Time difference
GMT + 2
Cash withdrawals / Credit Cards / Travellers Cheques
Most international brands of credit cards are accepted but expect to pay cash at markets. Foreign Exchange facilities are available in most towns. Automatic teller machines (ATM's) are almost everywhere.
Communication
Internet, postal services and telephones are available at Internet cafés and Postnet branches countrywide. Local and international dialling codes are printed in all telephone directories. There are also three local cellular companies.
Health / Medical
South Africa is one of the few countries in the world where water straight out of the tap is perfectly drinkable. Hospitals and medical facilities are situated in all major centres. More information can be obtained from tourism information offices or from your accommodation establishment. Travel insurance is advisable.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Value Added Tax (VAT), currently charged at 14%, is included in the price of most goods and services. Foreign visitors are not exempt from paying VAT on purchases. However, you may claim back VAT paid on items taken out of the country when the total valued exceeds R250. Simply identify yourself as a tourist to shop assistants and request a Tax Invoice or Export Tax Certificate (VAT 263 certificate) which must show that VAT was charged. At Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban International Airports, produce goods prior to check-in at the VAT Inspection of Customs Counter clearly sign-posted in the Departures Hall. Hand luggage may be inspected at the VAT Refund Office after immigration. Refunds will be handled at the VAT Refund Office. Cheques issued may be cashed for foreign currently at airport banking facilities.
Tipping
Service charges are not included, so bear in mind a customary 10-15% tip for taxi drivers, porters, chambermaids, serving staff, etc.
Safety
Please take the usual care with regards to your safety. South Africans welcome visitors to our shore and will be only too pleased to assist you should you require information regarding an area you wish to visit.
Climate
A country of extremes, South Africa has several climatic zones, from tropical to desert. Bring warm clothing and a waterproof jacket (even in Summer) and remember items such as sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen for those hot African days. Summer is at its peak in December / January and winter in June / July.
Tourists with disabilities
South Africa is constantly improving its facilities for disabled tourists and many places of interest have specially adapted accommodation and wheelchair-friendly facilities.
Electrical current
Electricity is generally 220/230 volts, 15 amps, and is supplied through either 15-amp three-prong or 5-amp two-prong plugs, in both cases with round pins. If you're bringing anything electrical, bring an adapter – or you could buy one here.
Generally, the 110V video chargers work safely on the 220V supply.
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 or dive. Also bring spectacles, as the dry dusty environment of some game farms may irritate your eyes.
Languages
There are 11 official languages but English is the language of business.
Religion
Churches, mosques, temples and synagogues are situated in most cities and towns.
Airlines
Air France, Air Portugal, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Luthansa, Olympic, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, Swiss International Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Air amongst others fly to South Africa.