
South Africa: what to know before you go
Planning a trip to South Africa? From vibrant culture to stunning wildlife, every moment will amaze. Here’s what you need to know before you jet off.
If your travel fantasies are full of wildlife, wine, and wow-worthy scenery, then a tour of South Africa is for you. A trip to Africa’s southernmost country will have you exploring culture-rich cities one day, soaking up mountaintop views the next, spying on wildlife in a safari Jeep after that—and let’s not forget the vineyard visits in the Cape Winelands. In short, it’s the perfect destination for I-want-to-do-it-all explorers. Sound like you? (Us, too.) Before you get your fill of penguins and pinotage on a trip like our South Africa: Cape Town to Kruger National Park tour, check out this guide of everything to know before you go.
Essential travel documents you’ll need
As is required to visit many destinations outside North America, your passport must be valid for six months after your return date. Your passport must also have at least two full blank pages for entry stamps to visit South Africa (but we recommend three to be safe).
Travelers continuing on our tour extensions to Zimbabwe will need a visa to enter this country. We highly recommend getting your visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe. Our experts find that this is an easier process than applying for your visa online in advance. U.S. passport holders may purchase an individual visa for $30 USD at the airport upon arrival; this can only be paid in cash, so be sure to have exact change. Canadian passport holders can purchase a single-entry visa on arrival or through an e-visa service for $75 USD per person. (Yes, prices are listed in USD, not CAD).

Need-to-know health and vaccination info
When planning a trip to South Africa, or any destination so far from home, we always recommend chatting with your doctor or local travel clinic. These health professionals will be your best resource when it comes to knowing which vaccinations (if any) are right for you. Most doctors do recommend taking malaria pills before, during, and after a visit to many regions in South Africa, but they are not required. Your healthcare provider will also likely suggest a typhoid vaccination. The yellow fever vaccine is not required for most North American travelers. It’s only necessary if you’re traveling from a country with a high risk of yellow fever. (Don’t worry—flight layovers and refuel stops don’t count.)

South Africa’s vast and varied local flavors
From flavorful Cape Malay curries (from the culture-rich Cape Malay Muslim communities in Bo-Kaap) to smoky braais (South Africa’s beloved BBQ tradition), the local food scene is as diverse as the landscapes. Due to the country’s complex cultural history, you’ll find many international culinary influences at play. Expect bold spices, fresh seafood, world-class wines (hello, crisp chenin blanc!), and a fusion of global influences with deep cultural roots. Whether you’re sampling bunny chow (a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry) in Indian-influenced Durban or sipping pinotage under vineyard skies, your tastebuds are in for an unforgettable adventure on a trip like our South Africa: Cultural Cities & Wildlife Safaris tour.
Discover some of Cape Town’s best eats and sips in our guide to the best things to do in the city.

Getting your wallet ready
South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR), which currently has an excellent exchange rate with the U.S. dollar. As of spring 2025, one South African Rand equates to about 0.055 in U.S. Dollars. While most places you’ll visit on our tours of South Africa accept major credit cards, we do recommend taking out local currency when you arrive so you’ll have South African Rand on hand to tip your Tour Director, drivers, and local guides—as well as to pick up fun souvenirs to bring home! The best places to do this will be local ATMs attached to banks as these spots usually have the lowest fees.
Adding on an extension to Zimbabwe on a trip like our new South Africa for Solo Travelers: Cape Town to Kruger tour? While there is a Zimbabwean Dollar, we recommend that you use ZAR or USD, as these will also be accepted.

The run down on weather
Since South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, it has opposite seasons than those in North America. This means that during our typical winter months (December, January, and February), South Africa will be experiencing some sunny, warm weather. In the north, you’ll find temperatures are hotter and more humid, while the southern cities are cooler because of their proximity to the ocean.
Want to go solo on our new South Africa for Solo Travelers: Cape Town to Kruger tour? As the name suggests, you’ll be moving from Cape Town (our top pick of six top coastal cities to visit) up to Kruger National Park, so it’s wise to be prepared for varied climates.
South Africa tours for you to explore

What to pack for a trip to South Africa
If you’re traveling during the South African summer, we recommend packing light. Our South Africa: Cultural Cities & Wildlife Safaris tour may be 17 days, but laundry facilities are available at multiple points during the trip. And, trust us, you’ll be thankful for the extra room in your bag to bring home bottles of locally made wine.
Here are some more must-bring items for a trip to South Africa:
Sun protection
We’re talking SPF, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat—whatever will keep your skin shielded from strong rays.
Layers
Weather can change drastically between destinations (or even over the course of a day), so having pieces you can add and remove is key.
A jacket
You’ll be thankful to have it in the mornings and evenings—travelers are often surprised by how chilly they can get, even in the South African summer months.
A good pair of walking shoes
Whether you’re exploring city streets or heading out on safari, comfort is key.
Neutral-colored clothing
This is ideal for safari days as these tones help you blend in with nature and avoid attracting insects.
Travel-sized bug spray
Pesky bites can be a big travel bummer, so pack smart to stay safe from pests. (The CDC recommends using spray with DEET for maximum protection.)
Binoculars
You’ll want to see every unforgettable wildlife sighting up close.
A universal plug adapter
South Africa uses a unique plug type (Type M), so bring an adapter to keep devices charged.
(Psst… looking for more reasons to go? Here are 7 reasons you need to book a trip to Kruger National Park in South Africa.)

Unpacking the country’s rich history
To truly appreciate South Africa’s vibrant present, it helps to understand its complex past. The country’s history is layered with ancient indigenous cultures, colonial legacies, and the impactful struggle against apartheid. The powerful history is one of our top five reasons to visit Cape Town, so on our new South Africa for Solo Travelers: Cape Town to Kruger tour, we include a walking tour of the rainbow-hued Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Rich Cape Malay culture has thrived there for centuries. You’ll also visit the District Six Museum, where you can spend some time digging into the city’s civil rights history.
To help you gain powerful insight into the resilience and progress of the nation, you’ll also have a local Tour Director sharing their vast expertise. Still, brushing up on South African history before you go adds context, connection, and a deeper respect for the people and places you encounter, so we recommend doing some reading on your own before you take off.
Since moving abroad for college at the age of 18, Steph’s never doubted that travel is her passion in life. When she isn’t seeking opportunities to satisfy her wanderlust—and inspiring others to do the same—you’ll find her exploring Boston’s vegan food scene, shopping for eclectic pieces to add to her closet, or rewatching 90s romantic comedies.