South Africa Travel Vaccines and Advice
Located at the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa impresses most visitors. Its diverse culture, varied natural landscapes and rich historical heritage make it an exceptional place to visit. From beaches of golden sands and mountain ranges to national parks and nature reserves; there is something for everyone. Would you enjoy a safari from Kruger Park to Swaziland? Let your desires guide you and enjoy this country of many aspects in all its splendour. In addition, South Africa promises a comfortable and peaceful living environment. The best time to venture to this destination is during the spring when the climate proves milder, and the surrounding nature offers all its best.
Recommended travel vaccinations for South Africa
| Vaccine | Disease Transmission |
|---|---|
| Traveler’s diarrhea | Contaminated water/food |
| Cholera | |
| Typhoid | |
| Hepatitis A | |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated body fluids (blood, sex, razors, needles, etc.) |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Recommended Medication for Travelling to South Africa
| Medication | Additional Information |
|---|---|
| Acetazolamide/Dexamethasone | Recommended for prevention of acute mountain sickness |
| Azithromycin/Suprax | Antibiotic in case of traveler’s diarrhea |
| Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine | Recommended anti-malaria medication |
Current weather in South Africa
Medical Care in South Africa
The quality of medical care in South Africa is good in relation to other countries on the continent. Emergency services are generally reliable, and medical treatments are free for certain categories of people such as pregnant women and children under six. However, there is a significant difference between the medical care in large cities and that in rural areas. Major hospitals are concentrated in cities, beaches and national parks yet rural health centers are almost non-existent.
In total, there are 232 hospitals in South Africa. Although the majority of these are private and provide quality medical treatment, they are considerably more expensive. On the other hand, public hospitals are overwhelmed and often experience equipment shortages. Provincial ministries of health oversee local emergency and ambulance services, as well as creating national drug policies and strict health regulations. In South Africa, it is currently possible to find most of the prescription drugs available coming from the United States. Doctors and hospitals must be paid in cash after consultations, even despite having a travel health insurance.
To call an ambulance, dial 10177.
Is South Africa Safe for Travel?
| Safety and Security | Descriptive |
|---|---|
| Crime | High level for travelers |
| Hotel theft | Common |
| ATMs | ATM scam alert |
| Demonstrations | Risk of violence |
| Terrorism | Risk present |
| Regional unrest | Xenophobia; avoid demonstrations |
| Road safety | Good; unless in remote areas |
| Public transportation | Not recommended |
| Reserves and safaris | Always enjoy at a safe distance |
| Beaches | Unpredictable water currents and shark attacks |
| Townships and rural areas | To be avoided |
| Fraud | Be cautious when using a credit card |
| Risk level | High degree of caution |
Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Africa?
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
If you’re a Canadian citizen and staying under 90 days, then only a passport is required. It must be valid at least 30 days after the expected date of departure.
You will receive a temporary residents visa (TRV) upon arrival, make sure you don’t stay over the date limit to avoid legal problems.
Proof of immunization (risk of Yellow Fever) and a return or onward ticket are required.
If a visa is required, an interview in person is required with valid documentation at the Consulate-General for South Africa or High Commission. It could happen that you’ll need a biometric scan to complete the task.
Please click here for more information.
Embassy of Canada to South Africa information
When travelling to another country, it is important to know where the Canadian embassy is located in the event of:
- A legal problem
- A lost passport
- The need to report a crime
It is advisable to make a copy of your original passport in case you lose it.
Canadian Consulate to South Africa
Street Address:
1103 Arcadia Street, Hatfield
Pretoria, South Africa
(Corner Arcadia and Hilda Streets)
Tel.: 27 (12) 422-3000
Fax: 27 (12) 422-3052
Email: [email protected]