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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Singapore for tourism or business stays of up to 30 days.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate, consistently hot and humid all year with abundant rainfall. Temperatures are steady, and occasional thunderstorms are common. The country experiences no distinct seasons but has wetter and drier periods.
- Spring (March to May): Spring in Singapore falls within the inter-monsoon period. Expect hot and humid conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. Rainfall is frequent, often in the form of short, heavy showers, particularly in the afternoons. Despite the humidity, it’s a good time to explore the city’s lush parks and vibrant cultural festivals.
- Summer (June to August): This period is typically hot and humid, with temperatures hovering between 26°C and 33°C. June marks the beginning of the Southwest Monsoon, bringing occasional thunderstorms. However, rainfall tends to be less intense than during other parts of the year. It’s a good time for shopping festivals and indoor attractions, with plenty of air-conditioned options across the city.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn sees a transition into the wetter Northeast Monsoon season, particularly from late October onwards. Humidity remains high, and temperatures range from 25°C to 31°C. Expect frequent rainfall, especially in the evenings. The earlier months of autumn can still be suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Winter (December to February): This is one of the wetter times of year due to the Northeast Monsoon. Rain showers can be persistent, but temperatures remain steady between 24°C and 30°C. It’s still warm, and festivities such as Chinese New Year create a lively atmosphere. The lush greenery thrives, making gardens and nature parks especially vibrant.
- Best Time to Travel: Singapore is a year-round destination thanks to its consistent tropical climate. However, February to April (late winter to early spring) generally offers slightly drier and more pleasant conditions, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. If you prefer to avoid heavy rain, steer clear of the peak monsoon months from November to January.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Singapore |
| Capital City: | Singapore |
| International Airports: | Changi Airport Singapore |
| Area: | 722.5 km² |
| Population: | 5,832,387 (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | UTC+8 (SST) |
| Religion: | Christianity Buddhism Islam Hinduism |
| Language: | English (widely spoken) Malay Tamil Standard Mandarin |
| Currency: | Singapore Dollar |
| Exchange Rate: | Please consult your local bank as exchange rates fluctuate. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Most major tourist attractions and shopping malls accept credit cards. Contactless payments and smart wallets are common. Carry cash for small businesses, hawker centres, and taxis. |
| ATM Accessibility: | Readily available |
| Dialling Code: | +65 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | 220V |
| Water: | Tap water is safe to drink. |
| Business Hours: | Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 17:00 Half Day on Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00 |
| Banking Hours: | 09:30 – 15:00, with some banks opening as early as 08:30 and others having extended hours. |
| Photography Restrictions: | No restrictions |
| Tipping: | Not customary. Some places may have a tip box; additional tips are appreciated but not mandatory. |
| Vaccination Requirements: | No vaccinations required; consult with your medical practitioner or travel clinic. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | No specific restrictions but cover up when entering a Mosque. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | Chewing gum is prohibited. Avoid pointing at someone with your finger. Do not touch an adult on the head. Avoid kicking or touching books with your feet. Bring a gift when visiting someone. Use respectful titles like uncle or aunty for older individuals, rather than their names. Speak quietly in public. Queue properly and do not take someone’s seat reserved with a “choke” or packet of tissues. |
FESTIVALS
- Singapore Art Festival: January
- Pongal: January 14 / 17
- Chinese New Year: New moon day between January 21 and February 20
- Thaipusam: End of January
- Lantern Festival (Mid-Autumn Festival): Last day of Chinese New Year
- Singapore 7’s: April
- Vesak Day: May
- Dragon Boat Festival: End of May / June
- Hari Raya Puasa: June
- International Festival of Arts: End of June
- Food Festival: End of June / July
- National Day: August 9
- Singapore Night Festival: August
- Hari Raya Haji: End of August / September
- Hungry Ghost Festival: End of August / September
- Formula 1 Grand Prix: October
- Diwali: End of October / November
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“Singapore is the happiest place in Asia”
– Dan Buettner