South Africa

Climate

South Africa enjoys a temperate climate, with warm sunny days for most of the year. The seasons of the southern hemisphere are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. Summer is from November to February, when most of the country is characterised by hot weather with afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild and dry. South Africa enjoys an average of 8.5 hours of sunshine a day.

For daily and long-term forecasts for South Africa, visit www.weathersa.co.za

Passports and Visas

All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa.

Travellers from certain regions of the world (Scandinavia, Japan, the USA, and most Western European and Commonwealth countries) do not need to formally apply for a visa. Upon arrival in South Africa, countries falling into this category will automatically be given a free entry permit sticker that outlines how long they may remain in the country. This automatic entry permit is usually for a maximum of 90 days, though the immigration officer may tailor the time period according to the airline tickets held. Foreign nationals from some other countries are offered this service, but for a maximum of 30 days. If visitors want to stay for a longer period, they will have to apply formally for a visa, as opposed to relying on the automatic entry permit.

To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa please visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website http://home-affairs.pwv.gov.za

Time Differences

South Africa operates two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time throughout the year, making it an hour ahead of Central European Winter Time.

Money

The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up R1 (one Rand). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are accepted.

Tax

Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 14% VAT refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced.

Electricity

South Africa's electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz

Exceptions: Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V)

Most plugs have three round pins but some plugs with two smaller pins are also found on appliances. Adaptors can be purchased but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer.

Malaria

Malaria is found only in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo and on the Maputaland coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Malaria is a relatively low risk in the winter months. Although the incidence of malaria is rare, it is advisable to take adequate precautions if you choose to visit these areas.

Please seek professional medical advice as to which course of anti-malarial medication, if any, should be taken before you travel. You will usually need to start the course a week or two before entering a malaria-endemic area and for four weeks after leaving the malaria risk area.
The cheapest, safest and often most effective measures against malaria are physical barriers such as a mosquito net, and the use of a good insect repellent.

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