South Africa travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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South Africa travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Crime

Violent crime

Violent crimes occur frequently throughout the country and have involved foreigners. Incidents include:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• home invasions
• carjackings
• assaults, including sexual assaults
• murders

If you are assaulted:

• immediately comply
• avoid making sudden movements
• avoid resisting or antagonizing the assailants
• avoid eye contact with your assailant

Crime significantly increases after dark in major city centres and townships. Avoid city centres after dark.

During your stay:

• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• avoid townships and isolated areas
• don't resist an attack 

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently, particularly in crowded places such as public markets and popular tourist sites.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Do not show signs of affluence, wear expensive jewellery or visibly display electronics
• Avoid all unnecessary travel after dark
• Do not leave valuables or bags unattended
• Be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs or travelling to and from banks
• Be wary of tourist excursions and only sign up with a reputable tour company
• If you believe that you are being followed, go directly to a police station

Theft is common in restaurants and bars.

• Do not leave your bag under the table, or chair or hanging from the backrest
• Keep your bag securely on your lap

Crime in and around airports

Passengers have been followed upon arrival at airports and then robbed either on their way to or once they arrived at their final destination. There are also reports of theft from checked luggage.

When travelling to and from an airport:

• plan to leave or arrive during daylight to reach your destination before nightfall
• stay on highways and main roads; avoid shortcuts
• if you are using a GPS, ensure the route avoids townships and secondary roads
• plan your trip in advance and verify your travel itinerary with a trusted local source
• consider arranging an airport transfer

Some areas surrounding Cape Town International Airport are dangerous with an increased risk of attack on secondary roads near the airport.

When travelling to and from Cape Town International Airport:

• use the M3 and N2 highways rather than the R300
• stay on exit 16 on the N2 highway (Airport Approach Road) instead of taking Borcherds Quarry Road, which leads to the Nyanga township

Crime on the road

Carjackings and armed robberies are common, especially after dark. Criminals often smash car windows at the following vulnerable points to steal valuables:

• traffic lights
• stop signs
• yield signs
• highway off-ramps

Many schemes are used to stop cars, including scattering nails on the road, throwing stones at car windows, or feigning injury.

If you choose to drive in South Africa:

• park in well-lit areas
• choose a vehicle with a robust central locking system, lockable fuel tank cap and vehicle alarm
• avoid driving after dark
• keep windows closed and doors locked at all times
• avoid stopping in isolated areas or to fix a flat tire
• do not stop on the road to offer help to others
• be wary of strangers offering to help you
• verify your travel itinerary with a trusted local source, such as your hotel, your travel agent or local police, before driving

Roadblocks and police officer impersonation

Police roadblocks are common throughout the country. Officers always wear uniforms, and their vehicles are clearly marked with police insignia.

• Be prepared to show your identification
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Remain calm and courteous

Criminals may pose as police officers and set up illegal roadblocks to extort or rob drivers. Acts of violence have been reported.

Signs of potentially illegal roadblocks include:

• unmarked vehicles
• covered or missing license plates
• roadblocks being set up in unusual locations and at odd hours

If you suspect a roadblock may not be legitimate:

• do not stop your vehicle
• call 10111 and inform the operator of your concerns
• if possible, provide the operator with the registration number of the alleged police vehicle
• turn on your hazard lights and continue to the nearest police station or secure location

Hotel theft

Theft from hotel rooms and guest houses is common.

• Keep doors and windows locked at all times
• Check the level of security at guest houses, hotels, lodges, backpacker lodges or any accommodation before booking
• Don’t leave luggage and valuables unattended; place them in safekeeping facilities
• Don’t open the door to anyone without taking necessary precautions. If someone claims to be a member of staff, verify with the reception prior to opening the door

Kidnapping

Kidnappings for ransom occur frequently and foreign nationals have been kidnapped in the past. In some cases, victims were lured through online dating apps. Criminals have especially targeted 2SLGBTQI+ persons.

Scammers could kidnap you to extort money from your loved ones in exchange for your release.

•  Be wary of online romance, as well as commercial and employment proposals
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location 
• Know the risk of inviting new acquaintances to your accommodation
• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings occur regularly. Victims are kidnapped from the street or a taxi and forced to withdraw cash from an ATM. In some cases, they are held overnight to enable a second withdrawal the next day.

These kidnappings are sometimes committed by taxi or ride-share apps drivers.

Advice for using taxi services or ridesharing applications

Women safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Violent crimes targeting women, including rape and murder, occur across the country, particularly in urban centres.

• Choose accommodation that provides good security measures
• Be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you, including online
• Do not accept transportation offers from new acquaintances or strangers 

Advice for women travellers

Fraud

Credit card, debit card and ATM fraud.

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs.

When using your debit or credit card:

• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• Don’t accept any offer of help with your transaction
• Pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• Avoid using card readers that have an irregular or unusual feature
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybersecurity

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion may occur in South Africa.

Cybercriminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information.

Romance scams through dating sites and social media have occurred, along with commercial or professional scams.

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media 
• Use your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks 
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online
• Do not give personal or financial account information to anyone
• If you think you've been scammed, do not travel overseas to get your money back

Useful links

• Overseas fraud
• Cybersecurity while travelling

Demonstrations

Demonstrations can occur anywhere across the country and sometimes on short notice.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Spiked food and drink

There have been incidents of food or drink being drugged and tourists robbed when unconscious.

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. 

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Individuals who may be inspired by terrorist groups may carry out “lone actor” attacks targeting public places, including where foreigners gather.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• cultural venues

South African authorities have successfully disrupted planned attacks and made arrests related to terrorism offences. Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Regional unrest

Xenophobic attacks, primarily targeting refugees and immigrants from other African nations, can be accompanied by demonstrations, looting and outbreaks of violence. Such unrest could occur in any region of the country and with little warning.

Townships and rural areas

Avoid townships and informal settlements if you are unfamiliar with them, except when travelling with organized tours provided by a reputable company or in association with an experienced local organization.

Wildlife observation

Wild animals can be dangerous, particularly if you are on foot or at close range. Monkeys, especially baboons, may aggressively confront sightseers in search of food, sometimes overwhelming them.

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

National parks and nature reserves

Many national parks and nature reserves are in remote areas with limited emergency services. Wild animals often venture within boundaries of camps.

If you decide to visit parks and reserves:

• Follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides and camp employees
• Do not walk around at night
• Never leave children unattended

Reserves and hiking trails

There have been attacks on hikers and tourists at reserves and hiking trails, including Table Mountain, Lions’ Head, Signal Hill, and other tourist attractions and their parking lots.

• Hike in groups and take all appropriate precautions
• Avoid isolated picnic areas and beaches
• Don’t stop at deserted roadside resting places on national roads

Attacks also occurred on certain routes leading Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant Park.

• Avoid the Numbi Gate entrance to the Kruger National Park
• When travelling from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to Addo Elephant National Park, use the N2 via Colchester instead of the R335 via Motherwell

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Not all beaches are supervised. Shark attacks are common on South African shores. Around Cape Town, there is a flag system alerting on the presence of shark activity. Follow the advice and warnings of local authorities.

If you plan to participate in boating activities, such as snorkelling or diving:

• use a reputable company
• ensure that life jackets are available for all passengers
• do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety
• consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards, the presence of dangerous species and safe swimming areas
• don’t board boats that appear unseaworthy

Liens utiles

• Water safety abroad
• Shark Flag System – Shark Spotters

Outages

Nationwide power shortages or rolling blackouts, referred to as load shedding, can occur at any time. An official schedule of the planned blackouts provides advance notice of the shortages. However, they can also occur with very little notice.

Blackouts can be prolonged as criminals may steal components of the electrical infrastructure.

Blackouts can affect the following services and businesses:

• telecommunications and security systems
• food supply
• businesses
• hotels and other accommodations
• banks and ATMs
• gas stations
• public lighting and traffic lights

Interruptions to water supply occur occasionally and can be lengthy in some areas.

If you’re in South Africa:

• be prepared for extended power outages
• make sure you always have a complete emergency kit on hand, including several flashlights
• always carry a cell phone, power banks, chargers and a list of emergency numbers handy

Useful links

• List of planned blackouts – Eskom, South African electricity public utility
• Get Prepared – basic emergency kit

Telecommunications

Cellular phone reception is generally good in major towns and cities but can be intermittent in rural areas. Extended periods of rolling blackouts are impacting internet connectivity and cell phone networks.

Always carry a cellular phone in the event of an emergency. If using your own phone, ensure that it has international/roaming capability for use while in South Africa.

Roads

Road safety

Fatal road accidents are common in South Africa and often involve pedestrians. Accidents occur especially in wet conditions, as roads can be very slippery. GPS navigation systems may suggest the most direct route but not the safest.

Road conditions

Roads are generally in good condition in and around major cities. They can be poorly maintained and dangerous in remote areas due to:

• potholes
• malfunctioning or insufficient lighting
• pedestrians crossing major highways
• stray animals on the road
• slippery roads during heavy rains

Driving habits

Drivers do not always respect traffic laws, especially at night. Drivers often drive at excess speed and ignore traffic signs. Drinking and driving is common.

Drivers are often aggressive toward pedestrians and fail to yield the right of way even on marked crosswalks.

Travel on foot is inadvisable in most areas. If walking is unavoidable, use only brightly lit, busy streets in popular tourist areas and maintain awareness of your surroundings.

If you choose to drive in South Africa:

• be aware that traffic drives on the left
• always drive defensively
• treat all intersections with malfunctioning traffic lights as a four-way stop
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting a rural area
• avoid travelling after dark
• use a reliable rental company offering 24-hour emergency service and ensure that you have the contact details for the service

Public transportation

Bus

Avoid using public minibuses. Tourists have been mugged and assaulted both onboard and in bus stations.

Train

The following train services are safe and reliable:

• Gautrain
• Blue train
• Rovos Rail
• Shosholoza Meyl

All other rail services should be avoided due to attacks, theft, poor maintenance and accidents. Johannesburg’s train station and its surrounding area are dangerous due to high crime rates.

Taxis and ridesharing applications

Taxis availability may be limited outside major cities.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street 
• Use only licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant
• Sit in the rear of the vehicle and keep windows closed and doors locked at all times
• Keep valuables out of sight and place bags by your feet
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver does not pick up other passengers on the way to your destination 
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance and have small bills available for payment

Due to ongoing violence between taxi associations and ridesharing drivers, passengers using ridesharing services have been mugged and assaulted in and around taxi stands.

• Avoid rideshare pickups or drop-offs near taxi stands
• Use a trusted ridesharing app
• Confirm the driver’s identity and licence plate before getting in the car
• Do not share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from South African authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond the date you expect to leave South Africa. Your passport must contain at least 2 empty visa pages for the necessary South African entry stamp and/or visa. Without it, you will be denied entry into the country.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Volunteer visa: required
Student visa: required
Employment visa: required

Canadians do not need a tourist visa to enter South Africa. Immigration officials will stamp your passport upon arrival and grant you a specific number of days to stay in South Africa, to a maximum of 90 days. Make sure the duration indicated on your entry stamp matches your travel plans, as permission for a full 90-day stay is not automatically granted.

Information on South African visas – South African Department of Home Affairs

Changing or extending your visa

If you need to change your visa or extend your stay while in South Africa, you must schedule an appointment through VFS Global, the official service provider authorized by the South African Department of Home Affairs.

Overstaying without proper authorization may result in a ban from re-entering South Africa for up to 5 years.

If you leave and re-enter South Africa, even for a short time, you will not automatically be given permission to stay for an additional 90 days. Immigration officials can deny you re-entry into South Africa or grant you a stay of less than 90 days.

Visa platform – VFS Global

Work, volunteer or study

If you intend to work, volunteer or study in South Africa, you must apply for the relevant visas prior to your arrival; otherwise, you risk being refused entry and may be returned to your point of origin.

Other entry requirements

You must be in possession of a return or an onward ticket. Without one, you may be required to deposit the equivalent of a fare home with customs. The money will be refunded after departure from South Africa.

Residence permit

If you reside in South Africa, you must have valid residence permit in your passport each time you enter or exit the country.

Entry and exit requirements for dual citizens

Dual citizens must enter or depart South Africa using their South African passport only.

This requirement applies to individuals who lost their South African citizenship between October 1995 and May 2025 by acquiring another nationality, as the Constitutional Court has ruled that they are now deemed to have retained their South African citizenship.

For further information on dual citizenship, contact the High Commission for the Republic of South Africa in Ottawa or the Consulate General in Toronto.

Children and travel

Unaccompanied minors under the age of 18 traveling to and from South Africa are subject to additional requirements.

All minors holding South African citizenship, including dual citizens, are also subject to additional requirements. Visit the South African Department of Home Affairs website or contact the nearest South African mission, before travelling, to verify the latest requirements.

Useful links

• Entry regulations when travelling with children - South African Department of Home Affairs
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies significantly throughout the country. Good medical care is generally available only in major cities, where private hospitals and clinics are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities.

Private hospitals provide expensive medical care, require proof of insurance, and often request immediate payment.

Emergency services can be slow outside of major cities, and air evacuation may be the only option in the event of a medical emergency in remote areas. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication 

Some prescription medications may not be available in South Africa.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country. 

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for using, importing or exporting drugs are severe and may include lengthy imprisonment.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in South Africa.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of South Africa, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and South Africa.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in South Africa, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the South African court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in South Africa to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

While you may drive in South Africa with your valid Canadian driver’s license, it is strongly recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Canada before your departure, since it cannot be obtained once in South Africa.

Without an IDP, it can be extremely difficult to obtain car insurance for rentals or vehicle purchases. Insurance companies and rental car agencies often require an IDP or South African driver’s license to honour insurance claims, even if such proof was not requested when purchasing the insurance policy.

If your license is in French, it is advisable to obtain a translation into English and carry it with you.

Foreigners driving a rental car across any border into neighboring countries must obtain a permit from the Cross-border Road Transport Agency before reaching the border crossing. Applications can be submitted through most car rental agencies, online or in person at Cross-border Road Transport Agency in Pretoria. Failure to do so may lead to arrest and/or a fine.

Useful links

• Obtain a permit - Cross-border Road Transport Agency
• International Driving Permit

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry certified photocopies of your official identification
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and your entry stamp, visa or travel permit in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized

Money

The currency is the South African rand (ZAR).

Canadian currency can be easily exchanged at major banks and foreign exchange counters. A passport and additional identification are required when undertaking foreign exchange transactions.

Foreigners may enter South Africa carrying up to ZAR 25 000, or USD 10,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies without declaring it.

Customs requirements for travellers – South African Revenue Service

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting South Africa. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information. 

Rainstorms

The climate varies from region to region with storms and flooding possible at different times throughout the year.

In Gauteng and Northwest Provinces, flash storms occur from November to April.

KwaZulu-Natal typically experiences heavy rainfall from October to April. However, flash floods are becoming increasingly frequent outside these periods.

Western Cape typically receives heavy rainfall between May and September.

During periods of heavy rain, dirt roads can become hazardous, especially in rural or mountainous areas. Crossing low-lying river bridges, whether by car or on foot, should be avoided, as there have been fatalities linked to people being swept away by fast-moving waters.

Wildfires

Veld (bush) fires are common during dry seasons. They are very unpredictable and extremely dangerous. They can spread very quickly and travel at speeds of 60 km/h or more due to high winds. Stay clear of active fires and always verify local conditions with relevant authorities before going on bush walks, particularly during the dry seasons.

Drought

The entire territory can be affected by drought, which has become increasingly severe and prolonged in recent years. During periods of prolonged drought, local authorities may impose water use restrictions. You could be fined if you do not comply with these restrictions.

Useful links:

• Weather forecast and alerts – South African Weather Service
• Information on water restrictions – City of Cape Town
• Water restrictions explained – City of Cape Town