Passport and Visas

British citizens with full right of abode in the U.K. do not need a visa to visit South Africa. You should have at least six months’ validity before expiry. If you need to renew your passport you can find out about times and details at www.passport.gov.uk. You can also apply on line at this site.

If you hold a non-British passport you should check with the appropriate embassy to see if you need a visa. www.southafricahouse.com/consulate.htm can also provide full details.

It’s a good idea to photocopy your cards and passport documents before travelling and keep these separately from your wallet or handbag in case of loss or theft. At The Coachman Guest House we have an office safe for guests’ use. Most hotels have bedroom safes for guests’ valuables.

Insurance

Don’t leave home without it! And scrutinise the small print so you know what your cover is, particularly if you want to go scuba diving, bungy jumping – or whatever. Sadly, accidents and illness can sometimes happen so it is a good idea to note the insurance company’s Emergency Phone Number where you can easily find it.

Driving Licence

Normally a UK or EU Driving Licence is accepted when hiring a car. However, it makes sense to get an International Driving Licence. Please note it is an offence in South Africa NOT to produce your valid licence on the spot if requested by the Police. As elsewhere in the world the South African authorities use speed cameras widely. The difference here is there are no road hatchings, just a speed camera notice. You have been warned!

It is also an offence to drive while under the influence of alcohol.

We drive on the left here so exercise extra caution if this not the case back home. Road signs are generally clear and understandable. However one term may confuse you – “robot”. This not some mechanised Mrs Mop running around your home – or ours - but traffic lights!