Many Russians choose South Africa as their holiday destination. The republic is characterized by a distinct African flavor, developed tourism infrastructure, and good service.
In many regions of Africa, there is a high incidence of infectious and viral pathologies. Vaccination is the only way to reliably protect against infection. Therefore, you need to know what vaccinations are needed for South Africa.
Do I need to be vaccinated to travel to South Africa?
South Africa is a relatively safe place in Africa in terms of infection. The republic is characterized by cleanliness and low incidence of disease. While relaxing in central resorts, tourists do not have to worry about their health.
Therefore, vaccinations are not necessary. But the risk of infection is still present. It is recommended to be immunized against hepatitis A, typhoid fever, and yellow fever.
Also, do not forget about timely vaccination against hepatitis type B, rubella, tetanus, mumps, measles, and diphtheria. Tourists who plan to visit national zoos should get vaccinated against rabies in advance. The listed diseases are common in Russia and can also affect the body in the territory of the Republic of South Africa.
It is recommended that the following categories of people be vaccinated for travel to South Africa:
- children;
- elderly;
- weakened.
Those who plan to visit neighboring countries and border areas should undergo immunization. There is a high risk of getting sick in the areas where the Kruger Park and Victoria Falls are located.
To travel to Zimbabwe, you need a vaccination certificate stating that you have received the yellow fever vaccine. Without such paper you will not be allowed on board the plane.
Vaccination is mandatory for tourists traveling to South Africa from Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. Here, when crossing the border, you are asked to show a valid document confirming the completion of immunoprophylaxis against yellow fever.
It is worth noting that in South Africa, tourists and local residents traveling to other regions of Africa are vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, yellow fever and other diseases.
Specific immunity is developed within about a month. During this period, the body's defenses weaken slightly and you can become infected with a dangerous pathology. Therefore, it is recommended to get vaccinated some time before flying to South Africa.
Features of vaccination
Vaccinations should be done no later than ten days before travel. During this time, the body will have time to begin producing antibodies against the infection. According to research, ten days after vaccination, the likelihood of suffering from pathogenic microorganisms is minimized, but some injections must be given again in order to develop a stable immune response.
If you need to get several vaccinations, you should plan your visits to a specialist so that the interval between them is at least a month. This will avoid excessive stress on the body. First of all, it is recommended to get an injection for yellow fever, since this disease is common in most African countries.
Vaccination is not done in the following cases:
- age less than 9 months;
- the presence of oncology and other diseases associated with immunodeficiency;
- pregnancy;
- the need to take antibiotics or long-term use of corticosteroids;
- allergic reaction to egg white;
- fructose intolerance;
- diseases accompanied by increased body temperature.
Travelers over 60 years of age are allowed to cross the border of the continent without vaccination certificates, but if there are no contraindications, it is better to get an injection.
You should not drink alcohol for several days before vaccination and 10 days after it. Otherwise, the effectiveness of the vaccine will decrease and encephalitis may develop.
Typically, vaccination does not cause significant discomfort in a person. But in 1% of cases side effects occur:
- redness and formation of a lump at the injection site;
- pain in joints and muscles;
- enlarged lymph nodes;
- chills;
- migraine;
- nausea and vomiting;
- rash;
- Quincke's edema due to protein intolerance.
Does South Africa have yellow fever?
There is virtually no yellow fever in South Africa today.
But, since the Republic of South Africa is a favorite destination for tourists, there is a risk of contracting this dangerous pathology from visitors. You can also get yellow fever when visiting Zimbabwe. Epidemics usually occur in rural areas. But there is a risk of infection in cities.
Mosquitoes are considered to be carriers of this pathology: the virus enters the bloodstream through an insect bite. The first symptoms are severe hyperthermia and severe weakness.
A blood test is performed to detect yellow fever. The disease is difficult to treat. In addition, South Africa does not have a high quality of medical services. Therefore, when going to South Africa, it is better to protect yourself from infection by getting immunized. The yellow fever vaccine is active for up to 10 years. The vaccine causes virtually no adverse reactions.
African countries
Despite the increasing interest in this place, there are still several unexplored and dangerous territories for tourism.
And yet, more than 40 countries are considered comfortable and safe due to the development of tourism infrastructure.
- North Africa includes countries such as Libya, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, and Tunisia. Popular resorts are Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt.
- West Africa includes Guinea, Ghana, Mali, Senegal and others.
- Central Africa is divided into Angola, Gabon, Congo, Chad.
- Countries included in South Africa include Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia.
- East Africa consists of Madagascar, Uganda, Rwanda, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya and others.
Africa appears to tourists from different angles, it all depends on the country, climate, and standard of living.
To travel to the mysterious continent, you need to familiarize yourself with a number of issues.
Malaria prevention measures
Malaria is a life-threatening infectious pathology. You can get rid of it completely only with treatment started at the first stage of the disease. Malaria is not particularly common in South Africa, but it is best to know how to prevent infection.
It is important to avoid mosquito bites in every possible way; for this, experts recommend that tourists:
- wear light-colored clothes with long sleeves;
- use mosquito repellents;
- hang mosquito nets on hotel windows;
- go to bed with the air conditioner on;
- do not use cologne or perfume;
- When planning a safari trip to the Kruger Park, you should use preventive medications. For example, it is recommended to take the drug Hingamine. This medicine is taken first twice a week, 0.5 grams for 14 days, then once every 7 days. You can also start taking Mefloquine tablets in advance, which are freely available in South Africa;
- At the first symptoms of malaria, you should immediately contact your local doctor.
Every year, 1,000,000-3,000,000 people on the planet die from malaria. Moreover, about 90% of deaths occur in African regions located south of the Sahara Desert. Children under five years of age are especially susceptible to infection.
Reminder for tourists in South Africa
Capital
There are actually three capitals in South Africa: Pretoria (the main; administrative capital, since the government of the country is located there);
Cape Town (legislative, because there is parliament) and Bloemfontein (judicial, because there is the Supreme Court). Population:
About 57.5 million people (26th place in the world).
Visa
The abolition of visas to South Africa for Russians came into force in March 2021. Citizens of the Russian Federation can stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days.
Customs regulations
You can import duty free into South Africa: 400 cigarettes; 50 cigars; 250 g of cigarette or pipe tobacco; 2 liters of wine; 1 liter of other alcoholic drinks; 50 ml perfume; 250 ml of eau de toilette; gifts, souvenirs and other goods worth no more than R500.
Persons under 18 years of age are not allowed to transport tobacco or alcoholic beverages.
A strict ban applies to the import of weapons and drugs. You cannot import vegetables and fruits.
It is not allowed to export rough diamonds from South Africa, and for products made of precious metals and diamonds you must have an appropriate certificate from the store.
Tourists have the right to take any amount of legally purchased goods out of the country. If you have purchased and want to take with you skins, stuffed wild animals or ivory, as well as products made from them, you must present the documents received upon purchase to customs.
You can bring an unlimited amount of foreign currency into South Africa. However, the import of local currency is limited to R500 per person. This corresponds to the amount that can be carried when leaving South Africa. If you need to export a larger amount, you must obtain permission from the Reserve Bank of South Africa (The South African Reserve Bank, tel. (27 12) 313 3911; POBox 427 Pretoria 0001).
Language
English is widely used and is one of 11 official languages.
Banks and currency
The currency is the South African rand (R), equal to 100 cents with the international symbol ZAR. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10 rand and coins in denominations of 5, 2, 1 rand, as well as 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent. As of January 2021 1 USD = approximately 13.5 ZAR.
When making cash payments, it is customary to use only local currency. Foreign currency is exchanged at airports, train stations, hotels, and numerous bank branches. Fluctuations in the foreign exchange market are reflected in exchange rates on a daily basis.
All shops, hotels and restaurants accept all major types of credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club. Traveler's checks are also valid in major currencies. Credit cards are not accepted at gas stations, but there are usually ATMs there. The banking system of South Africa is quite developed. South African banks throughout the country can carry out any international transactions. Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 15:30, on Saturday from 8:30 to 11:00. ATMs are available in most cities and provide 24-hour service. Commercial banking services are available 24 hours a day at airports.
When exchanging foreign currency for rands, a receipt is issued, which should be kept until departure from the country; this document is necessary for the return exchange of rands for dollars or other currency upon departure.
Moving and Transport
Traveling around South Africa is relatively easy, by air, road and rail.
Major air routes are served by South African Airlines and British Airways, operated by Comair. There are 2 low-cost carriers on main routes: Kulula.com and Mango. There are 10 airports operated by Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) to make traveling around South Africa easier. In addition, South Africa has approximately 90 regional airports, including Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Nelspruit and Skukuza Airport, which provide access to the Kruger National Park.
South Africa's extensive road system makes travel by car easy and convenient. Although in rural areas you will still encounter gravel roads. Please note that you must have a valid International Driving Permit. In South Africa, you drive on the left. Wearing seat belts in cars is mandatory, and cell phones can only be used hands-free. Speed limits are usually set at 120 km on motorways, 100 km on minor roads and 60 km in urban areas. Tolls are charged on certain national roads. Gas stations are widespread throughout the country. Most of the world's car rental companies have branches in South Africa.
Other means of transportation in South Africa are intercity buses such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. Metrobus buses are available as public transport. Custom taxis must be ordered by phone. Cape Town and Johannesburg have open rear deck buses.
The South African railway system includes long-distance and low-cost Shosholoza Meyl Metrorail trains. More luxurious options are the Blue Train and Premier Classe trains and the Rovos Rail steam locomotive. Gauteng also has a new high-speed rail system, the Gautrain, which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and O.R. Tambo.
Safety
As in most countries around the world, tourists are advised to take reasonable precautions. For example, you should not walk alone along unfamiliar deserted streets after dark or draw attention to your money and jewelry. To store valuables, you can use safes, which are always available in hotels. However, in the main tourist areas of the country the situation is quite calm and safe. The exception is a number of industrial areas and cities, such as Johannesburg, where a significant number of unemployed people contribute to the criminal situation.
Food and drink
Hygiene standards for health and food safety in South Africa are generally high in hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Tap water in South Africa is safe for drinking and cooking when taken from taps in urban areas. Not all water in rural areas is safe for consumption, so please take precautions when necessary. You can eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and add ice to your drinks. Fish, meat and chicken in South Africa are of excellent quality, so there is no need to limit yourself when enjoying the local cuisine.
Restaurants are subject to South African food safety regulations. The rules include certification and regular inspections by health inspectors to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.
Street food in South Africa is not as common as in other countries, although there are vendors selling traditional snacks and dishes in urban centers and towns. Food safety in such cases cannot always be guaranteed.
Climate and weather
South African temperatures, measured in degrees Celsius, range on average from 28°C to 8°C during the summer months, and from 1°C at night to around 18°C during the day during the winter months. The average annual rainfall is below 500 mm per year, making the country quite dry. Most of the winter rainfall occurs in the Western Cape, unlike the rest of the country which receives summer rainfall. However, the South African climate boasts plenty of sunshine, averaging about 8.5 hours a day.
Clothing recommendations
Summer (December-February)
Bring clothes that are cool, lightweight and comfortable, because summer temperatures in some areas can reach 30-40 ° C. Also bring an umbrella or raincoat, because this is when it rains in most of the country, but also don't forget your bathing suit.
Winter (June-August)
Winters in South Africa are generally mild compared to those in Europe. However, there are days when temperatures drop, especially in high-lying areas such as the Drakon Mountains, so be prepared to wear sweaters and jackets. It rains in Cape Town in winter, so it is advisable to have a raincoat with you.
Are common
Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as the sun can be strong even in the winter months. Comfortable shoes with durable, non-slip soles are a good idea at any time of the year, and in winter it would also be a good idea to wear socks under them.
If you are visiting South Africa on business, business attire (suit and tie) is generally encouraged in the corporate sector, while more casual attire is typically preferred in the media sector, for example.
For a safari, clothes in neutral colors and again comfortable shoes are good.
For the evening, if you are having dinner at a prestigious restaurant or watching a show, it is recommended to wear smart casual clothing.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations required. The danger of malaria is only in the northeast of the country in the Kruger Park area, in the reserves of the province of KwaZulu-Natal near the border with Mozambique and on Lake St. Lucia. When traveling here, it is recommended to take antimalarial drugs for prevention. In these areas, you should wear mosquito repellents, long socks and long sleeves. But cases of malaria in South Africa are very rare.
Time
One hour behind Moscow. For example, 10 am Moscow time corresponds to 9 am in Cape Town.
Electricity
Electricity supply in South Africa is carried out by alternating current with a voltage of 220/230 volts and a frequency of 50 hertz. However, for “European” plugs of electrical appliances you will need an adapter, which can be purchased at any supermarket. Appliances made in the USA may require a transformer.
Connection
South Africa has a modern telecommunications network. The means of international telephone conversations, telefax and e-mail are widely available. Telephone cards and cell phones are always available and sold.
The main Russian mobile operators have roaming with local operators (MTN, Vodacom). International call codes can be found in South African telephone directories. Country code: 27.
Post offices are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 16:30 and on Saturdays from 8:00 to 12:00. Courier services offer services for delivering correspondence within the country at any time of the day “from hand to hand”, and you can also use the services of companies providing express delivery services for correspondence to other countries of the world within 4-8 days.
Tips
As in most countries, in South Africa it is customary to tip waiters in restaurants, porters in hotels and airports, taxi drivers, and tour guides. In restaurants, tips are usually 10% of the bill. As a rule, restaurants do not include tips in the bill. In taxis and on excursions, the tip is also 10%. When refueling at gas stations - approximately R 2. Porter services - R 5 for each suitcase or bag.
Useful addresses and numbers
Embassy of the Russian Federation in Pretoria (Embassy of the Russian Federation): 316 Brooks Street, Butano Building, Menlo Park 0081, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa; phone: (012) 362-1337/8.
Consular section of the Russian Embassy in Pretoria (Consular office): 135 Bourke Street, Sunnyside 0132, PO Box 5715, Pretoria 0001, Republic of South Africa); phone: (012) 344-4812, 344-4820.
Consulate General in Cape Town (Consulate General of the Russian Federation): 2nd Floor, Southern Life Centre, 8 Riebeek Street, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa; phone: (8-10-2721) 418-3656, 418-3657.
South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111.
Country: South Africa
Recommendations for travelers
Traveling abroad is always accompanied by the risk of getting sick. Climate change, exotic cuisine, injury during walks, communication with indigenous people and visitors, local water - all this can cause infection with bacterial or viral pathology. An illness can ruin your entire vacation.
To enjoy your holiday in South Africa without encountering problems, travelers should adhere to the following recommendations:
- take a first aid kit with you on the road. It must contain drugs for the prevention and treatment of malaria, antipyretics, painkillers, antidiarrheals, antihistamines, absorbents, antiseptics, and antibiotics. It is also important to stock up on sterile bandages, adhesive plasters, and cotton wool;
- It is better to drink bottled water. In large cities of South Africa, the water is potable, but its composition differs from that available at home, and can make tourists feel unwell;
- It is necessary to take on your trip repellents for mosquitoes and other insects that can be carriers of dangerous infections and viruses;
- take with you cream to protect against the negative effects of ultraviolet rays;
- undergo immunization in advance against all infectious and viral pathologies that may be encountered in Africa;
- write down the contact numbers of the rescue service (1022), ambulance (999), police (10111) and always carry them with you.
Epidemiological situation
In many African countries, outbreaks of epidemics are regularly observed, which cannot always be controlled due to the low standard of living of some segments of the population, poor development of medicine, non-compliance with sanitary standards, etc. Most often, residents of the continent suffer from the following pathologies:
- Hepatitis A is an acute form of gastrointestinal infection that leads to liver damage.
- Hepatitis B is a virus that can enter the human body through blood and secretions. Destroys the liver.
- Typhoid fever is a bacterial disease that affects almost all internal organs and systems.
- Diphtheria is a respiratory tract infection that can cause pulmonary edema, intoxication and death.
- Rabies is transmitted by wild animals and can lead to the death of the patient.
- Malaria is a severe infection transmitted by a special type of mosquito.
- Tetanus - quickly affects the nervous system and leads to irreversible consequences.
- Yellow fever is one of the most dangerous diseases that causes damage to the kidneys and liver. Yellow fever is transmitted by mosquitoes.
Vaccinations do not protect a person from all pathogenic bacteria. To avoid getting sick, you need to follow these rules:
- Wash your hands and foods that will not undergo heat treatment only with boiled water.
- Drink exclusively bottled water.
- Don't walk without shoes.
- Swim only in permitted places.
List of infections in popular tourist destinations
Parents need to know that in popular tropical countries, especially India, the UAE, China and Thailand, there is a high risk of contracting the infection through water, food and due to poor personal hygiene. Tourists are at risk of viral hepatitis A, intestinal infections, dysentery, salmonellosis and malaria. In Asian countries, Egypt and Turkey, cases of infection with viral hepatitis B, diphtheria, measles, mumps and rubella are regularly recorded. These diseases are also typical for Europe. A very dangerous disease, yellow fever, is still a threat in some countries in Africa and South America. Germany and Austria pose a risk of contracting tick-borne encephalitis.
