South Africa is the perfect place for you if you’re looking for a country with a rich history and diverse culture. From the stunning Table Mountain to the Kruger National Park, home to an abundance of wildlife, there is something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or a beautiful place to relax, this beautiful country is sure to have something for you. Here are some useful tips for your first trip to South Africa.
Safety
It is vital to ensure safety in any country you visit and is especially important in a new place. Taking simple precautions such as not walking alone at night, keeping your belongings close to you, and being cautious of people who approach you asking for money can help reduce the chances of becoming a victim of crime. South Africa can be safe, as long as you use common sense and you’re aware of your surroundings. If you stick to the main tourist areas and don’t flash your valuables in the wrong places, your trip to South Africa should be problem-free.
Driving in South Africa
South Africa does not have a very extensive or efficient public transportation system. The easiest and most convenient way to travel within the country is by renting a car, but make sure you check a map and know approximate driving times because cities are fairly spread out. Fortunately, roads in South Africa are generally in great condition. Driving is on the left in this country, which will take some getting used to for anyone who is used to driving on the right.
South Africa is the adventure capital of the world
Before taking off on your South Africa vacation, you should plan some adventure activities. Every corner of South Africa has some adventure aspect to it. From hiking in the Drakensberg, to freediving with sharks in the KZN, to throwing yourself off the world’s highest bridge bungee, you won’t be strapped to get an adrenaline rush on your vacation in South Africa.
Tipping in South Africa
Tipping 10-15% at restaurants in South Africa is common practice. If you’re at a bar, people usually leave any small change from the bill for the bartender. If you’re hiring a car in South Africa, you’ll come into contact with the country’s car guards. These are people who will watch your car for you while you run your errands in exchange for a couple of rands.
Accommodation options
You will find a variety of accommodation options available, from world-class hotels and safari lodges to guesthouses, Airbnb apartments, and backpacker lodges. The accommodation you choose will be entirely based on your budget, purpose of travel, and itinerary within South Africa. If travelling during the peak season of November – January, it is important to book your accommodation in advance to get first pick and the best rates.
You can drink the tap water
South Africa boasts some of the cleanest tap water in the world. It’s perfectly safe to drink right from the tap, so you don’t have to worry about buying bottles of water during your trip.
Food in South Africa
A trip to South Africa is guaranteed to encompass good food as the country boasts an amazing variety of restaurants from fine dining to casual eateries. The vast number of supermarkets are also stocked with a wide range of produce, making self-catering simple. The country is big on meat. “Braais” the Afrikaans word for grilled meat, comparable to a BBQ is insanely popular all over. Any social gathering is bound to have a braai going on.
These are just a few tips to help you plan your first trip to South Africa. Be sure to take the time to learn about the local culture and language. Do not forget to have fun and enjoy your time in this beautiful country – explore its safari, go on a hike, visit the beach, or take a trip to Cape Town.
If you wish to view some amazing career opportunities in South Africa, make sure you click through to our job section.