Planning a family trip to South Africa? When travelling to a new country, especially with kids, there’s always a lot to think about. Whether it’s sorting out visas, knowing what to pack, or making sure you’ve got all the details covered, we’ve got your back.
To help you focus more on the excitement and less on the planning, our South Africa Travel Specialists have put together their personal tips to make your family adventure as smooth as possible. We’ve also answered some of the most common questions our travellers ask.
While we’ve tried to cover everything below, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions—we’re happy to help!
Before departure
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you arrive in South Africa. For more details on entry requirements, check out our Visa, Passport, and Money Advice page.
If you hold a British passport, there’s no need to worry about a visa for your family trip to South Africa—you can stay for up to 90 days without one.
We always recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling overseas. Make sure it covers everything your family might need while you’re away.
Seasons in South Africa are the opposite of ours—when it’s summer here, it’s winter there. If you’re travelling in our summer, pack some warm clothes as evenings can get chilly. If you’re visiting in our winter (South Africa’s summer), bring light clothing, but also pack some breathable long-sleeved tops and trousers for malaria-prone areas. A few practical essentials for your family trip include mosquito repellant and a lock for your suitcase or luggage.
Before heading overseas, especially with the family, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP to find out if any vaccinations or boosters are recommended. The Travel Health Pro website is a great resource, offering a complete guide on the vaccinations you might need to consider.
Departure
We know that heading off on a family holiday can be a bit stressful, especially on travel day! To help things run smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind before you set off:
- Double-check that everyone’s got their passports and any necessary documents!
- Snap a photo of your important paperwork and send it to your travel companions too.
- Don’t forget to pack all the chargers and adapters you’ll need for your devices. A portable battery pack in your hand luggage is a great idea for keeping them charged on the go.
- Make sure to pack plenty of snacks and grab a large water bottle for the flight.
- Aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departs to give yourselves plenty of time.
- Bring a change of clothes in your hand luggage, and take a photo of your checked baggage just in case it doesn’t make it to the other side.
And most importantly, relax! We’ve got your trip sorted!
Arrival
In South Africa, there are 12 official languages (including South African Sign Language), but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and by the business community. Here are some key phrases in a few of the most commonly spoken languages:
Zulu (widely spoken across South Africa):
- Hello: Sawubona
- Goodbye: Hamba kahle (to someone leaving) / Sala kahle (to someone staying)
- Yes: Yebo
- No: Cha
- Thank you: Ngiyabonga
- Please: Ngicela
Xhosa (common in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape):
- Hello: Molo (to one person) / Molweni (to more than one person)
- Goodbye: Hamba kakuhle (to someone leaving) / Sala kakuhle (to someone staying)
- Yes: Ewe
- No: Hayi
- Thank you: Ndiyabulela
- Please: Nceda
Afrikaans (spoken primarily in the Western Cape and by many South Africans across the country):
- Hello: Hallo
- Goodbye: Totsiens
- Yes: Ja
- No: Nee
- Thank you: Dankie
- Please: Asseblief
These phrases can help you navigate interactions and show respect for the local languages in South Africa.
South African food is a delicious mix of flavours, showcasing the country’s diverse cultural background. It blends local ingredients with cooking traditions brought in by settlers and immigrants from places like Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa. Wondering what to expect from South African cuisine? Here’s a little peek:
- Braai (Barbecue): A popular social event where a variety of meats like boerewors (traditional sausage) and sosaties (skewered meat) are grilled.
- Bobotie: A Cape Malay dish of spiced minced meat topped with an egg custard, often served with yellow rice.
- Bunny Chow: A street food from Durban, consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically chicken or lamb.
South Africa is becoming a great spot for vegetarian and vegan eats, especially in cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. While you might think of traditional South African dishes as being all about meat, there’s a rising trend for tasty plant-based options that everyone in the family can enjoy. Whether you’re dining out or grabbing a quick snack, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!
When visiting South Africa, keeping these practical tips in mind will help you navigate the country’s rich cultural landscape:
1. Greetings and interactions
- How to greet: A simple handshake works, but in Zulu culture, you might use a two-handed handshake or even a slight bow with elders.
- Use titles: It’s polite to call people “Mr.” or “Mrs.” followed by their last name, especially in more formal situations.
- Community spirit: Keep the idea of Ubuntu in mind, which is all about community and respect. It’s a big part of the culture here!
2. Cultural practices
- Respect ceremonies: If you’re invited to a wedding or any ceremony, be respectful and follow local customs.
- Appreciate traditional dress: You might see traditional clothing at special events—it’s a nice touch to acknowledge and appreciate it.
3. Language
- Learn a few words: While English is commonly spoken, picking up a few phrases in Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans can go a long way in connecting with locals.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll not only show respect but also make your family adventure in South Africa even more enjoyable!
Safety
Yes it is safe, with just a couple of things to bear in mind. In the cities, stick to the main areas and stay among the crowds. If you’re travelling with Rickshaw, we’ll make sure you steer clear of any sketchy spots. Also, it’s wise to be cautious with flashy jewellery, expensive watches, and camera gear while you’re out and about. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure!
You can easily reach us in the UK during office hours, but don’t worry—our local partners in South Africa are available 24/7 to help you out with anything you need. Since they’re in the same time zone, they’re your go-to people if anything comes up.
Tips and practical information
When you’re heading to South Africa, you’ll be using the South African Rand (ZAR). Since exchange rates can change, it’s wise to check the latest rates before you go. The UK pound isn’t accepted everywhere, so it’s best to swap your money once you arrive. You can easily exchange currency at banks, major exchange offices, or even at some hotels. Just keep an eye out for smaller currency exchange shops and double-check their rates and fees.
In South Africa, tipping is part of the culture whenever you receive a service, as with guides, drivers, or at restaurants. A good rule of thumb is to tip around 10% at restaurants, and for guides, consider giving between 150 and 250 ZAR per day.