General Travel Advice and Warnings for South Africa
The decision to take a trip to South Africa is your choice and you are responsible for your individual safety whilst in South Africa.
The content on this page is offered information only and pulled together from travel advice and warnings for South Africa by governments around the world to their citizens.
While we strive to provide you accurate travel advice info, it is given on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.
This operators of this web site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information given.
General Cautions Travellers Need to Bear In Mind Whilst Taking a Trip in South Africa
Crime – Petty criminal activities such as pick pocketing in a crowded environment to sexual assault and robberies do take place in bigger cities of South Africa. Ensure that all your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings when in public areas. Be particularly cautious if going to sporting events and throughout religious holidays and other public events, as terrorists often make use of such occasions to mount attacks.
Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transportation. It is in your interest of safety to stay clear of areas where demonstrations and large events are occurring and follow the directions of local authorities. Monitor local media in South Africa for info on on-going protests in South Africa.
Scams – Take caution in crowded tourist areas in South Africa, where scammers target foreigners. If you’ve been scammed in South Africa, get to a safe place quickly; take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; alert the police in South Africa and obtain a record and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to report the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction.
Spiked Food and Beverages – Never leave food or beverages unattended or in the care of complete strangers when travelling in South Africa or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, chewing gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may have drugs that can put you in danger of sexual assault and robbery.
What is the entry/exit requirements for South Africa?
Every nation or territory determines who can enter or exit through its borders, likewise South Africa chooses who enter its borders. The Government of your home country cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not satisfy your South Africa’s entry or exit requirements.
To read more concerning the entry/exit requirement for South Africa go to visa requirements for South Africa or get the most up to date information with the visa office at the South African consulate in your home country.
Travel insurance coverage for South Africa
Health cover is just one of the major reasons visitors get travel insurance policy. It will not avoid you getting ill or hurt, though it can avoid you suffering financially. Medical support overseas can be really expensive.
You should shell out for all medical care you obtain overseas. You can’t expect to get free or subsidised care through your South Africa’s public health system, like you would in your home country.
If you can’t pay, local authorities can jail you. The government from your home country can not pay you health care costs for you, loan you money or get you out of jail.
You require travel insurance for travelling to South Africa. You also need to see to it you select a plan that is right for you.
Check out the fine print of your travel insurance policy.
Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance company upfront. If you don’t, you may invalidate your travel insurance plan.
Inform your travel insurance company the activities you plan to do, before you go. Many common activities like winter sports are left out in standard plans. You may require to pay added.
Check if you have free credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance policy cover. Nonetheless, they frequently have different conditions than paid plans. Be aware of the differences.
If you’re visiting South Africa from a country that has a reciprocatory healthcare arrangement, you still require travel health insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.
If you have an incurable illness, you may not have the ability to get basic travel insurance coverage. However you might have the ability to find a specialised insurance provider that covers you for health, accidents or property issues unconnected to your disease. Talk with your insurance company to learn.
Find out more about obtaining worldwide travel insurance policy for South Africa prior to you go.