Travel Tips & Etiquette
Travelling to South Africa from the UK is culturally straightforward, but these local tips can help you travel smart and respectfully.
Here’s what you need to know before you arrive.
A friendly “Hello” or “How are you?” is the norm when entering shops, petrol stations, or restaurants.
People often go straight to using first names – but polite greetings are always appreciated.
Don’t be surprised if conversations with locals feel relaxed, familiar, and easy-going – that’s part of the charm.
Tipping is expected and forms part of many service workers’ income.
Here’s a quick guide:
Restaurants: 10–15% (check if gratuity is already added for large groups)
Parking attendants & car guards: R5-R10
Hotel porters & housekeeping: R20–R50
Safari guides & lodge staff: Tip at the end of your stay – many lodges give guidance on suggested amounts
South Africans tend to dress smart casual in cities and more relaxed at coastal and safari destinations.
In Cape Town, you’ll see everything from fashion-forward brunchers to hiking boots at cafés.
In safari lodges, relaxed casual attire is perfect however try avoid bright colours during drives.
For upscale dining or wine estates, pack at least one outfit that feels polished (dresses, shirts, chinos – no need for jackets or heels unless you want to).
The good news is that SA roadways are left-hand drive (like the UK)
Roads between major cities and regions are generally excellent
Be aware of loadshedding affecting traffic lights and treat intersections as 4-way stops when necessary
Watch for potholes, speed bumps, animals, and taxis
South Africa uses Type M plugs (three round pins, 220V)
Power cuts (loadshedding) are less common – but most hotels and lodges have backup power
Mobile networks are strong in most areas, and local SIMs or eSIM packages are cheap and work perfectly.
South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is widely spoken in all tourist areas.
You’ll likely hear:
Afrikaans in the Western Cape and countryside
isiZulu or Sesotho in Johannesburg, Durban, and the north
Try these friendly words:
“Dankie” = Thank you (Afrikaans)
“Sawubona” = Hello (Zulu)
“Howzit?” = Casual “How are you?” / “What’s up?”