South Africa has a quite unusual standard power plug. It looks a bit like the British (UK) power plugs but the sockets are, in fact, different. A UK power plug does not work in South Africa. The South African version is called a “type M”, with three round prongs, one that is bigger than the other two. This socket is not compatible with any other type of plugs. Sometimes, a similar plug, called Type D, is mentioned but I have not seen it used.
They also use a power socket called “type N” which is similar to the European standard two-pronged plug (Type C). But this is less common. You need an adapter / converter to Type M! Some European power plugs work in this socket (Type N), but not all – only those of smaller size and with pointy edges.
Here’s a description of the South African electricity plug.
Where to buy an adapter
Since the South African plug/socket is unusual it may be difficult to find a place to buy an adapter / converter. Don’t worry! Adapters are readily available in South Africa, for example at the airports, but – even simpler – you can buy them in most supermarkets or bigger grocery stores, for example the ubiquitous chain Pick ‘n Pay.
Many modern hotels have multi-standard power outlets that also accepts European plugs and sometimes also UK plugs.
The electricity is 230 Volts and 60 Hertz. However, most modern chargers accept both 110 V (US style) and 220/230 V as well as both 50 Hz and 60 Hz, so you only need to convert the prongs. In most cases you do not need to convert the power, as you used to in the olden days. If in doubt, read the details on your charger.
Important: South Africa is still suffering from a shortage of electricity. There are still (usually) twice-daily “load shedding”, when power is cut off for certain areas during an hour. Some hotels have generators to make sure you have 24/7 power but not all. So it is advisable to always have your power bank charged so that you don’t get stuck with an empty battery. You can find info on load shedding times on the internet and, of course, at each hotel.
Travel: Come on a wine tour to South Africa with BKWine. 2025 tour soon to be launched.
See: See pictures and videos from South Africa 2024 in the wine tours Facebook group.
