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South Africa - Travel and weather
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Weather
South African seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere with the height of summer in December and January and midwinter falling in June and July.
The Western and Eastern Cape has a Mediterranean climate with sunny and hot (sometimes very hot) summers and cool (though mild) winters when the majority of rain falls.
Northern South Africa (including Kruger National Park) gets summer rain, normally in sharp showers and occasional thunderstorms. Clear skies during the winter generally mean warm, dry days with a significant fall in temperature after dark. KwaZulu Natal (KZN) has a tropical climate and can be muggy during the height of summer. The northern hemisphere summer is typically the most pleasant time of year to travel to KZN.
Passports and visas
Passports valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your departure from South Africa must be produced on arrival by all visitors and must have at least two completely blank pages (not necessarily consecutive). Visas are required by most foreign nationals, British passport holders can currently obtain a visa on arrival at no cost. However, it is advisable to check with the nearest South Africa High Commission or Embassy for details.
Time zone
South Africa is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Electricity
The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Plugs are unusual and have three round pins so most people, even if they own an international adaptor will need one specific to South Africa.
Language
South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions.
Driving
Vehicles are driven on the left hand side of the road in South Africa, speed limits and distances are shown in km. You can collect a hire car with a drivers’ licence provided that it is in English and has a photograph. The police in South Africa have been known to ask for an International Drivers’ Permit (IDP) and you may be fined if you cannot produce one. In order to pick up a car you will need to produce a credit card on which a deposit will be held, a debit card will not be accepted.
Currency
The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. Credit cards are widely accepted but are not generally accepted at petrol stations.
Tipping
Hotel porters are generally tipped a small amount and for exceptional service in restaurants, you can add 10% to the bill.
Health precautions
There are no compulsory health requirements for entry into South Africa. Parts of South Africa including the Kruger Park, northern KwaZulu Natal and Limpopo Province are malarial and precautions should be taken. Please consult your GP well before you travel.
Water
Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the country, ask locally for more information. Bottled water is widely available.
Clothing
In general, clothing in South Africa is very informal and you will not be expected to dress up unless a luxury train journey is part of your itinerary. Dress is very casual on safari so we recommend that you keep your luggage to the basics. Bright colours and whites are NOT advised as they show up in the bush. Khaki and beige are perfect colours to wear. Many lodges, hotels and guesthouses will do laundry (except underwear).
