PASSPORTS – Anyone traveling to South Africa will require TWO empty pages in their passports.The customs authorities are extremely strict on this matter ,so please double check this criteria before embarking on your journey.

VISAS-You will not require a visa when traveling to South Africa from the following countries – United Kingdom;Ireland;Canada;USA;New Zealand;Australia and all EU countries.

CURRENCY-The South African unit of currency is the rand. One rand is denoted by the symbol R1.Only the rand is accepted in South Africa, so if you have foreign currency it will have to be exchanged before using cash.

TAXES – A value added tax or VAT ( 14% ) is included in the price of most goods and services.If you purchase R250 or more of goods that you want to take out of the country,you can get a refund of the VAT when you leave.Refunds can be claimed at all points of departure when leaving South Africa.

TIPPING – Tipping is standard throughout the service industry which includes (waiters; tour guides; taxi drivers),10% is usually the norm.Porters generally receive R5 per bag or case.

TIME – South Africa is two hours ahead of GMT throughout the country.

MALARIA – South Africa is malaria free except for visitors travelling to the Kruger National Park who will require anti-malaria medication.

CREDIT CARDS – Credit cards are generally accepted in all but the tiniest businesses in South Africa.MasterCard, VISA and Diner’s Club are welcome most often ( as well as American Express,but not as frequently in smaller towns.)