Plan with confidence
Travel Information
Practical information for planning your golf and safari journey in South Africa — from visas and climate to health, currency, golf equipment and getting around.
South Africa at a glance
The essentials
Know Before You Go
Straightforward answers to the practical questions — with our team available to assist throughout your journey.
Visas & Entry
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the passport you are travelling on. Many international visitors may enter South Africa for short tourism stays without applying for a visa in advance, but requirements should always be confirmed before travel.
Climate & Best Season
South Africa is a year-round golf destination. October to April is generally ideal for Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route, while April to September offers cooler, drier conditions in the Greater Kruger, Lowveld and Sun City regions.
Currency & Payments
The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, golf courses, lodges and restaurants.
Health & Malaria
Malaria risk is limited to certain parts of South Africa, including areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga and north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal. This includes parts of the Greater Kruger and Lowveld regions.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your policy should provide suitable cover for medical emergencies, cancellation, missed connections, delayed baggage and golf equipment.
Electricity
South Africa uses a 230V, 50Hz electrical supply, with the Type M three-round-pin plug commonly used. A universal travel adapter is recommended.
Getting Around
We arrange reliable private transfers between airports, hotels, safari lodges and golf courses. Domestic flights may be included when combining regions such as Johannesburg, the Greater Kruger, the Garden Route and Cape Town.
Language
English is widely spoken throughout South Africa and is commonly used within the tourism and golf industries. South Africa has 12 official languages, reflecting its rich cultural diversity.
Golf Travel Essentials
You are welcome to travel with your own golf clubs, subject to the baggage allowance of your chosen airline. Quality rental clubs can also be arranged in advance at selected courses.
Best time to play
South Africa Plays Year-Round
The best time to travel depends on the regions you would like to combine. We design each itinerary around the most suitable seasonal conditions for golf, safari and sightseeing.
The Cape
Cape Town · Cape Winelands · Garden Route
Best overall: October to April
Warm, bright days and longer daylight hours create excellent conditions for coastal, mountain and vineyard golf.
Safari & Northern Regions
Greater Kruger · Lowveld · Sun City · KwaZulu-Natal
Best overall: April to September
Milder temperatures and generally drier conditions make this an excellent period for combining championship golf with safari.
Peak golf season
Planning a golf holiday in Mauritius?
Mauritius has its own entry requirements, currency, climate and travel considerations.
Your African Signature consultant will provide the relevant destination information when you enquire, based on your nationality, travel dates and proposed itinerary.
Good to know
Travel Questions, Answered
Straightforward answers to what golfers most often ask before they travel.
Questions about your trip?
Our specialists have played these courses and travelled these routes. Speak to us about your plans, and we will provide practical advice tailored to your journey.
