South Africa Basics

1. AIR RELATED MATTERS AND INFORMATION

FOR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS, PLEASE CHECK-IN A MINIMUM OF 1 ½ HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE

FOR INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS & NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES E.G. BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA, ZAMBIA, MOZAMBIQUE, PLEASE CHECK IN A MINIMUM OF 2 HOURS BEFORE DEPARTURE

Baggage allowance for internal flights within South Africa - scheduled flights:

South African Airways, British Airways, Kulula, Mango, One Time, Nationwide.

• Economy class: 20 kgs plus 1 small piece of hand luggage per person.
• Business class: 30 kgs plus 1 small piece of hand luggage per person.
• Children aged 2-11 years inclusive are entitled to the same allowance.
• Infants under 2 years of age do not have any baggage allowance.
• If you exceed these weights you will be charged for excess baggage.

Baggage allowance for scheduled/private charter flights:

This is on services within Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
• Usually limited to 20kgs – sometimes less in soft sided, duffle type bags.

Please check your routing to verify your baggage allowance.
Extra luggage can be stored at Johannesburg Airport in the basement at international arrivals, near the parking. It costs R40.00 per bag, per day. You pay on collection by cash or credit card, Amex is not accepted.
Your extra luggage can also be sent on to your next destination via a baggage courier company at an additional cost per kg.

Do not pack any valuables into your checked in luggage i.e. cameras, music equipment, money, jewellery and especially medication.
We do advise “shrink wrapping” your suitcase, for added security, this is available at most large airports within South Africa.

Check-in information:

• Please pay careful attention to the details of the flights on your tickets, although these can still be subject to change after tickets have been issued.
• Please ensure that you arrive in plenty of time to catch your flight.
• Please don’t risk being late as your tickets are often only valid for the flights indicated on your tickets.

Delayed or re-scheduled flights:

There is no guarantee that transportation will depart at the time specified, there is no liability for any delay, which may arise. For that reason, the provision of meals or overnight accommodation would be entirely at the discretion of the airline. If you have taken out travel insurance and your delay is in excess of 12 hours, compensation payments will apply as detailed in your policy.

Lost or delayed luggage:

Should this occur, then please report the loss or damage to the airline representative directly at the airport of arrival. Fortunately, loss is usually temporary and arrangements will be made to forward your baggage on to you.
Please report any damage, which you may spot later, to the airline in writing within 7 days of your flight.

Non–smoking flights:

Please be aware that all flights now operate a ‘No Smoking’ policy.

South African Custom Regulations:

Duty-free allowances:
Cigarettes 400
Tobacco 250g
Alcoholic beverages 1 litre
Cigars 50
Wine 2 litres
Perfume 50ml
Eau de Toilette 250ml
Gifts, souvenirs and all other goods R3 000.00

Airport Arrivals:

• Information Kiosks/Help Desks: These can be found in International Arrivals, International Departures as well as at in the Domestic Arrivals sections of the airport.
• Choosing a Porter: Ensure that you use only approved airport porters – they will be wearing the approved uniforms and will carry ACSA permits. The porters will gladly assist you with your luggage. These porters work exclusively for tips and a guideline tip to give your porter is R5.00 per bag. Do not leave your luggage unattended at any time.

2. BANKS

• Banks in South Africa are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. Most banks change all travellers’ cheques in major currencies, but commission can differ greatly.
• Rennies Travel is an agent for Thomas Cook.
• American Express has branches in some cities, and Nedbank is associated with American Express.
• First National Bank is the Visa agent.
• Most ATM machines will support your card if it bears the Cirrus logo.

3. CELLULAR (MOBILE) PHONES

• Cellular (mobile) phones work in most urban areas with good reception. You need to have international roaming.
• US cellular (mobile) phones will not function in South Africa even with a South African simcard. It is up to the traveller to check prior to leaving their home country.

4. CLIMATE

Known to some as ‘sunny South Africa’, the country has a warm to hot climate, making it one of the best year-round destinations in the world. Most provinces enjoy a summer rainfall with occasional afternoon thunderstorms, which are spectacular to see. The Cape Town area, however has winter rainfall and a Mediterranean climate. Snow sometimes occurs, especially on the mountain peaks. Some areas have such mild winters, that visitors will never guess it’s winter at all.


5. CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable wash and wear clothing is most useful.
Jackets and ties are required in some city hotel restaurants, golf clubs and Blue Train/Rovos Rail.
Most hotels offer quick laundry turnaround, usually within the same day. It is certainly not necessary to bring a separate change of clothing for each day and evening, and it is recommended that you keep luggage to a minimum for your own comfort and ease of transport, especially if you will be using light aircraft transfers.
Warm clothing is necessary for evenings and cool winters, from May - September.

6. CLOTHING - SAFARI PACK LIST

Clothing:
• Light cotton shirts (both long and short sleeves recommended) & shorts.
• Long trousers/slacks.
• Lightweight but warm jacket for cool evenings.
• Lightweight rain gear.
• Sun hat with wide brim.
• Good quality sunglasses – preferably polarised.
• Comfortable shoes/hiking boots.
• Sandals.
• Swimming costume.
• Long cotton socks.

NB: Winter safari: - Warm Jacket/windbreaker, scarf, woolly hat and gloves.

Toiletries:
• Personal toiletries.
• Suntan lotion/sun block with high sun protection factor (50+ recommended) and lip creams.
• First aid kit – band aids, antiseptic & anti-histamine cream, Immodium etc.
• Tissues/“Wet Wipes”
• Mosquito repellent spray or cream
• Malaria Tablets/Malaria prophylactics are recommended.


7. CREDIT CARDS

Amex, Diners, Mastercard & Visa
All major credit cards are accepted in Southern Africa in hotels, restaurants and shops.
However please note that fuel stations do not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash for your fuel requirements.

8. CURRENCY

The unit of currency is the South African RAND (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are in R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10. Coins are in denominations of R5, R2, R1 and 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c and 2c.

An estimate of what items cost in South Africa:

• A local beer in a restaurant R11.00
• A can of Coca Cola in a restaurant R 6.50
• A bottle of water R12.00
• Fuel sells at approx. R 9.15 per litre
• A roll of 36 exposure print film R45.00-R50.00

VAT at 14% included in above costs.

South Africa is an affordable destination, where five-star luxury, and many items such as food, wine and beer, can be purchased at a much lower cost than in many global cities.

9. DRIVING

Driving is on the left side of the road and the wearing of seatbelts is compulsory.

General speed limit within South Africa:
• 60km/hour – urban areas
• 120km/hour - main roads/motorways
• 50km/hour – gravel roads

Non-residents must be in possession of an international drivers licence at all times and a credit card (Amex, Diners, Visa and Master only) upon collection of your rental vehicle. (No debit card, Cirus, will be accepted).

Car rental in South Africa includes:

• Unlimited mileage
• Collision damage waiver
• Theft loss waiver
• Personal accident insurance

Car rental in South Africa excludes:

• Fuel is not included.

A deposit for fuel is required on initiation of the rental via credit card.
Other items which must be paid direct to the car rental office on collection:

• Additional driver fee
• Contract fee
• Delivery and collection
• One way fee (if applicable)

Some of the major motorways in South Africa have a toll payment system. The normal charge is between R2.00 and R25.00. This is payable by credit card or cash.

10. ELECTRICITY

The electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs have 3-pin or 2-pin (round). Adaptors can be purchased, at the local supermarket. US-made appliances will need a transformer. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and appliances.

11. FOOD & WATER

South Africa’s tap water is potable and possibly the safest and cleanest in the world. In hotels, restaurants and nightspots, the standards of hygiene and food preparation is generally top-notch. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads and to put as much ice as you like in your drinks - a good thing, too, after a day on the beach or in the bush. Restaurants cover a wide variety of cuisines and visitors are normally very impressed with the food. The country’s many cultures makes for varied traditional fare, which is worth exploring.


12. FUEL (PETROL)

Fuel types available are leaded, unleaded and diesel – please ensure that you use the correct one for your rental vehicle. (Inside the fuel cap you will see the octane level. Most vehicles are however 93 or 95)

Region: Octane:
Gauteng & Mpumalanga 93 or 95
KwaZulu – Natal 95 or 97
Western & Eastern Cape 95 or 97

Fuel stations do not accept credit cards so please ensure you carry enough cash for your fuel requirements. Also ensure that your fuel cap is replaced when filling up.

Fuel is set at a fixed Government controlled price. Service at fuel stations is provided by a fuel attendant, tipping is at your discretion. You may ask the attendant to check the oil, water and tyre pressure.

13. HEALTH

Medical Care/ Hospitals:
Private medical facilities are equal to the best in the world and in many medical disciplines. A large network of private hospitals offer excellent service.
Medical services (in South Africa) are good in urban areas and limited elsewhere. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payment, but usually accept major credit cards. It is advisable to secure medical cover on your medical insurance before arriving in the country. Note that major hotels have contracts with physicians and dentists. Visitors are however advised to bring along supplies of specialised medication they may require. Otherwise, medicine may be purchased at pharmacies and emergency pharmacies are open all night.

Malaria:
Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga (incl. the Kruger National Park) and Limpopo (north-eastern areas and near the Zimbabwean and Mozambican borders) and on the Maputoland coast of KwaZulu-Natal (north-east as far south as the Tugela River).
Malaria risk is highest October-May. It would be best to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas. In addition to malaria prophylaxis (which are normally taken prior to entering a malaria area) you should consult your personal physician/travel clinic prior to departure), insect repellants and mosquito nets can be effective.

Sun:
Another possilbe threat is the hot, strong African sun. One must be careful not to underestimate the effects of the sun; it is quite common for visitors to lose a day of holiday to sunstroke, by overindulging in the sun. Plenty of high factor sun cream, water, a good sun hat and gradual adjustment are recommended.

Yellow Fever:
For travellers entering South Africa within six days of leaving a yellow fever infected area, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. Apart from this, there are no compulsory inoculations.

14. HIKING TIPS

• Never climb/hike alone.
• Take a cellular (mobile) with you and emergency numbers: Ambulance: 10177 Police/Fire: 10111.
• Choose your route according to the ability, fitness and experience of the group.
• Go with somebody who knows the way, or use a updated map or guidebook.
• Allow plenty of time to get up and down in daylight.
• Stick to well recognised paths and heed warning signs.
• Tell someone exactly where you are going, the route and your expected time of return.
• Every party should have a leader. Keep together and travel at the pace of the slowest.
• Never split up or head in different directions.
• Always be prepared for bad weather and take waterproof and windproof clothing.
• Carry everything in a rucksack to keep arms and hands free.
• Always watch the weather and time and turn back as soon as bad weather threatens or if the route is no longer easy to follow.
• In the event of trouble, don’t try to force your way down in darkness or mist. Stay and find shelter, especially from the wind.
• If you get lost or find yourself in an area that looks unsafe- retrace your steps.

15. HOTEL (CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT)

The hotel check-in time is generally 14h00 in the afternoon. If you arrive early, you can usually leave your luggage at the hotel. Early check in is subject to availability and often subject to a charge.

• Carry hotel name and address with you when you are on your own.
• Change money at recognized places or the hotel.
• Keep passport numbers and travellers’ cheques numbers separately.

Generally the hotel check-out time is 11h00. Late check out is subject to availability. If you wish to use your room on a day room basis until your evening flight, please let us know as soon as possible as this can often be arranged at an additional charge.
The additional charge is from 50-100% of the room tariff. Otherwise the hotel or lodge can keep your luggage in a luggage storage area.

On leaving your hotel, check your personal account and collect any personal items E.g.: passport, jewellery and travellers cheques left in safe keeping.

16. PASSPORT (IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS)

Make two copies of all your important documents, like passports. Take one with you, in a different bag to the original, and leave one at home with a responsible, easily contactable person. Try to memorise all your important numbers - passport numbers, credit card numbers, etc. If you lose your bag, this can be an enormous help.

17. PEOPLE & LANGUAGE

Diverse people and cultures combine to make the Rainbow Nation so colourful.
Population groups include the majority Nguni (incl. Zulu, Xhosa, Swazi); Sotho-Tswana; Tsonga; Venda; Afrikaners; English; Coloureds; Indians; Khoi and San; and immigrants from Africa, Europe and Asia. Most South Africans are multi-lingual and English is fairly widely spoken, notably in urban centres. There are 11 official languages, including English.
The majority religion is Christian, but freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution.

18. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

January 1 New Year’s Day
March 21 Human Rights’ Day
March/April Good Friday & Easter Week-end
April 27 Freedom Day
May 1 Workers’ Day
June 16 Youth Day
August 9 National Women’s Day
September 24 Heritage Day
December 16 Day of Reconciliation
December 25 Christmas Day
December 26 Family day


19. PORTERAGE

Porterage is included in all group tours. For the individual traveller it is suggested that porters at the airports and hotels are tipped. Tipping guide line of R10.00 per item.

20. SAFETY & SECURITY

On arrival at your hotel, it is advisable to acquaint yourself with fire exits and emergency procedures.
Crimes against people and property, particularly in cities are a regrettable fact of life throughout the world.
Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists, provided they take basic common-sense precautions e.g.

• Avoid carrying large sums of cash, carrying cameras or video cameras in plain sight and leaving belongings unattended.
• Heed the advice of your hosts or locals on where to go after dark. Try not to walk alone, and take special precautions at lonely lookout points, especially at dusk or after dark.
• Do not allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs.
• Street children and beggars may approach you for a handout. Many social workers counsel against giving money to the children as it usually gets handed over to an older person or is used to purchase drugs. If you wish to do good, rather give food, donate your change to a registered charity.
• At night, park in a secure, well-lit area.
• Keep photocopies of all valuable documents in a safe place.
• Obtain a map and plan your routes before you set out.
• Don't carry all your essential documents and travellers cheques with you.
• Leave valuable jewellery, spare money and your passport in your hotel safe.
• Try not to leave anything in your car when it is parked, except in the boot.
• Don't leave handbags, even in the boot.
• Do not give lifts to hitch-hikers.
• In traffic, maintain a safe following distance.

Most major cities run organized crime prevention programmes and “Basic Safety Tip” guidelines are available at hotels and tourism information offices. If you are in doubt as to the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the:
24hrs operational National Tourism Information and Safety Line +27 (0) 83 123 2345.
This number may also be used for assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.


21. SHOPPING

Modern shopping malls, arts & crafts routes and markets, flea markets and informal vendors provide a wide variety of goods, curios, and shopping experiences. South Africa’s fashion, gold and diamond jewellery, and art are sought-after. As are the traditional handcrafted items such as beadwork; carved chessboards; painted ostrich eggs; colourful woven baskets, handbags and soft furnishings; mohair or sisal rugs; traditional wooden masks and carvings; pottery and leather items. And don’t forget the world-renowned Cape wines, exotic fruit liqueurs, brandy, rooibos tea, dried fruit, biltong (dried meat snacks) and chutney.
Most major shopping centres and malls operate 7 days a week, but small town shops are often closed on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

22. SPECTACLES (CONTACT LENSES)

Bring spare spectacles, and/or a copy of your prescription. If you wear contact lenses, consider using disposables for a short holiday, especially if you're planning to river raft, dive or such. Also bring spectacles, as the dry dusty environment of some game reserves may irritate your eyes.

23. TAX

Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14% is levied in South Africa. Overseas visitors taking goods out of South Africa are able to reclaim the VAT, which they paid on these goods. Reclaiming VAT is only applicable for goods that you are able to produce at the airport and not for any services. When purchasing your products you should request a tax invoice. The shop’s VAT number must appear on this invoice. Before you check in at the airport ready to depart from South Africa, you should approach the customs official who will compare your invoices with the goods purchased. Once your invoices have been approved and stamped, the VAT Reclaim Office will refund you the appropriate amount. VAT Reclaim Offices are found at Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town Airports.


24. TAXIS

Taxis come in two types:

• Metered variety which is normally a sedan car with an identifying light box on its roof. Their rates are about R8.00 per km and they can be found in taxi ranks or called by phone.
• Mini-bus, which most locals use.

25. TIME

South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European wintertime and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard wintertime (USA). T he country has not adopted a daylight time saving system in summer.

26. TIPPING (GRATUAITY)

Tipping is not compulsory.
If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have provided a brief guideline to assist you:

• Transfer and touring driver/guides
• Transfer R10.00 per person
• Half day tour R25.00 per person
• Full day tour R50.00 per person

• Camp, game lodge and specialist guides
• If the guide has done a good job, we recommend US$5.00-$10.00 per guest per day for travel to Botswana, Zambia , Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa.

• Restaurants/hotels
• 10% is customary on meal accounts but only if you are satisfied with the service.

27. VISAS

No visas are required for visitors who are nationals of the EU, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Israel, Brazil, Argentina, Singapore and Japan, as a three month temporary visitor’s permit is issued. However, it is advisable to check with your nearest South African Embassy or consulate prior to your departure. A passport valid for 6 months with two empty pages is essential.

You may need to have a return fare or deposit money at customs to cover a fare home (refundable once you leave the country). They may also require you to show sufficient funds to support your visit.

28. DID YOU KNOW

• South Africa has the oldest meteor scar in the world. The meteor plummeted to Earth nearly two billion years ago, pre-dating the heady days of oxygen and multi-cell life. The Vredefort Dome was recently declared a World Heritage Site.
• South Africa has the third highest level of biodiversity in the world.
• The Tugela Falls is the second highest waterfall in the world, where the water tumbles down 850 metres. [First place goes to the Angel Falls in Venezuela at 979 metres].
• Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world (and the largest ‘green canyon’). The Grand Canyon in the US is the largest, and second place goes to the Fish River Canyon in Namibia.
• According to recent studies, the star-watching town of Sutherland in the Northern Cape is one of the most geologically stable places on Earth, yet it has a 66-million year old volcano, not yet officially extinct.
• Kimberley may have the biggest man-made hole in the world, but the southern Free State town of Jagersfontein has the deepest vertical man-made hole.
• South Africa is home to the world’s smallest succulent plants (less than 10 mm) and the largest (the baobab).
• Lake Fundudzi in Venda is possibly the world’s only inland freshwater lake formed by a landslide.
• The only street in the world to house two Nobel Peace prize winners is in South Africa. Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu both have houses in Vilakazi Street in Soweto.
• The world’s first heart transplant was done in South Africa in 1967 by South African Dr Chris Barnard.
• South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique are removing fences between the countries’ game parks to create a 35 000 square kilometers game park which will become the largest conservation area in the world.
• South Africa is ranked number one in the world for its floral kingdom.