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Driving Tips in South Africa

Drive on the Left hand side of the Road.


4-way stop:

At these intersections, the first vehicle to arrive has right of way. Ensure that you come to a complete stop before you proceed.

Traffic Lights:

In South Africa, traffic lights are called "robots" - South Africans giving you directions may tell you to "turn left at the next robot".

Traffic circles:

Give way to vehicles on your right and travel around the circle in a clockwise direction.

Buying Fuel:

In South Africa you can only buy fuel with cash or South African petrol cards. Credit cards are not accepted by petrol stations.

Seat belts:

It is compulsory by law for drivers and all passengers to wear there seatbelts.

Parking:

It is illegal to park your car on the opposite side of the road facing oncoming traffic. You must park your car on the left hand side of the road.

Speed Limits:

The speed limit in an urban area is 60km/hour. On main roads and freeways it is 120km/hour but speed limits are often reduced when approaching built up areas. Watch the road signs for the speed limit applicable.

Mobile Phones:

It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

And lastly:

South African drivers flash their hazard lights to say "thank you" to courteous drivers.

Tipping in South Africa

For airport and hotel porters, the norm is R10-R15 per person in the group. In restaurants, 10% of the bill is generally left for the waiter (gratuity is not usually included in the bill although it is sometimes included for large groups). Taxi drivers are usually tipped 10% of the fare. If you park in a public area, there may be car guards to watch your car and R2-R5 is the recommended tip, depending on how long your car was parked there.

Electricity in South Africa

The standard elctricity supply in South Africa is 220/230 volts AC50Hz. International adapters can be purchased at airports and most curio shops.

VAT in South Africa

All purchases made while in South Africa are subject to a government Value Added Tax (set at 14%). Upon departure, you may claim a VAT refund on items exceeding R250 that you are taking home with you. VAT is not refundable on hotel bills and items you have consumed in South Africa.

Handy Telephone Numbers

Please note that (found next to all accommodation) "+27" is the extension for South African telephone numbers and replaces the "0" normally found at the beginning of a number. If calling from outside of South Africa please consult your phone directory for the applicable extensions.

Emergency

Directory Enquiries

Lost/Stolen Cards

Airlines

Car Rental