FAQ - About South Africa

How much should I Tip?

In South Africa it is customary to tip for good service. Porters usually receive R5 per item; taxis receive 10% of the bill, and waiters and waitresses in restaurants 10-15%.

In South African restaurants the service charge is not included in the total bill. At petrol stations, petrol attendants will fill your car and offer to clean your windscreen and check your oil and water, therefore a tip of about R2 will be appreciated.

In parking areas, official and unofficial parking attendants may offer to help you park your car and watch it while you are away. Again, whatever small change you may have will be appreciated.

What kind of clothes do I need to pack?

South Africa is generally a very casual country, with warm, windy days and chilly nights. Denims, t-shits and skirts are fine for during the day. In summer, the day’s range from pleasant, to very hot and evenings are balmy. In some areas of South Africa, winter is wet and windy during the day, while in other areas it is dry, hot and humid.

Winter nights are, however, always cold. Formal to semi-formal attire is worn to work, upper-class restaurants and clubs. Casual wear is accepted at most restaurants, pubs and bars. The majority of clubs do not accept guests in running shoes. Bathing suits – full or two pieces - are for the beach.

School uniform is worn at all schools in South Africa. In general, South Africa is very fashion conscious, especially in the big cities – Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. Jeans, shirts, sneakers, sandals, blouses, pants and skirts are all regarded as appropriate everyday wear.

What are the Visa and Passport Requirements?

Entry is relatively straightforward to the majority of foreigners travelling to South Africa. Travellers from certain parts of the world, including Scandinavia, the USA and most European countries do not need to apply for a visa.

Upon arrival in South Africa, travellers from either of these countries are given a free entry permit sticker with details of how long they may stay in the country. This permit is usually valid for a maximum of 90 days.

Foreign nationals from other countries offer this service, but for a maximum of 30 days. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, they will then need to apply for a visa.

What is the Country Dialing Code of South Africa?

The South Africa country dialing code is +27. Long distance calls can be made in South Africa using the correct country code. Many hotels, lodges and guest houses offer direct dialing facilities. If you are not able to connect, a staff member will surely be available to help.

Blue public telephones are coin operated and require a minimum of 80c a local call, more for international calls. It is also worth purchasing a phone card for international calls, available from post offices and news agencies and units range from R20, R50, R100 and R200.

Can I use my Cell/Mobile Phone in South Africa?

South Africa has 4 world class mobile phone operators, namely Vodacom- the biggest and most popular – MTN, Cell C and Virgin Mobile. Sim cards can be purchased almost anywhere and can be as little as R3. Pay-as-you-go airtime is recommended for tourists.

What plugs and power voltage is used in South Africa?

Electricity in South Africa runs on 220/230V, 50Hz AC and the sockets are adapted to take round or flat pinned plugs. Most hotel rooms have sockets for 110V electric razors. Plugs have 3 round pins, with some plugs having 2 smaller pins. Adaptors can be purchased but may be in short supply. Please keep in mind that for the sake of authenticity, some bush camps may not even have electricity.

What are the weights and measures in South Africa?

Distances throughout South Africa are given in kilometres. One mile is equivalent to 1.62 kilometres. Temperatures are given in degrees Celsius (Centigrade). One degree Celsius is equivalent to 33.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Weight is measured in kilograms (kg). One kilogram is equivalent to 2.2 pounds.

What are the public holidays in South Africa?