Practical
The logistics, without the guesswork
The unglamorous stuff that makes or breaks a trip. Where safety matters, we cite current sources and show when we last checked.
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Trip logistics
Driving & car rental
Left-hand drive, distances, the car you actually need.
Safety, honestly
Situational guidance, not sweeping warnings.
Is Cape Town safe?
The city you'll spend most time in, block by block.
Airports & arrivals
Johannesburg vs Cape Town, and how to connect.
Money & tipping
Cash, card, ZAR, and what to tip.
SIM cards & connectivity
What works, what doesn't, data costs.
Weather & when to go
Seasons by region, not one national answer.
Park reservations & booking
SANParks, lodges, and what to book first.
Visas & entry
Who needs what, by passport.
Packing
What you actually need, by season and trip type.
Travel insurance & medical
Malaria, evac cover, and what matters.
Planning South Africa? Steal our route.
Get our first-timer itinerary, field notes, and places worth making room for.