South Africa: Questions and Answers
Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about travel to South Africa, tours, and safaris.
How long should a trip to South Africa last?
A trip to South Africa should last between two and four weeks. If you have two weeks, you should focus on specific regions. The more time you have, the more regions you can include in your itinerary.
Is South Africa a diverse travel destination?
South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in Africa. Glittering cities, huge shopping malls, first-class restaurants, and world-class wineries contrast with endless beaches, imposing mountain ranges, dense forests, arid semi-deserts, and countless wildlife and nature reserves deep in the African bush.
What kinds of travel options are there in South Africa?
South Africa is a wonderful destination to explore on a self-drive tour with a rental car. Small-group tours with fellow travelers are also popular. On a privately guided tour, you’ll travel with your own private tour guide and no other travelers. If you’d prefer not to drive yourself but don’t mind forgoing the all-inclusive service of a small-group or privately guided tour, then a chauffeured tour is a great option.
Why should a specialist plan your trip to South Africa?
Given South Africa's size and many different facets, professional travel planning is advisable. It is important to strike a reasonable balance between "seeing a lot" and "relaxing." Distances must be estimated realistically. In some parts of the country, 100 km can be covered much more quickly than in others. For some stops, a minimum stay of several nights should be planned, while for others, one night is sufficient.
How big is South Africa?
South Africa is three and a half times the size of Germany, with many different climate zones and tourist highlights. Kruger Park alone is as large as the German state of Hesse. The Karoo semi-desert is even larger than the entire area of the Federal Republic of Germany. Given its size, you should have your individual trip to South Africa planned by a long-standing specialist.
Can a trip to South Africa be combined with visits to neighboring countries?
The two independent kingdoms of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and Lesotho can easily be included in a trip to South Africa, provided that the route takes you through the north or east of the country. However, combinations with the neighboring countries of Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe are also possible.
Is English spoken in South Africa?
In South Africa, English is considered a so-called lingua franca that virtually everyone speaks and understands. All signs, notices, and documentation are available in English. In total, the country has eleven official languages, in addition to South African Sign Language (SASL).
Is traveling to South Africa safe?
South Africa is just as safe a travel destination as any other long-haul destination, provided that a few important rules of conduct are consistently followed. Most crime occurs in areas where tourists do not go.
Is traveling to South Africa expensive?
A vacation in South Africa is surprisingly affordable overall for a long-haul destination. The cost of living is quite low, dining out is generally affordable, and many attractions are free or accessible for a fee that is low by European standards. The country thus offers the best value for money of all travel destinations in Southern Africa.
How good is the infrastructure in South Africa?
South Africa's infrastructure is largely on a par with European standards in terms of roads, accommodation, mobile phone coverage, shopping facilities, food, and medical care. The only exceptions are in fairly remote regions.
How do I pay in South Africa?
The local currency is the South African rand, abbreviated as "R" or "ZAR." Major credit cards are accepted nationwide, even at street food markets and souvenir stands. However, it is still a good idea to have some cash with you, for example for tips or in case of emergency if your credit card does not work. The cheapest way to get cash is from local ATMs.
Is there mass tourism in South Africa?
In general, mass tourism is virtually unknown in South Africa. During certain holiday periods, especially around New Year’s, long lines can sometimes form at popular attractions such as Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, or Kruger National Park. Popular beaches are also quite crowded during these times. Most regions of the country are almost never overcrowded. Even during peak season, you’ll often have many hidden gems all to yourself.
Is there a time difference between South Africa and the US?
During Central European Summer Time, there is no time difference between South Africa and Central Europe. During Central European Winter Time, South Africa is only one hour ahead. This means you can start your trip to South Africa without experiencing jet lag.
Can you travel to South Africa at any time of year?
In general, South Africa can be visited all year round, but different regions have different climatic conditions depending on the season. The best time to visit the Cape and the Garden Route is during the summer months from September to April. The north and east of the country are best visited from April to October.
Is there a risk of malaria in South Africa?
Only a few parts of South Africa, such as the lowlands leading to Kruger National Park and the Hluhluwe and St. Lucia regions, have a low risk of malaria. The risk is slightly higher during the rainy season, from November through March. The vast majority of South Africa, however—including Cape Town and the Garden Route—is malaria-free.
How good is medical care in South Africa?
Medical care in South Africa is on par with European standards—if not better—especially in private clinics. Even public facilities in remote areas can be easily accessed in an emergency. All treatments must be paid for in advance, but they are significantly more affordable than in other popular travel destinations around the world. Nevertheless, it is strongly recommended that you purchase travel health insurance before you depart.
What are the seasons in South Africa?
South Africa also has four seasons, but they are the opposite of those in Europe. Spring is from September to November, summer is from December to February, fall is from March to May, and winter is from June to August. However, South Africa has different climate zones. For some regions in the north of the country, for example, the South African summer is not the ideal time to travel.
What vaccinations do I need for South Africa?
In South Africa, the only required vaccination is against yellow fever, provided you have been in a yellow fever-risk area prior to entry. Otherwise, the vaccinations recommended for Europe are advisable, along with vaccinations against hepatitis A/B and typhoid fever, if necessary. For extended stays in the bush involving contact with animals, a rabies vaccination may be recommended. These are general guidelines only. Please consult your doctor for individual recommendations regarding your specific trip to South Africa.
Is a safari in South Africa worthwhile?
A safari is an essential part of almost any trip to South Africa. Unlike other well-known safari destinations in Africa, the country offers reasonable prices. South Africa is home to countless state-run national parks and private game reserves that are home to the Big Five and all other African wildlife.
Are there any good restaurants in South Africa?
In South Africa—particularly in the Cape and the wine regions—there are Michelin-starred restaurants that are still significantly more affordable than those in Europe, Asia, or the Americas. But even simple restaurants, country inns, and food markets offer good local cuisine at fair prices. Food is highly valued in South Africa.
Are accommodations in South Africa up to European standards?
Accommodations in South Africa are generally of European standard, ranging from simple three-star guesthouses to four-star boutique hotels and five-star luxury lodges. The classifications in South Africa are comparable to ours; the only exceptions are in very remote regions.
Is it possible to travel around South Africa in a rental car?
South Africa is an ideal destination for a self-drive tour in a rental car. The national highways (N) and the major regional roads (R) are paved. You’ll get used to driving on the left very quickly. Driving across the country is very relaxed, and even in cities, getting around is usually stress-free. However, an SUV with a longer wheelbase is advisable in some regions.
Is it possible to travel to South Africa with children?
South Africa is an ideal long-haul destination for families with children. There is no or only a minimal time difference from Europe. Flights are usually overnight flights arriving in the morning. Most regions are malaria-free and have a consistent European standard in terms of infrastructure, accommodation, food, and medical care.
