How to Find Hotels in South Africa

Develop an understanding of the growing cultural diversity in South Africa while sightseeing in Johannesburg and Cape Town, surfing off the Atlantic coast or exploring the local wildlife habitat through one of the many South African national parks. Accommodations are readily available, from inexpensive backpacker's hostels to five-star celeb-ready luxury resorts.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Passport
• A computer with Internet access

Prepare for Your Stay in South Africa

1. Fly into OR Tambo International Airport (formerly Johannesburg International Airport), the easiest airport to reach.
2. Consider buying a car for longer tours of the country, as it is often cheaper than renting.

Choose Your Location and Class of Hotel in South Africa

3. Stroll along one of the oldest streets in Cape Town and book well-tended budget accommodations on Long Street for around $50.
4. Camp in Kruger National Park to be close to the African bush and book a bungalow; costs range from $40 to $60.
5. Feel safe with a stay in a gated community inside Johannesburg; 5-star residential accommodations are available for around $300.
6. Stay at luxury 5-star accommodations along the waterfront in Cape Town and hobnob with presidents and international dignitaries. Rates range from $450 to $1,500.
7. Experience luxury in the wild with catered safari multi-night packages. To stay in tent accommodations, expect to pay around $750; for opulently decorated bungalows, prepare to pay $1,500. These packages generally include your food and lodging, and can be arranged for 3 to 7 nights.

Be Familiar With South Africa

8. Understand the immense impact AIDS and HIV have had on the country. Government officials in South Africa continue to deny the growing death rate, despite international awareness movements.
9. Take in a stunning view of Cape Town with a hike to the top of Table Mountain, over 3,500 feet above sea level.
10. To book accommodations in South Africa, call iExplore at 1-800-439-7567 or visit the link below.

Tips & Warnings

• Due to baggage theft on internal flights, opt for baggage wrap where available or use approved locks.
• Public transportation is lacking in South Africa, so plan to hire a car.
• When using your credit card in South Africa, do not let the store clerk or restaurant waiter take it from your sight and do not let anyone help you use the ATM.
• Don't pass up the opportunity to sample the growing wine selection in South Africa or attend a braai--a communal eating experience.
• Be careful after dark and stay close to your hotel. Do not wander the streets.
• Be careful while in the ocean; great white sharks have been known to attack surfers.
• Malaria cases usually occur between February and May, but the danger exists during the wet season of October to May.
• A passport with at least two blank pages in the visa section are required for entry into South Africa.