Below is some useful information for planning you trip to South Africa. If you have a question which is not covered by the information below, please use the form provided and let us help you with your query.

South Africa is a country high in natural resources, such as gold, diamonds, chromium, coal, antimony, iron ore, nickel, tin, uranium, copper and vanadium salt. In addition to the mining resources, South Africa also has a large farming industry, serving both stock and crop farming.

There are eleven official languages in South Africa, including, English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda and Xhosa. The language of administration is English, and thus is very widely spoken.

Miscellaneous Information

Currency: The currency of South Africa is the South African Rand, which is divided into 100 cents.

Electrical current: In South Africa, the power systems are generally 220/230 volt AC, 50 cycles, except for the city of Pretoria, where the current in 250 Volt AC. If you are planning to bring in any electrical equipment, find out if your electrical equipment complies to these specifications.

Medical Facilities: The medical facilities in South Africa are excellent. All medical treatment must however be paid for, so you should purchase travel insurance to cover your stay. Tap water is safe to drink throughout South Africa. It is advisable to start on an anti malarial course before your trip to South Africa, consult your doctor for the most suitable drug to use.

Visa/Passport: For stays of less than 90 days, you do not need a visa for a vacation or business trip, if you are the holder of an American or European passport.

Time Difference: Standard time in South Africa is seven hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (Winter) and six hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (Summer). Europe experiences a one to two hour time difference, depending on the time of the year. There is no daylight adjustment for time in South Africa.

Drivers License: Any valid drivers license is accepted in South Africa, provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder and is printed in English. If your license does not comply, you should obtain an International Driving Permit before departure from your country.

Value Added Tax: In South Africa there is a 14% Value Added Tax included in the price of most goods and services. For items priced at more that ZAR 250-00 you can claim the vat back at the airport of departure. All that is required for this is the original tax invoice, the VAT refund control sheet, your passport, and the item in question.