DISCOVER SOUTH AFRICA

Time

South Africa is seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard (winter) Time and two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. GMT + two hours

Currency

The currency in South Africa is the Rand. Denominations include the following coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2, R5; and notes: R10, R20, R50, R100, R200 Credit Cards: All major credit cards are accepted in most places in South Africa ATM (Automatic Teller Machines) offer a complete 24 hour service. International credit cards can be used in machines displaying International credit card logos (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus and Plus). Cash can be drawn at these machines but please note: there is a daily limit

Today's rate: 1 Australian dollar = 6.77 South African Rand
Source: IMF, aggregated by CurrencySource.com

Water

Water in South Africa is safe to drink.

Airports

South Africa has three International Airports: Johannesburg International Airport (JNB), Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and Durban International Airport (DBN

Distances

Distances throughout South Africa are given in kilometres. One mile is equivalent to 1.62 kilometres.

Driving

Driving is done on the left hand side of the road. With an excellent network of roads, South Africa is a great destination for self-drive as well as coach tours.

Public Transport

All the major centres and airports in SA have metered taxis that can transport visitors

Electric Current

The Electrical Current in South Africa is 220/240 volts. International adapters are available at most hotels and selected shops.

Hotel Information

  • Check-in times – On average check in is at 14h30 and check-out time around 11h00 – although it is advisable to confirm this with reception.
  • Porters – Available at almost every hotel and are most helpful. Tipping is expected
  • Safe deposit – Most hotels offer either in the rooms or at reception
  • Laundry – Most hotels offer a laundry service.
  • Tipping – Expected in South Africa. Porters +- R 8.00 per person unless five stars where approximately R 20 is expected Taxis: 10 % Waiters and Waitresses: 10%

Safety

All countries have crime, and it is up to the individual to follow safe and secure procedures in order to reduce the risk of any unfortunate incidences. Normal safety precautions should be exercised in South Africa as with anywhere else in the world. Here are some tips for you to follow to keep you safe at all times:

  • Always choose well-lit busy streets and avoid isolated areas
  • Check with your hotel which areas are safe to walk in and when
  • When walking in the street be on guard against pick pockets
  • Never walk alone – travel in groups
  • Lock your passports and any other valuables in the hotel safe
  • Do not carry large amounts of money around
  • Do not draw attention to yourself by flaunting large amounts of cash or jewellery
  • Always keep your baggage or handbag close at hand

Banking & Shopping Hours

Most banks are open from 09h00 – 15h30, Mondays to Fridays; and 08h30-11h00 on Saturdays.Currency Exchange kiosk are available at most major centres like airports and shopping centres and are open for longer hours Shops open from 08.00 to 16.30 Mondays to Fridays and from 08.30 - 12.30 on Saturdays, although in the main centres, opening hours are likely to be longer. Hours may vary from province to province.

VAT (Value Added Tax)

Value Added Tax is currently at 14%, and is levied on most items and services. You can claim VAT back on goods priced higher than ZAR250 at the airport on departure. You will need: the original tax invoice, the VAT refund control sheet, your passport, and the item.

Clothing (What to bring)

South Africa is a very casual country and in general this applies to most places you visit. In summer, lightweight clothing is the norm and in winter, a warm jacket or coat may be needed, particularly in the evenings. At game reserves try and stick to wearing neutral colour clothing and avoid bright colours on game drives. Dress codes for eating out is generally casual except when specified as formal.

Health

Visitors to Mpumalanga, the Northern Province, the Kruger National Park and game reserves in Kwa Zulu-Natal should take a course of anti-malaria tablets before entering these zones. Please consult your doctor for appropriate medication and medical advice before traveling to South Africa. In a malaria region, avoid wearing perfume or after-shave. Wear long sleeves and long trousers at night. While South Africa boasts excellent medical facilities, visitors should ensure they take out insurance to cover the cost of treatment should it be necessary.

Medical Facilities

The standard of medical care in private hospitals and clinics throughout South Africa is excellent, comparing favourably with first world countries. Most hotels have a list of doctors, whose names may also be found in the "medical" section of telephone directories

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