Don’t let the colour of your passport stop you from jetting off to exciting new places.
If you hold a South African ‘green mamba’ passport, and couldn’t be bothered to apply for a visa, consider these 10 popular countries with zero to hassle-free immigration requirements.
Below are destinations that require either no visa or offer free visas.* Visas are usually valid for a specific period, commonly up to 30 days for tourism purposes only.
Republic of Ireland
A great all-rounder and the land of leprechauns, legends and Guinness, Ireland may very well be the only Western European country South African passport holders can visit without a visa.
Visa-free
Turkey
The only city in the world to be situated on two continents, its geographic location and former glory as the trading centre of the Middle East has infused the country with a rich heritage.
Apply for a free e-visa online at least 48 hours before departure
Seychelles
Pristine beaches meet unspoiled forests, and unique natural treasures range from the tiny Tiger Chameleon to giant Aldabra tortoises and the Coco de Mer nut found nowhere else on Earth.
Visitor’s visa is issued on arrival and valid for one month.
Botswana
Whether you choose to visit an exclusive safari lodge or DIY camping site, Botswana is one of the best places to connect with Mother Africa.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Mozambique
The Gorongosa National Park, Quirimbas Archipelago and the Bazaruto Archipelago further south, home to the elusive dugong, are ideal locations to connect with nature.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.
Hong Kong
With 350 registered buildings more than 150 metres high, Hong Kong is a city of skyscrapers. It has a decidedly futuristic feel and the buzz of a city that never sleeps or slows down.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.
Mauritius
Leave the hustle and bustle of SA for the warm waters and palm trees of Mauritius, less than a four-hour flight away.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Thailand
Bursting with beautiful, see-it-to-believe-it tropical beaches, affordable food and interesting culture, an added bonus is that Thailand is also friendly for rand-carrying South Africans.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.
Qatar
Sometimes overshadowed by its better-known neighbours, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the independent emirate of Qatar is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.
Peru
Meet weavers and pottery makers or visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar) in the Sacred Valley, then kayak Lake Titicaca or explore the Amazon by boat with stops at local villages.
No tourist visa is required for stays of up to 180 days.
Ready to add some stamps to that little green book? Get more visa-friendly destinations here
