Make the most of your safari experience with these practical insights on money, travel, and connectivity
Practical Travel Tips
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Connectivity & Wi-Fi Most lodges, hotels, and camps in South Africa provide reliable Wi-Fi in main areas and rooms. In remote safari regions, connectivity may be limited to preserve wilderness. Mobile coverage is strong in cities and along major routes, with local SIM cards and eSIMs widely available. Money & Payments The local currency is South African Rands (ZAR). South Africa does not accept other currencies. Exchange – You can exchange money at airports, banks, and forex bureaus in towns. ATMs – Available in cities and larger towns, but not in safari areas. Credit cards – Accepted at most lodges and hotels. It is advisable to have some cash for smaller shops, stalls and some tipping.
Light Aircraft Flights Light aircraft flights link key reserves such as Sabi Sands, Madikwe, and Phinda, with the option of inter-lodge connections to reduce travel time and maximize your time on safari. These small aircraft typically carry 6 – 12 passengers and operate on a hop-on, hop-off service between lodges and regional hubs. Runways are usually gravel or grass, and flight times may vary slightly depending on routing and weather. Private charters are also available for guests seeking flexibility. Baggage Guidelines Maximum luggage weight (including photographic/filming equipment) is 20 kg/44lbs (in the hold); maximum luggage size per piece is 40 cm (16 inches) wide x 30 cm (12 inches) high x 60 cm (24 inches) long. Maximum hand luggage is 5 kg/11lbs.
Tipping Guidelines In Africa, it is custom ary – but not obligatory – to tip service staff in gratitude for good service. Tipping is usually done at the end of your safari. You are welcome to tip individual staff or place tips in the gratuity box, usually located in the main mess area. Tips for guides should be given directly to them at the end of the safari. General Guide:
20 kg * BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Ranger/ Guide Tracker
Butler
Tracker
Spa Therapist
Waiter
General Staff
Insider Tip:
$20 per day
$15 per suite per day
$10 per treatment
10-15% of meal value. Some venues include tip automatically
Housekeeping/ Drivers $30 per day
$35 - $45 per couple per day
Tips can be made in the local currency, Tipping guidelines varies from property to property and the above is a general guideline.
Maximum dimensions for ANY type of bag should not exceed 90 cm x 85 cm x 35 cm (LxWxD)
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