A detailed guide for traveling to Thailand for South African citizens. Located approximately 860 km south of Bangkok & Thailand’s largest island.
Connected to the mainland by bridge, Phuket has retained a distinctive culture, where the fusion of Chinese and Portuguese influences have combined with the traditions of the Chao Naam, the indigenous sea-faring people. Create precious family memories on a fun filled, sun kissed seaside holiday in Phuket, enjoy some water sports at the beach, silly shenanigans at the pool or just spend time together watching a movie in your room. The kids will have plenty to do as parents relax at the spa and enjoy each other's company.
The west coast of Phuket boasts some of the best dive sites in the world, and consistently ranks among the top 10 scuba diving destinations in the world with underwater visibility that exceeds 30 meters and an average water temperature of 28°C. The tropical islands have pristine beaches, spectacular underwater rock formations and coral reefs that are home to a huge variety of colourful exotic marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks, barracudas, Malabar groupers, tunas, swordfish, mackerels and sea turtles. Embark on an underwater adventure you won’t soon forget.
Phuket is easily reachable by flight on major airlines flying directly to Phuket Airport (HKT).
Emirates Airlines - Operates 7 daily flights from Johannesburg, Durban & Cape Town Airport, flying via Dubai Airport. Travel time is approx 15 -18 hours. | |
Singapore Airlines - Operates a daily flight from Johannesburg flying via Singapore. Travel time is approx 14 -17 hours. | |
Qatar Arlines - Operates 4 daily flights from Johannesburg & Cape Town flying via Doha. Travel time is approx 15 - 18 hours. | |
Etihad Airlines - Operates a daily flights from Johannesburg flying via abu Dhabi. Travel time is approx 16 -19 hours. | |
Cathay Pacific - Operates a daily flights from Johannesburg flying via Hong Kong. Travel time is approx 17 -20 hours. |
Phuket has two main seasons: Rainy Season from May through to October and Hot Season from November to April. However, there are sunny days throughout the wet season; showers customarily lasting little more than 2-3 hours. The best months to visit are November to April. Average temperatures range between 22 and 34 degrees Celsius.
South African Passport Holders do not need visas for Thailand.
Hotels & Resorts in Phuket
Patong Beach Hotel
Located centrally in Patong, close to Bangla Road, markets & a stones throw away from the beach and boasting its own Banana Disco club. Great for travellers looking to be in the hustle and bustle.
Amari Phuket
One of the few priviledged beachfront resorts on Patong Beach with magnificent views of the bay, it is ideal for couples and honeymooners, enjoying direct access to a private and secluded beach.
Burasari Resort
A charming boutique hotel close to the beach with a quiet setting ideal for couples looking for a retreat. This resort is secluded and serene with Pool Acces rooms leading out directly into the pool in high demand.
Seaview Patong Hotel
Set ideally at the edge of Patong across the road from the sandy beach. Seaview Patong hotel offers 4 star service at affordable rates. The nightlife, restaurants and markets are only a short stroll away.
Keemala Phuket
This luxurious boutique hotel embraces a Thai cultural philosophy in its design and service, positioned in the woodlands well away from the crowds. The resort offers with villas shaded by a canopy of rainforest.
Places to see in Phuket
Chalong Temple
Old Phuket Town
Phi Phi Islands
Phang Nga Islands
Bangla Road
Things to do for Families
Phuket Aquarium
Dino Park
Phuket Fantasea
Phuket Water Ski Cableways
Phuket Joyland
Best Shopping in Phuket
Large Department Stores in Phuket Town
Thalang
Patong
Popular Dive Sites
Batok Bay
Siam Beach
Ter Bay
Lha Bay
KonKare Bay
Sightseeing & Shows
The entertainment scene in Patong
Clubs & nightspots in Kata, Karon & Phuket
Phuket Fantasea cultures show
Sports & Activities
Golf
Diving, fishing, sailing and snorkeling