10 Visa-free countries to visit in 2018
Not sure where to travel in 2018? South Africans can travel to these countries without a visa!
Travelling the world can be a costly experience, but forking out hundreds, and sometimes thousands for a visa does not need to be on your travel to do list.
A few more countries were added to the list of places South Africans can visit without a visa.
There are now 94 places you can travel to that are either visa-free, require a visa upon arrival or have electronic-free travel authorisation.
Here’s a look at some of the visa-free countries you can visit in 2018…
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1. Kenya
Why travel to another continent when Africa has some of the most beautiful countries in the world. Kenya is the prefect destination for a solo, family or couple’s trip. You can have breakfast with a giraffe at Giraffe Manor, watch the Masai men do their signature “jumping dance”, and explore Kenya’s beautiful wildlife.
2. Barbados
Soak up the sun in an island country known for its amazing beaches. “With small to medium waves, our south coast beaches are mostly tailor-made for adventure and a range of watersports!” Visit Barbados writes on its official Instagram page. You can also immerse yourself in Caribbean culture by trying out local foods. From Bajan black cake to macaroni pie, your taste buds will never want you to leave.
3. Jamaica
The birthplace of Bob Marley is not only known for its smooth reggae sounds. The country is a traveller’s paradise. Go Jungle River tubing with your friends, zipline through a forest with the sweet sound of nature all around you or take a swim with the horses on one of the country’s many stunning beaches.
4. Lesotho
South Africa surrounds this beautiful landlocked country, but many South Africans have not put one foot across the border. With places like Maletsunyane Falls, Gates of Paradise Pass, Maluti Mountains and Ha Kome Cave Houses calling, you are sure to spend hours exploring. Lesotho also has its own ski resort. Afriski Mountain Resort is a popular destination for people all over the world. Who knew you could go snowboarding in Africa!
5. Philippines
The Philippines has scores of islands waiting to welcome tourists. The country has world-class white and pink sand beaches that will leave you mesmerized, while the crystal-blue waters will make you feel like you are in paradise.
6. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is another African country that is often overlooked by travelers. Tourism officials call the country “a world of wonders”. There’s the famous Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, Matoba Falls, National Heroes Acre, and the Gonarezhou National Park to satisfy your wanderlust.
7. Russia
Visa-free travel to Russia for South Africans became official in 2017. Russia is the largest country in the world, which means there is a lot of surface area for to cover during a visit there. Mount Elbrus would make the perfect backdrop for a romantic couple’s getaway, while the Hermitage Museum will leave you oohing and aahing all day. Saint Basil's Cathedral is also a must-see!
8. Ireland
You are unlikely to find a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow in Ireland, but you are likely to get your money’s worth visiting the country. The Irish are known to be a happy bunch who are very welcoming and friendly. Ireland is also a must-see for ‘Game of Thrones’ fans. Tollymore Forest Park, in County Down, doubled up as the Haunted Forest in the hit HBO TV show. The Dark Hedges featured in a scene in Kingsroad, while Shillanavogy Valley helped bring the Dothraki grasslands to life.
9. Mauritius
If you are looking for heaven on earth then Mauritius is the place to be. Mauritius is a favourite destination for travelers thanks to its amazing weather, and child-friendly holiday spots.
10. Brazil
Brazil is known for its carnival festival, the Amazon rain forest, and having the world’s best beach, Baia do Sancho. But there is a lot more to see in the Portuguese-speaking country. Lencois Maranhenses National Park is home to enormous sand dunes, while the colonial town of Ouro Preto will impress you with its 18th-century churches. You can also get a great view of the Atlantic rainforest on the Curitiba-Paranagua Train Ride – which crosses 30 bridges.