Indonesia forms one corner of the coral triangle, which is the epicenter of world marine biodiversity. With 20% of the world’s coral reefs, it is one of the ultimate scuba diving destinations. Some dive destinations are situated in marine conservation parks.
Thousands of tropical islands, many deserted, straddle the equator. The Indian Ocean dominates the western side of the Republic while the Pacific Ocean lies in the east.
There are over 3,000 fish species and 600 species of coral. The diving is diverse with steep walls, deep-water trenches, underwater volcanic mountains, World War II wrecks, pelagic life, an endless variety of macro life and extraordinary muck diving.
Many destinations have excellent land-based diving, while some remote areas need to be dived by livaboard.
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Getting You Started
Situated at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa is edged on 3 sides by approx 3000km of coastline.
South Africa is bordered in the north by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and also wraps itself around two independent countries, the Lesotho and Swaziland.
The international country code for South Africa is +27 + area code. Time zone GMT + 2
Entry & Visa Requirements (subject to change)
South Africa requires a valid yellow fever certificate from all foreign visitors and citizens over 1 year of age travelling from an infected area or having been in transit through infected areas. For visa requirements, please contact your nearest South African diplomatic mission.
Medical & Health Requirements
There are many world-class private hospitals and medical centers around the country, especially in the urban centers. Most of South Africa is malaria-free, but always check with the game reserves you're planning to visit and take precautions if necessary.
(For further details please contact Travel Vax on 1300 360 164).
Currency
South Africa's currency is the Rand, which offers visitors great value for money. The rand comes in a range of coins (R1 = 100 cents) and note denominations of R10, R50, R100.
1 AUD = approximately 6.6 Rand (Nov 2010).
Banking: Most major banks have branches in the main tourist centres. Weekdays from 08h30/09h00 to 15h30. Saturdays from 08h00/08h30 to 11h00. Banks are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Baggage (International flights Ex Australia)
Please enquire at time of booking.
(Subject to change without notice)
Duty Free
Wine not exceeding 2 litres per person over the age of 18.
Spirits and alcohol not exceeding l litre per person over the age of 18.
Cigarettes not exceeding 200 and cigars not exceeding 20 per person over the age of 18.
250g cigarette tobacco or pipe tobacco per person over the age of 18
Perfumery not exceeding 50ml and toilet water not exceeding 250ml per person
Weather
South Africa has a temperate climate and is known for its long sunny days, hence the title: 'Sunny South Africa'. Most of the provinces have summer rainfall, except for the Western Cape (winter rainfall). Winter is from May to August; Spring from September to October; Summer from November to February and Autumn is from March to April. |
Clothing
For the summers, bring clothes that are cool and comfortable, along with an umbrella or rain jacket, as this is when most of the country gets rain. A light jacket or wrap is a good precaution. Don't forget a swimming costume. The winters are generally mild, comparing favourably with European summers. Make sunglasses, a hat and sun block a firm part of your skincare kit.
Electricity
The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. With a few exceptions (in deep rural areas) electricity is available almost everywhere. (For further details refer to http://www.kropla.com/electric2.htm).
Language
South Africa is a multi-lingual country and there are 11 official languages including: English and Afrikaans
Religion
Almost 80% of South Africa's population is Christian. Other major religious groups include Hindus, Muslims, Jews and Buddhists.
Water
Check with resort if tap water is drinkable. If in doubt, drink bottled water.
Shopping
One can spend hours in the country's shopping malls (usually open 7 days a week), trawl South Africa's excellent art galleries for that perfect piece, indulge in good-natured haggling in one of the many flea markets found in most South African cities, or find a bargain at a roadside vendor.
Tipping
Tipping is widely practiced in South Africa. In restaurants and bars, 10% is the accepted tipping standard. Some of the other service providers you may want to tip are taxi drivers, tour guides and assistants in hairdressers and beauty salons.
Diving
Perhaps it's wise to consider what it is you wish to do and see, before deciding when to visit South Africa.
As the South African coast stretches so far, there are many choices and different styles of diving to choose from. The cold waters from the Cape Province, the warmer waters off KwaZulu Natal and even the tropical waters off Mozambique, provide different experience for divers all years round.
Departure Tax
Generally included in your international air ticket.
Overseas visitors can claim refunds of VAT (14%) paid on goods that they take out of South Africa. |
