South Africa Travel Guide - Travel Insights and Tips

South Africa has three capital cities. Pretoria is the executive capital city, although many people mistake Johannesburg as the capital. Pretoria is where you will find the official seat of the government, while Bloemfontein in the center of the country is the judicial capital and houses the high court. Cape Town is the legislative capital, where the South African parliament is located.

1.22 million km². South Africa is a large country with airports in each major city. Public transport is unreliable and car hire or e-hailing apps are the best way to get around.

+27. If you want to contact someone in Cape Town, you will have to add 21 at the end of that.

South Africa uses the Rand and the currency code is ZAR. ATM and banking services are widely available. There are four major banks in the country, all offering reasonable rates and safe banking. Seek out FNB, ABSA, Standard Bank, or Capitec banks for the most efficient service.

O.R. Tambo International Airport is the main international airport serving domestic and international travelers. It is located in Johannesburg, 50 kilometers from the capital, Pretoria. CODE: JNB CLOSEST CITY: Johannesburg

Most visitors can get a visa on arrival at the border which lasts for 90 days. There are some exceptions and we advise travelers to refer to their country-specific travel advisory before booking a trip.

South Africa has a whopping 11 official languages. English is widely spoken across the country and everything from shops to road signs and broadcast media is available in English.

The nationwide emergency number is 10111. You can also dial 112 or 10177 for the fire department.

“Braai” culture is a big deal in South Africa and is regarded as the number one national pastime. Come rain or shine, you will find a fire burning and meat grilling. There is even a national holiday dedicated to this culinary culture.