Guides
The things you need to know before you go, each with the date we checked it and the sources behind it.
South Africa
5 GUIDES- Best Time to Visit Kruger: Month by MonthFor game viewing, go in the dry season, June to September, when the bush is thin, animals gather at water and malaria risk is lowest. For birds, green scenery and fewer cars outside the holidays, go November to March and accept heat, rain and malaria tablets.
- Kruger Gate Times by Month and Entrance GatesKruger's entrance gates open at 05:30 from October to March and 06:00 from April to September. Gates close between 17:30 (May to July) and 18:30 (November to February). Camp gates open an hour earlier, at 04:30, from November to January.
- SANParks Wild Card 2026: Prices and When It PaysThe International Wild Card costs R4,680 for one person, R7,310 for two and R8,745 for a family (prices to 31 October 2026). It only covers daily conservation fees. In Kruger a couple needs about 7 park days to come out ahead, a solo traveller about 8.
- South Africa Entry Requirements 2026: Visas and RulesUK, Irish, US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and most EU passport holders get 90 days visa-free. Your passport needs 30 days left after you leave and two blank pages. Since 1 July 2026 everyone must also file a free online traveller declaration with SARS.
- South Africa Travel Essentials for First VisitorsSouth Africa uses the rand (ZAR) and cards work almost everywhere. Tip 10 to 15% in restaurants and keep small notes for petrol attendants and car guards. Plugs are Type M, N and C at 230 V. You drive on the left. Dial 112 from a mobile in an emergency. No load shedding since May 2025.