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.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Duration of visa-free stay: 90 days
Brazil, South America
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.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
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.
