Before You Go
Passports, visas, vaccinations, packing and everything else you need to prepare for your trip.
Passport & Visa Requirements
Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
- At least 2 blank pages for stamps (South Africa requires this)
- Make digital copies and store separately from originals
Visa Requirements by Country
South Africa
Citizens of UK, EU, USA, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Nigerian citizens require a visa — apply at your nearest South African embassy at least 8 weeks before travel.
Zimbabwe
Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport (single entry ~$30 USD, double entry ~$45 USD, KAZA UniVisa ~$50 USD for Zimbabwe + Zambia). Some countries require advance visa — verify with the Zimbabwean embassy before travel.
Namibia
Citizens of UK, EU, USA, Australia, New Zealand and most Commonwealth countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi citizens require a visa — apply in advance.
Visa requirements change. Always verify current requirements with the relevant embassy before booking travel.
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Vaccinations & Health
Recommended Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus-diphtheria
- Yellow Fever (if arriving from endemic country)
Malaria Precautions
Malaria risk exists in Kruger/Mpumalanga (South Africa), northern Namibia, and most of Zimbabwe.
Consult your doctor about antimalarial medication 4-6 weeks before travel.
Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Windhoek are malaria-free. Stadium cities are low risk — safari areas require precautions.
Your planning checklist
Essential items to prepare before you go.
Check passport validity
Must be valid for 6+ months from your travel dates. Need 2 blank pages for South Africa entry stamps.
Arrange visa if required
Check if you need a visa for South Africa, Zimbabwe or Namibia. Some can be obtained on arrival, others require advance application.
Get travel vaccinations
Visit a travel clinic for Hep A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus and Yellow Fever. Schedule at least 4 weeks before travel.
Buy travel insurance
Cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and evacuation. Essential for safari activities.
Notify your bank
Tell your bank your travel dates so cards aren't flagged as fraudulent when used in Southern Africa.
Arrange transport
Book flights, rental cars or transfers. Stadium cities book up during major events.
Book accommodation
Hotels near stadiums and popular safari lodges fill quickly. Reserve for best availability.
Check malaria precautions
If visiting safari areas (Kruger, Etosha, Hwange), consult a doctor about malaria medication. Stadium cities are malaria-free.
What to pack
October/November in Southern Africa is late spring — warm days, occasional rain.
Cricket Days
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Light layers (stadiums can get cool in evening)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket (November = early summer storms)
Safari Days
- Neutral colours (khaki, olive, beige)
- Long sleeves for morning game drives
- Binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Insect repellent (DEET-based)
Currency & Payments
South Africa
South African Rand (ZAR)
Check current rates before travel
Cards widely accepted. Tip 10-15% at restaurants.
Zimbabwe
US Dollar (USD)
USD is the standard currency
Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10). Cards less reliable outside cities.
Namibia
Namibian Dollar (NAD)
Pegged 1:1 to South African Rand
South African Rand accepted everywhere in Namibia.
Money Tips
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
- Carry a backup card from a different bank
- Use no-FX-fee cards like Wise or Revolut
- Airport exchange rates are poor — use ATMs instead