lock your car doors from the inside, especially when waiting at traffic lights or in traffic jams. There have been incidents of theft and assaults during such times.
Never leave valuables or bags visible inside your car.
Avoid walking on the streets after dark and opt for Uber instead to ensure your safety.

Cost of Travel in South Africa

Prices are slightly lower than in Europe.
For a mid-range travel experience, you should expect a daily budget of approximately €80 to €150.

Good to know

The northeastern part of the country is a malaria zone, so a visit to a tropical medicine specialist is advisable.
Good accommodations can be found on AirBnB and Booking.com.
The best time for safaris is from July to October.