HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

There's so much to see, and so many uniquely South African experiences to explore.

Information on our top tourism attractions and activities is available at our Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in all our airports, and on www.southafrica.net  

Our tourism offerings are best explored with the aid of certified tourist guides. We have more than 10 000 certified tourist guides across the country that can easily be identified with their unique badge and identification cards.

Whether you are traveling in a group or alone, we want to ensure you have an unforgettable stay as you explore our beautiful country responsibly.

#RESPONSIBLETRAVELLER TIPS

LOCATION:   

• Update the GPS App on your mobile device to accurately navigate through our country. 
  
   
  
  CLIMATE: South Africa's climate can get extremely hot and dry.

• Wear sunscreen, and hat
• Wear the appropriate clothing and foot wear for outdoor activities.
• Carry enough water to stay hydrated 
• Avoid drinking water from rivers and streams
  
   
  
  BE WATER WISE:

• Read and follow the signs to ensure an enjoyable experience at the Beach.
• Only swim in designated areas
• Take care when swimming as rip currents can pull you out to sea
• Lifeguards are on call to ensure your safety
  
   
  
  PERSONAL SAFETY:  We care about your safety

• Ensure your personal possessions are with you at all times
• Keep passports and important documents in a safe at your hotel, and carry a copy whilst out and about.
• Do not share your banking details or pin code with anyone.
• Alert  your hotel  before going for a walk alone, or an excursion

USEFUL CONTACTS: Should you require support or find yourself in distress, contact the authorities for assistance:

EXPLORING MZANSI BY ROAD:

• Road signs: South Africa follows left-hand traffic. Be extra vigilant for stop signs, which can be placed in unexpected locations.
• Road conditions: Potholes can be hazardous. Reduce speed and navigate with caution.
• Pedestrians: Be aware of pedestrians who may wander onto the road.
• Livestock: Remain mindful of livestock that could wander onto the road in rural areas.
• Traffic lights: Traffic lights are nicknamed 'robots' in South Africa. If a traffic light malfunctions, treat the intersection as a four-way stop which works on a first in, first out basis.
• Seat belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all occupants.
• Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless hands-free.
• Wildlife: If driving through a safari park, strictly follow the park's rules and regulations. Stay inside your vehicle at all times and admire the animals from a safe distance.
• Speed limits: Always adhere to the posted speed limits to ensure your safety and avoid fines.
• Navigation: Downloading offline maps on your phone or using a GPS device is a wise precaution. The South African Tourism Board (www.southafrica.net/index.html) website offers excellent trip-planning tools and downloadable maps.

• Avoid driving at night in areas that are not well lit.
• Keep your car doors and boot (trunk) locked and the windows up when stopping at traffic lights.
• Keep bags out of view to prevent 'smash and grab' opportunists.
• Park in well-lit areas
• Confirm that all doors are securely locked when you leave your vehicle as remote jamming is a world-wide phenomenon.
• Stay alert and awake. Rest at a well-lit roadside petrol station or coffee shop
• Breakdowns: stay calm, pull over to a safe location away from traffic, turn on your hazard lights and call for roadside assistance.
• Accident: immediately call emergency services by dialling 10177 for an ambulance or 10111 for the police.

EMERGENCIES AND ROADBLOCKS:

• Important documents: Drivers must have a valid licence from their country of residence. If not in English, an International Driver's Licence is required.
• Do not stop in deserted areas to talk on your cell phone or even relieve yourself.
• If stopped by the Police or Metro police at a roadblock with other vehicles, pull over safely and activate your hazards. Remain co-operative. If an unmarked vehicle pulls you over and you feel unsafe, proceed cautiously with your hazards to the nearest well-lit police station, shopping complex or busy area. If anyone tries to force you out of the road, do not panic but just constantly hoot to draw attention.
• Our Police are there to keep you safe. Legitimate safety officers will always be in uniform, wear a name badge, and will drive marked cars.
• Traffic Fines: Never pay a traffic fine directly in cash. The Police of Metro police officer will issue you a fine if you have done something wrong, which must be paid at a police station or Magistrate's Court. If an officer asks you for a bribe, note the officer's name, badge number (if visible), location, time of the stop, and vehicle registration number politely, call the emergency contact information below and speak slowly and clearly. Explain you are reporting a bribery attempt and give your exact location with any nearby landmarks. You can also file a formal complaint later at a police station.
• Emergency supplies: Pack a well-stocked emergency kit with water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a car charger for your phone.​