South Africa Travel Essentials
Everything practical you need before you go — power plugs, voltage, a quick adapter check, tap-water safety, emergency numbers and tipping for South Africa.
⚡ Do you need a plug adapter?
Power plugsType C & D & M & N
Voltage / frequency230V · 50Hz
Tap waterTap water — stick to bottled or filtered to be safe
Emergency10111
TippingTipping ~10–15% is customary
Good to know
- South Africa uses Type C & D & M & N sockets at 230V / 50Hz.
- Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V) — you usually only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter. Check the label on your charger.
- Emergency services: dial 10111.
- Need to pack for it? See our packing list generator and visa checker.