South Africa
Southern Africa · Africa
- Capital
- Pretoria (Tshwane)
- Currency
- South African Rand (ZAR R)
- Language
- 11 official languages (Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English and others)
- Timezone
- UTC+2
- Safety rating
- 5.8/10
- Best time to visit
- May to September for Kruger National Park safaris (dry season, wildlife congregates near water). October to April for Cape Town beaches. November to February for whale watching along the Western Cape.
Overview
South Africa is the world in one country — a continent-within-a-country offering dramatic Table Mountain above Cape Town, the Big Five on safari in Kruger National Park, the vineyards of Stellenbosch, dramatic Garden Route coastline, and the cultural heartbeat of Johannesburg. Its complex history and extraordinary resilience make it a place of deep meaning.
Visa requirements
Citizens of USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and most Western nations can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. All visitors must have a valid return ticket and at least two blank passport pages.
Safety information
Exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in urban areas. South Africa has high rates of violent crime including carjacking. Avoid walking alone at night, don't display expensive items, and use reputable transport. Tourist areas like Cape Town's waterfront, the Winelands, and game reserves are significantly better monitored and safer.
Travel tips
Renting a car gives freedom to explore the Garden Route and Cape Winelands. Book Kruger self-drive camps well in advance. Try a braai (South African BBQ) — it's a cultural ritual. The Boulders Beach African penguin colony near Simons Town is unmissable.