Ultimate Travel Guide to South Africa: Tips, Itinerary & Things to Do
Planning a trip to South Africa? Go on safari in the Kruger National Park, and explore Johannesburg and Cape Town with my South Africa travel guide, tips and safety guide - all from someone who was born there and lived there!
Quick Travel Guide to South Africa
South Africans often say "Howzit" for hello
Hello in Zulu is "Sawubona"
Power Voltage: 230V/50hz
Currency: South African Rand or ZAR. $1 is approximately R13
ATMs: Common in cities. Credit cards are widely accepted in South Africa, especially in cities, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s still useful to carry small amounts of cash for markets, tips, and rural areas.
Tipping: In restaurants, 10–15% is standard, and tips are expected for safari guides, trackers, porters, and gas station attendants. Carry small bills to make tipping easier. There are also parking guards who watch your car. R5-10 is usually good.
Visas: commonwealth countries are issued visas on arrival, other countries may need a visa. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate and additional paperwork may be needed in some cases. Always check your nationality’s requirements.
Safety ranking (Global Peace Index): 124 out of 163 countries
Women Peace and Security Index: 113 out of 181 countries (0.648 out of 1)
Climate: Mild, varies by region
Best Time of Year for Travel: May through September for safaris, November through March for warm weather and beaches.
Dress Code & Cultural Notes: Casual clothing is typical. Awareness of local contexts is important - don’t be wearing your safari gear while walking around a city, you will stand out like a sore thumb as a tourist, and potential make yourself a target for crime.
Solo Travel Tips: Plan ahead and stay in reputable accommodations. Guided tours are recommended for solo travelers. Be very observant and aware of your surroundings and don’t flash your valuables like jewelry or camera. Don’t walk around at night, especially if you are alone.
Getting Around South Africa: Public transport is limited. Driving around is a great way to see the country but roads can be unsafe (potholes, car accidents, crime, speeding, drunk driving etc). If using Uber, it is best to use Uber Black and let people know when you are getting in one.
Things That Surprise Travelers: How incredible the food is and how friendly the people are.
South Africa Travel Tips
South Africa is notorious for crime. Do not walk around at night, especially by yourself. Do not wear flashy jewelry. If driving, keep your valuables out of sight. Always be observant and aware of your surroundings at all time. Use the hotel safe and stick to the safe neighborhoods. Most South Africans are also eager to keep tourists safe and will gladly tell you where to go and not to go.
Try to book your safari or “going to the bush” as we say, as early as possible. Locals and tourists alike are booking up spots in advance since it is a popular destination. You also don’t have to book a company to do a safari! You can rent a car yourself and do it - which is what my family and friends have done all our lives! Keep in mind certain areas of the Kruger Park (more north) have malaria so it is worth getting medication especially in the rainy season.
South Africa has 11 official languages and a rich mix of cultures. English is widely spoken, but learning basic greetings in local languages is appreciated. Be respectful when visiting townships, rural communities, and cultural sites.
Top Experiences in South Africa
See the Big Five (elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, leopard) on safari in the Kruger National Park (my favorite place in the world).
Johannesburg (my home city) gets a bad rap, but if you’re looking for culture and vibes you gotta make sure you explore the city of Johannesburg.
Take in the mother city, Cape Town, South Africa’s biggest tourism destiantion
Understand South Africa's history with the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg
Go to Robben Island, Cape Town, to learn more about Nelson Mandela
If you can’t make it to the Kruger National Park, go on a quick get away to the Pilanesberg National Park, a few hours drive from Johannesburg
South Africa Travel Guides and Tips
