South Africa Travellers Guide
South Africa travellers guide is a useful tool for all travellers to South Africa.
Read before you pack your bags so you know what to bring, as the climate differs from province to province.
Experience bustling city life in Cape Town and Johannesburg, warm sun drenched beaches in Durban and all the wildlife you can imagine in Kruger National Park.
Exposure to the sun
South Africa has one of the world’s highest daily sunshine rates. Visitors who are not used to the sun, should take extra care, especially between 11:00 and 15:00.
Sunscreen lotion with a protection factor of at least 15 is advised against the high UV rating of the South African sun. A variety of good quality products are available throughout the country.
Customs
Before leaving the customs hall, duty has to be paid on items that are over the allowed limits.
Climate
South Africa is generally sunny and pleasant and the winters are usually mild. Snow mostly falls on the high mountain peaks of the Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
The South African seasons are the reverse of those of the Northern Hemisphere. Despite regional climate differences, South Africa generally enjoys a mild climate throughout the year.
Areas with the most significant differences in climate are the Western Cape with its Mediterranean climate (warm, dry summers and wet, cold winters).
Hot summer days and frequent thunderstorms are a feature of the northern areas.
Along the coastal areas of KwaZulu-Natal, subtropical, weather is enjoyed. This makes for all year round beach weather and high humidity.
Average temperatures in South Africa can vary widely: Summer: October to March, 15° C (60° F) to 35 ° C (96° F). Winter: April to September, below 0° C (32° F) to 20° C (68° F).
Clothing
For summer months, lightweight (cottons and linens), short-sleeved clothes are best, although a light jersey might be needed for the cooler evenings.
Umbrellas and raincoats are essential for the summers and the Western Cape winters.
Warm clothes will be needed for the winter months.
