English is the main language used across lodges, hotels, and by guides. Many guides also speak other local languages, and in some areas, French-speaking guides can be arranged on request. If this is important to you, I’ll make sure to plan it into your trip.

For French citizens, no visa is required for a tourist stay of less than 90 days. You just need a passport valid for at least 30 days after your departure date with enough blank pages.

South Africa is sometimes perceived as very dangerous, but this image is often exaggerated.

“Everything is dangerous everywhere” : Most tourist areas, lodges, and national parks are safe when following local guidelines and the advice of guides.

“You are always at risk of theft or assault” : Like in many countries, it is important to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and follow local advice, but most travelers experience no problems.

“Traveling by car is dangerous” : Some urban or remote roads require caution, but main tourist routes are generally in good condition

Absolutely. With family-friendly accommodations, experienced guides, and by following practical advice, you can travel with peace of mind. Always follow safety guidelines at lodges, parks, and safari reserves. The lodges and activities offered take into account children’s safety and comfort, allowing families to fully enjoy their trip.

The main emergency numbers in South Africa are:

Police / Fire / Ambulance: 10111
Private medical emergencies (Netcare 911): 082 911
Poison Control Centers: 0861 555 777

For visitors, private hospitals are recommended for better service, English-speaking staff, and shorter wait times. Major private hospital groups include Netcare, Life Healthcare, and Mediclinic. Always carry your travel insurance and passport.

No vaccinations are required to enter South Africa. Vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine immunizations are recommended, and yellow fever is only required if arriving from a country where it is present.

For most of South Africa, malaria risk is low or non-existent, so anti-malaria tablets are usually not recommended. Using mosquito repellent and wearing long clothing is sufficient in these areas.
Some northern parts of Kruger National Park may have malaria risk zones. If your travel includes these areas, My African Routes will inform you so you can take the necessary precautions.

The driver must be 23 years of age or older. They must hold a valid, original driver’s license accompanied by a valid passport.

In South Africa, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right side of the car, and overtaking is done on the right.

South Africa is in the South Africa Standard Time Zone (UTC+2)

Yes, South Africa has toll roads, mainly on highways between major cities and tourist areas. For international travelers, credit cards from abroad are not accepted, so payment must be made in cash (South African Rand) or with the e-tag provided in your hire car. It is highly recommended to always keep some cash on you in case there is a problem with the e-tag.

Yes, South Africa has toll roads, mainly on highways between major cities and tourist areas. For international travelers, credit cards from abroad are not accepted, so payment must be made in cash (South African Rand) or with the e-tag provided in your hire car. It is highly recommended to always keep some cash on you in case there is a problem with the e-tag.

In major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, paid parking and metered streets are common, especially in busy areas. Many hotels, lodges, and shopping centers provide secure parking for guests. When driving in towns or tourist areas, you may also encounter car guards who help you find a parking spot or watch your car. While tipping them is not mandatory, it is customary to give a small amount (around R5–R10) if they assist you.

Always pay attention to parking signs and regulations to avoid fines. Parking in rural and safari areas is generally straightforward, especially at lodges and reserves.

Direct flights from Paris take about 11 hours to Johannesburg and 11.5–12 hours to Cape Town. Flight times may vary slightly depending on the airline and route

Absolutely. Johannesburg is filled with cultural and historical sites that bring South Africa’s story to life. From the Apartheid Museum to Constitution Hill and Soweto, the city offers a deep dive into the country’s history. Two nights is usually enough to explore these highlights — a meaningful stop before or after safari.

Safaris in South Africa are possible all year round — it really depends on your schedule and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

The dry winter months (May to September) are considered the best for wildlife viewing. Vegetation is sparse, animals gather at waterholes, and spotting game is easier. Expect sunny, mild days and chilly nights.

The summer months (October to April) transform the bush into lush green landscapes. This is the season of newborn animals, migratory birds, and dramatic thunderstorms — perfect for photography, though it can be hotter and wetter.

Absolutely! Many lodges offer child-friendly safaris, with experienced guides who make wildlife and nature fascinating for all ages. Some lodges may have age restrictions, but I work closely with my clients to select safari lodges that suit their family configuration and preferences, ensuring a memorable adventure for everyone.

My goal is to craft experiences—immersing you in South Africa’s wildlife, people, diverse cultures, and landscapes. With this objective in mind and thanks to my large portfolio of partner lodges, I am able to design trips to match a wide range of budgets. Each itinerary is tailored to your interests and preferences, ensuring a unique and memorable journey that fits both your style and your budget.

Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
Current exchange rate: 1 € ≈ 20.56 ZAR (as of September 9, 2025) – Xe
Real-time converter: Xe.com

Practical recommendations:

Cash withdrawals: It is recommended to withdraw cash upon arrival.

ATMs from the following banks are reliable:

Nedbank
Standard Bank
Capitec
FNB (First National Bank)
Barclays

Suggested amount: plan for between R4,000 and R6,000. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always useful to have some cash on hand for tips and small souvenir or tourist purchases

Yes, you can enjoy a beach holiday in South Africa, with options to suit every type of traveler. In KwaZulu-Natal(Durban and the South Coast), the warm Indian Ocean (23–28°C in summer) is perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and boat trips. The Eastern Cape (Jeffreys Bay, Port Elizabeth, Wild Coast) offers slightly cooler waters (18–22°C), ideal for surfing, kayaking, or relaxing on quieter beaches. In the Western Cape (Cape Town and the Garden Route), the Atlantic is cooler (14–20°C), but beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton are beautiful for sunbathing, water sports, and coastal hikes.

Yes, you can combine a safari with a beach stay in South Africa. Safaris are available in well-known reserves such as Kruger National Park or private game reserves, and afterwards you can travel to coastal regions like KwaZulu-Natal or the Eastern Cape, both of which offer good beaches and warm water.

This makes it straightforward to plan an itinerary that includes both wildlife viewing and time by the sea within the same trip.

South Africa applies strict food hygiene standards, generally ensuring a safe environment for consuming food.

Recommended establishments by My African Routes : no specific recommendations are necessary, as all suggested lodges and restaurants meet the standards.

Street food : take basic precautions before consuming products sold on the street.

Prefer bottled water, unless the lodge indicates that tap water is safe to drink or provides filtered water.

South African cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country’s multicultural history. Dutch settlers introduced meat dishes, pies, and preserved foods like boerewors and bobotie. The British brought roasts, puddings, teas, and pastries. Cape Malay and Indian influences added spices, curries, and sweet-savory flavors, especially in KwaZulu-Natal. Portuguese influence from Mozambique and Angola introduced peri-peri sauces and flame-grilled chicken. Today, urban restaurants also serve fusion dishes inspired by Italian, French, and Asian cuisines.

• Koeksister : sweet, braided pastry soaked in syrup.
• Biltong / Droewors : dried meat, a traditional snack.
• Bobotie : spiced minced meat bake, a local specialty.
• Boerewors : South African sausage made with beef and lamb.
• Malva pudding : sweet, spongy dessert.

• Safari guides : Essential for your safety and wildlife discoveries, they spot animals and share their expertise. Recommended tip: 500 ZAR per day on site.
• Car guards : In shopping centers or city areas, some help you find parking and carry your groceries. Some are employed in uniform, others are independent and rely on tips. Recommended tip: 5–10 ZAR.
• Petrol station attendants : They fill your tank, clean your windshield, and check water, oil, and tires. Recommended tip: 5–10 ZAR.
• Restaurant servers : Often rely on tips to supplement their income. Standard tip: 10 % of the bill.
• Lodge staf f: Porters, servers, and bartenders can receive tips. Recommended amount: around 300 ZAR per day, to be placed in a communal pot and shared among staff.

Why staying connected matters :

Lodges are often remote, so it’s useful to be able to notify them in case of delays or difficulties reaching the property.

During long drives through sometimes isolated areas, having access to your phone can be very helpful.

Two main options to stay connected:

Option 1. International plan through your French operator.
Check if an international option is available and cost-effective.
Recommendations :
‣ Subscribe to the international plan if available
‣ Adjust your settings to prevent overage charges

Option 2. Purchase a local SIM bundle upon arrival
Available from Vodacom at the airport (Johannesburg or Cape Town).
Quick and easy: you leave with a local number and data.
For more information on available bundles and prices: Vodacom Travel SIM

Summer (October to April) : Temperatures range from about 15 °C at night to 28 °C during the day, reaching up to 35 °C in the north. Expect warm weather with occasional rain showers, especially inland.

Winter (May to September) : Temperatures range from around 8 °C at night to 20 °C during the day. Days are sunny and dry, while nights can be cool, particularly away from the coast.

Overall, South Africa enjoys a sunny climate year-round, with regional variations.

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