LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

Language: There are 11 official languages in South Africa: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Sotho (Sotho is divided into Southern & Northern Sotho, when it comes to schools), Swazi, Tsongo, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu and Pedi. Visitors speaking English will have no problem while travelling through the country. A few words and phrases have been put together below - these have been translated into three of the country’s official languages – they should be helpful in most regions:

 

ENGLISH	AFRIKAANS	ZULU	XHOSA
Good morning	Goeie môre	Sawubona	Molo
Good afternoon	Goeie middag	Sawubona	Molo
Good evening	Goeie naand	Sawubona	Molo
Goodbye	Totsiens	Hamba kahle	Hamba kakuhle
Thank you	Dankie	Ngiyabonga	Enkosi
Yes	Ja	Yebo	Ewe
How much?	Hoeveel?	Malini?	Yimalini?
My name is…	My naam is…	Igama lam ngu…	Igama lam ngu…
What is your name?	Wat is jou naam?	Igama lakho ngubani?	Ungubani Igama lakho?
Where is the nearest    telephone?	Waar is die naaste telefoon?	Iphi itelefoni eseduzane?	Iphi imfonomfono ekufutshane?
Show me the way to...	Waar is…	Ngikhombise umgwaqo oya…	Ungandikhombisa indlela ekufutshane...

Culture: The people of South Africa are made up of many diverse cultures and hence it is known as the Rainbow Nation. It has been a difficult task to unite the people under laws that represent the traditions and beliefs of all groups. The struggle to live together peacefully still continues, but South Africans are generally optimistic about living in harmony with each other, as well as the land that is so undeniably beautiful.

Many cultures are represented within South Africa. 75% of the population is made up of black cultures such as the Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, Venda, Sotho and Tswana. Large groups of South Africans are of mixed-race and there are also many of Asian descent. White people make up a sizable minority and are of mostly British or Afrikaans (Cape Dutch) origin.

MONEY

Currency: The unit of currency is the rand (R), which is divided into 100 cents. Notes are in R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10. Coins are in denominations of R5, R2, R1 and 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, and 2c.

Exchange Rate: The exchange rate tends to be in the international tourist’s favour and you should find most goods very affordable, and some imported and specially manufactured items might be cheaper here than elsewhere. Generally, you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world.

Banks: Banks in South Africa are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. Most banks change all travellers’ cheques in major currencies, but commission can differ greatly. Rennies Travel is an agent for Thomas Cook. American Express has branches in some cities, and Nedbank is associated with American Express. First National Bank is the Visa agent. Most ATM machines will support your card if it bears the Cirrus logo.

Credit Cards: Visa, American Express, Diners Club and MasterCard are honoured by most restaurants, stores, hotels, car rental firms and other points of sale and service. Proof of identity may be requested in some instances and it is therefore useful to carry a passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations.

Tipping: It is customary to tip caddies, taxi drivers, hotel & railway porters, room maids, stewards, waiters/waitresses, tour guides & game rangers 10-15%. As wages are poor, tips are often heavily relied upon by staff.   

Tax: Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14% is levied in South Africa. Overseas visitors taking goods out of South Africa are able to reclaim the VAT, which they paid on these goods. Reclaiming VAT is only applicable for goods that you are able to produce at the airport and not for any services whatsoever and is only reclaimable for goods purchased over the value of R250.00. When purchasing your products you should request a tax invoice. The shop’s VAT number must appear on this invoice. As you are checking in at the airport ready to depart from South Africa, you should approach the customs official who will compare your invoices with the goods purchased. Once your invoices have been approved and stamped, the VAT Reclaim Office will refund you the appropriate amount. VAT Reclaim Offices are found at Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town Airports. 

ELECTRICITY

Electricity is generally 220/230 volts, 15 amps, and is supplied through either 15-amp three-prong or 5-amp two-prong plugs, in both cases with round pins. If you're bringing anything electrical, bring an adapter – or you could buy one here. Generally, the 110V video chargers work safely on the 220V supply. Television is on the PAL system.  

SOUVENIRS

A range of traditional South African souvenirs are widely available, from handicrafts to animal skins. Zulu beadwork is available in many forms and makes excellent gifts. Beads were worn as symbols of status and also used as a means of communication, often as love letters. The colours and arrangements of the beads spell the message (red = passion/anger; black = difficulties/night; blue = yearning; deep blue = elopement, white/pale blue = pure love; brown = disgust/despondency; green = peace/bliss). Elaborately beaded items including garments, pouches, belts and pipes are widely available.  Township art is increasingly available on the roadside in cities and towns and often takes the form of functional items (baskets, candlesticks, hooks, magazine racks, etc.) made from wire and waste metal. Soapstone and wooden carved animals and weavings are also available on the roadside of tourist routes. These are usually mass-produced, so check the quality very carefully. South Africa is a country rich in gold and diamonds and as can be expected, there is an excellent selection of jewellery and the opportunity to watch goldsmiths in action.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

Entry Requirements: Please check with your nearest South African Consulate for up to date information pertaining to visas for South Africa. All visitors are required to carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. There should be sufficient blank pages for entry stamps upon arrival. Note that if you will be travelling to neighbouring countries and back, you should apply for a multiple entry visa.

HEALTH

Requirements: Travelling to South Africa generally poses no medical threat, except for malaria that could be contracted in certain areas such as Mpumalanga, Limpopo and northern KwaZulu-Natal. For travellers entering South Africa within six days of leaving an infected area, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. Apart from this, there are no compulsory inoculations. The only other medical threat is the hot, strong African sun. One must be careful not to underestimate the effects of the sun; it is quite common for visitors to lose a day of holiday to sunstroke, by overindulging in the sun. Plenty of sun cream, a good sun hat and gradual adjustment are recommended.

Medical Services: It is advisable to secure medical cover on your medical insurance before arriving in the country. Medical services in South Africa are good in urban areas and in the vicinity of game parks and beaches, but are limited elsewhere. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payment, but usually accept major credit cards. Note that major hotels have contracts with physicians and dentists. Visitors are however advised to bring along supplies of specialised medication they may require. Otherwise, medicine may be purchased at pharmacies and emergency pharmacies are open all night.

Water: The tap water in South Africa is safe to drink. If you prefer, bottled water is available.

SPECTACLES, CONTACT LENSES

Bring spare spectacles, and/or a copy of your prescription. If you wear contact lenses, consider using disposables for a short holiday, especially if you're planning to river raft, dive or such. Also bring spectacles, as the dry dusty environment of some game farms may irritate your eyes.  

GETTING AROUND

Roads: Driving in South Africa is quite easy, as sign posting is in English and driving is on the left-hand side of well-maintained roads. Your home driving licence is accepted if it has your photo; if not, an International Driving Permit should be obtained. You must be in possession of a valid driver’s license for at least five year in order to hire a car in South Africa. The age limit for car rental is a minimum of 23, and maximum of 70 years.  There are a number of toll roads in South Africa that are clearly indicated well before reaching the toll stations where payment may be made at an attended booth.  Cash and credit cards are accepted for toll fee payments. When changing lanes be aware of cars on the inside, as overtaking on the inside is not illegal in South Africa - in fact it is quite common. In general, speed limits are 120 km/h (freeways) and 60 km/h (towns and cities). Be aware of cameras and speed traps especially before and after small towns/townships.  The big "L" on the rear window of a vehicle indicates people who have their learner driver's license, but have not yet passed their driving test. Please be careful and considerate.
With regards to Traffic Circles, please keep in mind that approaching a traffic circle in South Africa does not give you right of way, traffic already in the circle has right of way.

South Africa has a lot of four-way stops instead of traffic lights. A four-way stop means who ever approaches the stop first has right of way. The roads in South Africa become very slippery when it rains due to long periods of no rain in summer. Drive slowly and keep a fairly big distance from the car in front of you.

In South Africa parking is in the direction that we drive. Always make sure that your vehicle is locked properly and no goods are lying around inside as this leads to theft. Car radios are one of the favourite items to be stolen so assure that it is always taken out and locked away.

Fuel in South Africa: There are two types of fuel in South Africa, Unleaded and Lead Replacement Fuel.  Most hire vehicles take Unleaded fuel.  Please confirm with your car hire company upon collection of vehicle. Purchasing fuel in South Africa may only be purchased with cash. Fuel may not be purchased on credit card or by cheque. Fuel is always set at a fixed Government controlled price. The service at a petrol station is not self service. A petrol attendant will assist you. Tipping is at your own discretion Remember to always ask the attendant to check the oil, water and tyre pressure for a safe and trouble free journey.

Rail & Bus: South Africa has an extensive rail network, connecting most of the major towns. Booking must be made at least 24 hours in advance. The Shosholoza Meyl is one of the more economical rail options, while a number of upmarket lines and special steam operators such as Rovos Rail and The Blue Train offer a luxurious means of crossing the country. There are a number of long distance coach services, such as Greyhound, TransLux and Intercape, connecting most of South Africa. Minibus taxis offer a cheap, though not always safe means of transport.

Border Posts: All border posts open daily. Opening hours are as follows (please re-confirm before travelling):
South Africa / Namibia Vioolsdrif: 24 hours
South Africa / Botswana Tlokweng: 07:00 – 22:00
South Africa / Zimbabwe Beitbridge: 06:00 – 20:00
South Africa / Swaziland Oshoek: 07:00 – 22:00
South Africa / Moçambique Komatiepoort:  07:00 – 22:00

Airports: Domestic air services operate between the major airports:
Cape Town International (CPT)
OR Tambo International (JNB)
Durban (DUR)
Port Elizabeth (PLZ)
East London (ELS)
George (GRJ)
Airports Company Helpdesk:  Tel: +27 (0)11 921 6262 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)All flight arrival and departure information can be checked by calling the following number:  086 7277888

TRAVEL TIPS

General Safety: If you're on a guided tour, your chances of encountering problems are minimal - tour operators make it their business to know the areas they travel to so you are never at any undue risk. Township tours are becoming increasingly popular, but should be done in guided groups only. Get a local perspective - ask someone where you're staying to give you a run-down on any unsafe areas, and codes of dress and behaviour.   As with anywhere in the world, when you're in a city err on the side of caution. Don't openly carry valuables. If you must carry your passport and money, keep them in a buttoned-down pocket or well concealed on your person.  Driving in South Africa can be a pretty adventurous undertaking in rural areas, as roads are often poorly maintained in these areas and it's not unusual to come across large domestic animals such as sheep and cattle. The best advice: stay alert, use your seatbelts and avoid travelling at night. Avoid deserted areas, particularly at night.  Highways (the N1 and N2) are generally in very good condition and vary between single, double and triple lanes. If you're thinking of hitchhiking, you'll need to understand the high risks involved. It is often exciting, always potentially dangerous - particularly in around urban centres or after dark - and isn't advised if safety is a priority.  The best advice for security when you travel: simply stay aware of what's going on around you. If you do this, you have a good chance of enjoying a problem-free holiday.

WEATHER

Seasons and Climate:

Summer: December – March

Autumn: April – May

Winter: June – August

Spring: September – November

Although the climate varies from region to region, it is generally mild and sunny throughout the year. On the whole it is a dry country with a mean annual rainfall of 502 mm. Snowfall is limited to the highest mountain peaks. Summer temperatures average between 15-30ºC (60-96ºF) at midday.

Cape Town Weather: Due to its coastal position, Cape Town enjoys a temperate Mediterranean type climate for most of the year. Summers can be very hot, although often moderated with a cool sea breeze and mid-winter can be very cold with snow falling in the surrounding mountains. However, whichever time of year you choose to visit Cape Town, expect a surprise or two - Cape Town is known to have four seasons all in one day. Cape Town enjoys a long summer from mid October to March. Temperatures vary from mid 20's to mid 30's with little rain over the period. The south-easterly wind blows fairly often, more so in November and December than in February and March. Days are long and perfect for evening entertainment, sundowners and long days on the beach. 

PHONING

We have a well-developed communications infrastructure, with extensive landline phone networks and three mobile phone service providers with far-reaching coverage.  You can rent mobile phones – known here as cellphones – from the airport on arrival. You should find an Internet café in even the smallest towns, and the postal service works, offering the usual letter and parcel services as well as securemail, freight and courier services.  Landline services are operated by public utility Telkom, and a second national operator is expected to open up shop this year. Public telephones are either coin- or card-operated. Phone cards can be purchased at certain stores, post offices and airports.

Phoning around South Africa

If you’re in South Africa and phoning a landline in another city or town, the number must be preceded by the area code (including the first zero) for that city or town. If you’re in the area yourself, you need to dial the area code as well whether you are dialing from a landline or a mobile phone. If, on the other hand, you’re phoning to a mobile number – regardless of where you are in South Africa – you never use an area code, only the appropriate mobile network code.

Area codes of some of South Africa’s major cities are:

Bloemfontein – 051

Cape Town – 021

Durban – 031

East London – 043

Johannesburg – 011

Pretoria – 012

Port Elizabeth – 041

The three main mobile networks’ codes are 082 (Vodacom), 083 (MTN) and 084 (Cell C).

08 numbers

Many businesses and organisations have special landline numbers beginning with an 08 code – 0800, 0860, 0861, and so on. (But not 082, 083 or 084, which belong to the mobile networks.) These are, in effect, national numbers – area codes are dispensed with, and callers dial the same number regardless of where they are. Note that these lines can only be accessed from within South Africa. 080 numbers (usually 0800) – no charge to the caller. 0860 numbers – the caller does not pay for any long-distance portion of the call. 0861 numbers – the caller is charged a flat rate for the call.

Phone Directories

Consult Telkom’s print directories for the numbers of landline subscribers – The Phone Book for residential subscribers nationwide, and The Yellow Pages for businesses, services and products nationwide. Alternatively, dial in to Telkom’s telephonic directories (useful especially for unlisted or changed numbers):

South Africa (The Phone Book) – 1023

Electronic Yellow Pages – 10118

International – 0903  

Phoning out of South Africa

To make an international call from South Africa, dial 00 followed by the country code of the country you wish to call, followed by the relevant area code (if there is one), followed by the relevant phone number. Telkom’s Phone Book lists all country codes in its International Dialling Code List.  International calls are cheaper after 8pm and before 8am from Monday to Friday, and between 8pm on Friday and 8am on Monday.  For an even cheaper option, try the Home Direct service. This allows you to call an operator in your home country free of charge, either to place a call on your “phone home” account, if you have one, or to arrange a reverse-charge call. Telkom’s Phone Book lists all Home Direct numbers in its International Dialling Code List.  

WHAT TO PACK

Casual, comfortable wash and wear clothing is most useful.  Most hotels offer a quick laundry turnaround, usually within a couple of hours.
- Shorts & Cotton T-shirts
- Swimming costume
- Good comfortable walking shoes
- Light weight jacket or fleece for evenings 
- Wide brimmed hat
- Personal toiletries, sun barrier creams and lip cream
- Camera and accessories – film, memory sticks and camera batteries are easily available in any city
- Sunglasses

- Personal medication that might not be easily obtainable at local pharmacy

If you've forgotten anything – don't panic. This is not the back of beyond, and you can buy whatever you need – probably at a good price!