South Africa Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Safety and General Travel
Q: Is South Africa safe for tourists? A: The consensus is that it can be, but you must be “street smart.” Be aware of your surroundings, especially in cities, and follow local advice.
Q: What is the biggest safety tip from locals? A: Don’t walk around alone at night, and don’t flash valuables like expensive phones, jewelry, or cameras.
Q: Are there areas to avoid? A: Yes. Many users recommend avoiding the CBD (Central Business District) of major cities, especially Johannesburg, and certain townships unless you are on a reputable, organized tour.
Q: Is a “false wallet” a good idea? A: Some travelers suggest it as a precaution in case of a mugging, but most advise not to carry a lot of cash in the first place.
Q: Is solo travel safe, especially for women? A: Solo travel is possible, but many users recommend being extra cautious, using a group tour, and not hiking alone.
Q: How do you handle aggressive begging? A: Be firm but polite. Do not engage, and if you are uncomfortable, walk away.
Q: Should I be worried about my car being broken into? A: Yes, it is a common concern. Do not leave any valuables in sight, or even in the car at all if you can avoid it.
Q: What is a “braai”? A: A South African barbecue. It’s a huge part of the culture, and if you get an invitation to one, take it!
Q: Are South Africans friendly to tourists? A: Overwhelmingly, yes. Many users report that South Africans are warm, welcoming, and helpful.
Q: How can I tell the difference between a safe and unsafe area? A: Often, you can tell by the infrastructure. Areas with high walls, electric fences, and armed response signs are common in wealthier neighborhoods, but should not necessarily be seen as “unsafe” for tourists. Avoid neighborhoods that appear visibly poor and run-down.
Money and Payments
Q: Do I need a lot of cash? A: No. South Africa is largely a cashless society. You can use a credit or debit card almost everywhere.
Q: Is tipping expected? A: Yes, especially in restaurants. A common tip is 10-15%. You can often tip on your card.
Q: What about “parking guards”? A: It’s common for informal car guards to watch your vehicle. It is customary to give them a small tip (a few Rand) when you return.
Q: What is the local currency? A: The South African Rand (ZAR or R).
Q: Should I get a lot of cash out at the airport? A: You can, but most advise against it. The limit is often R5000 from an ATM.
Transportation
Q: Is it safe to drive in South Africa? A: Generally, yes, but with precautions. Avoid driving at night, especially in rural areas, and stick to the main national roads (the ones with “N” in front, like N2 or N4).
Q: What’s the deal with hitchhikers? A: Do not pick up hitchhikers. Many travelers warn that it can be an ambush.
Q: Should I rent a car or use Uber? A: Uber is a popular and cheap option in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg. However, for exploring the Garden Route or the Kruger area, a rental car is a must.
Q: How are the roads? A: The main roads are generally in good condition, but be prepared for potholes and rougher conditions on rural routes.
Q: Is it okay to use Google Maps? A: Yes, but be aware that it might direct you through unsafe areas, especially in cities. Double-check routes and ask locals for advice.
Q: What about public transport? A: South Africa’s public transport system is not as developed as in many other countries. Minibus taxis are common but can be informal and unsafe. Stick to Uber or rental cars.
Q: What’s the deal with “MyCiti” buses? A: MyCiti is a safe and reliable bus system in Cape Town. You buy a card and top it up.
Itinerary and Destinations
Q: Should I visit Johannesburg? A: Many people recommend flying into Johannesburg (JNB) but flying out immediately to another location, such as Kruger or Cape Town. It is not considered a primary tourist destination.
Q: Is a two-week itinerary too rushed? A: It can be. Many users suggest choosing between a Kruger/safari trip and a Cape Town/Garden Route trip to avoid being too rushed.
Q: How many days in Kruger is enough? A: Most suggest a minimum of 2-4 days to increase your chances of seeing a wide variety of animals.
Q: Is the Garden Route worth it? A: Absolutely. It’s a popular and scenic drive with plenty of things to do, from hiking to beaches.
Q: What’s better: a self-drive safari or a guided tour? A: Both have pros and cons. Self-driving is cheaper and gives you more freedom, but a private lodge with a ranger offers a more in-depth and luxurious experience.
Q: What’s the best way to get from Kruger to Cape Town? A: Fly. The drive is very long and not recommended.
Q: Where should I stay in Cape Town? A: Areas like Sea Point, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront are popular and considered safe for tourists.
Q: What are the must-dos in Cape Town? A: Table Mountain, Boulders Beach (penguins!), Robben Island, and exploring the Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek).
Q: Is it worth visiting the Drakensberg Mountains? A: If you enjoy hiking, yes. It’s a beautiful area, but it’s a bit of a detour from the main tourist routes.
Q: How much time should I spend in the Winelands? A: A day trip is common, but spending a night or two in a town like Stellenbosch is highly recommended by some users.
Q: What about Durban? A: Durban is a bit more of a mixed bag. Some users recommend it for its warm beaches, while others warn of safety issues. It’s not as popular with first-time international tourists as Cape Town.
Q: Is the Panorama Route a must-do? A: If you are going to Kruger, yes. It’s a beautiful drive with incredible viewpoints.
Packing and Practicalities
Q: What should I pack for a safari? A: Layers! It can be cold in the morning and evening and hot during the day. Also, long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and mosquito protection. A good sun hat and binoculars are also a must.
Q: What about mosquito repellent and anti-malaria pills? A: The Kruger area is a malaria zone, so anti-malarials are highly recommended by medical professionals, although some locals opt not to take them. Always use a good mosquito repellent with DEET.
Q: What type of shoes should I bring? A: Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners are best.
Q: Do I need a travel adapter? A: Yes. South Africa uses a unique Type M plug, so an adapter is essential.
Q: Is it worth it to get a local SIM card? A: Yes, it is easy and cheap to get one for data and making calls.
Q: How do you handle luggage at Johannesburg airport? A: It’s best to have your bags checked all the way to your final destination if possible. Some travelers recommend having luggage wrapped in plastic for an extra layer of protection.
Safari-Specific Questions
Q: Is Kruger the only place to go on a safari? A: No, there are many private game reserves in South Africa and other national parks. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a popular luxury alternative to Kruger.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Kruger? A: The dry season (winter in South Africa, roughly May-September) is often recommended as the vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot animals.
Q: What are the “Big Five”? A: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant, and Buffalo.
Q: Do I need to book a safari tour in advance? A: It’s highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Q: Can I get out of the car on a safari? A: Only in designated areas, like rest camps. It is not safe to get out of your vehicle in the park.
Food and Drink
Q: What local food should I try? A: Bunny chow, biltong, boerewors rolls, and a proper braai are all highly recommended.
Q: Is the tap water safe to drink? A: In most major cities, yes. In rural areas, it’s best to stick to bottled water.
Q: What about wine? A: The Cape Winelands are world-renowned. Wine tasting is a must-do and is often very affordable.
Q: Are restaurants cheap? A: Compared to Europe or the US, many restaurants and food outlets are considered very affordable by tourists.
Miscellaneous
Q: What is a “robot”? A: A traffic light.
Q: How reliable is the Wi-Fi? A: Wi-Fi is generally good at hotels and guesthouses, but can be spotty in more rural areas.
Q: Is it rude to bargain? A: In most formal settings (shops, restaurants), yes. However, at informal markets, haggling is common.
Q: What’s the etiquette for greeting people? A: It is considered polite to greet service workers and others you interact with. A simple “hello” or “good morning” is appreciated.
Q: Should I be concerned about load shedding (power outages)? A: This can be a concern. Many hotels and guesthouses have generators, but it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation beforehand.
Q: Is there a language barrier? A: No. English is widely spoken throughout the country.
Q: What is the best way to see the townships? A: An organized tour with a local guide is the safest and most respectful way to experience a township.
Q: What about the Cape of Good Hope? Is it the southernmost point of Africa? A: No, it’s a common misconception. The southernmost point is Cape Agulhas. The Cape of Good Hope is still a beautiful and worthwhile stop.
Q: How’s the weather? A: It depends on the season and location. Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The Kruger area has a hot, wet summer and a dry, cooler winter.
Q: Are there any specific scams to be aware of? A: Be cautious of people trying to “help” you at ATMs or offering unsolicited assistance.
Q: Is it safe to use a travel agency or book everything myself? A: Both are viable. A travel agency can simplify logistics, but self-booking can be more budget-friendly and flexible.
Q: How much should I budget for a trip? A: This varies widely. For budget travelers, a few thousand US dollars for a two-week trip (excluding international flights) is a rough estimate. For luxury travel, the cost is much higher.
Q: What is the official name of the country’s main airport? A: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.
Q: What are some lesser-known gems to visit? A: The Wild Coast, Hogsback, and the Karoo are often mentioned by locals as beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Q: Do I need to get any specific vaccinations? A: Consult with a doctor, but generally, no extra vaccines are required for most tourist areas, aside from standard ones like MMR. Malaria pills are a consideration for Kruger.
Q: How safe is it to hike Table Mountain? A: It’s a popular hike, but it is recommended to go with a group and not alone, as muggings have occurred.
Q: How do I handle a traffic stop? A: Be polite and respectful. If a police officer stops you, comply with their requests and have your driver’s license and car papers ready.
Q: Is it safe to park in an underground parking garage? A: Yes, these are generally considered safe and often have security.
Q: Can I use my phone’s GPS while driving? A: Yes, but keep it out of sight when stopped at traffic lights. Phone-smash-and-grabs are a concern.
Q: What is the best way to see the penguins at Boulders Beach? A: There is a designated boardwalk that allows you to view the penguins without disturbing them.
Q: What’s the best way to experience local culture? A: Chat with locals, visit a shisa nyama (a local barbecue spot), or take a cooking class.
Q: Should I book accommodation in advance? A: Yes, especially for popular areas and during peak season.
Q: What’s the deal with “load shedding” and power cuts? A: Load shedding is a system of planned power outages. It’s a reality of life in SA, but many businesses and tourist accommodations have backup power.
Q: Is it worth visiting the Apartheid Museum? A: Yes, it is a powerful and educational experience highly recommended by many visitors.
Q: Can I see the “Big Five” on a self-drive safari? A: Yes, but you have to be patient and have a good eye. Guided tours increase your chances.
Q: How do I get to the V&A Waterfront from the city center? A: It’s a short Uber ride or a decent walk. The MyCiti bus also goes there.
Q: What’s the difference between a game reserve and a national park? A: National parks like Kruger are public and allow self-driving. Game reserves are private, more exclusive, and often have higher prices.
Q: Is it safe to visit the Cango Caves? A: Yes, this is a popular and safe tourist attraction.
Q: What’s the best way to get to the Drakensberg Mountains? A: A rental car is the most common way to get there.
Q: What should I do if I get lost? A: Stop at a gas station and ask for directions. Do not stop on the side of the road, especially at night.
Q: Is it true that some roads are not well-lit? A: Yes, this is a major reason why night driving is not recommended.
Q: Can I drink alcohol in public? A: Public drinking is generally not allowed.
Q: What is a “bakkie”? A: A pickup truck.
Q: How are the beaches in Cape Town? A: The beaches are beautiful, but the water is cold!
Q: How do I book a tour of Robben Island? A: Book well in advance online, as tickets sell out quickly.
Q: Are there any specific rules for driving on a safari? A: Stick to the speed limit and stay on the designated roads. Do not get out of your car.
Q: What’s the best time of year for whale watching? A: The whale watching season is generally from June to November.
Q: What are the best places to go for a hike? A: In Cape Town, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain are popular. The Drakensberg and Garden Route offer many options as well.
Q: What is “braaivleis”? A: The meat cooked at a braai.
Q: How is the mobile phone reception? A: Generally good in cities, but it can be poor in remote areas like national parks.
Q: Are there any dangerous animals outside of the game reserves? A: Yes, baboons can be a nuisance in certain areas, particularly around Cape Point. Do not feed them.
Q: Can I find vegetarian or vegan food easily? A: Yes, especially in Cape Town, there are many restaurants with good vegetarian and vegan options.
Q: What is “biltong”? A: A form of cured, dried meat, similar to jerky. A popular snack.
Q: Is it safe to buy from street vendors? A: Be cautious, but many vendors sell unique goods and food.
Q: What is the “Red Bus” tour in Johannesburg? A: A popular hop-on, hop-off bus tour that takes you to the main tourist sites in the city.
Q: What is the local term for a traffic circle? A: A “circle” or a “roundabout.”
Q: Is there a way to volunteer while traveling? A: Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities, but do your research to ensure they are reputable.
Q: How do I get to Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden? A: It’s a short drive or an Uber from central Cape Town. The “Red Bus” also stops there.
Q: What’s the best way to experience Soweto? A: A bike or tuk-tuk tour with a local company is a fun and immersive way to explore.
Q: What should I do if I get pulled over by a corrupt police officer? A: Remain calm and polite. Do not offer a bribe. If you have any concerns, ask to be taken to the nearest police station.
Q: Is it worth visiting South Africa? A: An overwhelming number of travelers say yes. Despite the well-documented challenges, they describe it as an incredibly beautiful country with friendly people and unforgettable experiences.