General Information

Visas

Foreigners visiting South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport. Please check the South African regulations concerning visa requirements for your country when making travel arrangements. You can contact any South African Airways office or South Africa Diplomatic Mission. If there is no representation in a particular country, delegates may apply directly to The Visa Section, Department of Home Affairs, PRIVATE BAG X114, PRETORIA, 0001, Republic of South Africa. (Tel: +27 12 314-8911 Fax: +27 12 326-6309 or 314-8516)

Currency

The local currency is the South African Rand. Although the shops take credit cards, it is advisable that you exchange foreign currency for South African Rand at the airport before you leave for Skukuza. The bank in Skukuza will not be open over the weekend.

Health requirements

It is important that visitors to South Africa take out comprehensive medical insurance. There is no national health coverage in South Africa and medical care is costly.
Malaria poses a health risk in the Kruger National Park. However, during the dry months, June to September, the risk of contracting malaria is low and procedures to prevent mosquito bites should provide sufficient protection. The use of prophylactic medicine should only be required from October to May. Please consult a local medical practitioner for detailed advice. The shop at Skukuza camp apparently sells the appropriate anti-malaria drugs required. If you are unable to purchase any before arrival and wish to take anti-malaria drugs, please purchase some at the shop.

Climate and Clothing

The temperatures are moderate and pleasant with sunny, warm and clear days with temperatures rising to 30oC. At night temperatures can fall to 5oC. Informal dress is recommended for the sessions. A jacket and tie will be suitable for the conference dinner. Companions should wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the outings.

Insurance

The registration fees do not provide insurance for participants against personal accidents, sickness, theft or property damage. This applies to all events as well as travelling during the conference period, and participants are advised to obtain their own insurance before travelling to South Africa. The Conference and its organisers are not liable for loss, injury to person or property, however caused.

Language

The official language of the conference will be English. No translation services will be available.

Invitation Letters

The Organising Committee of INDABA III will be pleased to send a letter of invitation to any scientist upon request. It has to be stressed, though, that such an invitation is only to assist delegates in raising travel funds, or to obtain a visa, and is not a commitment on the part of the organisers to provide any financial support.

Electricity

The electrical current is 220/230 volts AC. Hotels are equipped to accept appliances fitted with a 15 Amp 3 point round pin plug. Most bathrooms are equipped for electrical shavers with 5 Amp 2 pin plugs. Delegates are advised to bring their own adapter plugs.