Southern Africa
A region of diversity, breathtaking scenery and a melting pot of cultures. One of the world's wildlife hotspots, where the Big Five can be spotted in game reserves across the region. Mountains, beaches, jagged coastlines and desertscapes set the stage for endless adventure: sailing, shark-cage diving, surfing and bungee jumping, all with panoramic views.
Popular places to visit
- South Africa
- Namibia
- Botswana
- Zambia
Travelling to Southern Africa?
We arrange flights, accommodation, visa assistance, travel insurance and car hire.
When to go
- High season
- Mid season
- Low season
High season
Plan for inclement weather in the north. The heat can be intense but the atmosphere is amazing, and birdwatching and thunderstorms are at their best.
Mid season
Comfortable in the region's central areas. A great time to visit, with good wildlife viewing and fewer tourists.
Low season
Most places bask in temperate sunshine with comfortable, often chilly, nights. Cape Town's Mediterranean climate brings rain and gusty winds.
Money matters
- Money
- ATMs are widely available in larger towns and cities. Credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants and hotels, especially in South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana and Namibia.
- Currency
- South African rand (ZAR), Namibian dollar (NAD), Botswana pula (BWP) and Zambian kwacha (ZMW). US dollars are accepted at many lodges and tourist businesses outside South Africa.
- Bargaining
- Bargaining is the norm in tourist areas, markets and many street stalls. Away from tourist areas, and for everyday items, the price quoted is often the real price, so don't assume it's too high. Traders are rarely trying to rip you off. Decide what you're prepared to pay, and if you can't agree, decline politely and move on.
- Credit cards
- Most credit and debit cards work in ATMs across South Africa, Malawi, Botswana and Namibia. In other countries ATMs are found mainly in capital cities and larger towns, and aren't always reliable. Cards can also be used for cash advances, but this can take time and interest charges can be high.
Etiquette
Southern Africans are generally relaxed with visitors, and good manners go a long way. A few guidelines are worth keeping in mind.
- Greetings
- Greetings are always important. Even if you're in a hurry, greet people, ask how they are and how their day is going.
- Elders
- Treat elders and people in positions of authority with deference and respect.
- Gifts
- In many areas it's polite to accept a gift with both hands, sometimes with a slight bow.
- Shaking hands
- There are many local versions of the handshake, and learning the local one is a quick way to make friends. A two-handed handshake (your left hand on your right elbow while you shake) is often preferred to a Western-style one.
- Public displays of affection
- These are rarely a good idea and are frowned upon in non-urban areas.
Plan a trip to Southern Africa
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you'd like to see, and a consultant will put together an itinerary for you.