Visas
Passport holders from more than 80 countries, including
the USA, Canada, Japan and the European Union countries
can visit South Africa without visas. For further information
contact your local office of the diplomatic or consular
representative of the South African government.
Water
In the major cities and towns and most game reserves,
tap water is purified and 100% safe to drink
Time Differences
Throughout the year, Standard Time in South Africa is
2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European
Winter Time, and seven hours in advance of Eastern Standard
Winter Time.
Languages
South Africa currently has 11 official languages. English
is spoken everywhere. French, Italian and German are
spoken by staff members at major hotels and shops.
Health Requirements
If coming from a yellow fever zone then it is obligatory
to have your up-to-date vaccination card with you. It
is advisable to take malaria precautions if travelling
to game reserves.
Insurance
It is strongly recommended that insurance is taken out
prior to arrival for travel and medical cover.
Petrol
Most petrol stations are open 24 hours a day. However
this must be paid for in cash. International Credit
cards are not accepted for petrol transactions.
Religions
Most denominations are represented. Churches, mosques,
temples and synagogues are located in most major cities.
Currency
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol
R. R1 = 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged
at commercial banks.
Credit Cards
Major international credit cards such as American Express,
Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa and their affiliates are
accepted in South Africa. However, use may be restricted
in small towns and country areas. Automatic teller machines
ATM's are situated outside most banks in towns and cities
and operated 24 hours a day.
Electricity
City and town power systems are generally 220/230 volts
AC. Three pin plugs are used. So an adapter may be necessary.
Telephones
Mobile/cell phone cards are availabile for the GSM system.
VAT
Currently set at 14%. VAT is included in the market/quoted
price of most goods and services.
Foreign visitors are not exempt from paying VAT on purchased
goods. However they may claim back VAT paid on items
taken out of the country on condition the value exceeds
R250. The refund may be claimed at the airport of departure,
at various harbours and at customs offices.
The following
documentation is required:
Original Tax invoice,
VAT refund control sheet and foreign passport. The items
on which a refund is claimed must also be presented.
