Visa-free destinations for South Africans

Last updated on 2nd October, 2024 at 11:52 am

These countries are visa-free for South Africans and calling your name.

Dezemba is fast approaching, and with it the promise of holiday and maybe even travel. If you have an overseas trip in mind, you wouldn’t be blamed for quickly being put off by the compounding costs of exchange rate, flights and a visa to boot.

Luckily, we’ve got a solution for at least two of those problems: a guide to countries you can visit visa-free, whilst utilising your up to 25% discount on all Emirates flights as a Sanlam Reality Plus member.

In this article, you’ll learn

• Which countries you can visit on a South African passport, visa-free
• What each country can offer
• What the average flight price is out of Johannesburg

Africa

1. Botswana

Its untapped potential as a tourist destination means you’ll be one of the few to witness pristine, untamed wilderness, especially in the Okavango Delta – a UNESCO world heritage site.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Maun: R7,921

2. Mauritius

Laze on the white sands of the picture-perfect beaches during the day, and revel like a king or queen at night. It’s the epitome of an island holiday, only a 4 hour flight away.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Port Louis: R10,704

3. Tunisia

Culture buffs, listen up: explore one (or all) of the nine UNESCO World Heritage sites to marvel at the many influences – from French to Arab – that have shaped its culture, refuel with harissa-spiced cuisine, and end it off being pampered at a hammam.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Tunis: R17,882

Americas

1. Brazil

Whatever the Brazilians do, they do with passion. From the kaleidoscope of colours at Carnival to the stimulating buzz of its busy cities, come here to be wooed.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Rio de Janeiro: R14,626

2. Costa Rica

The eco-friendly traveller couldn’t find a better location to soak in natural beauty. Think Instagram-worthy rainforests, beaches, and wildlife.

Average flight price Johannesburg – San José: R27,778

3. Peru

This is the destination for the avid adventurer: eat your way through Lima, then work it off exploring the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Lima: R36,221

Got your tickets booked? Use this checklist to get ready.

Asia

1. Singapore

This tiny island packs a punch, and it’s perfect for a short but action-packed visit that covers one-of-a-kind experiences (like a visit to the nocturnal zoo or the world’s largest indoor waterfall).

Average flight price Johannesburg – Singapore: R13,374

2. Thailand

Thailand exudes warmth, from its year-round mild weather to its welcoming locals. Come here for an easy island holiday, exploring the temple, slurping Pad Thai, and lounging on the beach.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Phuket: R15,576

3. Maldives

If you’re a resort princess (and there’s no shame in that), the Maldives is your ultimate destination. Relax on the beach, snorkel, dine, repeat.

Average flight Johannesburg – Malé: R13,816

Europe

1. JUST ADDED: Greece

Admire the ancient ruins and bustling culture of Athens, or island hop spending your days drinking wine, snacking on olives, and plunging into crystal-clear waters. You pick.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Athens: R20,439

2. Montenegro

This one is for the hikers – almost 90% of Montenegro is covered in mountains and you won’t find a better place to explore craggy peaks, dense forests, and pristine mountain lakes.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Podgorica: R25,971

3. Georgia

This one is for the history nerds. Georgia has a rich historical tapestry ranging from its Ancient Great Silk Road to its founding Christian roots. All to be enjoyed whilst sipping on its world-famous wine.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Tbilisi: R13,307

NOTE:

As of 10 July 2024, South Africans will be required to have a tourist visa to visit Ireland, not to be confused with Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom.

Caribbean

1. Barbados

If you’re looking for the full Caribbean island package, look no further than Barbados: think seafood feasts, laidback lifestyle, and the world’s finest island rum.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Barbados: R31,000

2. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic offers the ultimate holiday combination of beach, jungle, and culture. Crumbling colonial ruins meet pristine white sands and azure blue waters, with a quick and easy escape inland to untouched rainforests and waterfalls.

Average flight price Johannesburg – Punta Cana: R30,000

Here are more Rand-friendly countries to visit when you’re on a budget. Please note the above prices are correct at the time of publication.