Safari
“South Africa is a country of enough contrasts and diversity to satisfy any safari needs. A safari in South Africa is perfect when combining a visit to the many other must see attractions of the Rainbow Nation. The world-famous national parks and wildlife areas; the Kruger, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal amongst many others, are home to mind-blowing wildlife, including the ‘big five’. They boast superb game viewing opportunities alongside some of the most luxurious lodges in Africa.”
Winelands
“The Cape Winelands in South Africa is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore picturesque vineyards, savor award-winning wines, and indulge in delicious cuisine. With stunning landscapes and rich history, it’s a perfect escape for relaxation and culinary delights. Experience the beauty and flavor of this enchanting region.“
Luxury Train
““Experience luxury train travel in South Africa with Rovos Rail and the Blue Train. Indulge in opulence, comfort, and impeccable service. Traverse breathtaking landscapes while savoring exquisite cuisine and elegant accommodations. Unforgettable journeys await aboard these iconic trains.”
Additional Information
When it comes to visiting South Africa, there is no simple answer to “When is the best time to visit?” The best time to visit South Africa depends on your objectives, what are the important issues for you;
• Safari in the Kruger – May to September
• Safari in the Cape – All year round, but when added with a visit to the rest of the Cape, June to August can be wet
• The north of South Africa enjoys summer rainfall (Oct to March) & dry winters (May to September)
• The south of South Africa enjoys winter rainfall (June to August) and dry, warm summers (December to March)
• From a budget point of view, visit from May to September when you will find low season rates predominantly and specials
• Looking for wall to wall sunshine with temperatures more than 28 to 30 degrees centigrade – December to March
• Whale watching – season runs from late June through to late November
• Flower season – July to October but dependant on rainfall
• The time difference is one hour during UK summer time and two hours in UK winter
• South Africa is generally free of the common infectious diseases, but we recommend that you visit your local GP for advice when travelling to a malaria area (Mpumalanga in the north of the country, including the Kruger National Park and northern Kwazulu-Natal)
• The currency used in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) – 100 cents equals 1 rand
• South Africa drives on the left and most road signs are in English
• Roundabouts are referred to as circles and traffic lights are robots
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout South Africa
• Electricity – 220 Volt AC – plugs have three round prongs, ensure that you take an adapter for your mobile phone etc
• Medical – when it comes to International visitors, we recommend that you take out adequate Travel / Medical Insurance cover as most medical providers are privately operated
• South Africa has an advanced banking system and you will find ATMs throughout your visit
• Fuel can be paid using your cards, but in smaller towns card facilities may not be available so always have a cash back up
• GPS systems are available, but at Cape Tours we recommend that you do not waste your hard-earned money. Any decent Tour Operator worth its salt, will provide you with Door to Door directions and at Cape Tours we have never lost anyone!
• Valid passports with no less than six months validity and two blank pages
• Visas are not required for holders of UK passports. If travelling from anywhere other than the UK, please drop us an email
• Families travelling with children under the age of 18 or not with both parents are required to produce documentation on arrival. Please discuss with us.
• Adaptors for your electrical devises i.e. mobiles and cameras
• Valid drivers licence together with a valid DVLA Code (replaced the pink paper segment of UK licences)
• Credit / debit cards – please check with your provider to understand the cost implications of using your cards overseas
• Adequate travel and medical insurance cover
• Mobile phone – where possible we recommend that you bring an old Pay As You Go mobile. On arrival in South Africa, purchase a Pay As You Go SIM card with airtime for use whilst on holiday (you will need to produce your itinerary as proof that you are a visitor)
• Should you prefer to take your contracted mobile phone, please ensure that your data roaming is turned-off and discuss costs with your provider. This will avoid tears at the end of your holiday!
• Sun hat, sun screen and good sun glasses
• A light fleece will suffice for most seasons. Avoid bulky coats
• Good trainers for walking and visit to game reserves will suffice
• Bring sufficient prescription medication as this may not be available in South Africa