How to Travel in South Africa

How to Travel in South Africa

There’s has been a lot said about the travel arrangements for the FIFA 2010 World Cup, and the majority of it has been negative.

Many officials have questioned the country’s current transport situation, stating that they were ‘concerned it may not be able to cope with the number of travellers visiting the country next summer’.

It has been estimated that the South African Government has invested nearly $16 billion into the transport system to cope with the 450,000 expected visitors for the World Cup.

The South African government dismissed these media rumours and the FIFA 2010 World Cup looks in great shape for next summer, with the transport system worries fully put to bed by the recently announced transportation methods available to travelling football fans.

Which Airlines fly to South Africa?

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct flights to South Africa from the UK, as well as European providers like KLM, Lufthansa and Air France supplying travel options for those flying from mainland Europe.

If you’re stuck for flights to South Africa then try flying to Botswana via London. The capital city of Gaborone is a bus ride away from Johannesburg and from there you can catch flights to all of the stadiums in South Africa.

Domestic Airlines in South Africa

•    South African Express – offers flights to Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Johannesburg and others.
•    Mango Airlines – offers flights to Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Johannesburg.
•    Kulula – a budget airline offering flights to Cape Town, Durban, George, Harare and Lusaka.

These internal airlines offer flights to all World Cup destinations and are a cheap and easy way to get around the country if you plan on watching a number of games.

It is advised that if you want to watch a number of games then sticking to one specific area will work out best. For example, staying in Johannesburg means that you are just a short drive from most of the northern stadiums in Rustenburg, Pretoria and Nelspruit.

Cars, Coaches and Busses

Renting a car is a great option for those who don’t mind the long car trips across the country. South African roads have been improved for the FIFA 2010 World Cup, making driving to your destination easy and safe.

There are many car hire companies in South Africa and most will be increasing the number of services available as the World Cup draws closer.

Regular coach and bus services will also be available for those who would like to travel a little closer to the ground. Thousands of extra vehicles will be put into service next summer to ensure that visitors can journey to their next destination with ease and in comfort. With over 450,000 football fans expected to visit South Africa next summer, regular bus and coach services will be essential in keeping the World Cup running smoothly.