Spring
Sep-Nov
Average temperature:
20˚C–25˚C
Rainfall:
40–80 mm/month
Summer
Dec-Feb
Average temperature:
25˚C–30˚C
Rainfall:
60–120 mm/month
Autumn
Mar-May
Average temperature:
18˚C–25˚C
Rainfall:
30–70 mm/month
Winter
Jun-Aug
Average temperature:
10˚C–20˚C
Rainfall:
10–40 mm/month
Country dialing code
+27
Capital city
Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial)
Official language
11 official languages including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
The ideal time to visit South Africa varies depending on the region and the type of experience you're seeking. For wildlife safaris in areas like Kruger National Park, Madikwe, the Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, the dry winter months from May to September are best as animals congregate around water sources, vegetation is sparse, and temperatures are cooler. Cape Town and the Cape Winelands are most enjoyable from October to April, when the weather is warm and dry - perfect for wine tasting, beach outings, and exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. The Garden Route, with its lush forests and coastal scenery, is ideal between September and April, offering mild weather and great conditions for road trips. KwaZulu-Natal’s subtropical coast is pleasant year-round, but April to September offers the most comfortable climate for beach holidays and cultural exploration.
Explore the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, known for world-class wines and gourmet cuisine.
Home to a huge population of wildlife, including the Big Five and luxury lodges, including Sabi Sands and Thornybush.
The Blue Train and Rovos Rail are luxury train experiences. Rovos Rail offers extensive journeys into neighbouring countries, while The Blue Train takes shorter trips between Pretoria and Cape Town.
A picturesque coastal drive featuring forests, beaches and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Situated on the border with Botswana close to the Kalahari Desert, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa and offers exceptional safari experiences.
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clear searchCountry Code for South Africa: +27
Official Travel advice visit:
South Africa Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)
South Africa | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)
Fire and rescue services: Call 10177
Medical emergencies: Call 10112
Police: Call 10111
Australian High Commission, Pretoria
292 Orient Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, South Africa
Phone: (+27 12) 423 6000
Fax: (+27 12) 342 8442
Email: consular.pretoria@dfat.gov.au
Website: southafrica.embassy.gov.au
New Zealand High Commission Pretoria
125 Middel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181 Pretoria, South Africa
Telephone: +27 12 435 9000
Email: enquiries@nzhc.co.za
Website: http://www.mfat.govt.nz/south-africa
South Africans are generally warm and welcoming. It’s customary to greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Dress is casual but respectful, especially in rural areas.
Tipping is expected in restaurants and for service staff. Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in traditional and rural communities.
South Africans take pride in their cuisine, so trying local dishes like bobotie (casserole), biltong (dried meat snack), or a traditional braai (barbecue) is a fantastic way to connect with the culture and locals.
In terms of safety, South Africa has areas with high crime rates, particularly in major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. However, millions of tourists visit safely each year by taking sensible precautions and using common sense.
Electrical Socket type: Type M (South African)
Voltage: 220-240 volts (same as Australia).
Malaria and other insect-borne diseases, such as filariasis, are common. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof and use insect repellent.
Official Travel advice visit:
South Africa Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)
South Africa | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)
South Africa has 11 official languages, with English widely spoken in tourism and business. Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa are also commonly heard across regions.
The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice
Australian and New Zealand passport holders don't need a visa if you're visiting South Africa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days.
If you're travelling from, or transiting for more than 12 hours through, a country where yellow fever is widespread, you'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter South Africa.
Official Travel advice visit:
South Africa Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia)
South Africa | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)
