🇿🇦

Explore South Africa

Safari, coastlines, wine country, cities, and a deeply diverse cultural landscape.

South Africa offers wildlife, wine regions, beaches, mountains, history, and vibrant cities. English is widely used in travel, but the country has eleven official languages and strong regional identities.

Phrases Quick Mode Culture Tipping

Quick facts

LanguageEnglish

CurrencySouth African Rand (ZAR)

Emergency112

PaymentCards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas

Essential phrases

All phrases

Hello / Good afternoon

Hello / Good day

Hello

Good evening

Cultural norms

All tips

Plan transport after dark

Safety

Use trusted taxis or ride apps at night, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Ask hotels or hosts for local guidance.

English connects many settings

Language

English is widely used in travel, but local greetings in Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans can be appreciated regionally.

Braai is social

Dining

A braai is more than barbecue; it is a social gathering. If invited, bring drinks or a small contribution.

Tipping guide

Full guide

Tipping is expected in restaurants, tourism, and service settings. 10-15% is standard at restaurants; tip guides, drivers, and petrol attendants.

Restaurants

10-15%

Expected

Check for included service charges on large groups.

Petrol attendants

R5-10

Customary

Attendants pump fuel and may clean windscreens.

Parking attendants

R5-10

Customary

Common in urban parking areas.

Tour guides

10% or local equivalent

Expected for good service

Safari and private guides often rely on tips.

Use the app for quick access and saved phrases

Quick mode, category browsing, and your personal phrasebook.

Open South Africa in App