Currency
The currency of South Africa is the Rand (R) =100 cents.
South African Currency is available in the following denominations: Notes: R200, R100, R50, R20, R10 and Coins: R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c and 1c (see current exchange rates)
Passports, Visas & Entry Requirements
A visitor to South Africa will require a passport which is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of travel and certain passport holders may also require. Visa information can be obtained by contacting the South African Consulate or South African Tourism offices. Many countries, including the United Kingdom & other European Union Countries, the United States of America, Canada and Japan do not need visas when visiting South Africa. It is your responsibility to check whether or not you require a visa, before you book your holiday.
Health Requirements & Immunisation
If you are planning to visit malaria areas you are advised to obtain prophylatic medication from your doctor or pharmacy to be taken before, during and after your visit. It is advisable also to take any precautionary measures.
Medical and Hospital Facilities
South African has excellent hospitals and medical facilities available in most locations. It is advisable to take medical and travel insurance to cover the duration of your visit to South Africa.
Drinking Water
Tap water is purified and safe to drink in major cities, towns and game reserves. Bottled water is available in supermarkets and most shopping outlets if preferred.
Temperatures and Climate
South Africa generally boasts a temperate climate with warm summer days and mild winters. Most rainfall is in summer with the exception of the Western Cape which has a winter rainfall. Seasons are opposite to the United Kingdom with average summer temperatures -approx. 24/26 C and average winter temperatures - approx. 18/20C
| jan | feb | mar | apr | may | jun | jul | aug | sep | oct | nov | dec | ||
| Cape Town | lows | 16/61 | 15/59 | 14/57 | 12/54 | 10/50 | 18/46 | 7/45 | 7/45 | 8/46 | 10/50 | 13/55 | 15/59 |
| Cape Town | highs | 26/79 | 26/79 | 25/77 | 23/73 | 20/68 | 18/64 | 17/63 | 18/64 | 19/66 | 21/70 | 24/75 | 25/77 |
| Jo'Burg | lows | 15/59 | 14/59 | 13/55 | 11/52 | 8 /46 | 5 /41 | 9 /41 | 12/45 | 13/48 | 12/54 | 13/55 | 14/57 |
| Jo'Burg | highs | 26/79 | 25/77 | 24/75 | 22/72 | 19/66 | 16/61 | 22/61 | 24/66 | 25/72 | 24/75 | 25/77 | 25/77 |
Transport
South Africa boasts excellent road networks and speed limits are as follows: Urban areas: 60km per hour (approx. 40 miles per hour), rural areas: 100km per hour (approx. 60 miles per hour) and freeways/motorways 120km per hour (approx. 75 miles per hour). An International Driving Permit is required although valid United Kingdom/European Union Drivers Licences are accepted, but must be in English and have a clear and current photograph.
International and domestic airlines operate regular services between the main cities.
Inter city coaches and tour buses operated by Greyhound Citiliner, Translux Express and Intercape etc. offer daily services throughout the country.
Both local and intercity trains offer a regular service.
If you are requiring a taxi - ask your Under An African Sky representative or Hotel for a recommended company, or call the taxi companies direct. Alternatively find them at centrally located taxi ranks scattered around the city centre or at airports.