South Africa is a wonderful place to visit, but you should do plenty of planning and prepping before you go. That way, you’ll know what to expect, and you won’t miss out on anything you might want to do. With that in mind, here are some of the things you need to know before booking your trip.

Visa Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter South Africa. Make sure you know whether this applies to you, and if it does, ensure you have the necessary documents before you travel (ideally before you book any travel arrangements, just to make sure).

Even if you don’t need a visa, it’s wise to check any passport requirements and make sure your passport is in date and valid. The last thing you want to do is arrive at the airport and not be able to enter the country because your passport has expired.

Health and Safety

South Africa is a truly beautiful country, but that doesn’t mean you won’t need extra safety precautions when you go. Speak to your doctor about travelling if you have any specific conditions or take medication, and always make sure you get travel insurance, especially if you are planning to take on any adventurous challenges while you’re on holiday – hiking Table Mountain might be fun, but there is always an element of danger attached, for example.

It’s also wise to keep up to date with the safety of the country itself and make sure it is a good time to travel. Stay informed about the local safety situation as much as you can and practice common sense when it comes to where you go, what you do, and how you take care of your belongings.

Climate and Packing

When you are going away from home for any length of time, you need to pack a bag to match your trip requirements. South Africa actually has a very diverse climate, so you’ll need to research precisely whereabouts you’re going to ensure you are taking the right kinds of clothes with you.

As well as clothes, you’ll need other essentials like comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and the right clothes for safaris and outdoor activities if you’re taking part in them – you can’t wear your swimming costume for these.

Try New Things

There is so much to do in South Africa that it can be tempting just to stick to the things you’ve done elsewhere and that you know you like. Although this can be fun, it can also mean you miss out on a lot of the country, so try to mix in some new things along with the tried and tested favourites.

One good option would be to travel by the Blue Train. This luxurious and unforgettable mode of transport will take you across South Africa, allowing you to admire the views and see the countryside in ultimate comfort. On top of the beautiful scenery and comfort, you’ll be completely pampered on your journey, thanks to private bathrooms, personal entertainment systems, and elegant luxury suites. What more could you need?