Cape Town Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Cape Town and South Africa in general!

• Fuel Costs
  The price of petrol depends on the Rand-Dollar exchange rate and the oil price, but tends to range between 8 and 10 Rand per litre. Petrol stations are well equipped with both unleaded and lead-replacement petrol.
• Time Zone
  South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT, one hour ahead of Central European Wintertime and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Wintertime (USA).
• Identity Documents
  A valid passport is required. Visas are required for Kenya, Tanzania and some West African countries. Application forms, instructions and service charges are available upon request.
• Be Understood
  There are 11 official languages. The English speaking tourist will experience no difficulties. Most places cater for German, French and Japanese groups.
• Immunisation
  Malaria risks in the north-eastern parts of the Northern Province, eastern Mpumalanga and northern Kwazulu Natal is high ( F. Falciparum strain).
• Sort by rating
  You can sort any accommodation search by rating, which means that you can bring up the best-rated establishments first.
• Credit Cards
  Credit cards are not accepted for fuel purchases in South Africa.
• Sort by Price
  You can sort any accommodation search by price, which will show you establishments with the cheapest high-end rooms first.
• Need a car?
  Accommodation is one thing ... getting there is another. Why not rent a car? Click on 'Car Rentals' for more information!
• Get Healthy
  Travelling takes a lot out of your body. Vitamins and over-the-counter medications (travel sickness, headache, indigestion, diarrhoea) will ensure a smooth journey.
• Make sure you can see!
  They always get lost ... so take extra pairs of sunglasses, prescription glasses, contact lenses - make sure you can see the sights!
• Let others know
  As when travelling anywhere, leave emergency contact info and itinerary with relatives or friends.
• Flat Comeback
  If you're driving yourself to the airport and leaving your car, make sure you turn off your lights. This is obvious, but there's nothing worse than returning from a stunning South African holiday only to not be able to get home.
• Not so snap-happy
  Bring plenty of spare batteries for motor drives, flash units, etc. and for your camera. It is very handy if all your equipment uses the same size batteries.
• Be covered
  Before departing for South Africa, check your medical insurance policy for coverage of out-of-town needs. It always pays to be sure.