Currency
Unit of currency is the Rand (ZAR). Credit cards and travelers cheques are welcome and there are automatic teller machines (ATMs) around every corner.

Banks
Banks are open Mondays to Fridays from 09h00 to 15h30 and on a Saturday from 09h00 to 11h00.

VAT
In South Africa Value Added Tax is 14% and is charged on most goods and services. As a tourist remember to keep your purchase slips on goods that exceed ZAR 250 since this can be reclaimed at the airport prior to your departure. Airport information can help with this.

Languages
In South Africa there are 11 official languages but English is predominant. In Durban you will also find Zulu widely spoken.

Cell phones/mobiles and international and local dialing codes
GSM system is used and international roaming must be applied for. Otherwise hire a mobile from the airport. The international dialing prefix is +27. Remove the 0 from the area code if dialing from outside South Africa but for local calls the 0 must be dialed.

Time Difference
In South Africa there is one time zone – 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Shops
Opening times vary but be assured they are open from Monday – Fridays 8h30 – 17h00 and Saturdays until 13h00. The Malls are open all weekend.

Electricity
220/250V AC, 50 Hz. Plugs usually have 3 round pins and sometimes 2 round pins.

Useful telephone numbers