Before you arrive
Pre-book and confirm the places you wish to visit
and be expected by the host.
Bring travellers cheques and one or two major credit
cards instead of cash.
Make certified copies of your Passport and all other
travel documents and bring extra passport photo's.
This will help to expedite the replacement of your
passport in the event that it is lost or stolen.
Keep these copies separate from your original documents
or Scan them on your USB flash drive and carry around
your neck.
Make copies of your travellers cheques and write down
all the important contact numbers in case you have
to cancel your credit cards or apply for travel insurance.
Keep your prescription glasses (and a extra pair)
and any medicines you may need in your carry-on luggage.
Please keep medicines in their original labelled containers
and bring copies of your prescriptions and the generic
names of your drugs. If your medication is unusual
or contains narcotics, please carry a letter from
your doctor testifying to your need to take these
drugs such pre-emptive action on your part, will save
you serious problems with our customs officials.
Place your name, address, telephone numbers and e-mail
addresses inside and outside of each piece of luggage
and remove all expired travel tags.
It is strongly suggested that you lock your luggage
with a small padlock to make it tamper proof.
Please carry the least amount of valuables required
for your trip and well beforehand ensure that you
have a safe place to keep them.
When you arrive in and explore our beautiful
country
Remember:
ALL Cities are dangerous as many thugs operate in
them, even in South Africa!
If possible, carry your own luggage and bags at the
airport, bus and train stations. Please ask your friendly
driver or staff for help at your hostel, hotel or
guest house.
Do not carry large sums of cash with you and split
the cash and cards between travellers. Try and carry
only the amount of cash and one credit card for your
day trip that you might need.
Avoid using a handbag and outside pockets, rather
carry your valuables either in your inside pockets
or a strong shoulder bag or money belt under your
clothing that is not visible. Tip: Carry a small purse
with small change and notes in public areas or when
you have to shop in crowded places.
Remember: When they bump - they steal!
Photographic equipment and cellular phones should
also be carried with caution when you are in public
places. Do not leave your equipment near open windows
or visible on your bed, pedestals or on car seats
when you drive. Make regular downloads and backup
CD's of your precious photos and memories.
Your cash, credit card and passport is safest when
you lock it in the room or hotel safe (if applicable)
or request the safe keeping at the hostel or hotel
manager.
Remain in a group, if possible and try not to wonder
off on your own.
Dress conservatively and try not to wear or display
flashy jewellery.
Travel by Car in South Africa
Never leave any valuables on your car seats that are
visible to pedestrians as this will avoid a "smash
and grab" incident. Rather lock them in your
boot/trunk or place your handbag under your seat.
This includes cellular handsets.
Keep your doors locked at all times and be aware of
pedestrians or street vendors around your car when
you stop at intersections and traffic lights.
Drive to a fuel or police station if you need directions
or a safe place to stop or rest for a while.
Be aware of the mini busses at all times as they stop
anywhere to off load or pick up passengers.
In case of theft or robbery
Cancel all your credit cards and travellers cheques
when they are stolen or lost.
Your hostel or hotel manager will assist you with
the process and contact numbers for the local police
and embassy, if required.
Most Important: STAY ALERT AT ALL TIMES!
