There are 11 official languages in South Africa. Afrikaans, Zulu, English, Xhosa and Sotho are just some of the many languages spoken.
Back to top
The official currency is the rand, which breaks down into 100 cents. ATMs are easy to find and you can exchange money at banks, larger hotels and exchange bureaux. Credit cards are widely accepted, but filling stations are cash only. Be careful while using ATMs as there are high levels of credit card fraud associated with ATM use in South Africa. Some of the larger hotels and shops will accept traveller’s cheques or foreign currency, but will charge commission.
Back to top
The international country code is 27. To call another country from South Africa, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code (0044 for the UK, for example). You won’t be able to use international phone cards, but you can get pay-as-you-go SIM cards for your mobile phone. There are also plenty of pay phones that take both coins and cards. Internet cafes are easy to find.
Back to top
Waiters usually receive tips of 10 per cent, unless a service charge has already been added to the bill. Porters, taxi drivers, filling station attendants and golf caddies expect tips. People calling themselves “car guards” will offer to watch your parked car. They are usually immigrants looking for work and should be tipped about two rand.
Back to top
There are high rates of crime in South Africa. Incidents are concentrated around townships, but opportunistic crime can happen anywhere. Always lock your car door while driving. Be very cautious in Berea and Hillbrow in Johannesburg, where the risk is high.
Back to top
Vaccinations are unnecessary, unless you are coming from an area infected with yellow fever. Then you will need to provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate. The low-lying areas of Mpumalanga, including Kruger National Park, northeastern Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Northern Province all have a risk of malaria. There are also high rates of HIV/AIDS. The tap water in urban areas is safe, but needs to be sterilised elsewhere. Outbreaks of cholera occur in poor, rural communities, especially in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Northern KwaZulu Natal provinces. There have also been extensive outbreaks of drug-resistant TB. Avoid public hospitals. Private hospitals are good, but require cash up front. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance.
Back to top
The electrical current is 220 and 230 volts, 50Hz (round, three-pinned plugs).
Back to top
