South Africa FAQs

Thinking of travelling to South Africa?

South Africa offers an extraordinary mix of wildlife, landscapes and vibrant cities. From spotting the Big Five on safari in Kruger National Park and exploring Cape Town’s dramatic coastline, to enjoying world-class food and wine in the Cape Winelands, South Africa combines many of Africa’s highlights in one trip.

Whether you’re planning your first safari holiday or returning to explore more, our FAQs answer the most common questions about travelling to South Africa from the UK.

Before You Go

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to South Africa from the UK?

A: British citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to South Africa of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and contain at least two blank pages.

Q: What vaccinations do I need for South Africa?

A: It is recommended that routine UK vaccinations are up to date before travelling to South Africa. For the latest advice, visit TravelHealthPro or speak to your GP before travelling.

Q: When is the best time to visit South Africa?

A: South Africa can be visited year-round, although the best time depends on where you are travelling. The summer months from November to March are ideal for Cape Town and the Garden Route, while the dry winter months from May to September are generally considered best for safari in Kruger National Park, as wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.

Q: Is South Africa good for first-time safari travellers?

A: Yes. South Africa is one of the best safari destinations for first-time visitors thanks to its excellent infrastructure, comfortable lodges and outstanding wildlife viewing. Combining safari with Cape Town and the Winelands also makes for a varied and easy-paced holiday.

Q: What should I pack for a holiday in South Africa?

A: Packing for South Africa depends on where you are travelling and the time of year. Lightweight clothing is ideal during the day, while a warm jacket or fleece is recommended for early morning and evening game drives, particularly during the winter months.

Neutral-coloured clothing works well for safari activities, alongside comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good grip. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, and a lightweight waterproof jacket can also be useful.

If your itinerary includes Cape Town or the Cape Winelands, casual smart clothing is suitable for restaurants and wine estates. Swimwear, binoculars and a reusable water bottle are also recommended.

Electricity in South Africa is 230V and plugs with three round pins are used, so travellers from the UK will need an adapter.

We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK, a photocopy of your passport and a small day bag for excursions.

If you are flying via Johannesburg, luggage must have at least one flat surface, as round or irregular-shaped bags are not accepted at the airport.

Practical Information

Q: Where is South Africa and which areas will I be visiting?

A: South Africa is located at the southern tip of the African continent. Most travellers visit a combination of regions including Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and Kruger National Park for safari, while some itineraries also include the Garden Route or Victoria Falls in neighbouring Zimbabwe.

Q: What is the population of South Africa?

A: South Africa has a population of around 60 million people and is known for its cultural diversity, reflected in its languages, cuisine and traditions.

Q: What are the capital cities of South Africa?

A: South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria (executive capital), Cape Town (legislative capital) and Bloemfontein (judicial capital). Cape Town is the city most commonly visited by travellers.

Q: What is the time difference?

A: South Africa is GMT +2 hours, depending on the time of the year.

Q: How long does it take to fly from the UK to South Africa?

A: Direct flights from the UK to South Africa usually take around 11 to 12 hours, with services operating to both Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Q: What language is spoken in South Africa?

A: South Africa has 12 official languages, although English is widely spoken throughout the country, particularly in hotels, safari lodges and tourist areas.

Q: What is the currency in South Africa?

A: The currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops, although it is useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.

Q: Can I use credit cards in South Africa?

A: Yes. Cards are widely accepted in most hotel and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Travellers cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.

It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

Q: Is South Africa expensive for UK travellers?

A: South Africa generally offers very good value for UK travellers, particularly for food, wine and safari experiences. Eating out and local transport are often considerably cheaper than in the UK.

Q: What should I know about local customs and etiquette?

A: South Africans are friendly, relaxed and welcoming. When on safari, it is important to follow your guide’s instructions and keep noise to a minimum around wildlife.

Q: What is the tipping culture in South Africa?

A: Tipping in South Africa is standard practice. Wages are low so many people depend on tips to make up the shortfall in their earnings. Restaurant staff are used to receiving 10-15% of the total bill. In cities, you can tip your cab driver by rounding up to the nearest ten (although use your discretion regarding distance, time of day etc), and the norm for hotel porters is around R15-20. Whilst on safari, it is recommended to tip guides and drivers R200 per person per day and general lodge staff R120 shared between them per day.

Q: What’s the weather like in South Africa?

A: South Africa has a varied climate depending on the region and time of year. Summers are generally warm and sunny, while winters are mild, although mornings and evenings can feel cold in safari areas.

Q: How many people are on a safari with Llama Travel?

A: Llama Travel holidays typically have an average group size of around 11 travellers, with a maximum of 18. Game drives are usually carried out in smaller vehicles, creating a more personal safari experience with a maximum of 7 people per safari group.

Q: What vehicles are used for game drives?

A: Game drives are conducted in open-sided 4x4 safari vehicles designed for wildlife viewing and photography.

Q: Will I have a good chance of seeing wildlife on safari?

A: Yes. Safaris are led by experienced local guides who know the terrain and animal behaviour well. Carefully chosen reserves and smaller safari groups help maximise wildlife viewing opportunities.

Q: What animals can I see on safari in South Africa?

A: South Africa is home to the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo — as well as giraffe, zebra, cheetah, hippo, hyena and many species of antelope and birdlife.

Health and Safety

Q: Is South Africa safe to travel to?

A: Most people who travel to South Africa experience no problems during their holiday. However, as with travel anywhere in the world, crime can occur, particularly in larger cities, and tourists can sometimes appear attractive targets for petty crime.

To minimise risk, it is important to take sensible precautions. Avoid displaying valuables such as expensive jewellery or cameras, avoid walking alone in empty areas, particularly after dark, and use taxis or ride-hailing apps in the evenings. By following local advice and using common sense, most visitors have a safe and trouble-free trip.

Health and safety standards can differ from those in the UK, although we carefully select hotels and suppliers that comply with local regulations. We also recommend checking the latest Foreign Office travel advice before departure.

Q: What happens if I get ill while in South Africa?

A: Medical facilities in South Africa are generally very good, particularly in cities and major tourist areas. If you become unwell while travelling, your guide or hotel staff can help arrange medical assistance if required.

Stomach aches can occasionally occur while travelling due to changes in diet and climate, so we recommend drinking bottled or filtered water where advised and being cautious with uncooked foods if you are unsure how they have been prepared.

We also recommend bringing any prescription medication you may need from the UK. If you have a medical condition or disability and would like to discuss whether a holiday is suitable for you, please contact us and we will be happy to help.

Outside major cities and towns, medical facilities can be more limited, although safari lodges are generally well prepared to assist with basic medical needs and onward care if necessary.

Q: Are safari excursions safe?

A: Safaris are led by experienced local guides and are designed to be as safe as possible. However, as with any activity involving wild animals and wilderness environments, there is always some level of risk.

For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.

If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, game drives have exposure to wild animals, and there will always be some risk in this, which you accept by going on holiday. Game drives run according to a schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen, and off-road vehicles can occasionally break down or get stuck in the uneven terrain.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for South Africa?

A: Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential and should cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, safari activities and trip cancellation.

Connectivity and Communication

Q: What are the options for mobile data and SIM cards in South Africa?

A: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, lodges, cafés and restaurants, particularly in cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. In safari lodges, Wi-Fi may be slower or only available in shared areas.

Local SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to purchase at airports and mobile phone shops. Many travellers also choose to use an eSIM provider such as Airalo or Holafly (amongst others) before departure.

Coverage is generally good in towns and cities, although signal can be limited in more remote safari regions.

Getting Around

Q: How do I get around in South Africa?

A: South Africa is a large country, so travelling between regions usually involves a combination of domestic flights and road transfers. Flights are commonly used between destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Kruger National Park.

Within cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Uber are widely used, while safari transport is usually in open-sided 4x4 vehicles.

On Llama Travel holidays, all transport is arranged in advance, including flights, transfers, safari vehicles and excursions, making travelling around South Africa straightforward and comfortable.

Food and Drink

Q: What’s the food like in South Africa?

A: South African cuisine reflects the country’s mix of cultures and influences. Braais (barbecues) are a big part of local food culture, while seafood, grilled meats, curries and fresh produce are widely available.

Cape Town is particularly known for its excellent restaurants and fresh seafood, while meals at safari lodges are often served outdoors overlooking the bush.

Q: Can I drink tap water in South Africa?

A: Tap water is safe to drink in most cities and towns, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. In safari lodges and more remote areas, filtered water is usually available.

Q: Is South Africa known for its wine?

A: Yes. South Africa is one of the world’s leading wine-producing countries, particularly around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands.

Q: What drinks are available in South Africa?

A: South Africa is known for its wines, local beers and Rooibos tea. Fresh fruit juices and good-quality coffee are also widely available.

Q: Can I drink alcohol in South Africa?

A: Yes. Alcohol is widely available in restaurants, bars, hotels and safari lodges. Wine tastings in the Cape Winelands and sundowner drinks on safari are popular experiences.

What to See

Q: What are the highlights of South Africa?

A: South Africa combines safari, mountains, coastlines, vineyards and vibrant cities in one destination. Highlights include Cape Town, Kruger National Park, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route.

Q: How many days do I need to explore South Africa?

A: Around 12 to 16 days is ideal for a first visit to South Africa, allowing time to combine Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and a Big Five safari in the Kruger region without feeling rushed. Some Llama Travel holidays also include the Garden Route, Rovos Rail or Victoria Falls, creating a more comprehensive southern Africa itinerary at a comfortable pace.

Q: What can I see in Cape Town?

A: Cape Town is known for Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, nearby beaches and the dramatic scenery of the Cape Peninsula. Robben Island and the colourful Bo-Kaap district are also popular highlights.

Q: What can I experience on safari in South Africa?

A: A safari in the Kruger region is one of the highlights of visiting South Africa. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo — alongside giraffe, zebra, hippos and many other animals in their natural habitat.

Game drives are led by experienced local guides in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, allowing for excellent wildlife viewing and photography. Staying in a safari lodge near Kruger National Park also gives you the chance to enjoy the atmosphere of the African bush, from sunrise game drives to evenings around the lodge after a day of wildlife spotting.

Q: What is Kruger National Park known for?

A: Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s best-known safari destinations, famous for its excellent wildlife viewing and high concentration of animals, including the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Most safari lodges offer early morning and late afternoon game drives, when wildlife is most active. During the middle of the day, guests usually have time to relax at the lodge, enjoy lunch or watch wildlife from viewing areas.

Q: What can I see in the Cape Winelands?

A: The Cape Winelands are known for vineyards, mountain scenery and historic wine estates. Franschhoek is particularly popular for wine tastings and excellent restaurants.

Q: What is the Garden Route?

A: The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of coastline known for forests, lagoons, beaches and charming towns such as Knysna, known for its lagoon setting, relaxed atmosphere and the dramatic sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads.

Q: What can I see in Johannesburg?

A: Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and offers important historical and cultural sites including the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.

Q: What can I see in Oudtshoorn?

A: Oudtshoorn is known for its ostrich farms and the impressive Cango Caves, a vast limestone cave system in the Klein Karoo.

Q: What can I see in Hermanus?

A: Hermanus is one of the world’s best land-based whale-watching destinations. Southern right whales can often be seen from the shore between June and November.

Q: What can I see in Franschhoek?

A: Franschhoek is known for its vineyards, mountain scenery and excellent restaurants. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a popular way to explore the surrounding wine estates.

Q: What is Rovos Rail?

A: Rovos Rail is one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys, offering a classic rail experience through the landscapes of southern Africa. Elegant vintage-style carriages, fine dining and panoramic views make it a memorable way to travel between destinations such as Pretoria and Victoria Falls.

On Llama Travel holidays, Rovos Rail can be added as an extension to a South Africa itinerary, combining particularly well with Cape Town, the Kruger region and Victoria Falls. The journey offers a relaxed and scenic contrast to safari and city stays, with spacious cabins, excellent service and ever-changing views along the route.

Q: Can South Africa be combined with Victoria Falls?

A: Yes. South Africa combines particularly well with Victoria Falls, creating a classic southern Africa itinerary combining safari, cities and one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls.

Q: Can South Africa be combined with other African destinations?

A: Yes. South Africa is often combined with Botswana and Zimbabwe for a wider African holiday experience.

Still have questions about travelling to South Africa?

Our team is happy to help. Call us on 020 7263 3000 or explore our South holidays to start planning your trip.