Overview
Africa is quickly becoming a popular gap year destination with the opportunity to visit South Africa for sun, sea and wild animals!
Johannesberg is the capital of South Africa but many gappers head to Cape Town to start their adventures. South Africa is a very varied country with lush green pastures, white sand beaches and snow covered mountains. With a sunny warm climate it's the perfect place to discover uniques cultures, wild animals and friendly people.
Visas
British Citizens do not need to apply for a visa for South Africa before arriving. When entering through passport control you will be given a 90 day tourist visa automatically.
Flights
Johanneburg International Airport is the major airport in South Africa and is the hub for 45 airlines from all five continents. A flight from the UK to South Africa costs around £400-600 with flights from all major airports.
Health and Safety
Hospitals and medical care is of high quality in the main cities but can be scarce outside of this. It is essential you have medical insurance as in some places an air ambulance would be the only option
In some areas of South Africa Malaria can be found so before you set off know the destinations you will visit and arrange an appointment with your GP to discuss any anti malarial drugs you may need to take. A good quality deet insect repellent is essential.
At present no additional vaccinations are required to enter South Africa. See the World Health Organisation website for more details.
Activities
- Go on safari and see rhinos, elephants, giraffes or zebras
- Go surfing or diving in crystal clear seas
- Take the backpacker BazBus on tour
- Stay on a Game Reserve
Related Companies
South Africa Backpacking Assocation (http://www.btsa.co.za) -information on backpacking around South Africa
Just Backpacking (www.backpacking.co.za)
Conclusion
If you've always dreamt of seeing rhinos in the wild or waking up to giraffes then South Africa is the destination for you. It has some of the oldest cultures in the world all for you to discover whilst getting a tan along the way!
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