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8 Days / 7 Nights
Captivating Cape Town, South Africa
“All-Inclusive” Travel Rate
October 30, 2019 – November 5, 2019
This trip will SELL OUT!!! =Only 5 spaces left=
(–Just like our Dubai trip did last October)
“Come with us to beautiful Cape Town, South Africa
on this exciting trip of discovery and adventure.
We’ve built-in airfare, transfers, tours, all hotel accommodations,
5 breakfasts, and of course, time for golf, spa and shopping!
A $200 deposit reserves your seat and secures your rate.
Yes, many non-golfers have booked and, are always welcomed.”
DEPOSIT DUE IMMEDIATELY.
*Extremely limited space
—Debert Cook, Publisher
African American Golfer’s Digest
Playing golf in South Africa. Virtually every town in South Africa has its own golf course. Alltogether there are more than 500 courses in the country and – due to the strong demand – the number keeps on growing. Many of these courses are of superior quality, excellently equipped and situated in beautiful scenery.
OVERVIEW
This package is perfect for those wanting to really explore the beautiful city of Cape Town, get in a few rounds of golf, enjoy the food, wine and culture of one of the world’s most scenic destinations, nestled at the foot of Table Mountain.
US Citizens DO NOT need a VISA.
DEPARTURE FLIGHT SCHEDULE
(South African Airways)
SA #204 30OCT (Wednesday) JFK-to-JNB departs 11:15 AM, arrives 8:05 AM+1 (Thursday)
[14h 50m] connects to
SA #323 31OCT (Thursday) JNB-to-CPT departs 10:15 AM, arrives 12:20 PM [2h 10m]
RETURN FLIGHT OPTIONS:
Option 1: To be rebooked on flight SA209 from Johannesburg (JNB) to Washington Dulles (IAD) on the same day. On November 5, the flight will now depart Johannesburg at 6:05 PM and arrive in Washington Dulles at 6:00 AM on November 6.
SA 336 05NOV CPTJNB 210P 405P
SA 209 05NOV JNB IAD 605P 600A+1
Option 2: To stay in Cape Town for the night of November 5th (this will add an additional night to the itinerary). Departure will then be November 6 SA 203 from Johannesburg (JNB) to New York (JFK). DSAV will absorb $50 of the additional night’s hotel charge of $95 for those of you who wish to stay this extra night in Cape Town.
SA 362 06NOV CPTJNB 615P 810P
SA 203 06NOV JNBJFK 940P 640A+1
Options 3: Travelers can remove a day from their itinerary and return on November 4th. SA 203 from Johannesburg (JNB) to New York (JFK).
SA 362 04NOV CPTJNB 615P 810P
SA 203 04NOV JNBJFK 940P 640A+1
Cape Town, South Africa is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time.
Most of the United States begins Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. on the second Sunday in March and reverts to standard time on the first Sunday in November.
ITINERARY
DAY1 – Wed. Oct. 30
TRAVELING
Depart from New York (JFK) or Washington Dulles (IAD) for your South African Airways flight to South Africa.
On arrival at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (Gauteng), you will connect onwards for your 2-hour flight on South African Airways to Cape Town.
DAY2 – Thur. Oct. 31
On arrival in Cape Town, you will be met by your driver for the short transfer to your SunSquare Cape Town hotel, located at 10 Mill Street, Gardens, Cape Town, where you will settle in and relax after your flight. The remainder of the day/evening enjoy the city on your own, exploring great things to do before and after dark!
CAPE TOWN VIEW ACCOMMODATION
The beautiful SunSquare Cape Town hotel in Cape Town offers scenic, lush views over Gardens to make you feel right at home, even when you’re miles away. View More Hotel Info.
Capetown Sun Square Hotel
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$200 DEPOSIT is non-refundable.
Balance is due NOW!
TO BOOK CALL
212-571-6559
South African Airways,
Africa’s Most Awarded Airline
DAY3 – Fri. Nov. 1
After breakfast, at 8:45AM you will be met at your hotel by your local English speaking driver-guide for your full-day tour of the Cape Peninsula. Highlights include; Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Boulders Penguin Colony. (Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens optional)
Duration: 9hours
Departure Times: 8:45 AM
Return to hotel: 5:00 PM
Overnight at Capetown Sun Square hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day on your own for dinner, sightseeing or relaxing.
DAY4 – Sat. Nov. 2
Depart the hotel at 9:00 AM for a half-day (4-hour) tour of the Cape Winelands. This tour returns to the hotel at 1:00 PM. Or, choose the afternoon tour that departs the hotel at 1PM and returns to the hotel at 5PM. Enjoy a wine tasting, cellar tour and cheese tasting at Anura Wine Estate. You then continue to Stellenbosch for a historical drive through the city with a walking opportunity.
Overnight at Capetown Sun Square hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day on your own for dinner, sightseeing or relaxing.
Enjoy Your Late Evenings at Leisure!
Discover stimulating Cape Town Night Life where clubs and venues are plentiful and renowned for upmarket cocktail and champagne bars, with decadent decor, and twinkling ceiling lights in elegant colonial surroundings. You can mix-n-mingle, dance to the hottest local DJ’s, relax with a cigar, glass of wine, listen to live jazz, blues, or just hang out until the wee hours of the night.
Overnight at Capetown Sun Square hotel
DAY5 – Sun. Nov. 3
Today you will have a full day hop-on-hop-off RED LINE bus pass for the city allowing you to explore at your own pace. Don’t miss the chance, weather permitting, to take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding peninsula. The Hop-On Hop-Off RED LINE ticket is usable ONLY on DAY5 SUNDAY, NOV. 3. See details of the tour and sites to be visited HERE. Remember, you can hop-off at any stop and enjoy Cape Town at your leisure. Note: There is a Hop On-Hop Off stop nearby the Robben Island tour exit, so if you take this tour, you can conveniently Hop On the bus to continue on to Table Mountain!
TOUR DESCRIPTION: Hop on the open-top red bus tours and enjoy the sights of Cape Town – from Table Mountain to the V&A Waterfront, from Camps Bay to Kirstenbosch.
Starts: At any of the 30 Hop On – Hop Off Stops
Duration: Valid: ONLY for the day when first presented
Know before you go:
Hop On Hop Off at any of the stops along the circular route and simply show the same ticket to board the next bus.
Entrance fees at tour stops are not included
Overnight at Capetown Sun Square hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day on your own for dinner, sightseeing or relaxing.
DAY6 – Mon. Nov. 4
CAPE TOWN
Full-Day at leisure to explore Cape Town at your own pace. –A perfect day to schedule a full-day tour of Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the morning to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 27-years. Afterward, you can enjoy your afternoon at leisure shopping, eating, at spa or golf! Or, take a full-day/half-day Wildlife Safari Tour, or hot air balloon, harbor cruise, sailing, biking or helicopter tour.
Overnight at the beautiful SunSquare Cape Town Gardens Hotel.
DAY7 – Tue. Nov. 5
DEPARTURE
After a morning at leisure, you will be met for your transfer to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg and onwards to North America.
TRIP INCLUDES
Round trip coach air on South African Airways from New York (JFK) or Washington(IAD) Airport to South Africa OR Tambo International Airport; Domestic coach air in South Africa as per the itinerary (Johannesburg – Cape Town – Johannesburg); Accommodation as per the itinerary; Meals as per the itinerary (5 x breakfast); Ground transfers as per the itinerary; Scheduled tours as per the itinerary.
Balance is due in full 120 days prior to departure (July 30th).
EXCLUDES
Add-on air from other U.S. cities; Any meals or services not mentioned above; Entrance fees on Cape Peninsula tour to Kirstenbosch, Seal Island cruise; Any items of personal expense, i.e. drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc.; Gratuities for rangers/guides/drivers
There are several golf courses that you can book a tee-time with during your stay in Cape Town.
(Golfers we will have two conference calls–one in July, one in August– to discuss pairings and bookings.
Use Google, or see a list of Cape Town Golf Courses HERE.
at the DIRECTIONS link, put in the ADDRESS of our hotel: SunSquare Cape Town hotel, 10 Mill Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa to view driving/riding distances for your trip via taxi or UBER. Keep in mind that your golf rounds should be scheduled around your trip itinerary so that you will not miss any tours which may interest you.
If wish to you book tee times online, BE SURE TO READ THEIR REFUND and CANCELLATION POLICY.
Some online services will only allow you to book a tee time 3-weeks out from your desired play date.
GolfGreedy.co.za GolfTeeTimes.za
Erinvale Golf Course — designed by Gary Player
Location: Lourensford Road/Erinvale Avenue
7130 Somerset West
South Africa
Opened in 1995, Erinvale Country and Golf Estate rank amongst the TOP Estates in South Africa. 18 hole, par 72, 6171.25 yard course. One of the jewels of Cape Winelands golf, a ‘must play’ golf course nestled at the foot of the Helderberg mountains, with sweeping views of the Winelands and False Bay coastline. Erinvale Golf Course — designed by Gary Player.
Morning Tee Times can be made on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are member days. Morning tee times are 7am-9:06am with 9 minute intervals between each 4 ball.
NOTE: The golf club is hosting their Ladies Classic on Monday, Nov. 4th, 2019 and cannot take any bookings on this day.
Distance: 30-40 minute drive/UBER from Cape Town City Centre.
The cost of an average Uber and Lyft trip is about the same. On average, the cost per mile is $2, with trips starting at $1 base rates and ranging between $1 and $2 per mile, as of April 30, 2019
The club rents Calloway golf club sets for men and women @ R450.00 / $32.49 USD per set.
The visitor rate for 18 holes is R1375.00 per person and R799.25 $57.69 USD per person for 9 holes.
Book your round with AAGD and you can get a discounted group rate of R725.00 / $52.36 USD per person for 18 holes.
If you book online you will be paying the full visitor rate of R1375.00 / $99.25 USD per person.
[20 golfers are needed to secure the group rate.]
Golf carts are R450.00 / $32.50USD per cart.
Golf shoes are not available for rent.
Hot showers available at no cost for all players after their game inside of the men’s and women’s locker rooms.
Golf shirts and suitable golf pants with golf shoes are required as dress code.
The Club has the EOGA Golf Academy providing lessons for golfers. These instructors are the only ones allowed to teach at Erinvale.
To book a lesson during our visit, please contact Murray Smit on 079 385 5507, email murray@eoga.co.za for further information regarding lessons, payable on your own.
During your golf round, a selection of light meals, sandwiches and refreshments are on hand at The Halfway House and the Terrace Bar. Both venues are for Golfers only, to ensure a smooth and quick service.
The Terrace Restaurant and Bar Area are the popular places to sit and have breakfast before teeing-off and to celebrate après-golf with a glass of wine and a light meal. Also, non-golf players enjoy the environment and come around to meet other “Erinvalers” for a chat over a coffee, cool drink or pizza.
Free WIFI allows you to stay surf the web or download your e-mails. For sports fans there are multiple TV screens inside showing the latest matches.
The Erinvale’s Playas Restaurant onsite is used for special events and evening functions and has a specific Dress Code.
Erinvale Golf Club, Cape Town, South Africa
Milnerton Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72, 6672.135 yards, challenging coastal course. Experience the best culture, food, and entertainment that is on offer just minutes away in the beautiful City Centre of Cape Town. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Diep River, this lush links-type course is fairly flat with few trees. With the sea and the lagoon bordering most holes, and the seven beautiful water holes waiting to claim the wayward shot, it offers a truly unique golfing experience! — designed by Golf Data.
Tee Times available for:
Thursday, Oct. 31 – morning or afternoon
Friday, Nov. 1 – morning or afternoon
Sunday, Nov. 3 – from 11:00am onwards
First morning tee off is 6:45 AM
Last tee off time is 13:30.
Let Debert Cook know your choice and she can proceed in booking your times.
For a group of 20 players, we can obtain a group rate (20 golfers+) at R330 / $23.82 USD per player.
Golf carts are R350 / $25.26 USD per cart.
Golf shoes are not available for rent.
Green Fee is R795 / $55.61 USD per player.
Showers are available for golfers at no extra cost.
Milnerton does not have an on-course PGA pro for lessons. Should we bring a Pro with us, our pro can play with and give lessons while others in our group play.
I can invoice you and you can pay beforehand or, you can pay on that day if you’d like.
Milnerton Golf Course, Cape Town, South Africa
…MORE OPTIONAL TOURS:
Remember, the only leisure day is November 4th. Travelers can opt to NOT do the Hop-on Hop-Off Bus on November 3rd and purchase an optional Tour in its place.
November 1st – Full Day Cape Point Tour- Included
November 2nd– AM Half-Day Cape Winelands Tour- Included
November 3rd – Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Ticket – Included (or you can purchase an optional tour)
November 4th– Full Day at leisure (or purchase and Optional Tour)
(call 212-571-6559 to book) Tours are nonrefundable unless canceled by the operator due to any weather-related issues.
Combined Cape Town City Tour & Table Mountain $115 per person
(hotel pick-up 8:45am, return drop-off 4:00pm)
- Drive past Cape Town Stadium and through the V & A Waterfront
- See the City Center and Greenmarket Square
- Walk through the Company Gardens
- Drive past Houses of Parliament, City Hall, the Castle and Slave Lodge
- Visit brightly colored Bo Kaap Malay Quarter to hear about the interesting history of this area
- Join the fascinating Diamond and Tanzanite experience at Jewel Africa. Discover the secrets of Diamonds, Tanzanite and other authentic African Treasures. You will be dazzled by the diamond tour where we learn about the history of these sparkling gems
- Ascend Signal Hill and witness the firing of the Noon gun (except Sundays and Public Holidays). Apart from the excitement of hearing and seeing the cannon fired, you will find out why this cannon is here and what it is used for while enjoying spectacular views of the city, Cape Town Stadium and the whole of Table Bay. This is a great photo opportunity!
- We continue to Table Mountain cable station. Table Mountain is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. You have the option of admiring the views from the lower cable station or you can purchase your ticket (+/- $27 USD, [R370]) to reach the summit (weather permitting). A variety of food and refreshment options are available for purchase, both at the lower cable station and on top of the mountain. After enjoying spectacular views with your guide, you will be returned to your hotel, or you can stay on top of the mountain and make your own arrangements to return to your hotel.
Full-Day Cultural and Robben Island Tour $145
(hotel pick-up 8:45am / return drop-off 4:00pm)
- Complete your cultural experience by extending the morning Township Visit Tour to include a visit to Robben Island on the 13:00 ferry in the afternoon. Please note that this is subject to availability of the 13:00 ferry and the Robben Island time-table.
- Once you reach the island you will be given a guided tour and see the prison cell that held Nelson Mandela captive for so many years.
Your return to your hotel is included in the price. Please advise your guide before boarding the ferry if you require transport back to your hotel when you return from Robben Island. You may prefer to stay at the Waterfront for dinner.
Half-Day Robben Island Tour: Ticket Price is $80.00
9:00am OR 11:00am OR 1:00pm
The ferries depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V & A Waterfront. Be sure to arrive at least 15-minutes ahead of departure times with YOUR PASSPORT. Passport Required to enter. The tour takes 3.5 hours including the ferry trip to and from the Island (Depending on the boat used as they have different travel times). Tourists will disembark at Murray’s Bay Harbour situated on the east coast of the Island and take a short walk to buses that will transport everyone to all the historical sites around the Island. On the way to the buses, visitors will pass buildings and a high wall built by prisoners during the 1960s. The buildings were used for family and lawyer visits to prisoners. Tourists will meet their Tour Guide when they have boarded the busses. The prison tour will be conducted by a Robben Island Tour Guide. This is part of an integrated tour model. They are fully conversant and knowledgeable about the Island’s multi-layered 500-year-old history. The tour route includes the graveyard of people who died from leprosy, the Lime Quarry, Robert Sobukwe’s house, the Bluestone quarry, the army and navy bunkers and the Maximum Security Prison where thousands of South Africa’s freedom fighters were incarcerated for years. The tour culminates with a viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell.
Full-Day Aquila “Safari” Tour: $280
(hotel pick-up 9:00am / return drop-off 4:00pm
The safari is led by an experienced guide who will share exciting inside stories: facts about your surroundings, easily rousing your inner wild side. You’ll get up-close and personal with Africa’s most famous animals all just a short drive from Cape Town. This tours is perfect for people wanting to make the most of their time and enjoy a safari without sacrificing too much travel time in the country. Also, as the reserve is situated in the Western Cape, you will never need to worry about the risk of malaria. Includes: Welcome Drinks, Breakfast, Game Drive, Lunch, Eco-Synergy Tour and return transfers for a memorable experience like none other! After your safari, enjoy optional activities such as Spa Treatments, relax poolside, enjoy heated pools, steam room, sauna, mani & pedi, Cigar Bar, lounge, various massages and treatments and more, all at additional costs.
Early Morning Safari Tour $204 per person
5:00 AM: Depart Cape Town to Aquila
7:00AM: Welcome drink served on arrival (Tea, Coffee & Rusks)
7:30AM: 2 to 3 hour Game Drive with pre-packed Continental Breakfast
Depart Aquila Private Game Reserve
Should you wish to extend your stay at the reserve to enjoy any of the other facilities and activities on offer, you are welcome to do so, kindly notify us when making your reservation.
Afternoon Safari Day Tour $204 per person
10:00AM: Depart Cape Town to Aquila –
(Our scheduled transfers do pick-ups from pre-specified hotels starting from around 9:00AM)
12:00PM: Welcome drink served on arrival
12:15PM: Buffet Lunch
1:30PM: Game drive
After the game drive guests are able to relax at the pool and are welcome to browse our African curio shop or indulge in a Spa treatment (optional extra)
16h00: Depart Aquila and return to Cape Town – our schedule departure tours departure at 16h00 from the reserve. Should you wish to depart earlier or later than this, please book a private transfer.
Cape Town Tandem Paragliding- $ 185 per person (November 3rd -Optional)
Tandem paragliding flights vary in duration and it is not possible for them to guarantee a specific flight time due to the changeable nature of the wind and general weather conditions in Cape Town. They only fly in conditions that allow them to launch and land safely. In general flights in Cape Town can be anything from about 5-30 minutes in duration. Because of this, there are no set pick-up and departure times for the Tandem Paragliding. Pickup will be in the lobby of your hotel.
Helicopter Flight Above Beautiful Cape Town $225 per person (November 3rd -Optional)
The Three Bays Tour (approx. 20 minutes)
Departure times: 10AM or 4PM
Tours are shared and can be booked for either of two departure times. You may be matched up with others to fill the helicopter. Seating positions are not guaranteed and will be allocated to evenly balance the helicopter. You may fly in any of three different types of helicopters, depending on how many other passengers they find to fly with you. A minimum of two passengers is required in order to commence the flight. If you are a single person, they will try their best to find at least one other to join you. However, if an extra person cannot be found to fly with you, the tour will have to be postponed for another departure time or date.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
*Price is per person based on double occupancy and economy class flights. Valid for departures from New York John F Kennedy (JFK) and Washington DC (Dulles) for travel. Other departure points and domestic flights within the U.S. can be booked. Price for other departure cities and/or travel dates may vary. Subject to availability and currency exchange rate fluctuations. Prices are valid for new bookings only, are not retroactive and may change without notice. Package includes all government and airline imposed taxes and fees. Baggage and optional service fees, cancellation charges and other restrictions may apply. Itinerary subject to change. Travel insurance is recommended to protect your trip.
*Please note that all availability, the itinerary and pricing is subject to change. Rates are subject to change until time of booking by which a credit card must be given to solidify all reservations and lock in all pricing.
| Accommodation | Destination | Start | End | Basis | Room Type | Duration |
| Overnight Travel | Oct 30 | Oct 31 | 1 Night | |||
| SunSquare Cape Town Gardens 10 Mill Street, Gardens, Cape Town (check-in 11am. check-out by 2pm) |
Cape Town | Oct 31 | Nov 5 | B&B | Double Room | 5 Nights |
| Overnight Travel | Nov 5 | Nov 6 | 1 Night |
BE WELL RESTED FOR YOUR FLIGHT
Wear loose comfortable clothing. Bring some chewing gum or something to chew during takeoff and landing to help your ears when the plane is pressurizing. Exercise before your flight, and during your flight do exercises onboard (flexing your muscles while in your seat is one example). Drink plenty of fluids, but not coffee, tea or alcohol. Everyone has their own remedy for jet lag.
Our Cape Town Exploration Travel Map
TRAVEL INFORMATION
*As of September 2015 South African Airways will be charging for pre-assigned seats on all international flights and some domestic Africa flights. Seats will be an average of $25 per person per flight. Upgrading to Exit Row ($60) or Bulk Head ($40) seats is an option. You can opt to choose your seats 24 hours prior to departure for free. The above pricing does not include seat selections. After airfare has been purchased you will need to call SAA directly at 1-800-722-9675 if you would like to pre-purchase seat assignments.
**Important Notice: Your passport must have four blank visa pages (two facing pages – two facing pages) for any visas and entry stamps upon arrival in South Africa. (Please make sure the blank pages say “Visa” at the top) If visiting other countries, more will be required. Also, your passport must be valid for six months after the intended date of return from South Africa.** Only MACHINE READABLE TRAVEL DOCUMENTS (MRTDs) will be accepted to enter South Africa with effect from 24 November 2015. Please note that extended passports won’t be accepted any longer. For this reason, we advise checking your travel documents.
As a general precaution, all travelers are advised to carry a photocopy of the photo/bio information page of their passport and keep it in a location separate from their passport.
CUSTOMS, Duty & Restrictions
See customs restrictions and more information on importing items here: https://kingshakaairport.info/travel/airport-customs.html
LUGGAGE Information
- Checked: 2 pieces at 50 pounds each per person.
- Carry on: 2 pieces -18 pounds total, one to fit in the overhead and one under the seat in front of you.
- Golf Bags are free of charge as long as the weight is under 51 pounds and with a maximum length/width/height dimension of 200cm (78.8″). The Golf bag counts as 1 piece of your 2 piece checked luggage limit.
The amount of hand and checked baggage you are allowed depends on the class that you are flying. Your travel package has been booked for COACH class unless you have notified our agent that you wish to pay for an upgrade to Business or First Class. See all of the baggage allotment and restrictions HERE.
EXPLORING CAPE TOWN
While wildlife safaris are reason enough to visit this exquisite country, South Africa offers even more to see and do. For one, the city of Cape Town is a jewel that is well worth visiting. Set against the iconic Table Mountain, C.T. offers lots to explore, including the V&A Waterfront, Chapman’s Peak, Boulders Penguin Colony and several beautiful beaches — just to give you an idea. Not to mention the delicious food and fabulous shopping, which can all be enjoyed at a favorable exchange rate.
One of the biggest attractions in the Western Cape is the towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek . Boasting some of the best wine tours in the world, they offer picturesque vineyards, fantastic art galleries and gourmet food.
Furthermore, South Africans are some of the most upbeat, welcoming and humorous people you’ll ever encounter. You will be exposed to different cultures, languages and traditions that will certainly enhance your experience.
With so much diversity, South Africa has something for everyone to enjoy!
Entry Requirements
As for all international travel, the visitor to South Africa is required to be in possession of a valid passport. U.S. citizens (US passport holders) traveling to the Republic of South Africa for 90 days or less for tourism or business purposes do not need visas. U.S. green card holders (non-US passport holders) require visas to visit South Africa. Nationals of other countries must check the list of visa-exempt countries to see if they need to apply for visas.
Please note that all foreigners who wish to visit South Africa must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after his/her intended return date. The passport must have a minimum of four blank (unstamped) visa pages in the passport to enter the country. It is preferred these are facing pages. Your international carrier can deny boarding if you do not have the blank (unstamped) visa pages. Travelers should make sure there are sufficient pages for visas and immigration stamps to enter into South Africa and other countries to be visited. These blank pages cannot be endorsement or amendment pages.
Look at Travel.State.Gov for complete details on Passport/Visa and Vaccinations.
As a general precaution, all travelers are advised to carry a photocopy of the photo/bio information page of their passport and keep it in a location separate from their passport.
Optional tours cater to all types of activities for exploring the Cape!
Banking and Currency
Currency
South Africa’s currency is the Rand, which offers visitors great value for their money. The rand comes in a range of coins (R1 = 100 cents) and note denominations of R10, R20, R50, R100. With the exchange rate in your favor, you’ll find South Africa offers great value.
It is advisable to exchange US Dollars into Rands upon arrival for tips and small purchases where credit cards are not normally used.
Exchanging large denominations of US Dollars at game lodges can be challenging so come prepared.
FYI: Cost of living in Cape Town (South Africa) is 60% cheaper than in New York City (United States)
EXCHANGE RATE CALCULATOR
Calculate how much the US Dollar
is valued at in South African Rand
Banking
Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services – with cash, bank & credit cards as well as traveler’s cheques. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centers. Always advise your bank that you are traveling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Traveling around South Africa is relatively easy by air, road and rail.
UBER is a travel option in Cape Town, South Africa.
Compare taxi and Uber rates HERE.
Principal air routes are serviced by South African Airways and British Airways, operated by Comair. There are 2 low-cost carriers on main routes, namely Kulula.com and Mango.
Facilitating travel around South Africa are 10 airports managed by the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa). In addition, there are some 90 regional airports, including the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit and the Skukuza Airport, offering access to the Kruger National Park.
An extensive tarred road system makes traveling in South Africa by vehicle convenient and easy. You will find gravel roads in rural areas though. Note:
- A valid international driver’s permit/license is required.
- South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cell phones can only be used ‘hands-free’.
- Speed limits are generally set at 120km on freeways, 100km on secondary roads and 60km in urban areas.
- Toll fees apply on certain national roads.
- Petrol stations are widespread.
- Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa
Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. Metrobus buses are available for in-city transport. Metered taxis must be ordered by telephone. There is a hop-on-hop-off bus in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
The Cape Town rail system includes the long-haul, inexpensive ShosholozaMeyl Metrorail trains. More luxurious options are the Blue Train, Premier Classe and the steam train Rovos Rail. There is also the new Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport.
Communicating Through WhatsAPP
DOWNLOAD WhatsApp before you leave the USA for easy WiFi use in communicating with the tour group, friends and family back home during your international travel. This application is available for Android and IOS.
DOWNLOAD “SAA KNOW BEFORE YOU GO“
Health and Medical Information
Look at Travel.State.Gov for complete details on Passport/Visa and Vaccinations.
Many of the main tourist areas are malaria-free, so you need not worry at all. However, the Kruger National Park, the Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal do pose a malaria risk in the summer months.
Many local people and some travelers do not take anti-malaria prophylaxis, but most health professionals recommend that you do. All guests must consult their own medical doctor or health authorities regarding the use of anti-malarial tablets prior to departure.
Whether you take oral prophylaxis or not, always use mosquito repellent, wear long pants, closed shoes, light long-sleeved shirts at night, and sleep under a mosquito net in endemic areas (the anopheles mosquito, which carries malaria, operates almost exclusively after dark). Mosquito repellent containing “deet” is best. It is advisable to avoid malarial areas if you are pregnant.
Travel and Medical Insurance
Comprehensive medical insurance is advised. Travel insurance is highly recommended and can be purchased through SAA Vacations or your travel agent. It can be used to cover baggage and personal item loss as well as trip cancellations. SAA Vacations will not be held responsible for any loss or damage to passenger’s belongings. Travel Guard is the (travel) insurance carrier offered through SAA Vacations.
Safety Notices
For international travel advisory and emergency, alerts check the U.S. Department of State website.
If you have lost your passport or wallet, please contact the local police department and file a report. Once you have done this, contact one of South Africa’s U.S. Embassies or Consulates (located in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban).
Contact Information:
Cape Town Consulate General
Telephone : (021) 702 – 7300
Email: americanscapetown@state.gov
Durban Consulate General
Telephone: (031) 305 – 7600
Email: consulardurban@state.gov
Johannesburg Consulate General
Telephone: (011) 290 – 3000
Email: consularjohannesburg@state.gov
Alternately, you can obtain information online at http://www.embassy-worldwide.com/embassy/american-embassy-in-pretoria-south-africa
TRAVEL TIPS:
- Keep a photograph of your luggage and passport on your smartphone
- Download the GateGuru app before your next trip: It shows maps and amenities for any terminal
- By far the best transit guide is CityMapper. It’s free, and offers real-time directions via public transport, on foot, or by car
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa, are generally high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots. Tap water in South Africa is safe to drink and cook with when taken from taps in urban areas. Not all tap water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so take precautions if necessary.
It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and put ice in your drinks. South Africa’s fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.
Restaurants are subject to South Africa’s food safety control legislation, which is implemented by the local government. Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.
Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centers and townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.
Climate and Weather
In the Western Cape, the average rainfall is highest in the winter months, while in other provinces, the average rainfall is highest during the summer. Overall South Africa enjoys a temperate and pleasant climate, with lovely warm sunny days most of the year. KwaZulu-Natal has a subtropical climate with high humidity in Summer. The Southern Gauteng region has hot summers with occasional thundershowers and frosty winters, while the Eastern part of this region (known as the Lowveld) enjoys mild winters. The Cape interior and the Free State have similar weather conditions to the Southern Gauteng region. The Western Cape region has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters.
SEASONS
Spring: September – October
Summer: November – February
Autumn: March – April
Winter: May – August
Clothing and Dress Recommendations What To Pack
Spring (Aug-Oct)/Summer (Nov-Feb)
Bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 30 – 40 degree Celsius range in some areas. Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain, but don’t forget a swimming costume (bathing suit).
Duty-free allowances
- No more than 200 cigarettes and 20 cigars per person
- No more than 250g (o.55 lb) of cigarette or pipe tobacco per person
- No more than 50ml (1.6) perfume and 250ml eau de toilette per person
- No more than 2 litres (67.6 oz or 8 cups) of wine per person
- No more than 1 litre (33 oz or 4 cups) in total of other alcoholic beverages per person
General
Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.
Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.
If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is generally called for in the corporate sector, but media for example generally dress more casually.
For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there’s no need to go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable.
For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, smart-casual attire is recommended.
Electricity and Plug Standards
The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. With a few exceptions (in deep rural areas) electricity is available almost everywhere. However, you will need to purchase or bring adapters for the outlets. You can purchase the adapters in many US stores, online, or from a store while in South Africa. Adapters are usually available on loan at major hotels in South Africa. Three to five-star hotels usually have 110-volt outlets for electric shavers in bathrooms and often provide hair dryers and irons. An NW 4 plug with two prongs, 0.19 inches in diameter is required for compatibility.
The four major ethnic divisions among Black South Africans are the Nguni, Sotho, Shangaan-Tsonga and Venda. The Xhosa (women pictured above in traditional wear) are the second-largest cultural group in South Africa, after the Zulu-speaking nation.
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