Londolozi Varty Camp Sabi Sands & Benguerra Island Mozambique Safari

One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Visas are not required to enter South Africa for travellers from MOST countries if their intended stay is for 90 days or less.

Visitors to South Africa must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date, together with onward travel documents, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. In addition, each country you may be visiting generally requires at least 2 consecutive/side by side blank pages on entry for both visas and stamps. Should your itinerary include more than one country, excluding the country of departure and return, please ensure that you have a sufficient number of blank visa pages (not endorsement pages) in your passport. Should there be insufficient blank pages in your passport then entry into or exit from a country could be denied.

NB: As of 01 June 2015, all passengers under 18 years of age will need to present an unabridged birth certificate as well as a valid passport when entering, departing or transiting South Africa. Abbreviated versions or baptismal certificates are not accepted. This requirement applies to minors of all nationalities – whether traveling unaccompanied, with both parents, with one parent or with a guardian/s or another adult/s. A sworn translation (certified/authenticated) in English should accompany all documentation that is in a language other than English.

Any applicable visas and/or relevant documentation are your responsibility. You must also be in possession of outward travel documents and have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. Further visa information is available on the following website www.home-affairs.gov.za (small word of caution that we are not responsible for the content)

Currency

The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes. Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c.

Banking

Banks are found in most towns, and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash, bank & credit cards as well as travellers cheques. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside of the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.

Travelling around South Africa is relatively easy by air, road and rail.

Principal air routes are serviced by SAA and British Airways, operated by Comair. There are 2 low-cost carriers on main routes, namely Kulula.com and Mango.

Facilitating travel around South Africa are 10 airports managed by the Airports Company South Africa (Acsa). In addition, there are some 90 regional airports, including the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit and the Skukuza Airport, offering access to the Kruger National Park.

An extensive tarred road system makes travelling in South Africa by vehicle convenient and easy. You will find gravel roads in rural areas though. Note:

A valid international driver's licence is required.

We drive on the left hand side of the road.

Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cellphones can only be used ‘hands free'.

Speed limits are generally set at 120km on freeways, 100km on secondary roads and 60km in urban areas.

Toll fees apply on certain national roads.

Petrol stations are widespread.

Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa

Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. Metrobus buses are available for in-city transport. Metered taxis must be ordered by telephone. There is a hop-on-hop-off bus in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Our rail system includes the long-haul, inexpensive Shosholoza Meyl Metrorail trains. More luxurious options are the Blue Train, Premier Classe and the steam train Rovos Rail. There is also the new Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport.

South Africa is a wonderful vacation destination, but a happy holiday is a healthy holiday so take note of the following South Africa health information before you set off on your adventures.

Bilharzia in South Africa: This treatable but unpleasant disease (also known as schistosomiasis) is caused by parasites that can be found in fresh waterways in Southern Africa (although not in mountainous regions). Always check with your guide or local tourism information bureau you are staying in a bilharzia risk area before swimming, boating or wading in fresh water. An interesting aside: in certain African and East Asian communities, overcoming schistosomiasis is an important rite of passage. Not something we recommend for today’s holiday maker however.

Drinking Water and Cholera in South Africa: Cholera has been detected in some water in the Limpopo province. Unless there is a sign with information to the contrary, tap water in South Africa is safe for drinking. Drinking from streams and rivers is not recommended unless you are with a registered tour guide who knows the source of the water and can advise you that it is safe for consumption.

The recent cholera outbreaks in parts of South Africa have caused concern for many visitors to the country. Please refer to our Cholera Prevention Tips article on the Portfolio Travel Blog for advice.

H1N1 Virus (Swine flu): The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza (09) in a number of countries throughout the world, including South Africa. For a list of these countries, visit the WHO website. Please take basic precautions of hand washing, sneezing into the crook of your elbow and refraining from touching any parts of your face with un-cleaned hands to help prevent spread any flu virus.

HIV and AIDS: Please be aware that there is, sadly, a high prevalence of HIV in South Africa. Abstinence or safe sex is strongly advised.

Hospitals, Medical Aid and Travel Insurance: While there are state hospitals throughout South Africa, they usually involve a long wait for patients needing medical care. Private hospitals are in line with Western standards in terms of both care and personal attention but the costs can be high. We advise you to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before embarking on your trip.

Malaria in South Africa: Malaria is prevalent in some remote areas in the far north and east of South Africa, including the Kruger National Park. A 90 kilometre strip running along the border with Mozambique and Zimbabwe has been designated as a malaria risk zone, with some adjoining areas experiencing malaria risk at various times in the year.

If you are not sure whether your travels take you into a malaria-area or not, do contact us with your proposed itinerary and we will let you know. You may also refer to an up to date malaria map. You may then need to take medication to protect you, prior to arriving in these areas.

It is always wise to take precautions in such regions, so in addition to your anti-malaria medication of choice we highly recommend the use of insect repellent creams and lotions, including the more holistic citronella option.

For extensive information about malaria please refer to the WHO's website.

Snakes and snakebites in South Africa: South Africa is home to several species of venomous snakes, although they tend to stay away from people and attack only if startled or provoked. Always keep a lookout on the path ahead and on overhanging branches when out and about in nature. Should you get bitten by any snake, get medical assistance as soon as you are able, and if possible give a good description of the snake to assist the practitioner treating you.

Please refer to the article on snakes and snakebites on the Portfolio Travel Blog for more information.

Sun Protection in South Africa: The African sun can be very harsh, especially for children, the elderly and those with fair skin. Sunscreen, sunblock, sun hats and sunglasses are essential. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. When possible avoid being outdoors for extended periods of time between 11h00 and 14h00.

Ticks and tick bite fever in South Africa: Wear long trousers, socks and shoes when hiking or walking through long grass, and apply insect repellent to your arms, legs and neck as an extra precaution against ticks. Tick bite fever presents with a headache and swollen glands about a week after being bitten. See a doctor who will help you with treatment. Not all tick bites will result in tick bite fever.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements: As of 1 October 2011, South Africa requires all travellers journeying from yellow fever risk countries (listed here) to show proof of yellow fever vaccination by means of a valid yellow fever certificate.

South Africa has a very high level of crime, including rape and murder. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low. The South African authorities give high priority to protecting tourists and tourism police are deployed in several large towns. Most cases of violent crime and murder tend to occur in townships remote and isolated areas. Consult a reliable tour guide if you visit a township.

Crime increases in areas where large crowds gather, so be particularly vigilant if you’re attending sporting or other events that attract large numbers.

Incidents of vehicle hi-jacking and robbery are common, particularly after dark. Keep to main roads and park in well lit areas. Vulnerable areas include, but are not limited to: traffic lights, junctions, and when approaching or pulling out from driveways. Take care at all times and be vigilant of your surroundings when in a stationary vehicle.

There are frequent incidents of car windows being broken and valuables taken while cars are waiting at junctions. Keep valuables out of sight.

Due to thefts at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you should vacuum-wrap luggage where local regulations permit. Keep all valuables in your carry-on luggage.

Keep large amounts of money, expensive jewellery, cameras and phones out of sight. Don’t change or withdraw large sums of money in busy public areas including foreign exchange facilities or ATMs. Thieves operate at international airports, and bus and railway stations. Keep your valuables safe and baggage with you at all times.

Don’t give personal or financial account information details to anyone. There are international fraud rings operating in South Africa, who may target visitors and charities.

Standards of hygiene in relation to food health and safety in South Africa, are generally high in hotels, restaurants, pubs and nightspots. Tap water in South Africa is safe to drink and cook with when taken from taps in urban areas. Not all tap water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so take precautions if necessary.

It is safe to eat fresh fruit, vegetables and salads, and put ice in your drinks. South Africa's fish, meat and chicken are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.

Restaurants are subject to South Africa's food safety control legislation, which is implemented by local government. Regulations include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure hygienic standards are maintained.

Street food is not as common in South Africa as it is in other countries, although vendors selling traditional snacks and meals can be found in city centres and townships. Food safety in such instances cannot always be guaranteed.

South African temperatures, which are measured in centigrade, average at highs of 28°C to average lows of 8°C in the summer months while winter temperatures range from 1°C at night to around 18°C in the day. Average annual rainfall is on the low side at under 500mm a year, making the country somewhat dry. Much of the rain falls in the Western Cape in the winter, differing from the rest of the country, which experiences summer rainfall. On the plus side, the South African climate boasts more than its fair share of sunshine, recording an average of 8.5 hours a day.

Summer

Bring clothes that are cool, light and comfortable because summer temperatures can get well into the 30 - 40 degree Celsius range in some areas.Also bring an umbrella or raincoat during summer as this is when most of the country gets its rain, but don't forget a swimming costume (bathing suit).

Winter

The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. But there are days when temperatures dive, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakensberg, so be prepared with jerseys and jackets. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s advisable to bring rain gear along.

General

Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunblock as the sun can be strong even in the winter months.

Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round, with warm socks in the winter.

If you are doing business in the country, business attire (suit and tie) is generally called for in the corporate sector, but media for example generally dress more casually.

For game viewing, a couple of neutral-toned items will be useful, but there's no need to go overboard. A good pair of walking shoes is also advisable.

For the evening, if you are dining at an upmarket restaurant or seeing a show, smart-casual attire is recommended.

Most accommodation offer Wifi in their business centres, rooms or restaurants. Internet cafes are found in most business areas and shopping malls. In addition, some South African restaurants offer WiFi access.

There are also outlets such as PostNet that offer internet, fax and postage facilities.  

Situated on the east coast of Africa, this tropical paradise is blessed with 2500 kilometres of spectacular coastline. With its idyllic beaches fringed with palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine life, this enchanting African nation is an ideal adventure holiday destination, with an abundance of activities on offer such as snorkelling, sunset cruises, horse-riding, dolphin tours and world-renowned scuba diving. Mozambique’s two major centres, Maputo and Inhambane, offer an exotic kaleidoscope of art, music and delicious local food as well as a lively nightlife scene. Spend your days immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture, marvelling at the impressive colonial architecture and interacting with the fabulously friendly local inhabitants. Those seeking a more remote getaway can head for the isolated beaches of Benguerra Island; the historic Portuguese and Muslim architecture of Mozambique Island; or the outstanding wildlife of Gorongosa National Park. However, you choose to spend your time in this exceptionally scenic destination you are likely to leave with a heavy heart and a burning desire to return time and time again.

Currency 

The currency of Mozambiqueis the Mozambique Metical (MZN; symbol MT) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of MT1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are in denominations of MT10, 5, 2 and 1 and 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 centavos.

The new Metical replaced the old Metical (MZM) on 1 July 2006. 1 MZN = 1,000 MZM. The old notes ceased being legal tender on 31 December 2006.

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, subject to declaration. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Friday 07h30-15h30 

Credit cards’ are increasingly accepted in Maputo, but not generally beyond the capital.

Travellers' cheques are not commonly accepted, and where accepted are slow to process and often attract high rates of commission.

Public transport is not recommended within Mozambique, however there are reliable bus shuttles to the north and international/local planes. 

There are scheduled flights into Maputo and Vilankulo. Flights are generally routed via Johannesburg in South Africa. There are a variety of smaller airstrips for smaller charter flights (to the islands, etc). 

Driving is on the left in Mozambique. You need to make sure that you are carrying ID, your drivers licence, the car registration papers and your insurance details. It is also obligatory to carry a warning triangle and I would also recommend a high viz vest. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory.

The roads are generally not in good repair. Many of the main roads have an awful lot of potholes and some are very deep. 

Mozambique as a developing nation faces many challenges on the health front. Travellers should check up on the status of their routine vaccinations before travel and visit a trusted medical professional for advice.

Important vaccinations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, MMR, tDAP and Rabies

Anti-malaria medication is advised as Mozambique falls within a risk zone. Good advice is to test your advised medication  well in advance of travel to avoid last-minute or on-trip issues with the medication. 

Mozambique offers some of the best cuisine in Africa, providing a popular blend of Portugese, Indian and African influences. The country is well known for its seafood, which includes excellent prawns and crayfish, and the wildly popular grilled catch of the day, locally known as peixe grelhade. Local dishes, mainly along the coastal areas have a certain flair which makes them unique from the foods found in neighbouring countries. Mozambicans believe in the liberal use of coconut milk and their favourite local hot pepper, peri peri to add a zesty burn to their meals. For more carnivorous visitors, there is a decent variety of high quality meats, usually, bought into Mozambique from neighbouring South Africa.

In Mozambique all town treat their drinking water, travellers are however advised to boil the tap water before drinking it, alternatively would be to buy mineral water. Tap water can safely be used for showering and brushing your teeth.

The Mozambique coastline stretches for almost 2,000km, covering latitudes from about 11° to 27° South, and has a tropical ocean current running north to south along its length for the whole year.

Despite this range of latitudes, the whole country broadly follows a southern African weather pattern, with the rains falling largely between December and March.

This does vary a little between the north and south of the country, with the rains lasting a few weeks longer in the north than the south, but the pattern is the same. Humidity can be uncomfortably high during this period.

Most of Mozambique's rain arrives on moist southeast trade winds, but glance at a map to see that it lies in the rainshadow of Madagascar. This gives Mozambique a relatively low annual rainfall – and a great deal of protection from the tropical storms and the occasional cyclone which head towards it during this period.

By around April or May the rains subside, the sun comes out and the humidity drops – better weather spreads gradually from the south to the north.

June to October is the dry season, with often perfect tropical weather: clear skies, plenty of sun and almost no rain. This is the best time for most people to visit Mozambique. Although still tropical, June, July and August are Mozambique's coolest months; you'll need a light duvet at night, even though the temperature reaches over 30°C by day. During September and October it remains dry as daytime temperatures climb, though it cools down a lot at night.

November is a less predictable month of transition. Sometimes the rains start, although many days remain sunny and hot. The rains generally start earlier in the north of the country.

Light clothing is a must for most of the year (do not forget your swimminwear and sunscreen!). However, during winter (June-August) it can be chilli in the evenings, so pack something warm. When visiting game reserves, remember to pack sensible walking shoes, a hat and colour appropriate clothing (browns, greens, etc). In the evenings, it is advisable to wear long sleeved shirts to protect from the mosquitoes. 

There are many internet cafes in Maputo and almost all major hotels have internet access. Outside Maputo internet access is erratic and typically available in places frequented by tourists. 

Electrical sockets in Mozambiqueare one of two electrical socket types: Type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug) and Type M (SABS-1661). If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all types.

Electrical sockets in Mozambiqueusually supply electricity at 230 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 230 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 230 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.