Important Tips on your Travel to South Africa

South Africa has some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Especially, in terms of wildlife safaris, the destination remains the hot favourite of millions of travellers around the world. However, like any other holiday destination, South Africa has its own share of problems.

Here are some tips to ensure that your South Africa holidays pass off without a hitch.

1. South Africa has earned bad press in terms of violent crime. Try not to deviate from the planned itinerary of your tour operator and stick to your group. Do your best not to make it obvious that you are a tourist. Avoid carrying large volumes of cash or valuables. The metered taxis are a relatively safe way of travel.
2. Furthermore, if you are driving and are stopped by the police, cooperate even if the police act unreasonably. In simple words, do not let them pick a fight. Also, while driving, be wary of anyone approaching your vehicle at traffic intersections. Exercise common sense, when approached by friendly strangers, hitchhikers, or people asking for help.
3. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least a month beyond your planned stay. Your passport also needs to have two back to back blank pages. Also remember to carry a return ticket. South Africa is quite rigid about rules governing tourism, and one needs to strictly adhere to these rules.
4. It is unadvisable to display too much of physical affection to the other sex in public. This is all the more relevant for people with homosexual orientation. Although, things are pretty liberal, this is just to avoid unwanted attention.
5. Try to avoid public hospitals for medical help. Take adequate precautions against sunburn. South Africa also has a high rate of HIV. So, be wary of unprotected sex with the locals. The North-Eastern areas have the problem of malaria.