TRAVEL PLANNING FOR SA
Stress-free Travel
This document offers helpful information on travel in South Africa and advice on health planning and what to pack.
Health tips
You do not need any vaccinations when travelling to the Western Cape.
Remember to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water and applying a high-factor sunscreen whilst on safari.
Security
Your safety is of utmost importance to us. Whilst you travel with us you can rest assured that you are in good hands. Our camps and lodges are all secured with electric fences.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in SA though not mandatory. Please speak to the camp manager if you would like advice on tipping guidelines for the camp/lodge staff or for your safari guide (guides are usually tipped separately from the rest of the staff).
Wild Animals
Never approach or attempt to feed a wild animal, even if they appear harmless, especially monkeys or baboons. You may hear sounds outside your tent or room during the night - do not be alarmed! The lodges we are going to are all fenced and safe.
Money
The local currency is the South African Rand, US dollars are not accepted.
South Africa is moving away from cash, you will be able to pay with your phone or smartwatch and all places will accept card payments from major credit cards - Visa and Mastercard. We do suggest that you carry a combination of cash (preferably Rand) as a ‘just in case’. Small notes are helpful for paying bills or tipping porters etc.
International telephone + WiFi
The dialling code for South Africa is +27. SA has quite a widespread mobile network with an extensive range of 4G and 3G. Our properties all have WiFi in the main areas.
Cimate
Daily high temperatures decrease by 4°F, from 68°F to 65°F, rarely falling below 60°F or exceeding 76°F.
Daily low temperatures decrease by 3°F, from 54°F to 50°F, rarely falling below 43°F or exceeding 59°F.
We might get some rain in May.
The early Game Drives might be cooler and you will need a light puffer jacket and beanie.
Laundry
Most of the places offer laundry service, these will be at your own cost.
Luggage Restrictions
Although most international flights allow up to two 25 kg hard suitcases we ask that you pack no more than one 25kg suitcase and one hand luggage.
What to pack
The dress code on safari is relaxed, and the secret to successful safari packing is ‘less is more’.
We recommend wearing long trousers and a light long-sleeved sweater on the game drives as it can get chilly - wearing layers is best!
In the evenings, covering up to protect yourself from mosquitoes or bugs is wise. In the Autumn or Spring months, it can get cold when the sun sets, so a warm puffer jacket and beanie will help.
Below is an outline of what we suggest you bring.
Please note this is only a suggestion.
CLOTHING
2 x pairs of lightweight trousers (khaki or similar muted colours).
1 x pair of jeans or ‘smart casual’ evening attire trousers.
2 x pairs of shorts.
3 x t-shirts.
1 x long-sleeved t-shirt or turtleneck.
1 x or two short-sleeved shirts or blouses.
1 x light to medium weight cardigan, fleece or pullover for evenings/early mornings.
1 x windbreaker or light puffer jacket and beanie.
1 x pair of comfortable closed-in shoes (trainers or similar),
flip flops (optional).
Underwear and socks.
Sleepwear (lightweight).
Sunglasses and sunhat.
Swimwear - we might get a warm day.
** Please note that we provide the following in rooms:
Towels and dressing gowns.
TOILETRIES:
Sunblock, face cream, lip balm with a good SPF, mosquito repellant. Please note that we provide the following across our camps, lodges, and hotels but in small bottles, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, body wash, hand wash, cotton buds, cotton wool & laundry powder (Please bring your own toothbrush, toothpaste and ladies sanitary items).
ELECTRONICS:
In South Africa, we use Plug type C, which has two round pins, and plug type D, which has three round pins in a triangular pattern. South Africa operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Power bank and various charging cables that you require (you can also charge your electronics in your room - through USB and multi-socket charging ports), camera, spare batteries and extra memory cards, and binoculars (especially if you have a keen interest in birds).
Please note that we provide hairdryers in guest rooms.
