Visas

Foreign visitors to 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. For further information on visa requirements, and for contact details of South African missions world-wide, please consult either of these websites: SA Info - Visas or SA Home Affairs - Visas. If there is no representation in a particular country, delegates may apply directly to:

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 Rands at the airport before you leave for Berg-en-Dal.

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 Berg-en-Dal camp should stock the appropriate anti-malaria drugs. 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 possibly rising to 30^oC. At night temperatures can fall to 5^oC. Informal dress is recommended for all the sessions and functions. Companions should wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the outings.

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. More information on the sockets and plugs can be found at kropla or escapeartist. Delegates are advised to bring their own adapter plugs.

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 INDABA6 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.