10 Epic Places A South African Passport Can Take You

The infamous Green Mamba, or South African passport, is the cause of locals paying up to their ears in visa fees when travelling abroad. There is, however, a whole list of amazing countries you can visit visa free if you have a valid passport and at least two blank pages. Here’s our round up of 10 epic places a South African passport can take you.

Argentina, South America

There’s no wonder why Argentina is a top tourist destination. From natural wonders to amazing food and friendly locals, this country has everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

Duration of visa-free stay: 90 days

Brazil is the world’s fifth largest country, so it’s no wonder that tourists flock to it en masse. Expect amazing beaches, lush jungles, vibrant nightlife and much more!

Duration of visa-free stay: 90 days

Fiji, Pacific

Fiji consists of an archipelago of over 300 islands known for their pristine beaches. Viti Levu is one of the larger islands and also home to the capital, Suva, which is rich in history, markets and British colonial architecture.

Duration of visa-free stay: Maximum of six months

Hong Kong, China

If you love city life and want to explore one of the largest cities in China, then Hong Kong is for you. It’s great for shopping and of course authentic Chinese cuisine.

Duration of visa-free stay: 30 days

Indonesia, Asia

A surfer’s paradise, these volcanic islands are where you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in the world, Komodo dragons as well as jungles homing elephants, tigers and orangutans. Visit the capital, Jakarta, to experience a melting pot of cultures.

Duration of visa-free stay: Tourist visa on arrival, valid for 30 days at a cost of $25

Jamaica, Caribbean

From beaches to mountain ranges and rainforests, there’s more to Jamaica than just reggae music. The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is, however, not to be skipped. There are also amazing diving and snorkeling spots making Jamaica the ideal beach holiday destination.

Peru, South America

Think Amazonian rainforests, the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu, there’s a whole ancient world to be explored. Walk the famous Inca Trail and discover archaeological sites in Cusco.

Republic of Ireland

The Republic of Ireland has so much on offer that it’s impossible to fit it all in over a few days. Plan well and visit the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle (don’t forget to kiss the stone), walk the Giant’s Causeway and of course, have a Guinness at Temple Bar in Dublin.

Singapore, Asia

Situated off the coast of Malaysia, this island is known for its amazing skyline and is one of the cleanest cities you’ll ever visit. Wander into Chinatown where you’ll find the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, where apparently one of Buddha’s teeth is kept safe.

Duration of visa-free stay: 90 days

Thailand, Asia

A trip to Thailand is proof that one destination can include everything needed for an unforgettable holiday. From culture, food, nightlife, ancient ruins, tropical beaches and royal palaces, you’ll find it all here.

Duration of visa-free stay: 30 days

And, if that’s not enough to get you in the travel mood, other countries South Africans can visit visa-free include Chile, Colombia, Grenada, Kenya, Malaysia, The Bahamas, Botswana and Zambia.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.