If you’re a world traveler who’s never considered a trip to lovely South Africa, then you need to widen your horizons (drastically). The beautiful land at the southern tip of Africa is something that you need to experience if you truly want to call yourself an accomplished explorer. The country might have undergone its share of upheaval, but that’s largely behind it now, and it’s becoming a truly welcoming place that’s great for travelers of every budget. Of course, before you book a flight to Cape Town, here are a few things you should keep in mind when traveling to South Africa.
1. Don’t Hesitate to Explore the Entire Area During the Day
While the sun is shining, there are few areas in the country that are well and truly dangerous, jut use your best judgement and you should be fine (don’t go walking down any blind alleys). Once the sun sets, however, things tend to get a little more sticky, so it’s best to keep to the tourist-friendly sections once the sun sets, especially in the city.
2. Rent a Car
There’s no point in going to South Africa if you’re going to keep to the city, so make sure to secure some kind of transportation out of the city and into the gorgeous African countryside. You will not be disappointed.
3. Don’t Ignore the People
In a lot of countries (including America), travelers are encouraged to develop a protective thousand yard stare to avoid beggars and general poverty-stricken folks. In South Africa, that’s not necessary. There’s extreme poverty, admittedly, but if you’re polite and you keep moving, you’ll likely only receive open hospitality wherever you turn.
4. Don’t Walk Around With a Lot of Valuables Showing
This really can’t be stressed enough. Because of the number of people living well below the poverty line, South Africa does have its share of small-time crime. If you’re going to be traveling through a city, it’s best to keep your valuable stuff out of sight and secure on your person. Best not to make yourself a target.
5. Don’t Stay at a Big Chain Hotel
Do some research before you head out and try to book a room at a smaller B&B when you’re staying in South Africa. These establishments will not only have tons of great suggestions for how to fill your time, but they can help you navigate the streets surrounding their establishment. Some small hotels, for example, will loan you a cell phone for the day that comes pre-loaded with restaurant and taxi information.
6. Don’t Play it Safe at the Dinner Table
You only live once, right? If you think your stomach is up to it, don’t hesitate to sample a lot of the local South African cuisine. It’s some of the world’s most vibrant and unique food, and you (and your palate) will not be disappointed.
7. Lock Your Car Doors in a Big City
If you decide to rent a car (and it’s a good decision), be sure to take the proper safety precautions in a big city. Get insurance for the vehicle and always keep it locked and your valuables on your person (and not in the vehicle). There is poverty everywhere and the crime that comes along with it.
8. Don’t Use the Bank Machines in Big Cities
Go inside. Admittedly, the odds aren’t super high that the ATM has been tampered with, but it’s never a bad idea to play it safe, especially when you’re in a foreign country.
9. If You’re Driving Around the Countryside, Get Gas Whenever You Can
Gas stations can be few and far between in the country. They’re mostly located in larger settlements and cities. It’s also a good idea to keep a little gas cash on you at all times on the off chance the gas station you stop at doesn’t except credit (this is increasingly rare, but it happens). You don’t want to be sans cash when the next gas station might be more than 100 miles away.
10. About Toilets in the More Sparsely Populated Areas …
They’re rare. Like, not even gas stations will have toilets. Just, be prepared.
11. There are Toll Roads and Construction
So make sure that you take some change with you on any road trips, just to insure that you’re not hampered by unexpected tolls. More importantly, never hit the road in South Africa without a healthy dose of patience. You might experience some lengthy stops thanks to road work or tolls backing up, so just try to relax and enjoy your time.
12. Don’t Leave Town Without a Plug Adapter
They have different plug faces in South Africa, so if you’re going to bring some electronics (and of course you are), then you’ll need some plug adapters or else you’re going to run out of battery power, or get charged through the nose at a local shop.
13. There Is a Fully Functional (And Awesome) Set of Vineyards Just 45 Minutes Away From Cape Town
How can you go wrong with a little wine tasting on your vacation? There are some world class vineyards just a short trip away from Cape Town, so if you enjoy beautiful countryside and some amazing booze, then just consider it.
14. Don’t Miss Out On the Safaris
And don’t half-ass it, either. Get out into the wilderness for at least two nights to go on a proper safari. You’ll be dirty and a little uncomfortable, but it’s worth it to experience some of the most beautiful wildlife in the entire world. It’s absolutely worth it.
15. You Can Actually Catch Sight of Some Whales Off the Southern Coast
The whale watching season ends in November, but up to that point, there are some great places to catch a boat and go watch some whales. Some communities are more than happy to welcome tourists for the day.
