National Parks in South Africa
South Africa's top safari and wildlife destinations
Cities in South Africa
Explore South Africa's urban destinations
Best Time to Visit South Africa
Best Months
May, June, July, August, September
For Safari
Peak: May, June, July, August, September
Dry season offers best wildlife viewing in Kruger
Seasons
May, June, July, August, September
Best for safari, mild weather, sparse vegetation
November, December, January, February, March
Hot, afternoon storms, bird watching, newborn animals
South Africa Visa Requirements
Many nationalities including US, UK, EU get 90-day visa-free entry. Check your specific nationality.
e-Visa Available
No
Cost
$0 USD
Validity
90 days
Visa on Arrival
Yes
Requirements
- • Passport valid 30 days beyond departure
- • Two blank pages
- • Return/onward ticket
- • Proof of accommodation
Is South Africa Safe?
South Africa has high crime rates in cities, but tourist areas and safari reserves are generally safe. Stay aware, don't display valuables, and follow local advice.
Safe Areas
- ✓ Game reserves
- ✓ Wine regions
- ✓ V&A Waterfront
- ✓ Camps Bay
- ✓ Most tourist attractions
Areas to Avoid
- ✗ Townships without guides
- ✗ Downtown Johannesburg after dark
- ✗ Isolated areas
Safety Tips
- • Don't walk alone at night
- • Use Uber rather than flagging taxis
- • Keep car windows up in cities
- • Lock valuables in safe
- • Don't display expensive items
South Africa Travel Costs
| Budget Level | Daily Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| budget | $50-$80/day | Hostels, self-catering, public transport |
| mid range | $150-$250/day | B&Bs, restaurants, rental car |
| luxury | $400-$1500/day | Luxury lodges, fine dining, private guides |
Health & Vaccinations
Required Vaccinations
- •Yellow Fever (Only if arriving from endemic country)
Recommended Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Tetanus
Malaria Risk
Prophylaxis recommended for: Kruger area, Northern KwaZulu-Natal
Healthcare
Excellent private healthcare, good public hospitals in cities
Tap Water: Safe to drink
Getting to South Africa
International Airports
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Johannesburg (JNB)
Main HubCape Town International Airport
Cape Town (CPT)
Main HubKing Shaka International Airport
Durban (DUR)
Major Airlines
South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways
South Africa Highlights
Must See
- • Kruger National Park
- • Cape Town & Table Mountain
- • Garden Route
- • Winelands
Unique Experiences
- • Self-drive Kruger safari
- • Cage diving with sharks
- • Wine tasting in Stellenbosch
- • Penguin colony at Boulders Beach
Off the Beaten Path
- • Drakensberg Mountains
- • Wild Coast
- • Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
- • Mapungubwe

