With communities of Blacks, Whites, Coloureds and Asians, South Africa truly is the Rainbow Nation.
After apartheid, Nelson Mandela adopted the term Rainbow Nation to refer to his beloved South Africa. The term barely does the country justice. Its colour shines not just in the customs and cultures of the people who live here, but in the sunsets over Orange River, the craggy views from the Drakenberg and the seaside lights over Cape Town.
What people say
Well worth the money and time with transfers and expertise of tour operators well versed in topics of interest to inform travellers of local cultures, points of interest and using local and indigenous guides with personal knowledge.
South Africa travel highlights
Canoe down Orange River
Take a trip down this famous river, which is known for its stunning scenery and diamond deposits.
Sink into the sand at Lambert’s Bay
The pristine beaches at Lambert’s Bay, fresh lobster trade and picture-perfect wildlife make this town the Diamond of the West Coast.
Wine and dine in Cape Town
There’s so much to do in this city that you’ll have no choice but to take a break at one of the many fine-dining restaurants.
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Articles on South Africa
South Africa holiday information
South Africa facts
Local culture of South Africa
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to South Africa
South Africa festival calendar
Food & drink in South Africa
Further reading
South Africa travel FAQs
Citizens of Australia, UK and most EU countries do not need visas to visit South Africa as a tourist for up to three months. Citizens of all countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.
Entry Requirements - Yellow Fever Certificate
As of October 1st 2011, A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is now required for all passengers over one year of age who arrive or are transiting through South Africa, from a country or region listed by the World Health Organization as infected by yellow fever. Travellers unable to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate issued at least 10 days before arrival in South Africa will be refused entry. There is no option for travellers without a vaccination certificate to be vaccinated on arrival. Please note this also includes transiting through an infected country or region. As of October 1st South Africa will also consider Zambia as a country infected by Yellow Fever even though the WHO does not currently list Zambia. All travellers from Zambia into South Africa will be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.
A new immigration regulation will take effect from 1st October 2014, whereby parents will need to produce an original unabridged birth certificate if they are travelling with children. The new regulation has been put in place to protect children from being abducted, kidnapped and preventing child trafficking. The Department of Home Affairs has urged all parents to apply for unabridged certificates for their children. This is an requirement of the immigration regulation 6 (12)(a) for parents travelling with children. More information can be found here: http://www.nwivisas.com/nwi-blog/south-africa/grace-period-for-parents-travelling-with-children/#sthash.VKZSSlHE.dpuf.
Tipping is expected for most services in South Africa. If the restaurant doesn’t already include a surcharge, add 10-15% to your bill, and tip about 5-10 ZAR for drivers, porters and the like.
You’ll be able to access the internet in major cities and towns but expect limited service in rural and remote places.
You’ll have good mobile coverage across most of South Africa except for some rural and remote places. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
South Africa has Western-style toilets in places like hotels and restaurants, and basic squat toilets in rural areas and national parks. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.
- Can of soft drink = 6 ZAR
- Coffee in a cafe = 12 ZAR
- Beer in a bar = 15 ZAR
- Simple takeaway meal = 30 ZAR
- Bottle of wine = 30 ZAR
- Three-course restaurant meal = 300 ZAR
Tap water is considered safe in large cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, but in rural areas it is unsafe to drink. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
You’ll be able to use your credit card at places like hotels, restaurants and department stores, however prepare to use cash when making purchases from smaller local businesses.
South Africa has plenty of ATMs in big cities and major towns, however they are less common in small villages and rural areas.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/south-africa/public-holidays