African cuisine is a mixture of foods from all over the world, yet distinctly South African. Traditional cookery of South Africa is often referred to as "Cape Dutch". This cuisine is characterized by the use of spices such as nutmeg, allspice and hot peppers. Curry dishes are also quite popular in South Africa. Whether you are adventurous and want to try kudu or crocodile, or maybe you seek a vegetarian option; you will find something to please every palate.
FAQ
South Africa is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time ( 6 hours during Daylight Savings Time).
It is a condition of booking, that the sole responsibility lies with the guest to ensure that they carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover themselves, as well as any dependants/traveling companions for the duration of their trip to Southern Africa. This insurance should include cover in respect of, but not limited to, the following eventualities: cancellation or curtailment of the safari, emergency evacuation expenses, medical expenses, and repatriation expenses, damage/theft/loss of personal baggage, money and goods.
South Africa is casual. There is little to no opportunity for fashion while on safari though you may wish to bring a nice outfit for a special dinner. Lighter and more natural colors such as khaki, brown, beige, olive and green should be worn during the day. During the nights, the color of your clothing is irrelevant. Temperatures vary greatly throughout the course of the day; therefore it is advised to dress in layers. A complete packing list will be given at a later date.
English is spoken throughout South Africa.
Valid passports are required for all visitors into South Africa , Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. Visas are required for some countries; however, travelers from Commonwealth countries, Japan, the United States and the European Union do not need visas for visits of up to 90 days.
Private guided tours are always recommended for a full experience and usually included where available for all experiences unless specifically requested not to include.
Private transfers are included with most safaris, unless requested not to be included. While taxis are available, it is highly recommended to use the private transfers.
To get the best experience, your children should be at least five years old to fully experience South Africa.
Live Africa recommends that you consult with your physician about vaccinations. No vaccinations are required, but here is a list of recommendations.
Absolutely, South Africa is home to many world class golf courses; including Leopard Creek, Gary Player Country Club at Sun City and Wild Coast Country Club. Live Africa will tailor make each safari to cater to your individual requests.
- Direct flights from the United States to South Africa are offered by South African Airways and Delta.
- South African Airways flies directly to Johannesburg from New York, JFK and Washington DC, Reagan International.
- South African Airways also flies directly to Cape Town from New York, JFK.
- Delta flies directly to Johannesburg from Atlanta and New York, JFK.
- Alternative routings are available for most European destinations. Daily flights are offered from London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Paris.
Direct flights from the Atlanta to Johannesburg are around 18 hours and flights from London to Johannesburg are around 11 hours.
Pricing and itineraries vary depending on length of your trip and the level of luxury of your experiences; Live Africa caters to your budget, and will make recommendations without any obligations.
It depends on your interests, budget and time frame. We are here to tailor make a unique experience of a lifetime.
Because of the travel time required to get to South Africa, it is recommended that you plan to be on safari for at least 10 days. During that period, you will be able to see the various different regions that Southern Africa has to offer.
All of the camps that we work with are of the highest quality and therefore strive to provide guests with the most comfortable environment possible. Electricity is available in most of the camps and those that do not are equipped with solar powered lighting. The power in South Africa is 220 volts. Most travelers to South Africa only need the universal “plug” converter which you can purchase at most travel stores. Most laptops, cameras and other mobile devices have converters built into them (the black box on the power cord) so it is safe to plug your devices into South African power using only the “plug” adaptor. The most common mistake is that hairdryers as they DO NOT have built in power converters unless they specifically state that they are able to handle 220 volts.
Your cell phone will work in most areas, but you must remember to have the international roaming activated on your phone. For more details, please contact your phone service provider. Coverage Map