All you to know about South Africa
Visiting South Africa
Every year we welcome mountain bike enthusiasts from all over the world to enjoy this unique South African mountain bike stage race. To make sure you have everything you need to make your planning a breeze, we’ve put together some additional information just for you. Travelling to South Africa can be daunting for those who have never been here. Our aim is put your mind at rest and to offer you as much knowledge as possible.
Getting to South Africa
International flights to South Africa
You will need to fly into Johannesburg – OR Tambo International airport and fly out of OR Tambo International unless you have other travel plans. If there are no direct flights from your country then one option is to fly Emirates.
Tip – we recommend that you arrive two to three days before the start to acclimatise.
Domestic flights in South Africa
Flights in South Africa are both easy to organise and very affordable, making air transport a popular choice for travel around the country. You can fly between all South Africa’s major cities and towns using domestic air services.
Visa and passport requirements
Ensure that your passport is valid and that you meet all the necessary requirements. Check with your embassy if you require a visa to visit South Africa. If you are travelling with children make sure you meet all the South African requirements by checking with your embassy.
Customs requirements
SARS (South African Revenue Service) control the movement of goods and items at South African airports. Here is some good advise.
Once you arrive
Currency – money matters
In South Africa, the South African Rand (ZAR) is used. You will find ATM’s in all the towns we pass through. We only accept cash (Rands) and credit cards. Best to have cash for the bar and other purchases.
Internet and phone communication
It is recommended that you purchase a mobile/data plan from one of South Africa’s main networks. Note that mobile coverage is not available in some rural areas. We will have limited free WiFi in our villages but if you want back up we do recommend getting a data sim on arrival.
Getting around and about
Self-drive is a popular way to explore South Africa. Rent a car from Avis Rental. Or simply take an Uber – by far the easiest option. We do not recommend public or mini bus taxi transport, however Gautrain is excellent around Johannesburg and Pretoria and to the airport.
Travel insurance – health and safety
Make sure you have adequate travel insurance. We have an incredible medical support team, however if you go to hospital for any reason it will need to be a private hospital and they will insist on a credit card and travel insurance. You will not be allowed to ride unless you send us proof that you have adequate travel insurance.
Tip – when booking your travel insurance make sure you say you are doing a ‘tour’ (as opposed to an event or race).
The fun stuff
Add on tours and packages
If you would like a complete one stop solution for a pre or post go2berg tour or you would just like extra support before and after the event then contact lara@go2berg.co.za and she will put it all together for you.
Weather – what to expect
South Africa is fantastic to visit year-round. The climate is generally mild, and ranges from mediterranean in the southwestern to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the northeast. During go2berg it will be very cold in the evening and early mornings but very warm in the day up to 20 deg Celsius by lunchtime.
South African tourism website
There is so much to do pre and post go2berg if you want to prolong your stay. Visit the tourism website or even easier give Lara a shout lara@go2berg.co.za and she will point you in the right direction.
Shopping and restaurants
If you do arrive early and stay in Johannesburg there are some incredible shopping centres to get last minute items you may need. Our restaurants are exceptional value.