Book cheap flights to Richards Bay

Richards Bay experiences a sub-tropical climate with hot summers and cool, warm winters. The optimal time to visit is during summer (January-April) and autumn (August-November) when school holidays are over and crowds have dispersed. Summer time brings hot, balmy days and beach bums can take advantage of the warm sapphire waters lapping against pearly-white beaches. Bring an umbrella and rain jacket as this period does experience heavy shower spurts and the occasional thunderstorm. Avoid the family crowds between June and July, and enjoy the peaceful autumn scenery from August. Autumn sees less rainfall and cooler temperatures, making it favourable for outdoor activities and game viewing.

Tourist visas are valid for a stay of up to 90 days. Check the consular website to see if your country is exempt from obtaining a visa.

You will need the following if you wish to visit South Africa:

• A valid and acceptable passport or travel document

• At least TWO blank pages in your passport for endorsements

• A valid visa (if required)

• Sufficient funds to pay for your day-to-day expenses during your stay

• A return or onward ticket

• Yellow Fever certificates if your journey starts or entails passing through the Yellow Fever belt of Africa or South America.

The Department of Home Affairs can be contacted at the following number: 0800 601190

Richards Bay is a safe town with many amazing attractions and visitors will feel very welcome and at ease. Even though this is considered to be a fairly safe town it is advised to remain vigilant at all times and exercise basic safety precautions. Locals advise on being extra careful with credit cards as card fraud has been known to occur. Walking around the city at night is not advisable, especially for solo female travellers. Use a clearly marked taxi cab or Uber to get around in the evenings.

Richards Bay caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a budget self-catering spot or are happy to splash out on waterfront luxury, there are plenty of options available. The suburb of Meer En See caters to mid-range options in the form of guesthouses, self-catering B&Bs and lodges, where you can expect to pay between R600-R900 per night. Alternatively, there is a caravan park close to Alkantstrand Beach. Those happy to stay a little away from the beach, in the city centre, can find cosy guesthouses and inns that will set you back around R350-R700 a night.

Along the water front you’ll find more upscale properties and hotels, ranging between R900-R1200 per night. Take a break from the coast and spend a few nights at one of the many surrounding game lodges, where you’ll be treated to superb African dining and game drives.

Whichever you prefer, the cosy town of Richards Bay has it all!

The most popular way of getting around is by car, which can be rented at the airport or in the city centre. International visitors opting to rent and drive themselves around will need an international driving license. If you do not have one, ensure you have your foreign driving license with a certified English translation (if required). Alternatively, you can make use of Uber or other registered taxi services to get around.

Minibus taxis are commonly spotted by their loud music, colourful façade and locals hanging out of the windows scouting for passengers. While these may seem fun to try, the drivers are often reckless and taxis overcrowded. It is perfectly safe to walk along the beaches and water front areas by day; by night rather take a taxi cab and avoid dark, deserted areas.