South Africa - Big 5 Safari

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from CB of Tarporley on 31/08/2023

Big 5 Safari Itinerary (8 days/7nights):

The Big 5 Safari is one of the few places in the world where you riders can see wildlife in its natural environment from the back of a horse. On this riding holiday, good riding skills are essential. The itineraries below are an example and can change depending on conditions.

Day 1
Guests are picked up at Hoedspruit airport by the transfer service (about 1 hours drive). On arrival, a light lunch or afternoon tea and coffee awaits. Philip, the guide, will introduce the safety procedures before going on the first safari. This orientation ride takes riders through the area surrounding the camp. It is the perfect way to unwind from the journey and relish the peace of the African bush while becoming accustomed to the horses and riding style. Keep a look out for the first sightings of giraffe or zebra. Sundowners, looking out towards the Drakensberg mountains, are a perfect prelude to the generous 3-course dinner, accompanied by hand picked South African wines. The first night is always exciting. Fall asleep to the nighttime sounds of the bush and calls of animals. Accommodation for these first two nights is in luxury safari tents with en-suite bathrooms, mounted on platforms above the Makhutswe River.

Day 2
Guests are awakened with tea or coffee. After a light continental breakfast, mount the horses and head out on safari. The weather will dictate the day, but usually guests ride for 3-4 hours in the morning and 2-3 hours in the afternoon. After returning from the morning ride, enjoy a lunch of homemade quiches, pizzas or pancakes, freshly baked bread and lots of green salads, meats and cheeses. After lunch the hardest time of the day has arrived, siesta. Guests can relax at camp, have a snooze or a swim, or settle down with one of the books from our library. The afternoon ride ends at a beautiful spot where riders can enjoy a sundowner drink while watching the colourful sunset

Day 3
An exciting day awaits. The morning is similar to day one, but in the afternoon the group is driven to the buffalo project. Gerti will take riders to the furthest northern corner of the reserve, along the Makuthswe River, to spot these beautiful beasts. During lunchtime guests can enjoy a relaxing massage by our therapist at our well prepared, comfortable massage sala. There is also a range of clothing and accessories on offer, from fleeces, fleecy jackets and sweatshirts, shirts, T-shirts, golf tops, hats, beanies, beads... and so much more.

Day 4
Guests pack their bags in the afternoon for a 3-night stay at Beacon Rock and XiDulu camp. The luggage will be brought by vehicle, while riders set off on horseback. Head south, passing with the twin rock formations of Lion and Leopard Hill. The gently undulating roads in this area lend themselves to long easy canters. Giraffe, Zebras or wildebeest may pick up the pace and run by your side, elegantly maneuvering through the veldt. Beacon Rock, the fly camp, is situated at a giant rock formation from where guests can overlook the whole Lowveld escarpment. A quick scramble up to the top rewards one with a spectacular panorama over the whole reserve, the perfect vantage point to witness a blood-red sun fall behind the looming Drakensberg Escarpment. Spend the night at the fly camp below Beacon Rock, under the stars, around a campfire and surrounded by the horses. The call of the hyenas or jackals can be heard, and they may even visit the camp during the night.

Day 5
Wake up to the rich colours of sunrise and revive the campfire for coffee and breakfast before embarking on the longest ride. Entering the Makalali Game Reserve, dominated by huge open planes, one might find themselves cantering next to giraffes, zebras or wildebeest. Spectacular views greet riders on the way to XiDulu, the next camp for the night. This brand new 5-star camp is privately owned and not used for commercial tourists. (The 4 - 11 May ride uses 'Clive's Camp' instead). The afternoon siesta is followed by a game drive in an open top Landrover and the tracker call the route as he reads the signs left by the big cats during the day. Patson is the resident guide and his knowledge of the bush and animals is exceptional. Many clients opt to do another game drive with him instead of a ride. Watch the sunset, drink in hand, as the drive continues into the night, where, with luck, some of the nocturnal wildlife will show its face. Bushbabies, owls, maybe even a leopard, may complete the day’s excitement. Dinners are served either at the edge of a big dam, in the dining area, or outside under the stars in a torch-lit boma.

Day 6
Today the ride explores the area, cutting through the veldt at a canter, twisting and turning around the trees (what Philip calls bushwhacking), the surefooted horses carry riders nimbly through the undergrowth, changing direction on command, and having as much fun as the riders. Here and there a tree, felled by an elephant, provides an irresistible jump. Sometimes an eland, or kudu, on seeing the riders pass, will fall in front of the horses to show them the best path. At the top of the hill riders are greeted with a mile after mile view of unspoiled Africa as far as the eye can see. Enjoy lunch on the veranda while watching nyala, waterbuck, kudu and other small animals roaming the river systems. Refreshed after a well-deserved siesta, ride to a nearby dam, where Hippos live during the heat of the day. Watch them playing in the water, rolling and laughing. With luck, a crocodile will be relaxing on a sandbank, enjoying the warm evening sun.

Day 7
Leave the XiDulu camp behind on the long ride back to Wait A Little. The route is determined by the wildlife tracks of elephant, lion, rhino, and giraffe along the way. Back at camp, the home team eagerly await the group’s feedback on sightings and tales of the excursion. The last sundowner on Wait A Little's open plain is always a little sad, as guests enjoy this beautiful, impressive and absolutely unique location on the final night. Enjoy a special farewell dinner. Gerti always chooses something special - perhaps game fillets like kudu or eland served on pasta with sherry sauce.

Day 8
An early wake up and saddle up for a short, sporty ride to finish your horse-riding holiday before the transfer service arrives to transport guests to the airport.

Big 5 Camp Safari Itinerary (6 days/5 nights):

Day 1
Guests are picked up at either Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa airport by the transfer service. A pick up from Johannesburg’s OR TAMBO airport can also be arranged. On arrival at the reserve a light lunch or afternoon tea and coffee awaits. The safari team, including Philip and Gerti, are there to welcome riders and will introduce the safety procedures before going on the first riding safari. This orientation ride takes the group through the area surrounding the camp, the perfect way to unwind from the journey and enjoy the peace of the African bush. This is the ideal chance to become accustomed with the horses and riding style. Keep a look out for the first sighting of giraffe or zebra. Sundowners, looking out towards the Drakensberg Mountains, are a perfect prelude to the generous 3-course dinner, accompanied by hand-picked South African wines, which awaits in our dining area.

The first night, with all its fantastic sounds and noises, is probably the most exciting one. Accommodation is in old style safari tents with en-suite bathrooms, mounted on platforms above the Makhutswe River at the main camp.

Day 2
Wake up to tea or coffee. After a continental breakfast, mount the horses and head out on safari. The weather will dictate the day, but there is usually 3-4 hours riding in the morning and 2-3 hours in the afternoon. After returning from the morning ride, a big lunch of homemade quiches, pizzas or pancakes, freshly baked bread and lots of green salads, meats and cheeses awaits the hungry riders. During the after-lunch siesta, riders can relax, or take a dip in the swimming pool. Maybe just settle down with a good book from the camp library. After afternoon tea and coffee, head out on an afternoon ride ending up at a beautiful spot for a sundowner drink.

Day 3
Another exciting day awaits. The morning is similar to day 2, but the afternoon is spent on a drive to the buffalo project. Over lunchtime guests can enjoy a relaxing massage by our therapist at the well-prepared massage sala. The camp shop is stocked with fleeces, fleecy jackets and sweatshirts to shirts, T-shirts, golf tops, hats, beanies to beads and accessories. On the afternoon buffalo excursion, Gerti takes guests to the furthest northern corner of the reserve, along the Makuthswe River, to hopefully spot these beautiful beasts. Enjoy a sundowner followed by a night drive back home.

Day 4
Pack a small overnight bag in readiness for the night at the fly-camp. Luggage will be brought by vehicle, while riders set off on horseback. Ride south, passing between the twin rock formations of Lion and Leopard Hill. The gently undulating roads in this area lend themselves to long easy canters. Giraffe, Zebras or wildebeest may pick up the pace and run alongside, elegantly maneuvering through the veldt. Beacon Rock, our fly camp, is situated at a giant rock formation from where one can overlook the whole Lowveld escarpment. A quick scramble up to the top rewards riders with a spectacular panorama over the whole reserve, and the perfect vantage point to witness a blood red sun fall behind the looming Drakensberg Escarpment. Spend the night under the stars, around a campfire, surrounded by the horses, listening to the call of the hyenas or jackals.

Day 5
Waking to the rich colours of the sunrise, revive the fire for coffee and breakfast before embarking. Today the group heads south to the Karongwe river where the hyenas often have a den. A long ride back to the reserve is rewarded by another one of Anna’s wonderful lunches. Enjoy a massage after lunch. The last sundowner on the open plain is always a little sad, as guests enjoy this beautiful, impressive and absolutely unique location on the final night. Enjoy a special farewell dinner. Gerti always chooses something special - perhaps game fillets like kudu or eland served on pasta with sherry sauce.

Day 6
After an early wake up, saddle the horses to enjoy a short, sporty ride before the transfer service takes guests back to the Airport.

Please note: This itinerary is given for guidance only. Itineraries may be changed according to conditions on the ground at the time.

The Big 5 Safari consists of a 7 night mobile safari; 4 nights in base camp, 1 night in Beacon Rock fly camp and 2 nights at the XiDulu camp.
The Big 5 Camp Safari consists of a 5 night camp safari; 4 nights at base camp, 1 night in Beacon Rock fly camp.
The first to book a week will decide the programme for the week (Big 5 Safari or Camp Safari).

Please note that there is one single room available at all camps for no extra charge, subject to availability on request at the time of booking. Otherwise there is no single supplement payable if guests are willing to share accommodation.

Transfer prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in fuel prices.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

On this ride the predominant breed is the ‘South African Boerperd’. A beautiful and elegant type of horse, sensitive, responsive, well tempered, forward going and very brave. Other breeds used are Arab, Appaloosa and the American Quarter Horse ranging from 14.3 to 17hh. They are all well schooled, responsive, even tempered and in excellent condition.

There are suitable horses (43 horses) for the competitive rider as well as for the steady hack. Every effort is made to match horse and rider. All horses are trained in basic dressage in the riding arena to ensure that your horse is responsive, well mannered, and fun to ride. The training loosens their backs and softens their mouths so the horse is more in balance when on trail. All horses are spirited and forward going, some obviously more than others.

Saddles: on trail we ride on Leon Liversage Endurance saddles which are specifically designed for long distance rides. The saddle distributes the weight equally on the horses back and is in addition very comfortable for the rider. You sit automatically straight, so better for you and your horses back. Each horses back is different, so not every saddle fits every horse. The saddles come in different sizes and lengths. We prefer sending our horses in Leon's endurance saddles, they sit better on the horses back for long distance riding. However, the training of the horses is obviously done in English dressage saddles and alternatively we can offer English saddles on trail. We do offer seat savers and sheepskins for comfort.

Almost all horses go in a loose ring snaffle. Two or three go in a rubber Pelham for their own comfort.

Minimum riding ability is to post trot and canter for stretches of 10 minutes at a time, to be comfortable at all paces and to be able to gallop out of trouble. It is a great advantage if you are a fit and proficient rider.

Sporty and long canters require a good level of riding. Bushwhacking with little jumps is one of Philips specialities and with a good balance it is great fun.

The minimum age is 12 years old. A 20 % discount is given for children between the age of 12 and 16 years (already calculated in the child price).

The weight limit for this ride is 209 lb/95 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Base camp: Accommodation is in huge double-bedded canvas safari tents on platforms individually built and furnished in luxurious African safari style with private outside bathroom. From the decks guests can enjoy a magnificent view over the Makhutswe River. Enjoy a drink at the bar or relax at the swimming pool. The main area is equipped with a library, stocked with books about the wildlife, flora and fauna of South Africa. Please note that one single room is provided at all camps for people who don’t want to share accommodation without paying supplement, according to availability.

XiDulu has 5 rooms, 3 chalets with king size beds, and a honeymoon suite which is just a little bit bigger and has got its own private sala and fireplace. All rooms have hot inside and outside showers, a bath, toilet, air-condition and a private veranda. There is another smaller room in the main area, with a queen bed, inside and outside shower, basin, toilet and air-condition which is used for the single option. The main area has two dining areas, one outside eating area, a bar, a barbecue and an infinity pool with a built-in jacuzzi at the edge of the dam.

Beacon Rock (fly-camp): Sleep-out camp, situated on a rock formation, the highest point in the area, with a magnificent view over the Lowveld Escarpment. Guests sleep on mattresses under the stars on top of the rock or under a shelter, having a huge campfire going, enjoying the sounds of the night.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip.NB:

Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. As of 2022 there are 52 countries with visa-free travel to SA including UK, EU, USA and Canada.

You must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months after your intended date of exit from South Africa has at least 3 blank pages if you need a visa, otherwise 1 blank page is sufficient. Travelling with Children to South Africa:

Adults traveling with minors under the age of 18 need to show the child’s birth certificate which shows the details of both parents. If the child is traveling with one parent, it is also necessary to present a parental consent affidavit signed by the other parent. Since 2019 carrying these supporting documents is no longer compulsory but is advised. CATEGORY SOUTH AFRICAN CHILD - FOREIGN VISA EXEMPT CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY BOTH PARENTS Valid passport Copy of a birth certificate / equivalent document or passport containing the details of the parent or parents of the child CHILD ACCOMPANIED BY ONE PARENT Valid passport Copy of a birth certificate/equivalent document Parental consent letter Copy of the passport / identity document of the absent parent Contact details of the absent parent where applicable- Copy of a court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights or legal guardianship in respect of the child. Copy of a death certificate of the deceased parent • Valid passport CHILD TRAVELLING WITH PERSON WHO IS NOT HIS / HER BIOLOGICAL PARENT valid passport Copy of a birth certificate/equivalent document Parental consent letter(s) Copy of the passport(s)/ identity document(s) of the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) Contact details of the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) where applicable- Copy of a death certificate Copy of an adoption order Copy of a court order granting full parental responsibilities and rights / legal guardianship in respect of the child.

Valid passport EXEMPTIONS South African children travelling on South African passports may travel to South Africa without birth certificates. Supporting documents are not required where children are in direct transit at an international airport. A child presenting a passport which contains the details of his or her parent or parents is not required to produce a birth certificate/equivalent document.

Travelers coming from countries where yellow fever is prevalent need to present a certificate showing they have been vaccinated. No vaccinations are required for malaria as this is a low malaria risk area. Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country.

Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/SouthAfrica.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/south-africa

There is almost year-round sunshine, it can get rather hot in the summer month (October-March) averaging 32°C. Don’t be surprised to find your late afternoon growing heavy with pregnant clouds and being refereshed a short drenching thunderstorm. Winter (April-September) is a sunny season of chilly early mornings, warm to hot midday’s (25° C) and cool to cold nights (can get down to 5° C at night in June and July).

There is currently a cholera outbreak in South Africa, so ask your doctor in vaccination is appropriate (if you are immune compromised).
The tap water is not safe to drink, we recommend bottled water.

Due to infrastructure problems, there are periodic blackouts called 'load shedding'. This means there is no power for up to 12 hours a day. This could have unforeseen consequences, such as interruption to the cold chain for food and medicines.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you.

Awareness of Malaria risk and bite avoidance is recommended and if travelling to an area of Malaria risk in season we recommend speaking to your doctor about anti-malarial medication

According to the 2018 UNAIDS Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic South Africa has the biggest HIV epidemic in the world, with 7.1 million people living with HIV. HIV prevalence is high among the general population at 18.9%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS; avoid contact with bodily fluids and keep any cuts or wounds properly clean and covered.

Health and medical facilities are generally of a good standard and readily available near larger centres. If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 10177 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/ medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in South Africa and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

It is recommended you start anti-malarial precuations before arriving in the South African lowveld, see your doctor for details.

Also be aware that due to infrastructure problems, there is 'load shedding', meaning there is no power for up to 12 hours at a time. This could have unforeseen consequences, such as interruption to the cold chain for food and medicines. In South Africa the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

There is electricity and WiFi available at the base camp and some of the other camps to enable you to recharge your camera equipment. It is advisable to bring any film/batteries you need with you. There is no electricity at the fly-camp.
Cameras: There are saddle bags available that fit small to medium sized cameras. Big cameras are not advisable as difficult to handle. However if you have to bring one your camera bag might be fitted onto the saddle if possible. It is not allowed for people to wear any cameras or bumbags that contain cameras or anything hard around their body.
Smart Phones: Smart Phones take great pictures, but are not so easy to handle from horseback. You can get clips for iPhones and androids at the airport that make them safer to hold in one hand whilst riding. You will be asked to keep the phone on silent and in flight mode on safari.
GoPros: GoPros have become very popular and are a great device for outdoor sports. However they can be very disappointing on a horse safari as the videos mainly consist of people from behind and due to the wide angle lens it’s also difficult to make out the animals. It also distracts from the animal sightings. If you want to bring a GoPro please be advised that you will have to have permission from all other guests and guides that they are willing to be filmed.

Bring the riding gear you are the most comfortable in as you will be spending many hours in the saddle - probably more than you are used to. New riding gear needs to be worn in, it is not a good idea to do this on an 8 day horse safari where you can spend up to 7 hours in the saddle in a warm climate!

Pack some jods and riding boots in your hand-luggage, a change of underwear and a toothbrush and whatever else you think is absolutely necessary. If your bag gets lost during your travels it is of great advantage to have your well fitting riding gear in hand. We can help you out with leisure clothes, chaps, and helmets, but it is good to have some comfortable riding gear (in particular your boots)!

You have to have medical/travel insurance. Most insurance companies won’t insure you unless you wear a helmet, so be aware of that.

Make sure you have your travel documents and in particular, your travel/medical insurance details close to you.

Suggested packing list:

- Riding Helmet – we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384 that is well ventilated (One can be provided, but we recommend you bring your own)
- Gloves
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a definite heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Half Chaps - these are great when worn with ankle boots and help prevent the stirrup leathers rubbing against your legs
- Light cotton trousers to wear under chaps or in the evenings
- Shorts for the midday break
- Long sleeved shirts that give protection from the sun while riding
- T-shirts
- Rubber flip-flops
- Casual evening clothes
- Sweat shirt or jersey
- Warm jacket in winter (May to August)
- Hat
- Swimming costume
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses (best secured on string)
- Torch
- Insect repellent
- Antihistamine Cream
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- Binoculars

Laundry can be done at base camp. Beds are complete with sheets, duvets and duvet covers. Towels are provided.

Before you travel:
In case of lost luggage, give your host' address at the counter NOT your transfer provider'. Correct address to give at the airport lost luggage counter:
Wait A Little Big Five Horse Safaris (this is on Google maps)
Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Harmony 140, Portion 54
Hoedspruit 1380
Tel.: 0027832739788

This programme is available most weeks all year round including Christmas and New Year.

2024: Saturday to Saturday dates throughout the year. (2024 Fully Booked)
2025: Big 5 Saturday to Saturday dates throughout the year.
2025: Big 5 Camp: Sat - Thur: 8 (Full), 15 Mar
2026: Big 5 Saturday to Saturday dates throughout the year.
2025: Big 5 Camp: Sat - Thur: 18 - 23 May

The first to book a date decides the programme for that date.

• £
• €
• US $
• SEK

• ‘Land Mammals of Southern Africa’ – Smithers;


• ‘Memories of a Game Ranger’ – Harry Wolhunter;


• ‘Birds of Southern Africa’ – Ken Newman


• ‘Cry, The Beloved Country’ – Alan Paton,


• ‘Jock of the Bushveld’ – Fitzpatrick


• ‘A Chain of Voices’ – Andre Brink


• ‘Long Walk to Freedom’ – Nelson Mandela


• For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com

Game drives, including a night drive, can be done during your stay.
The reserve is situated near the Kruger National Park and this area offers many other activities and excursions. Trips in the Park, Blyde River Canyon, the beautiful mountains of Magkobaskloof, visit of the orphan animal project at Tshukudu Game Lodge, the Snake Park, Kapama Cheetah Project or Moholoholo Bird Sanctuary can be organised. Very exciting is to join a research game drive on the Reserve. All these activities are at extra cost.

Game is plentiful on the Reserves including elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, wild dog, cheetah, spotted and brown hyena, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, kudu, bushbuck, steenbok, duiker, impala, waterbuck, blackbacked and sidestriped jackal, honey badger, baboon, vervet monkey, mongoose, warthog, bushpig, tortoise; special nocturnal creatures are porcupine, aardvark, civet, genet, caracal, serval, spring hare; water species are hippo, crocodile, otter and terrapins. Lot's of bird species are seen, especially at the big dams and along the rivers.

With the background of the Drakensberg mountains, Karongwe Game Reserve covers an area of 30000ha prime African bushveld. The reserve has various ecosystems ranging from open plains, woodlands, hills and kopies, to riverine and gullies. The three rivers that cross the reserve are the lifeline of the region and supports an impressive population of big trees, plants and wildlife such as hippo, crocodile, bushbuck, kudu, nyala, waterbuck and many different species of birds.

Safety on the trail:
All rides are lead by Philip, a FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa) qualified guide and followed by a back-up rider. All camps and vehicles have radio contact, research teams are monitoring the big game and the guide carries a hand held radio. A safety briefing is held at the beginning of the safari, how to handle big game situations. A first aid kit is carried on each ride.
Clients will be ask to sign an indemnity before going on safari.

South Africa's land area is 1,228,376 km.2 (larger than The Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy & Germany combined). It borders Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland & Zimbabwe to the north, and entirely surrounds Lesotho (a total land border of 4,750 km.). It has a coastline of 2,954 km, with few natural harbours. South Africa is an exhilarating, spectacular and complex country. With its post-apartheid identity still in the process of definition, there is undoubtedly an abundance of energy and sense of progress about the place. The infrastructure is constantly improving, the climate is kind and there are few better places to see Africa's wildlife. The international dialing code for South Africa is +27 and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram. The time zone is GMT plus two hours. Always collect your luggage on arrival at any local airport and take it through customs. Most of the South African smaller airports don’t have customs clearance. Even if the airline tells you that your luggage can be checked through, it is not true. At local airports there are a lot of porters who can be of great help if you are in a hurry to find your check in counter or your gate. However they sometimes ask for a lot of money. R 50,00 is more then enough to give them when they have been of great help, if they have only pushed the trolley, R 20,00 should be enough. If you travel by car and police stop you for speeding or something else you might have done wrong, don’t give them any cash money, always ask for a ticket. If they persist, ask to speak to their supervisor. Also the toll gates don’t take international credit cards. South Africa has a high rate of crime including carjacking and robberies. Be cautious when visiting popular tourist attractions and destinations and in and around transport hubs, including airports. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low