Birthday Trip to South Africa with Jackie Jackson 2026!

Important: If you select the monthly payment option, your debit/credit card will be automatically charged on the same day each month as your initial deposit until paid in full in October 2025.

For example, if your deposit is made on April 15th (first payment), the next six payments will be automatically processed on the 15th of each following month.

You also have the flexibility to make additional payments or pay off your balance early by accessing your profile.

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months on the date of entry. To avoid problems at the airport on arrival, you’re advised to ensure your passport is valid.

Your passport must have at least 2 consecutive "empty" pages. Visas are issued upon arrival into South Africa. If asked, you must provide proof of sufficient funds to pay for your holiday (credit/debit cards, etc.) If you are transferring via in Johannesburg, you must pick up your luggage before you go to the domestic terminal. This applies even if you already have your boarding card for a flight to Cape Town or any other South African destinations.

U.S. Citizens (U.S. passport holders) visiting the Republic of South Africa for (90) days or less will receive the visa stamp on arrival. 

For more info: U.S. Passport Travel Information

When planning your next adventure with Two Oceans Travel and Tours, purchasing travel insurance through IMG or Allianz is a smart and essential step for a worry-free experience. IMG and Allianz offer comprehensive coverage to protect your travel investment from the unexpected—whether it’s a trip delay, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Travel confidently, knowing that we have your back every step of the way! 

IMG Travel Insurance

No specific vaccinations are required to enter South Africa for most travelers. However, if you’re coming from a country where yellow fever is present, proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required.

It's also recommended to stay up-to-date on routine vaccines, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), and other common travel vaccinations like hepatitis A and B and typhoid. In some areas, especially if you're planning to visit rural or game reserve areas, malaria prophylaxis may be advised.

Checking with the latest health advisories or the official South African health department website can give you the most current entry requirements and health recommendations. South Africa currently has no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirement for entry. However, it’s still recommended to keep up with vaccinations as a safety precaution before traveling. 

Most locals tip waiters, bar staff and other people in the service industry between 10% and 20% of the final bill, depending on the level of service. In most cases it is optional, but many restaurants now add a 10% surcharge to tables of 6 or more, which should be indicated on the bill.

South African outlets follow international protocols and produce 220-240 volts. Most sockets are suitable for rounded 3-prong plugs, while many appliances make use of 2-prong plugs. Adapters are available cheaply in supermarkets and stores throughout the city and are more expensive at major tourist locations such as the airport.

It is well known that you can experience 4 seasons in one day while in Cape Town. Since South Africa is below the equator, the seasons are opposite of those above the equator. The average temperatures are between 75-85 degrees during the day and 60-70 degrees in the evening.

Is the tap water in Cape Town safe to drink?

Absolutely! Cape Town and South Africa have some of the best drinking water in the world.

There is a wide network of banks throughout South Africa that will exchange your currency. Most major tourist locations such as the airport have dedicated foreign exchange facilities. Once you pass immigration and collect your luggage, there will be an exchange office. You must have your passport with you. You can also withdraw the local currency (Rand/ZAR) from ATM's. Contact your bank prior to departing the U.S. to inform them of your travel plans. 

Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted by most shops and outlets. The area around Cape Town and the Western Cape use chip and pin services on your cards although you can still sign if you have forgotten your pin number, or your card does not have a chip and pin. Notify your bank your travel plans.

Yes - you should bring whatever toiletries you travel with. However, in case you should leave something behind, there are ample stores within a short distance that provide items you are familiar with.

Yes, most modern cell phones will work in South Africa, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Check Compatibility: South Africa uses GSM networks (like 4G and 5G), so if your phone supports GSM technology, it should work. Verify that your phone is unlocked and compatible with the frequencies used in South Africa.

2. International Roaming: Contact your service provider to activate international roaming. Keep in mind that roaming charges can be high, so inquire about international plans for better rates.

3. Local SIM Card: To save money, you can purchase a local SIM card from providers like Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, or Telkom once you arrive. Ensure your phone is unlocked to use a local SIM.

4. eSIM Option: Some South African carriers also support eSIM technology for compatible devices, offering a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards.

5. Wi-Fi Usage: If you don’t need to make calls often, you can rely on Wi-Fi for internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom to communicate.