Top

South Africa

What can I expect from South Africa?

South Africa is the southernmost country on the African continent.  It is known for its varied landscape and diverse culture, world renowned wineries and some of Africa’s finest safari destinations.

How to Get There

From the US, you can fly direct on South African Airways from New York (JFK) and Washington Dulles or on Delta Airlines from Atlanta.

Currency: The local currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR).  The US dollar is  accepted, but you still need to have some local currency for local shops. 1 US dollar is equivalent to 15.14 ZAR.

Language: There are 11 official languages in South Africa: Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venḓa, Xhosa, Zulu and Afrikaans, although approximately 35 indigenous languages are spoken throughout the country. The eleventh official language is English, which is the primary language used in government.

Credit Cards & ATMs: Credit cards can be used at most hotels, car-rental companies, restaurants, and shops on the islands. However, you should carry cash for smaller purchases.

ATMs are readily available in cities throughout South Africa, at banks, shopping centers, and super markets.

Plugs: The standard voltage is 230 V, frequency is 50 Hz. A universal adapter with surge protection is best. Make sure to use a converter for hair dryers.

Safety: South Africa has a high crime rate, especially in larger cities, so it’s important to exercise caution when visiting.  Stay clear of isolated locations and guard your belonging carefully.

 

Best Time to Visit

South Africa is a year round destinations, with varying climates depending on the different regions.  The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September.  These cooler months in the northern regions bring ideal conditions for viewing big game. You can expect rain from November to February, but it’s the best time to travel for birding and warmer weather.

The Cape has beautiful, hot, dry weather in its summer months (between November and February).  Visit the Cape between July and November for whale watching.

Things to See and Do in The South Africa

Table Mountain Cableway
Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Apartheid Museum
Kruger National Park
Cape of Good Hope
Blyde River Canyon
Kragga Kamma Game Park
Stellenbosch & Franschhoek Wine Region
Durban

Related Articles

Kamara House: A New Standard of Exclusive Luxury in Thornybush Nature Reserve

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the South African landscape in hues of amber and gold, the Thornybush Game Lodge stands not merely as an accommodation but as a gateway to the untamed beauty of one of Africa’s […]

Pure Magic! THE Ultimate Luxury Family Safari

There are places that simply move you in ways that are indescribable, destinations that stand out, vacations that you know you will never forget. When booking a safari itinerary, you’re probably looking for a lodge that will impress, giving you […]

Plettenberg Bay- A Little Seaside Getaway in South Africa

South Africa is a large and diverse country with so much to see and do. It’s the type of place you can visit and revisit without ever retracing your steps. While the typical South African itinerary usually consists of a […]

Boschendal- A Farm Stay for Wine Lovers & Their Kiddos

The terms kid-friendly and wine tasting may not exactly go hand-in-hand. Yet in the areas of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, namely The Winelands of South Africa, families will find farms and wineries where they can experience the best of both worlds. […]

The Best Address in (Cape) Town, South Africa

Cape Town’s dramatic natural splendor attracts visitors from around the globe. It’s not unusual for those who have experienced this impressive city to describe it as one of their favorite places. From the stunning landscapes where the Atlantic Ocean meets […]

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Safari

Imagine a lodge where kids can sip milkshakes and enjoy popcorn while on safari- one that offers a kid’s club as well, so mom and dad can relax and maybe have a spa treatment between game drives.  Well, I’m thrilled […]

Luxury, Elephants, & Wine- Oh My!

Are you looking to plan exotic adventures, bucket list trips you feel will compensate for much time spent at home? Building an itinerary that includes multiple countries can prove challenging and costly these days due to the ever-changing COVID restrictions […]

Four Seasons The Westcliff: A Classic Stay in Johannesburg

South Africa as a destination carries an air of mystique. A mille-feuille of culture, history, art and jaw-dropping natural landscapes, the country stands to be discovered layer by layer, and the city of Johannesburg is often the first stop on […]

No related articles

0
Keep in touch for exclusive travel tips, giveaways, and more!