🔌 Plugs & adapters
Yes. You'll need a universal travel adapter.
The voltage (230V) is close to the UK's 230V, so UK appliances work with just a plug adapter.
- Type C: Two round pins (the "Europlug")
- Type D: Three large round pins in a triangle
- Type M: Three large round pins (larger than type D)
- Type N: Three round pins (Brazilian)
🕒 Time difference
South Africa is 2 hours ahead of the UK in the UK winter and 1 hour ahead of the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).
💶 Money & tipping
South Africa uses the South African rand (ZAR).
10–15% in restaurants is expected. Petrol station attendants and car guards are usually tipped a few rand.
🚗 Driving
Traffic drives on the left, the same as in the UK. Speed limits are signed in km/h. Convert km/h to mph →
🗣️ Language & phone
Main language: English, Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and more. Dialling code: +27.
Quick answers for South Africa
Places in South Africa
Common questions
Do I need a plug adapter for South Africa?
Yes. You'll need a universal travel adapter. The voltage (230V) is close to the UK's 230V, so UK appliances work with just a plug adapter.
What plug type does South Africa use?
South Africa uses type C, D, M, N: type C – Two round pins (the "Europlug"); type D – Three large round pins in a triangle; type M – Three large round pins (larger than type D); type N – Three round pins (Brazilian). The voltage is 230V at 50Hz.
What is the time difference between the UK and South Africa?
South Africa is 2 hours ahead of the UK in the UK winter and 1 hour ahead of the UK in the UK summer (the clocks change on different dates).
Which side of the road do they drive on in South Africa?
On the left, the same as the UK.
What currency is used in South Africa?
The South African rand (ZAR).
Do you tip in South Africa?
10–15% in restaurants is expected. Petrol station attendants and car guards are usually tipped a few rand.
What is the dialling code for South Africa?
+27. From a UK phone, dial +27 and drop the first 0 of the local number.
For passports, visas, entry requirements, health and safety advice, always check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you travel.