This extrememly beautiful country, surrounded by the Indian and Atlantic oceans on the southern reaches of the African continent, has something to offer every person - ranging from the continental sidewalk cafes of Cape Town to big game viewing in the many national parks. There are snow-capped mountains, raging rivers, placid lakes, dense forests, tropical beaches, arid deserts and rolling savannah. Spread across the land are several large, bustling, cosmopolitan cities and many quaint, rural villages.

The transport infrastructure is the best in Africa and comparable to most developed countries - travelling log distance across the country is relatively hassle free. There are domestic flights between most towns, many are connected by rail and the vast bus service network is fast, efficient and well-organised. For many visitors, however, car hire is the preferred option as it provides the opportunity to explore off the beaten track and get to the heart of the country.

South Africa shares borders with Namibia to the north-west, Botswana to the north and Zimbabwe and Mozambique to the north-east. The country totally surrounds land-locked Lesotho and partially surrounds Swaziland to the east.

South Africa has nine provinces: Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North West, Free State, Northern Cape.

Useful Information

Driving: There are many car rental options available throughout the country and at all major airports. We advise booking a rental car once you arrive, when it is often cheaper. South Africa generally has an excellent road network, comparable to the Unites States or Europe. When entering rural South Africa you will, however, note a distinct change in the quality of the roads, which often require 4*4 vehicles to get through. South Africa  drives on the left side of the road, and this inevitably poses a challenge to all visitors who are not from U.K., Australia, or other left hand drive countries.The speed limit ranges from 60 km p.h. (30 mph) to 120 km p.h (70 mph) and is enforced througout the country. A valid driver's license is accepted, provided the photograph of the driver is on the document and it is in English. If not, then an international driver's license is required.

Currency

The South African currency is the Rand.  R1 = 100 Cents  $1USD = approximately R7.50                              Denominations come in R1, R2, R5 coins and R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200 notes.

Drinking Water

Feel comfortable to drink tap water in any of the major metropolitan areas. The water is purified and 100% safe.

Electricity

This is 220/230 volts AC, and you will therefore require an AC converter if you are travelling from US, Europe, etc, where the voltage is different. We recommend purchasing your AC converter from outside of SA, where it is generally cheaper.

Entry Requirements

Passport holders from more than 80 countries including the USA, EU, Japan, Canada can visit South Africa without a visa. Please visit your local South African Consulate if you need more details in this regard.

Immunization

If you're visiting one of the malaria areas direactly upon arrival in South Africa, be sure to consult your  physician prior to leaving home. If you're going to spenf