When visiting South Africa, there are a few housekeeping guidelines and other things to be aware of. Here is our list of the top ten things tourists should never do in this stunning country.
Do not mispronounce Zebra.
Locals are irritated by the way the word “Zebra” is pronounced. To avoid getting corrected by a nature enthusiast, pronounce it “zeh-bra” rather than “zee-bra”.
Don’t underestimate the country’s size.
Traveling through South Africa is not something to be done on the spur of the moment. Make careful to plan your vacation ahead of time, especially if you’re going on a road trip.
Expect to witness wild creatures wherever you go.
South Africa is home to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife, but don’t expect to see lions strolling city streets. There are some exceptions, but visiting a national park is your best chance if you want to see wildlife.
Don’t forget to leave a tip.
Tipping is customary in South Africa, and it is customary to include at least 10% of your bill. This applies to restaurants, cafes, and even bars. Tipping is also customary for services such as getting your hair washed at a hairdresser.
Don’t flaunt your fancy electronics and jewelry.
When touring the country, avoid flashing costly cameras, jewelry, or cash, and avoid leaving goods unsecured. When renting a car, make sure it’s locked and don’t leave valuables on the seats for everyone to see.
Do not feed or interact with the animals.
When visiting South Africa, you must include a visit to a national park on your schedule. Keep in mind that the animals you will see are wild and should not be fed or touched. Stay in your vehicle at all times, no matter how cute or harmless they appear.
Don’t be startled if a gas station attendant insists on filling your tank.
South African drivers do not fill up their own automobiles; this is done by petrol attendants. Public service jobs are vital for job generation, and these attendants will do everything from washing your windshield to directing you. Don’t forget to tip one more.
Don’t be hurried.
Have you ever heard of African time? It does exist, and it is very visible in South Africa. Capetonians are noted for their calm driving style, although service delivery throughout the country can appear excruciatingly slow to visitors. Simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Don’t underestimate the power of the sun.
Even South Africans complain about the heat. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, especially if you’re going to the beach or trekking some of the country’s gorgeous trails.
Do not limit your travels to popular tourist destinations.
It’s easy to get caught up in the buzz surrounding big cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, and it’s understandable. There are, however, numerous hidden gems sprinkled throughout the country that are all well worth a visit.
Don’t assume that everyone speaks English.
South Africa is a varied country with many different cultures, the majority of whom speak English. Despite the fact that Spanish is a second language and one of 11 official languages, travellers should face no linguistic obstacles.
