South Africa and the 3 provinces you will vist on your surfing holidays have very few health issues to be concerned about. No inoculations are needed and the health infrastructure is of a good standard. However, South Africa is facing a crisis with HIV/AIDS and visitors are advised to take precautions.

HOSPITALS & MEDICAL CARE

South Africa (SA) is a global leader in a great many medical disciplines, The first heart tansplant operation was carried out by a SA doctor and South African trained doctors are much sought after around the world. There is a large network of public and private hospitals country wide offering excellent medical care. However, you should always have adequate health insurance to cover private hospital fees.

In the event of an emergency, use one of the major private clinics. Many doctors do house calls and are listed under Medical in the telephone directory.

PERSONAL SAFETY

When you visit South Africa, there are basic travel safety measures to follow to ensure your visit is a fantastic experience.

As in other countries, there are a few basic, common sense, precautions you should take during your visit to ensure that your stay is as pleasant and safe as possible:

• Separate your cash & credit cards & don’t carry all your cash with you.
• Store parcels out of sight in the boot of the car.
• Never leave your luggage/property unattended.
• Do not allow strangers to assist you in your transactions at ATM's
• Obtain a route map before you set out and plan your route beforehand.
• Try to explore in groups and stick to well-lit streets especially at night.
• Never pick up strangers and/or hitchhikers.
• Park in well-lit areas at night.
• Always drive with your doors locked and your windows closed.
• Do not resist if confronted
• Lock valuables in the hotel safe
• Don't accept lifts from strangers
• Don't swim alone on a deserted beach
• Make use only of reputable taxi/transfer companies
• Contact the police immediately after a crime
• Listen to the advice of your host or hotel personnel
• Don't swim after consuming alcohol or immediately after a meal
• Don't walk alone at night, especially in dark streets or beaches
• Do not draw unnecessary attention to money or jewellery
• Don't travel off the beaten track without informing someone & ask for advice.

If unsure of any area, approach the local police station or tourism office for further advice and guidance. Although incidents against tourists in South Africa are rare, it is advisable for you to be aware of basic emergency procedures in the unlikely event that you are a victim of crime. If you have been victimised, call the police emergency number (10111) and briefly explain what happened. If you are using a cell phone dial 112 for emergency services.

There is also a one-stop call centre to assist you. You may call the Tourism Information and Safety Call Line at 083 123 2345 any time, day or night, seven days a week. Tourists can ask about services (accommodation, transport, etc), queries of any kind, and what to do in an emergency.

If in any doubt as to the safety of any particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism Information & Safety Line on 012 245. This number may also be used for practical assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents.

OTHER HAZARDS

South Africa is a huge country and each area has it's own unique health and safety issues. For more details please refer to our Health & Safety information compiled on a Regional/Provincial level:
Health & Safety - Western Cape
Health & Safety - Eastern Cape
Health & Safety - KwaZulu-Natal