Book cheap flights to South Africa

South Africa experiences various climates throughout the country. The best time to visit really depends on where you’re going and what you’re planning on doing. The majority of the country experiences four distinct seasons of summer (November-February), autumn (March-May), winter (June-August) and spring (September-October). Cape Town and the scenic landscapes of the Garden Route experience hot summers and chilly winters with rainfall (and more recently, snow) occurring between June and August. Peak season is over December/ January when throngs of local and foreign visitors flock to the beaches and outdoor festivals. Skip the crowds and enjoy discounted accommodation in spring and autumn. The east coast of KwaZulu-Natal experiences subtropical summers and mildly warm winters, with snowfall in the Drakensberg Mountains – perfect for a skiing trip! Johannesburg and Pretoria in the highveld region experience balmy summers, intercepted by dramatic thundershowers; while winter days are dry and chilly. If you’re here to explore the wildlife, autumn and winter are the ideal times to visit the Kruger National Park, among others, but be sure to pack warmly for those nippy evenings! Be aware that school holidays take place in June/July and December/January. For general low-season travel, go between April-June and August-October. The Western Cape (Cape Town and the Winelands) is best visited in summer (December to February) for beach weather, or in spring (September to November) for wildflower season and fewer crowds. Note that Cape Town’s wind — the famous Cape Doctor — blows strongest in November to February. For international visitors flying from South Africa’s major hubs, book domestic connections as early as possible for the December peak season, when flights and accommodation fill rapidly.

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 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

Despite its infamous reputation as having one of the world’s highest crime rates, South Africa is a beautiful country, not only by its landscapes but also by its people.

As in any country, certain cities and areas are best avoided by tourists and South Africa is no different. If you’re looking to veer off the beaten track and explore the downtown areas of Johannesburg and Cape Town, extra vigilance and caution is advised. If you are part of a tour, pay attention to your tour guide and do not venture off into unsavoury areas. Never leave personal items unattended and ensure handbags are zipped closed and securely strapped to you. Do not flash expensive jewellery and equipment – the more you blend in, the less chance you’ll be pick-pocketed. It is not advisable to walk around at night, especially female travellers – rather take an Uber or reliable taxi cab to get around. When hiking, it is best to go in a group and take plenty of water and a warm jacket.

There are no required vaccinations to enter South Africa, unless travelling from a yellow fever region, in which case a certificate is required. Be aware that South Africa has a high rate of HIV/ AIDS. Tap water is safe to drink and there is a wide range of pharmacies and clinics with excellent medical care.

Malaria is present in low-lying areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga (including the Kruger National Park area), and northern KwaZulu-Natal. Consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylactics before travelling to these regions, and take precautions against mosquito bites — particularly during the summer rainy season (November to April). The main cities (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban) are malaria-free.

South Africa has a well-developed private healthcare system in major cities. Medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended for safari travel in remote areas. The emergency number for ambulance services is 10177 (government) or 082 911 (Netcare private ambulance).

It is always recommended to take out comprehensive travel insurance in the event of unforeseen theft or medical expenses.

South Africa offers accommodation to suit every budget and travel style, from five-star luxury safari lodges and boutique wine estate hotels to vibrant backpacker hostels and self-catering beach cottages. Major hotel chains including Marriott, Hilton, Radisson, and Sun International operate across all major cities, while a thriving guesthouse and B&B culture provides warm, personal alternatives throughout the country.

For safari accommodation, private game lodges in and around Kruger typically offer all-inclusive packages covering accommodation, meals, game drives, and bush walks. These range from affordable tented camps to ultra-luxury lodges costing thousands of rands per night. Book well in advance for peak season (June to September for wildlife, December to January for the coast).

In Cape Town, accommodation is concentrated in the City Bowl, Atlantic Seaboard (Sea Point, Camps Bay, Clifton), and the Winelands. Johannesburg’s upmarket suburbs of Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose Arch offer the safest and most convenient base for business and leisure travellers alike.

Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, cosy bed and breakfasts, beachfront resorts, or budget-friendly hostels, you can find and book a huge variety of accommodation across South Africa at Travelstart Accommodation.

South Africa is best explored by car — the road network is excellent by African standards and self-driving between cities and attractions is both safe and practical. You can compare and book affordable rental cars across South Africa with Travelstart Car Hire. Car hire is available at all major airports and cities from companies including Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Woodford and more. Drive on the left-hand side of the road.