Frequently Asked Questions
Documentation & Cost Questions
Q. What travel documentation do I need?
UNITED STATES CITIZENS
All United States citizens must have a Government Issued Passport, valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your trip, in order to travel to South Africa. Your passport must have at least one blank page per stamp. More information for United States citizens can be found HERE.
NON-UNITED STATES CITIZENS
If you are NOT a United States citizen (are traveling on a non-United States passport), please verify your specific documentation and vaccination requirements with your country's consulate before departing. Please note that non-United States citizens may require a visa to enter South Africa, may require passports be valid for at least six months beyond your return date, and may require blank passport pages for entry and/or exit stamps.
ALL GUESTS
It is the sole responsibility of the attendee to verify and obtain all necessary documentation and vaccination requirements when traveling to another country. Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return and may require blank passport pages for entry and exit stamps. Some citizens may be required to obtain a Visa and/or have specific vaccinations to South Africa.
We also recommend packing a photocopy of the picture and signature pages of your passport. If your passport should get lost, the photocopies will make it much easier to get an emergency replacement.
Q. What is the cost of the trip?
The total buy-in cost of the trip is $6,500 for solo travelers, or $10,000 per couple.
Q. How much luggage can I take?
Most airlines permit each passenger to take one carry-on bag and one additional personal carry-on item, such as a purse or briefcase/laptop case. All carry-on items must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Most airlines will allow you to check bags as well. Please check with your airline to confirm current luggage limitations and any applicable fees* for carry-on and checked baggage. Please note that many airlines charge significant fees for overweight or oversized luggage. Luggage may be locked only with a TSA approved lock.
Be sure that all baggage and personal belongings are properly insured. Items such as medication, jewelry or other valuables, breakable or perishable items, and important documents should be hand-carried. Responsibility will not be assumed by the airline for loss of or damage to these items.
*Please note that all baggage fees are at your own expense.
Q. What items can I carry on?
Due to potential security issues on flights, the Transportation Security Administration has updated its aviation security measures. For the latest information regarding what to bring, what to leave at home, and what to generally expect while traveling, please visit the Transportation Security Administration website at http://www.tsa.gov/.
Q. Can I travel with my medication?
One of the more popular questions we get from travelers is: “Can I travel with my medication?” The answer is yes, with some qualifiers. Here are a few tips that you might find helpful.
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It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form (See next bullet).
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Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight. It is not necessary to place medically required liquids in a zip-top bag. However, you must tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process. Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container.
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You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.
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You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It’s highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.
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TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply.
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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.
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Nitroglycerin tablets and spray (used to treat angina episodes in people with coronary artery disease) are permitted and have never been prohibited.
Q. Should I purchase Travel Insurance?
Because unforeseen circumstances may arise, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel Insurance gives you access to a 24-hour assistance hotline for expert, personalized support in a crisis. Travel insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable trip costs - including vacation rentals, car rentals, hotels and flights - if you must cancel for a covered reason. It can also reimburse you for eligible meals, accommodation and transportation expenses during a covered delay. Travel insurance can also reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling. Travel insurance can even arrange and pay for a medical evacuation if needed. Coverage is only available for United States citizens.
Please email our Destinations Travel Partner and state your interest in purchasing travel insurance. They will provide the Sequel Travel Vacation Department with the necessary information for your travel insurance quote and connect you with an agent.
Travel Questions
Q. What airport will I arrive at and depart from?
Flights will arrive and depart from the O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).
Q. When should I leave for the airport?
The recommended airport check-in time for international flights is three hours prior to departure.
Please check with your airline for schedule changes or flight delays and confirm the recommended check-in time prior to leaving for the airport. Please remember to allow extra time if you are unfamiliar with the airport, are leaving during heavy traffic times, or have excess baggage.
For general travel information issued by the State Department, please visit the U.S. Department of State website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html.
Destination Questions
Q. What is the weather like in South Africa?
June falls within South Africa’s winter season, bringing cool mornings, mild afternoons, and mostly dry, sunny weather. In the Sandton area, daytime temperatures typically range from 60–68°F (16–20°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 39–45°F (4–7°C). Rainfall is minimal during this time of year, making it an excellent season for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In Pilanesberg Game Reserve, daytime temperatures average around 68°F (20°C), with chilly early mornings and evenings, particularly during safari game drives. The dry conditions also thin out vegetation and draw wildlife toward water sources, making June a great time for wildlife viewing. Warm layers are recommended for early mornings and evenings, while lighter clothing is comfortable during the sunny afternoons.
Q. What clothing should I pack?
In South Africa in June, the dress code is generally casual, with layers being essential for the cooler winter weather. During the day, long-sleeved shirts, jeans, trousers, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal for exploring Sandton and other destinations. Mornings and evenings can be quite cold, so bring sweaters, a warm jacket, and long pants, especially for early morning and evening safari game drives in Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Most restaurants are smart casual, so packing a few dressier outfits for dinner is recommended. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are useful for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Sun Protection
South Africa’s winter sun can still be strong, even when temperatures are cooler. Bring a high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection, particularly during outdoor excursions and safari game drives. Lightweight layers that cover your skin can also help protect against the sun during extended periods outdoors.
Safari Attire
For safari game drives in Pilanesberg Game Reserve, wear comfortable clothing. Layering is important, as early morning and evening drives can be especially chilly, while afternoons are often warmer. A warm fleece, insulated jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Avoid bright colors and consider bringing a scarf or buff for added warmth and protection from dust.
Outdoor Wear
For hiking, walking tours, and other outdoor excursions, pack comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, long pants, and breathable layers. A lightweight jacket or windbreaker is useful for cooler days and breezy conditions. Although June is generally dry in Sandton and the Pilanesberg area, a compact rain jacket can be helpful just in case. Insect repellent is also recommended for outdoor activities, particularly around the game reserve.
Dinner Attire
Restaurants in Sandton and at upscale lodges may favor a smart-casual dress code. Collared shirts, tailored trousers, dresses, blouses, and stylish jeans are suitable options for most dining occasions. Bring a sweater, blazer, or jacket for evenings, when temperatures can drop considerably. If your itinerary includes fine dining or special events, consider packing one or two slightly dressier outfits.
Q. What is the time zone in South Africa?
South Africa operates on South Africa Standard Time (SAST), which is UTC+2 year-round. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year. In June, South Africa is 8 hours ahead of New York and 9 hours ahead of Salt Lake City. Travelers arriving from the United States should plan for a significant time difference and allow time to adjust to the local schedule.
Q. What currency is used in South Africa?
The currency used in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR), abbreviated as R.
What is the current exchange rate?*
U.S. $1.00 = 16.5122 ZAR
*Exchange rates can fluctuate. Please visit XE.COM for current rates and conversions for other currencies.
Resort Questions
Where are the hotels located?
The Santon Sun & Towers is located at Corner of Alice Lane &, 5th St, Sandown, Sandton, 2196, South Africa
The Ivory Tree Game Lodge is located at Kgabo Drive, Bagatla Gate, Pilanesberg National Park, 0316, South Africa
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in at the Sandton Sun & Towers is at 2:00 PM and check out is at 11:00 AM.
Check-in at the Ivory Tree Game Lodge is at 2:00 PM and check out is at 11:00 AM
Health Questions
Q. What if I have a special health concern?
If you have any health concerns that may require special attention, please contact us prior to departure. Passengers requiring prescription medications are advised to keep them in their carry-on luggage. While we don't require information about the extent of your health concern or disability, the more information you can share with us about your specific needs, the better we are able to assist you.