Travel to South Africa

• Overview of South Africa
• Traveling information to South Africa.
• South Africa Attractions.
• Map of South Africa

Overview of South Africa Travel.

South Africa consists of nine provinces each offering special travel options. Three of these provinces are land locked, the rest border the ocean. The vegetation varies from lush green natural forests to harsh arid deserts.

South Africa has a great diversity of wildlife and plant life. Although a lot of the country is farmland, there are large regions of the country that are reserved for conservation. The most famous of these game reserves is the Kruger National Park. Travel in the form of Safaris offers wildlife adventures unsurpassed.

South Africa is a country with a diverse mix of nationalities, races, and religions. Sport in South Africa has played a large role in unifying the country. Also the people of South Africa have strong cultural roots and this can be seen in the traditional cooking of South Africans

 Traveling information to South African.

Climate:
As South Africa lies in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in South Africa are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. December and January are the main summer holiday months, and people flock to the beaches in droves. In May and June, Autumn brings warm days and cool nights. The climate is at its best at this time in most parts of the country. Autumn and Spring are the best seasons for hiking. From the beginning of July to the end of September, you can expect cold conditions in most of the country, and rain in the Western Cape. Snow sometimes falls on the Natal Drakensberg and the Cape mountains in winter.

Communication Services:
A direct dialing service connects all centres' except for villages in the more rural districts. The international telephone service links south Africa with countries around the world. Cellular phones can be hired on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

Credit Cards:
Major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa and their affiliates are accepted in South Africa

Currency:
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R1. R1 = 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at commercial banks, American Express and Rennies Travel. see our currency conversion tool.

Health Hazards:
Malaria regions include Northern Province and Mpumalanga and the north of KwaZulu Natal. Preventative medication is obtainable at all South African pharmacies. It's important to consult a pharmacist for advice on the best drug or drug combination you should take. In a malaria region, you should avoid wearing perfume or aftershave lotion, and it's advisable to wear long sleeves and long trousers at night. The bilharzia (shistosomiasis) parasite is present in streams, rivers, lakes and dams in some of the northern and eastern parts of the country, and vistors should therefore avoid contact with the water in these regions. The Eastern Cape is bilharzia free.

Sun Protection:
The South African sun is strong with a high ultraviolet rating, so screening products with sun protection factors of 15 and over are recommended.

Visas:
Passport holders from more than 80 countries, including the USA, Canada, Japan and the European Union countries can visit South Africa without visas. For further information on South Africa visas click here or contact your local office of the diplomatic or consular representative of the South African Government.

Water:
In the major cities and towns and most game reserves, tap water is purified and 100% safe to drink.

Time Differences:
Throughout the year, Standard Time in South Africa is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean time, one hour ahead of Central European Winter Time, and seven hours in advance of Eastern Standard Winter Time. For Europeans there is no jet lag when they travel to South Africa.

Immunization:
People traveling to South Africa from a Yellow Fever Zone, must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Infants under the age of one year are exempt. Immunization against cholera and smallpox is not required.

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.

Medical Services:
South Africa has no national health scheme. It's advisable to purchase travel insurance which covers medical expenses during the period of your stay.

Shopping:
Local manufacturers set a high premium on workmanship, and at the current Rand value, you can afford to be really extravagant. Shopping hours are generally 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, and 08:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays. Many shops in cities are open Sundays.

Rules of the Road:
An excellent road network links the largest metropolitan areas with the smallest villages. South Africa drives on the left. The speed limit in urban areas is usually 60 km per hour, and on freeways 120 km per hour unless otherwise indicated. Wearing seat belts is compulsory; driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and traffic laws are strictly enforced.

A valid driver's licence, provided the photograph is an integral part of the document, and provided it is printed in English, is accepted. If your licence does not comply with these requirements, you should obtain an International Driving Permit before your departure for South Africa.

Religions:
Most denominations are represented. Churches, Mosques, Temples and Synagogues are located in most major cities.

Wining and Dining:
South Africa is acclaimed for its top quality fresh produce and culinary excellence. In most cities and towns, menu's feature French, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, Mexican, Cape Malay and every other type of cuisine imaginable. the standard ranges from the unexceptional to the sublime. this country is also internationally renowned for its fine wines. Many estates have been producing world-class wines for years - and they're improving all the time. Most unlicensed restaurants invite patrons to bring their own wine. Restaurant guides are available from publicity associations in major cities

Places to visit when you travel to South Africa

• Victoria & Alfred Waterfront - One of South Africa's biggest tourist attractions. Worth visiting is the Two Oceans Aquarium as well as the Maritime Museum. Daily boat trips around the harbour and to Robben Island.
  
• Table Mountain - Take the cable car to visit South Africa's most famous landmark. Magnificent views from the summit across the Cape Peninsula, Table Bay and Robben Island.
  
• Cape Point
  This is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve is an unspoilt stretch of land and coast with a wealth of fauna and flora. The new lighthouse is the most powerful in the world, with an electric light of 19 million candle power.
  
• Drakensberg Mountains
  The Drakensberg is the country's most impressive mountain range and a very popular holiday destination. Nestled at the foot of these mountains are numerous fine hotels and holiday resorts. Fishing, hiking, mountain climbing and horse riding are just a few of the leisure options.
  
• Durban
  Durban Beachfront is also known as the "Golden Mile". This stretch of golden sand is Durban's main attraction. Indulge in swimming, sunbathing and other water sports. Luxury hotels, markets and amusement parks are found along the beachfront.
  
• Eastern Cape coastal area
  Along the coastline you will find pristine beaches, subtropical vegetation, abundant birdlife, spectacular scenery and good fishing all year round. A landmark in this area is the "Hole-in-the-wall", a massive outcrop of rock rising from the sea.
  
• Eastern Free State
  The Golden Gate Resort and National Park is one of the Free State's premier attractions. In winter the picturesque Drakensberg and Maluti mountains are capped with snow providing endless adventures for the serious hiker and the casual traveller alike. This area is well known for its splendid scenery and unusual sandstone rock formations.
  
• East London
  South Africa's only river port city is a popular coastal holiday destination, with sweeping white beaches stretching for miles along the unspoilt coastline. Swimming, sailing and boating are enjoyed all year round and at night the numerous theatres, cinema's, casinos and restaurants offer good entertainment.
  
• Garden Route
  A magnificent stretch of coast with breathtaking scenery which stretches from Heidelberg to the Tsitsikamma forest and the Storms River. This is a region of great natural beauty, creating a paradise graced with evergreen forests, lakes, golden beaches and exquisite fauna and flora. Other attractions include the Tsitsikamma National Park with its lush indigenous forests and the Addo Elephant Park, known for its elephants.
  
• Greater St Lucia Wetland Park
  The park offers eco-tourists some of the most diverse wildlife and outdoor experiences imaginable. Lakes, islands, estuaries, grasslands, forests, wetlands, mangroves, beaches and coral reefs all form part of this magnificent area. Wildlife include rhino, elephant, crocodile, hippo, buffalo, giraffe, waterbuck, kudu, nyala and a host of other species. st lucia wetlands park is one of South africa's three World heritage sites.
  
• Hermanus
  Situated only one hour's drive from Cape Town, this popular holiday resort is well known for its land-based whale-watching. The town offers miles of safe beaches, restaurants, shops, unique flora, fauna and marine life. Main attractions include the old harbour and the MTN whale crier.
  

• Gansbaai
  Small village known for rock and boat angling, diving and whale-watching. For the more adventurous traveller, shark-cage diving provides the opportunity to watch the great white shark feeding.

• Johannesburg - Gold Reef City
  A reconstruction of Johannesburg during the gold rush era, built around a gold mine. Visit the Victorian fun fair, miners' houses, a brewery, pubs, a hotel, restaurants and the stock exchange. You can watch molten gold being poured, take a trip down an old mine shaft or watch the ever entertaining traditional mine dancing.
  

• Johannesburg - Tour of Soweto  
  Visit this sprawling town outside Johannesburg and see how many South Africans live. Eat mealiepap, drink locally brewed beer and visit one of the township's night clubs.
  

• Kimberley
  Also known as "The City that Sparkles", this historic town was once buzzing with activity during the great diamond rush in the second half of the 1800's. The first diamond, a 21,25 carat yellow diamond was found in 1866 and later named "Eureka." A visit to the Big Hole Museum is a must as well as the following attractions: the Battlefields Route, Kimberley Tram, McGregor Museum, underground diamond mine tours, and, of course, a visit to the Big Hole.
  

• Kruger National Park
  Needs no introduction! This world-renowned game reserve offers a wilderness experience you will never forget! View the "Big Five" on foot in the company of a well-trained game ranger. The main camps have excellent tourist facilities. Visitors are strongly advised to take precautions against malaria.
  
• KwaZulu-Natal Game Parks
  There are private and national reserves throughout the region of the KwaZulu-Natal. National parks such as the Royal Natal, Mkuzi, Lake Sibaya, Itala, Hluhluwe/Umfolozi and Ndumu offer every variety of game viewing and accommodation. The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park with its rich birdlife has been declared a World Heritage Site.
  
• Namaqualand
  This area is world renowned for its spectacular wild flowers, making this region unique amongst South Africa's natural attractions. Each spring this area is transformed into a wonderland of multi-coloured flowers.
  
• Natal Midlands / battlefields
  The scenic hills and valleys of Kwa-Zulu Natal were once the scene of major military clashes. These battles, fought between Zulu, Brit and Boer, forged the history of South Africa and forever changed the course of the British Empire. The Natal Midlands has the greatest concentration of battlefields in the country.
  
• Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farms - Try your luck at riding one of these large birds, but be prepared for a few bruises! Go on a tour of the farm facilities or buy some of the beautiful ostrich leather goods, eggs or feathers. For a meal with a difference, try a juicy ostrich steak or chew on dried strips of ostrich meat called biltong.
  
• Oudtshoorn  Cango Caves - Situated in the Klein Karoo area of the Western Cape, these caves feature fascinating limestone formations. Daily guided tours are available.
  
• Panorama Route
  This route a wealth of tourist attractions, including the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Mac-Mac Falls, God's Window and Pilgrim's Rest. Pilgrim's Rest is a living museum, a replica of the early gold mining town of days gone by. Visit the many fascinating places in the town and enjoy a meal at one of he cosy coffee shops, restaurants or the Royal Hotel.
  
• Port Elizabeth
  It is South Africa's fifth largest city and is both known as the windy city and the friendly city. It is situated on the Eastern Cape coast, in Algoa Bay, and is thus an ideal place to start or end a trip down the Garden Route or explore the Eastern Cape.
  
• Pretoria
  Pretoria lies 50 km north of Johannesburg and is also known as the Jacaranda City, as many of its streets are lined with jacaranda trees, which in summer cover the city in hues of purple and pink.

  Pretoria has more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves. An era of history pervades the town particularly in Church Square where the first church was erected surrounded by open-air markets. Also worth a visit is the historic Union Buildings where Parliament sits for six months of the year.
  

• Robben Island
  This barren windswept island was the prison home of former President Nelson Mandela for many years. Here you can experience the view that kept Nelson Mandela's dream of freedom for his country alive. Ferry trips are undertaken to the island and bookings must be made well in advance. Robben Island is one of South Africa's three World heritage sites.
  
• Sodwana Bay
  Offers some of the best diving experiences in South Africa.
  
• Sun City / Lost City
  Situated in North West Province, Sun City is a fantasy world where ancient civilizations once reigned. Here visitors will find an indigenous rain forest, the Gary Player and Lost City golf courses and a big casino and entertainment complex. Sun City lies adjacent to the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve.
  
• Winelands / Wine route
  South Africa produces some of the world's best wines. The magnificent farms along the wine route are popular tourist destinations. Enjoy wine-tasting, delicious meals or even horse-riding through the vineyards.
  
• St Lucia World Heritage Sites (KwaZulu-Natal)
  Lake St Lucia is part of the St Lucia estuarine system - the largest in Africa - and was designated a Wetland of International Importance in terms of the Ramsar Convention in 1986. It is also one of five lakes worldwide protected by the Living Lakes coalition. Covering some 250 000 hectares, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park incorporates the entire Lake St Lucia, the St Lucia and Maputaland marine reserves, the Coastal Forest Reserve and Kosi Bay Nature Reserve. It encompasses a great variety of habitats, including coral reefs and beaches, coastal forests, salt- and freshwater marshes, coastal plains and woodland areas. The protected area is home to the largest, southernmost population of hippos as well as prolific birdlife and a wealth of other animal and plant species.
  
• Sterkfontein (Gauteng)
  The Cradle, which centres round the Sterkfontein, Swartkrans and Kromdraai cave formations north-west of Krugersdorp, has for many years fascinated archaeologists and palaeo-anthropologists in the search for fossils, particularly those relating to the origings of mankind. In 1947, it yielded the skull of Mrs Ples, the first complete hominid skull ever found, and more recently, Little Foot, a 3.3-million year old ape man skeleton.
  

South Africa Travel Web Resources

• Long Walk to Freedom, by Nelson Mandela
  Selected portions of Nelson Mandela's autobiography LONG WALK TO FREEDOM have been released online on the Internet. This is a great resource for those of you wishing to travel to South Africa and be informed about our tragic past.
• Main Street South Africa
  Main Street South Africa is an independent Internet newsletter based in Washington D.C. It provides the latest information and comment on events in South Africa as well as a comprehensive directory of links. Great information source if you are thinking of traveling to South Africa
• Constitution of the Republic of South Africa
  South Africans are proud of their constitution. Have a look at it and find out why you too will be interested in travel to the country the can put together this kind of freedom for its people.
• U.S. State Department Travel Advisories for South Africa
  Current South Africa Travel Advice offered from an American perspective.