Time Difference:
+ 2 hours GMT

Currency:
South African Rand

Drinking Water:
Tap water is 100% purified and safe to drink in major cities, towns and game reserves.

Electricity:
220/230 volts AC.

Driving:
South Africa drives on the left and has an excellent network of roads. International Driving Permit is mandatory. Please note that most South African petrol stations do not accept credit card for purchases of fuel.

Passport and Visa requirements:
EU passport holders will need a full passport valid for six months after the return date. South Africa, Botswana and Swaziland have no visa requirements for EU passport holders on holiday; however, you need to have at least one blank page in your passport for entry stamp. Canadian and US passport holders will need a full passport valid for six months after the return date. South Africa has no visa requirements for US and Canadian passport holders; however, you need 2 blank pages in your passport. Holders of other passport should contact the nearest Embassy/Consulate.

Health:
Generally no vaccination certificates are required; however, visitors from a yellow fever zone require a valid yellow fever inoculation certificate. Many of the main tourist area are malaria free, however, the Kruger National Park, the lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the Northern part of Kwa-Zulu Natal do pose a malaria risk in the summer months. Consult your doctor for the latest advice concerning malaria prophylactics. Always use mosquito repellents, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts at night and sleep under a mosquito net in endemic areas. It is advisable to avoid malaria areas if you are pregnant.

Climate:
We have a warm sunny climate and you should wear sunscreen and a hat particularly between the hours of 10am and 4pm, regardless of whether there is cloud cover or not. Sunglasses are also recommend wear as the glare of the African sun can be strong. It is worth remembering that South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons are the exact opposite to Northern Hemisphere locations.

Safety issues:
As with all major cities in the world due care has to be taken to avoid pickpockets and bag snatchers in the tourist areas. Always check with your hotel or guesthouse whether it is safe to walk around in the evening. Alternatively taxis are readily available.

Money Matters:
The main banks are found in every large town and operate from 08.30 to 15.30 Monday to Friday and 08.30 to 11.00 Saturday. ATM's are situated outside most major banks and in shopping malls and are 24 hours per day. Major international credit cards and their affiliates are accepted generally but their use may be restricted in small towns and country areas.

VAT (Value Added Tax):
VAT is currently at the rate of 14% and is levied on most items and services, including hotel accommodation, goods and tours, VAT for goods can be reclaimed at the point of international departure please refer to the customs brochure for advice (it must be noted that if you are claiming VAT refunds please allow extra time before checking in for your international departure)

National Holidays: