Before you come
Introduction
South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer the traveller a unique and inspiring experience.
Climate
South
Africa enjoys a temperate and pleasant climate, with lovely warm sunny days
most of the year. The seasons of the southern hemisphere are opposite to those
in the northern hemisphere so our summers run from November to February, when
most of the country is characterised by hot weather with afternoon thunderstorms.
Winters are generally mild and dry. South Africa enjoys one of the world's
highest average daily hours of sunshine - 8.5 compared with 3.8 in London
, 6.4 in Rome and 6.9 in New York .
For daily and long-term forecasts for South Africa , visit www.weathersa.co.za.
Passports and Visas
For
the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South
Africa for vacation,
entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South
Africa must be in
possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some
cases, a visa.
Travellers from certain regions of the world ( Scandinavia
, Japan
, the USA
, and most Western
European and Commonwealth countries) do not need to formally apply for a visa.
Upon arrival in South
Africa , countries
falling into this category will automatically be given a free entry permit
sticker that outlines how long they may remain in the country. This automatic
entry permit is usually for a maximum of 90 days, though the immigration officer
may tailor the time period according to the airline tickets held. Foreign
nationals from some other countries are offered this service, but for a maximum
of 30 days. If visitors want to stay for a longer period, they will have to
apply formally for a visa, as opposed to relying on the automatic entry permit.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South
Africa , visit the
comprehensive
South African Home Affairs Department website at: home-affairs.pwv.gov.
Accommodation
Host Family - Living in a private home is an excellent way to meet friendly, hospitable South Africans. Host families are carefully selected to fit your particular needs and to ensure that you are well looked after in a caring environment. The host families live close to the school, many within walking distance. Interaction with the host family is encouraged.
Guest Houses and B&B Establishments offer spacious rooms with en suite bathrooms. They all offer breakfast and some offer dinner as well.
Self-catering furnished apartments are available if you are looking for independence and privacy. These are available on a daily rate and are suitable if your stay in South Africa is short. A furnished apartment or room in an apartment can be leased for a longer period either by the student alone or to share with a colleague or friend.
Backpackers Lodges This budget option is a great way to meet other people who are travelling. There are plenty of backpacker lodges to choose from. This accommodation is clean and ideal for students on a limited budget.
Vaccinations
Visitors who are entering South Africa from a yellow fever zone must have a valid international yellow fever inoculation certificate. Only infants under the age of one year are exempt.
Immunisation against cholera and small pox are not required and no other vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa .