South Africa Visa Requirements
For 🇩🇪 Germany passport holders
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19. Malaria prophylaxis for Kruger/safari areas.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
Exercise increased caution in South Africa. Crime rates are high by international standards. Don't walk alone after dark, even in tourist areas. Don't display expensive items or carry large amounts of cash. Use ride-hailing apps or hotel taxis. Avoid isolated areas. Carjacking occurs - keep doors locked and windows up. Despite this, millions visit safely each year.
Money & Costs
Currency
R South African Rand (ZAR)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $120 · Luxury: $300+
Cards & ATMs
Cards widely accepted. Visa/Mastercard preferred.
Tipping
Tipping is expected and an important income supplement. Restaurants: 10-15% (often not included). Safari guides and trackers: R100-200 per day each. Car guards (informal parking attendants): R5-10. Petrol attendants: R5-10. Hotel porters: R20-50 per bag. Many workers rely on tips.
Practical Info
Power
Type M, N, 230V, 50Hz
Driving
Left side
Emergency
Emergency: 10111 (Police), 10177 (Ambulance)
From Mobile: 112
Mobile/SIM
Buy a SIM card from Vodacom, MTN, or Cell C at airport arrivals. Tourist packages cost R100-300 for 7-30 days with data. RICA registration with passport required but is quick at stores. Coverage in urban areas is excellent, variable in national parks (Vodacom usually best).
Getting There
Main Airports
Cape Town (CPT) · Durban (DUR) · Johannesburg (JNB)
Airport Transfers
Johannesburg OR Tambo: Gautrain to Sandton (R160, 15 minutes) - safe and efficient. Uber/Bolt to Sandton R200-300 (30-45 minutes). Cape Town: MyCiTi bus to city (R80, 30 minutes). Uber to city center R150-250 (20-30 minutes). Never use minibus taxis as a tourist.
Local Transport
Domestic flights with South African Airways, FlySafair, or Kulula connect major cities. The Gautrain is excellent in Johannesburg/Pretoria. Otherwise, public transport is limited - rental cars or Uber are essential. Long-distance buses (Greyhound, Intercape) connect cities. The famous Blue Train and Rovos Rail offer luxury rail experiences.
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
May-September dry season best for safari. September-November spring flowers. December-February summer (busy). Year-round for Cape Town.
Cultural Notes
South Africa is called the "Rainbow Nation" for good reason - 11 official languages reflect incredible diversity. Ubuntu philosophy ("I am because we are") emphasizes community. Braai (barbecue) is a national social institution. Rugby and cricket rival football in popularity. The history of apartheid and reconciliation shapes modern South Africa profoundly.
Insider Tips
Rent a car - it's the best way to explore South Africa and essential for the Garden Route. Drive on the left. Book safaris well in advance, especially for premium lodges. Don't flash valuables or walk alone at night in cities. Learn about apartheid history at museums - it's essential context. The weather varies significantly between Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Dress Code
Casual dress fine. Layers for variable weather. Neutral colors on safari.