South Africa

Travel to South Africa?

South Africa receives a high number of tourists from all across the globe as well as from within the country

Currency: South African rand * Capital: Pretoria * Population: 59,750,000 * Calling code: +27

Buying a SIM card in South Africa

Local SIM Cards: Currently, there are five major mobile phone providers in South Africa: MTN, Rain, Vodacom, Cell C and Telkom, all of which offer prepaid plans with various data packages. These sim cards can be purchased at the airport, as well as at various electronics stores and mobile phone shops throughout the country.

Prepaid SIM cards in South Africa are available in provider outlets, airports and almost all retail chain stores usually at R5 or less. Since 2009 all SIM cards need to be registered before activation by a RICA agent with registration usually done at the point of purchase. RICA stands for the SIM registration scheme and requires an ID card or passport and proof of residence.

On average, a prepaid sim card with a small amount of data will cost around ZAR 50 ($3.50) in South Africa.

When purchasing a SIM card, it is recommended to avoid buying an expensive one at the airport or in the last minute, as prices tend to be higher and you may be limited in your options. Travel to south africa?

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Here’s a curated list of apps every traveler to South Africa should download to make their visit enjoyable, safe, and efficient:

1. Navigation & Transportation

Google Maps – A must for navigating cities, towns, and national parks. Be sure to download offline maps for areas with limited coverage.
Waze – Particularly helpful for real-time traffic updates in cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Bolt – A popular ride-hailing app (similar to Uber), often cheaper and widely available in urban areas.
Uber – Available in most major cities, perfect for safe and convenient transport.
Gautrain App – For navigating the Gautrain, a fast rail system connecting Johannesburg, Pretoria, and OR Tambo International Airport.

2. Safety & Emergency

Namola – A personal safety app that connects you to emergency services (police, ambulance, or fire) with the touch of a button.
MySOS South Africa – Provides emergency numbers and location-based services for medical, police, or roadside assistance.

3. Currency & Budget Management

XE Currency Converter – For up-to-date exchange rates and easy currency conversions for the South African Rand (ZAR).
Wise – If you need seamless and cost-effective money transfers or foreign currency accounts during your trip.

4. Accommodation & Dining

Booking.com and Airbnb – Great for finding accommodations ranging from luxurious lodges to affordable hostels.
TheFork – A restaurant reservation app to book top dining spots, including fine dining and local favorites.
Zomato – Helpful for finding restaurants, cafés, and reviews.

5. Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife

SANParks – The official app for South African National Parks, providing information on parks, facilities, activities, and wildlife sightings.
Kruger Explorer – A detailed guide to Kruger National Park, including maps, animal sightings, and driving routes.
BirdPro – Ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts, with detailed information on South Africa’s diverse bird species.

6. Communication & Connectivity

WhatsApp – Widely used across South Africa for communication, including with local guides and accommodations.
Alertify – To compare the best eSIM or local SIM card options for staying connected affordably.

7. Activities & Entertainment

GetYourGuide or Viator – For booking tours, safaris, and other activities across South Africa.
Checkers Sixty60 – For grocery delivery if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation.
Cape Town Travel Guide – Dedicated apps or guides for specific destinations like Cape Town or the Garden Route can provide insider tips.

8. Language & Culture

Google Translate – Useful for translating between English, Afrikaans, or local languages such as Zulu and Xhosa.
Culture Trip – For recommendations on attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences tailored to South Africa.

9. Health & COVID-19

COVID Alert SA – South Africa’s official COVID-19 contact tracing app.
Health24 – For locating nearby clinics, pharmacies, or hospitals.

10. Banking & Payments

SnapScan – Widely accepted in shops and markets for quick cashless payments via QR code.
Zapper – Another contactless payment app used across South Africa.

By equipping yourself with these apps, you’ll be prepared to explore South Africa’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural gems with confidence and convenience!

South Africa Tourism

South Africa is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa include Cape Town, the Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route. In terms of hotel options, there is a wide variety of options available to visitors, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. On average, a hotel room in South Africa will cost between ZAR 700-1500 ($50-100) per night.

There are numerous airlines that serve South Africa, including both domestic and international carriers. Some of the major airlines that operate in the country include South African Airways, Mango, and British Airways. Visitors can easily fly into Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport, which are the two largest airports in the country.