To help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience at the ISW 2028 Congress, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need to know before your arrival. From travel tips and visa requirements to local customs and health guidelines, this section provides comprehensive details to ensure your visit to Cape Town, South Africa is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Please take a moment to review the information below and feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions.
Time Zone
South Africa operates on South African Standard Time (SAST), which is UTC+2 year-round.
On the congress start date (26 March 2028), this will be:
Passports and Visas
All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country, and in some cases, a visa. However, it is important to note that under South Africa's Immigration Act of 2002 (Act. 13 of 2002) in force since 7 April 2003, (a) Immigration Act, 2002 the passport shall contain at least THREE unused pages when presenting the passport for endorsements. Failure to have a clear page can result in entry being refused.
Please apply for your visa timeously.
Visa Requirements
Entry into South Africa may be refused if the purpose of the visit is not correctly stated.
A fee is applicable for the issuing of a visa and varies by country. Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials are required to confirm that passengers hold the appropriate visa prior to boarding. Delegates who arrive without the necessary visa, where required, will be denied entry into South Africa.
In many countries, visa applications for South Africa are facilitated through VFS Global.
Delegates are advised to check the application process in their country of residence.
Passports need to be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your departure date from South Africa.
To determine whether you require a visa to enter South Africa, visit the comprehensive South African Home Affairs Department website at: Click here
For South African missions abroad: Click here
Should you require a invitation letter for visa purposes please click here
Weather and Clothing
Cape Town in March experiences hot weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. Layering is recommended, with warmer clothing for mornings, evenings, and cooler days.
Currency and Banking
The currency unit is the Rand, denoted by the symbol R, with 100 cents making up R1 (one Rand). Foreign currency can be exchanged at local banks and Bureaux de Changes. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates are widely accepted.
Click here for currency converter.
Electricity
The electricity supply in South Africa is 220/230 volts, AC 50 Hz. Please ensure that you bring the correct converter for your electrical equipment. Plug types most commonly used in South Africa are Type M and Type C.
Tax Refunds
Value-added-tax (VAT) is charged on most items. Foreign tourists to South Africa can have their 15% VAT (from 1 April 2018) refunded provided that the value of the items purchased exceeds R250.00. VAT is refunded at the point of departure provided receipts are produced.
Disabled Travelers
An increasing number of accommodation establishments have wheelchair ramps and bathroom facilities for the disabled. Almost every national park has at least one accessible chalet and many accommodation establishments have one or two wheelchair-friendly rooms. Most of our sports stadiums have accessible suites, stands or areas for wheelchairs near accessible parking as well as special toilet facilities. Most public buildings also cater for wheelchair access.
Health and Safety
Many foreigners are unaware that South Africa has a well-developed infrastructure and medical facilities equal to the best in the world.
Hospitals and Medical Care
In a great many medical disciplines, South Africa is a global leader. In fact, South African trained doctors are sought after all over the world, so this should give an indication of the standard of medical care available. There is a large network of public and private hospitals countrywide, offering excellent service. However, clients must have adequate health insurance to cover the fees private hospitals charge. Participants are strongly advised to arrange adequate travel, health, and personal
liability insurance for the entire duration of the event. The organiser shall not be liable for any loss, injury, accident, damage, or unexpected costs incurred during
travel to or from the event or during participation.
Malaria
Malaria is not a risk in Cape Town.
In South Africa, malaria occurs only in the far north-eastern regions of the country. The risk may increase during the autumn months (from March onwards), particularly in these areas. Delegates planning travel outside of Cape Town, especially to northern regions for game drives or leisure travel before or after the congress, are advised to check whether their destination falls within a malaria risk area.
Although the incidence of malaria is relatively low, appropriate precautions are recommended when visiting affected regions. The most effective measures include physical barriers such as mosquito nets and the use of a reliable insect repellent. If you are considering malaria prophylaxis, it is essential to follow the instructions provided with the medication and to consult a medical professional beforehand.
Please note that certain medications may not be suitable for all individuals, including expectant mothers.
Vaccinations
Visitors entering South Africa from a yellow fever risk country must present a valid international yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Only infants under the age of one year are exempt.
Immunisation against cholera and smallpox is not required, and no other vaccinations are mandatory for entry into South Africa.
However, routine travel vaccinations are recommended. In particular, Hepatitis A vaccination is often advised for travellers, as it can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B vaccination may also be considered, especially for those who may have extended stays or potential exposure to medical procedures. Delegates are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional prior to travel to determine whether any vaccinations are appropriate based on their individual health profile and travel plans.
More information can be found here.
Personal Safety
South Africa boasts a vast array of cultures, communities, sites and attractions. Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists provided they take basic common-sense precautions (for example not walking alone in deserted areas at night and being circumspect about how much photographic equipment or flashy jewellery you carry).
Emergency phone numbers:
Police - 10111
Ambulance/Fire - 112
Food and Water
Drinking water in South Africa is generally safe, particularly in major cities such as Cape Town, where tap water meets high quality standards and is safe for consumption. In hotels, restaurants and reputable establishments, standards of hygiene and food preparation are excellent. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads, and to have ice in your drinks. Visitors travelling to more remote or rural areas may prefer to use bottled water as an additional precaution.
Tipping
Most restaurants do not add a service charge to bills - thus it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip. Parking and petrol station attendants should be given whatever small change you have available. This is always appreciated, even though it may seem a small amount.
Road Safety
Our transport infrastructure is excellent, and our roads are in good condition. We have very strict drinking and driving laws - with a maximum allowable alcohol blood content of 0.05%. Translated that means about one glass of wine for the average woman and perhaps 1.5 or two for the average or large man. Our speed limits are 120kmph on the open road, 100kmph on smaller roads and between 60 and 80kmph in towns.
Driving Requirements
In South Africa, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. To drive in South Africa, foreign visitors must hold a valid full driving licence from their country of residence. Licences printed in English are accepted. If the licence is in any other language, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is required. The licence must include a photograph and signature of the holder and must be carried at all times while driving. Visitors will also not be able to rent a car without a valid driver's permit. The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory and strictly enforced by law. Speaking on mobile phones whilst driving is only allowed via a hands-free kit.
Transportation & Taxis
E-hailing services are widely used in South Africa and offer a safe, convenient and transparent way to travel.
Platforms such as Uber are readily available in major cities, including Cape Town.
Delegates are encouraged to use reputable taxi apps to ensure reliable service and upfront pricing.
Photographing and Recording
Photography or recording during sessions is not allowed without prior permission. Official congress photographers may capture images. By attending the event, participants acknowledge and agree that photographs, video recordings, and other media may be taken during the event. The organiser is authorised to use such media for documentation, promotional, educational, and communication purposes in print, online, and social media channels without any further approval or compensation, in compliance with applicable data protection laws.
Social Media
We encourage you to share your experience!
Please use #ISW2028Cape Town and tag @ISS_SIC on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Always credit speakers when sharing quotes or insights.
Lost and Found
For lost items, please contact the Registration Desk.
Code of Conduct
All participants are expected to conduct themselves in a professional, respectful, and ethical manner at all times. Harassment, discrimination, abusive behaviour, or
any form of misconduct will not be tolerated. In policy violation cases, the organiser reserves the right to take appropriate action, including removal from the event or termination of access to services, without refund.
Liability
The Congress Organisers have taken all reasonable care in making arrangements for the Congress, including accommodation. In the event of unforeseen disruptions, neither the Congress Organisers nor the Society can be held responsible for any losses incurred by delegates. The Congress organisers act as agents only in securing hotels, transport and travel services, and shall in no event be liable for acts or omissions in the event of injury, damage, loss, accident delay, Illness (including COVID-19 or other infectious diseases) or irregularity of any kind whatsoever during arrangements organised through contractors or by the employees of such contractors. Hotel and transportation services are subject to the terms and conditions under which they are offered to the general public. Delegates should make their own arrangements with respect to personal insurance. The Congress organisers reserve the right to make changes as and when deemed necessary, without prior notice to the parties concerned. All disputes are subject to resolution under South African Law.
© 2028 by The International Society of Surgery (ISS/SIC)