Entry & Exit Requirements
U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter South Africa. Passports must be valid for at least 30 days after the date of departure from South Africa.
A visa is not required for visits up to 90 days; visitor visas will be issued at the port of entry in South Africa.
South African law requires travelers to have two fully blank visa pages upon arrival into South Africa. Travelers without the required blank visa pages will be refused entry into South Africa, fined, and deported at their own expense.
There are additional requirements for minors traveling to South Africa. Visit South Africa's Department of Home Affairs website for details.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the South African Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into South Africa.
Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting South Africa.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC warns that travelers to Africa may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Currency
The currency of South Africa is the South African Rand.
Electricity
The electrical current in South Africa is 220-230V 50Hz AC. Travelers from the United States need to use a converter.
Time Zone
The time zone of South Africa is South Africa Time Zone (UTC+02:00).
South Africa does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Departures and arrivals on flight schedules are listed in the local time.
Communications
PHONES
South Africa’s country code is +27.
To call South Africa (from the U.S.): Dial 011-27-(xx-xxx-xxxx)
To call the United States: Dial 001-(xxx-xxx-xxxx)
Please check with your cell phone provider if you’re unsure whether or not your cell phone will work internationally. Be aware that you are likely to incur additional charges for international use. It may be more affordable to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival.
INTERNET
Internet is very well-established throughout the country and most hotels and lodges are connected. Almost every city has a cyber café.