As you make your plans to get out and explore South Africa, we’ve drawn up some travel tips to make your journey more enjoyable and cost effective.

Car rental

When renting a car, choose the super waiver option over the standard waiver option to significantly reduce the amount excess you'll have to pay in the case of accident or theft.

Driving

Smash and grabs at major intersections are quite common on South Africa’s roads. You can lessen the possibility by keeping your cell phone and personal belongings out of view.

When Visiting Cape Town

The Cape Town Pass offers free entry and discounts into more than 50 city attractions, the Cape winelands, Constantia Valley and the Cape Peninsula. For more information visit: www.thecapetownpass.co.za

Emergency services

In event of an emergency, contact one of the private emergency services companies for rapid response. The largest is Netcare911 on www.netcare911.co.za or dial 082-911.

Petrol

Fuel in South Africa cannot be purchased by credit card. Many locals have special garage or petrol cards for use at filling stations. You can however pay road tolls with MasterCard or Visa credit cards.

Health Insurance

If you're living in South Africa it is advisable to belong to a private medical aid scheme in order to access private medical care. Those living in South Africa on short-term contracts are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance cover before leaving their home countries. This insurance should include extensive medical and repatriation cover.

Travel Insurance

For any travel out of South Africa, including into Southern Africa, it is advisable to take out travel insurance. The three companies offering travel insurance in South Africa are Travel Insurance Consultants, AIG South Africa and Regent Insurance. As non-South Africans, you must be sure to ask about any and all limitations on the cover. While most credit card companies offer some sort of travel insurance if you pay for your air tickets with their credit cards, it is advisable to check whether the cover provided is sufficient and whether you need to purchase "top-up" cover.

Health Precautions

Certain areas in South Africa pose a malaria risk. These include the Kruger National Park, the low lying areas in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and the northern part of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Consult your nearest travel clinic about malaria prophylaxis. You can find SAA-Netcare Travel Clinics in Johannesburg, Boksburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London and Knysna.

Booking Travel in South Africa

Most travel arrangements in South Africa are still booked through travel agents, although online booking is becoming more prevalent, especially with domestic point-to-point airline bookings.

Finding Accommodation

Travel agents, through their relationships with suppliers, will often be able to get you the best deal. Booking your accommodation through low cost airline websites is another cost-effective option.

You can also visit the websites of the major hotel brands in South Africa including Southern Sun, City Lodge Hotels, Protea Hotels, and Sun International.