Essential Travel Tips for South Africa

Let’s not beat about the bush: South Africa has a bit of a scary reputation. Much is said about the country’s unenviable crime rate, but so much more can be said about all the things that make this diverse destination so magnificent. You shouldn’t let anxiety about possible dangers put you off visiting this amazing African country.

Huge and diverse, South Africa never stops doling out gifts to the traveler – world-class surf breaks, eclectic local cuisine, mountains to climb, cities to visit, tiny towns to hide away in, desert landscapes to photograph, and, of course, plenty of wildlife to watch.

The country’s extraordinary variety is both its biggest draw and its biggest challenge, particularly when it comes to planning a trip. Much research is needed to decide where to go, what to do, and how long to stay. Visiting for less than two weeks is not ideal – three weeks or more would be a better bet if you can manage so much time away.

1. Carry the Relevant Paperwork If You’re Traveling with Kids

If you’re entering or leaving South Africa with a child under the age of 18, you’ll need to have a few extra bits of paper in your carry-on bag. In a bid to stamp out child trafficking, all minors need to have an “unabridged” birth certificate – that is, one that lists both parents’ names. If only one parent is traveling with the child, you’ll need an affidavit from the other parent confirming that they give consent for the child to travel. While the rules keep changing and papers are not always checked, it’s wise to have the documents on hand just in case.

2. Carry Cash, Just Not Too Much

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, there are still a few places in South Africa that only take cash. It’s best to keep a small stash of notes and coins for purchases at corner stores, buying things from market traders, and for the various tips you’ll be expected to give throughout the day.

However, it’s not wise to walk around with large amounts of cash on your person. Keep the bulk of your money hidden away in the hotel safe, or withdraw modest amounts from ATMs while you are out and about. Be cautious when using ATMs on the street; theft and card scams are common, so it’s best to stick to machines inside malls or banks.

3. Buy a South African SIM Card and Use Local Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is relatively easy to find in larger cities and more touristy towns. However, if you’re planning on wandering far from the main population centers, it’s worth picking up a South African SIM card on arrival at the airport. The card costs just a few rand, and you’ll need to “RICA” your SIM card – a fairly simple registration process that requires a photo ID and confirmation of your address in South Africa (a simple booking confirmation will suffice).

4. Renting a Car Is Essential to Explore South Africa

Public transport in South Africa often falls short. Although long-distance bus services exist, they tend to bypass many smaller destinations, and fares can be expensive for shorter hops. Long-distance trains are unreliable, and hitchhiking is not recommended. Therefore, if you really want to see the country, you’ll have to rent a car. Fortunately, there are plenty of fantastic road trips to choose from, and all the major car hire companies are available in South Africa – just be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

5. Exercise Caution While Driving in Cities

When first moving to South Africa, the talk of carjackers created quite the sense of anxiety. One develops a cautious approach while driving, especially at “robots” (the local term for traffic lights). Always leave a car-length gap in front of you just in case you need to make a quick escape. While it’s important to be cautious, you should also strive not to be paranoid. Keeping doors locked and being extra vigilant while driving at night is essential.

6. Listen to the Locals for Insightful Advice

Local advice is crucial, particularly in countries with reputations for crime. Your accommodation host can provide valuable tips about the best bars, restaurants, and areas to avoid. However, be prepared for some exaggeration regarding safety; some of the most incredible attractions may be located in areas that locals might shy away from. Conduct further research to differentiate between genuine warnings and potential scaremongering.

7. Prepare for a Strong Tipping Culture

In South Africa, tipping is a common practice. In many customer-facing industries, employees rely heavily on tips to supplement their income. Restaurant staff typically expect a tip of around 10% but leaving 12–15% will generate even bigger smiles. Additionally, gas attendants expect a tip of R5 or more for similar service. Informal parking attendants offer their services for a small fee; reward them according to the service they provide.

8. Get Familiar with South African English

While there are 11 official languages in South Africa, English is widely spoken. However, some local phrases may take time to understand. For instance, the word “shame” is used in various contexts, often preceded by “ag” and followed by “man,” which can mean anything from “awww” to “Oh no, that’s terrible!” Additionally, “hectic” is used to convey amazement or surprise rather than merely describing a busy situation.

9. Expect Discussions on Politics and Power Outages

In South Africa, it’s common for people to express their views on politics, often discussing the government’s shortcomings, such as the ongoing power issues referred to as “load-shedding.” This entails planned power outages aiming to relieve pressure on the electricity grid. Stay informed about potential outages using local apps to make your experience smoother.

10. Understand Local Driving Practices

Driving etiquette can be notably different in South Africa. One common practice involves “yellow line driving,” where cars will use the emergency lane to pass. If a driver behind you signals to overtake, you should expect to move into the emergency lane briefly to let them pass. This means it’s essential to ensure visibility around you; unexpected obstacles such as animals or pedestrians might be present.

With these tips in hand, you’re now better prepared for an unforgettable adventure in South Africa. Embrace the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant communities that await you.