About South Africa
South Africa, officially the Republic of South Africa, is the southernmost country on the African continent.
Known for its immense diversity, both in terms of landscapes and cultures, it is often called the "rainbow nation". Its geography ranges from plateaus and savannas to deserts, mountains (like the Drakensberg), and extensive coastlines along the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
The country is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide array of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino), along with unique plant species in areas like the Cape Floral Region.
South Africa has a rich and complex history, marked by the apartheid system of racial segregation which officially ended in 1994 with the country's first multiracial democratic elections. Nelson Mandela, a key figure in the anti-apartheid movement, served as the country's first black president, ushering in a period of reconciliation and democracy.
With 12 official languages, South Africa's culture is a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions and influences from its colonial past, reflected in its music, art, and diverse cuisine. The nation also boasts one of Africa's most industrialized economies, driven by sectors such as mining (particularly gold, diamonds, and platinum group metals), manufacturing, and tourism.
What to Pack : City & Safari
Cape Town is laid back so no formal wear required. For the hotel during high tea and in the bar area no shorts or t shirts but apart from that resort wear is fine. It can colder at night so bring a wrap just in case.
As a general guide, comfortable, casual wash and wear clothes are recommended. Please note that muted colors are recommended for
game-viewing. Game-drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon, which can be fairly cold.
The most practical items to pack for safari are:
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Khaki, green, beige and neutral colors. (camouflage not recommended)
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Shirts with long sleeves (even in summer, as protection from the sun)
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T shirts
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Shorts or a light skirt
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Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
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A jacket/windbreaker or sweater are recommended for early morning and evening game drives·
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Lightweight water-proof jacket
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for relaxing around the pool at the game Lodge Swimwear is a great option
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Sun block, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, moisturizer and lip-salve are all essentials
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camera equipment
Luggage Allowance : Local Flights
As you will be traveling on aircraft within South Africa a different set of weight restrictions apply as follows:
Cape Town to Hoedspruit Flight (within South Africa): One piece checked baggage maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs) plus one small item of hand luggage, per person.
Health
Please consult your physician before you travel to South Africa for advice on precautions. Anyone who has any special medication should take enough supplies to last the visit. (travel with Doctor’s prescription)
Immunizations
No international immunization is required when entering South Africa. We do recommend that you are however unto date with all your shots.
The medical requirements may change based on government policy or real time outbreaks so best to research all travel needs prior to departure. Contact us to if you are unable to source this information.
Malaria Risk Areas
You WILL be traveling through risk area for Malaria (Limpopo Province) on your trip to South Africa. Please consult with your Doctor to discuss the best preventative prophylactics you may need.
Gratuity in South Africa
It is customary to tip 10% of the bill at all restaurants. Usually in South African rand or on your credit card.
Transfer driver (from Airport)
$10 per transfer
City Tour Guide and City Tour Driver
Tourist guides and coach drivers are tipped at the end of the week. On coach tours you will have a driver and a guide. Recommended tip is usually $10.00 per guest per day for each on our private tours
Hotels Porters
At hotels it is customary to tip the porter R3.00 per bag or a R5 coin will put a smile on the hotel porter’s face after carrying your bags to your room.
While on Safari
All tips are normally given at the end of your stay. Envelopes for tips can normally be found either in your suite's stationery set or in the camp lounge. You can also pay with your credit card. Tipping guidelines do differ between regions. Your lodge suite will have a copy of the current tipping guidelines.
We recommend tipping your game (field) ranger and tracker directly. For the general camp/lodge staff and massage therapists, gratuities in cash may be left in an envelope with the management or put in a staff tip box usually in the main area.
Rangers: $10-$20 per guest per day in a shared vehicle. $5-$10 per guest to your tracker/spotter during your safari.
General staff fund (for cleaners, cooks, waiters, etc): $5-$15 per guest per day in the communial box
Money in South Africa
South African currency is the South African Rand (R.) which is divided into 100 cents. At the time of print the exchange rate was USD$1=R17.85
Airport Exchange counters, local banks and hotels rates may differ
Banks and foreign exchange bureau are available at all international airports and in all main towns.
Most hotels and lodges accept Visa and MasterCard.
Exchange some cash into Rands on or prior to arrival to pay for small item purchases and tips etc.
ATM machines are available to withdraw cash by using a Visa debit or credit card. Fees may apply. Always exercise extreme caution tp protect your security and cash when using this option
Climate in October
Weather
October to early November will see us there during Springtime transitioning into summer. Over much of South Africa, we should enjoy sunny weather during the days with cooler temps in the early morning and overnight – with the occasional afternoon thunderstorms that often clear quickly up in in the safari bush areas. Cape Town, with its Mediterranean climate experiences mild weather. General tip is to dress in layers that you can adjust as the weather changes. Note we do provide a keepsake safari jacket as our gift on arrival, so do please leave room for that in your luggage.
Typical Temps in October:
Cape Town Temp Range Hi 73F Low 60F
On Safari Temp Range Hi 84F Low 66F