When is the best time for me to visit South Africa?

South Africa welcomes visitors all year round, for very different reasons. From November through mid-March, sunseekers hit South Africa’s beaches where temperatures average in the very high 20s C (mid-80s F) and the warm Indian Ocean washes the East Coast beaches.

Those who are after the best game viewing tend to favour the dry winter months (May through September) when sparse foliage allows a better view of the wildlife.

For giants of a different kind of wilderness, June to November sees the arrival and calving of pods of whales, while Namaqualand transforms itself into a floral carpet between mid-August and mid-October – then, just as suddenly, it reverts to desert.

What do I need to know about driving in South Africa?

South Africans drive on the left, and you will need an international driver’s permit to drive there.

What currency should I carry, and how much?

South Africa is the continent’s most sophisticated economy. Places to exchange money and cash traveller’s and other cheques are plentiful, and all major credit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels (with service stations excepted). The local currency is the South African Rand; it is not necessary to carry US Dollars with you.

Are there any restrictions on luggage I should know about?

The normal restriction on luggage is 20kg on scheduled flights. For charter flights, this may change; what is certain, however, is that your luggage must consist of soft bags for all charter planes.

Would you recommend hiring a car and driving myself?

Some parts of the country are, by wide agreement, best seen from your own rental car: Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, and the Garden Route, are extremely rewarding with your own wheels. The roads here are excellent and amply signposted, making spontaneous travel a pleasure. The rest of the country’s road network is excellent, but distances between places of interest of tourists may overwhelm. It is therefore often a better return on your time to fly domestically than to spend precious itinerary time on the freeway.

What about public transport?

Public transport in South Africa, it must be said, caters mainly to a section of the public who cannot afford private cars. Places of interest to overseas visitors are therefore badly connected to the public transport grid: links between airports and city centres are especially bad. If a self-drive option is not for you, use one of the many reputable taxi companies, preferably one arranged through your hotel.

Why is a person in a bib watching my car?

South Africa’s twin problems of unemployment and crime have prompted innovative solutions to vehicle theft: the carguard is a man or woman, usually wearing a luminous bib, who will watch your car in exchange for a small tip (at your discretion).

How much should I tip in restaurants?

10 percent is customary; 15 percent denotes excellent service.

How can I safeguard my valuables?

Most accommodation establishments offer safes in your room or at reception.

The Kruger has both ‘public’ and ‘private’ reserves. What are these? What’s the difference?

Private reserves are basically more controlled, more exclusive, pricier alternatives. The ratio of visitors to animals is better here, and you will have more one-on-one encounters, for longer, with the wildlife. Generally the accommodation options are more luxurious; rangers, in addition, are often allowed to venture off-road in pursuit of game.

The public reserves have far stricter rules about game viewing, and off-road driving is prohibited. There are more visitors, more basic facilities, and crowds can soon gather where there has been a wildlife sighting. Self-drivers on a budget are perfectly suited to this option.

Where can I find a malaria-free game-viewing experience?

All game reserves in Madikwe, the Pilanesberg and the Eastern Cape are totally free of malaria.

Will my children be welcome in the Kruger Park?

Absolutely. Children are made to feel very welcome at Kruger’s lodges. However, this is still the bush: children under 6 are not allowed on game drives, unless you’re conducting your own, in which case it is up to you.

Should I opt for a scheduled tour/transfer or a private one? What’s the difference?

A scheduled tour/transfer is one you share with other people, all of whom will meet at the pre-arranged time, much like a public bus. Private tours and transfers are oriented around your personal needs or those of your party: the driver and guide are at your service, and will tailor the details of the journey accordingly.

What do I need to know about electricity in South Africa and on Safari?

South Africa’s electricity supply operates at a voltage of 220 to 240V, and a frequency of 50 Hertz. Plugs have three round-prongs. Safari accommodation will be electrified, whether by mains, solar or generator power. You should expect to always be able to charge your camera.

How much should I tip, and to who?

Tipping is at your discretion. The following are guidelines only.

- Transfers – US$2 per person
- Restaurants – 10 percent for good service and up to 15 percent for exceptional service
- Game lodge staff – US$25 per stay
- Rangers/ trackers – US$10 per person per day