Know before you go
South Africa
General Information
South Africa is located on the suthern tip of the African continent, completely surrounding Lesotho and bordering Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Eswatini. Its capital is Pretoria while its largest city is Johannesburg. They drive on the left side of the road.
Visa
Holders of most EU passports don’t require a Visa. For holders of a different passport check out this link to see if you are required to apply for a visa or not or contact your ministery of foreign affairs.
Power
South Africa uses Type D, M and N plug outlets. Type N plug outlets also work for plugs of Type C. The voltage is 230 Volt and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Language
English is one of South Africas 11 official languages. It is commonly used in public and commercial life. Most white and coloured South Africans speak Afrikaans as a first language.
| Afrikaans | English |
|---|---|
| Hello! | Hello! |
| Baai! | Bye! |
| ja | yes |
| nee | no |
| Dankie! | Thank you! |
| Met plesier! | You're welcome! |
| Verskoon my! | Excuse me! |
| Gesondheid! | Cheers! |
Weather Forecast
Climate
South Africa has a generally temperate climate. However, due to its varied topography and oceanic influence, a great variety of climatic zones exist. The climatic zones range from the extreme desert of the southern Namib in the farthest northwest to the lush subtropical climate in the east along the Mozambique border and the Indian Ocean. Winters in South Africa occur between June and August.
Average Temperature in Johannesburg
Average Precipitation in Johannesburg
Transportation
How to get there?
O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (JNB) and Capetown International Airport (CPT) are two of the busiest airports in Africa. Many airlines offer direct flights from Europe.
How to get around?
When I went to South Africa I ended up taking taxis or renting a car. Public transport does exist, but I was discouraged from using it. Unfortunately, South Africa has a bad statistic on armed robberies and carjacking.
How to get from town to town?
For short distances you can rent a car. Don’t underestimate the size of the country though. Going from Johannesburg to Durban on the East Coast will take you 6:30h by car. A flight will only take 1:05h. South Africas budget airline is called Kulula. It will take you to many destinations within South Africa.
Money, Money, Money
Currency
The currency of South Africa is the South African Rand. Check out the currency converter to find out about current exchange rates.
Accommodation
Depending on where you are staying prices will vary of course. Expect to be paying around 20€ per person per night.
Cash
Upon entering South Africa you will have to withdraw Rand from an ATM. Cash is king in most places. How much you will need of course depends on your spending habits. Expect to need around 25€ per day for food, transportation, activities and souvenirs. In touristy areas with no alternatives (like National Parks) prices for both accommodation and food can be higher.
