Travel Advice
CLIMATE
The North Coast enjoys a warm subtropical climate for the most part of the year. Summer (Oct-April) temperatures are hot, from 24 – 32 degrees celsius and Winter temperatures average at 20 degrees celsius. Sea temperatures vary from 25 – 18 degrees celsius in Winter. The average rainfall for the year is in the order of 900mm.
CURRENCY
The currency in South Africa is the Rand. Bank Notes available are R200, R100, R50, R20, R10, and coins of R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, and 10c. There are 100c in R1.
APPROXIMATE DISTANCE
From Ballito to: Umhlanga 26km, Durban 45km, Johannesburg 660km, Pongola 327km Hluhluwe 257km, St Lucia 250km, Richards Bay 147km.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGES
English and Zulu are the most widely spoken languages on the North Coast.
VALUE ADDED TAX
15% Tax is charged on most purchased goods and services. However foreign tourists are able to reclaim this money on their departure from the country provided that goods purchased exceed R250. Ask for more information at the King Shaka International Airport +27 (0) 32 436 0035.
IMMUNISATION
The North Coast is free of Malaria, but is endemic in the low-lying coastal areas of Zululand and Maputuland, especially close to the Mozambique and Swaziland borders. It is advisable to take precautions when visiting these areas.
BANKS
Banking hours are Mon – Fri 09h00 – 15h30 and Sat 08h30 – 11h00. Automated teller machines (ATMs) operate 24/7 and can be found at most shopping centres in and around the North Coast.
LIBRARIES
There are libraries situated in all local municipalities.