Be Prepared and Stay Bright! South Africa is a country known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. However, there’s one aspect of daily life that may surprise tourists: loadshedding. Don’t let the term intimidate you – loadshedding is a controlled power outage implemented by the national electricity provider to prevent a total blackout. While it may sound daunting, with a little preparation and a positive mindset, you can navigate this unique phenomenon like a pro and make the most of your South African adventure.

So, what exactly is loadshedding? Essentially, it’s a way to manage electricity demand during times when the power supply is stretched thin. To avoid overwhelming the system, certain areas are intentionally left without electricity for a period of time. But fear not! Loadshedding schedules are carefully planned and widely communicated, allowing you to adjust your plans accordingly.

As a tourist, it’s helpful to be aware of loadshedding schedules in the area you’re visiting. These schedules are usually available online or through mobile applications such as ESP Eskom Se Push. Ask your hotel or your Airbnb host what area name and number your accommodation is in to get the correct schedule. By staying informed, you can plan your activities, ensuring that you’re not caught off guard when the lights go out. Embrace the opportunity to explore alternative experiences during loadshedding. With a bit of creativity, you might discover hidden gems and unique ways to immerse yourself in South African culture. That being said, after years of almost constant daily loadshedding, many hotels and holiday apartments have installed back up power to keep the essentials going such as lights, TV, wifi, laptops, phones going. Most will not be able to power aircons, hair dryer and other high voltage items.

Here are a few handy tips to prepare for loadshedding:

1. Stay Charged: Keep your devices fully charged and carry a portable power bank. This way, you can stay connected, capture memorable moments, and navigate using maps even during power outages.
2. Lighting Solutions: Pack a flashlight or headlamp to easily move around in the dark. It’s also a great idea to have some candles or battery-operated lanterns handy to create a cozy ambiance.
3. Stay Hydrated and Stock Up: Loadshedding can affect water supply in some areas. Fill up water bottles and ensure you have enough drinking water to stay hydrated. Stock up on non-perishable snacks or even consider trying some local treats that don’t require electricity to prepare.
4. Explore Outdoor Activities: Use loadshedding as an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of South Africa. Take a hike, visit a local park, or enjoy a picnic in the sunshine. Nature has a way of keeping us entertained without relying on electricity.
5. Engage with the Locals: Loadshedding affects everyone, and it’s an excellent chance to strike up conversations with locals. Ask for recommendations on loadshedding-friendly activities or find out how they adapt to these temporary power cuts. You might discover new insights and forge meaningful connections.
6. Be Flexible and Embrace the Adventure: Loadshedding is a part of the South African experience, and by approaching it with a positive attitude, you’ll be able to adapt and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Embrace the slower pace, take a moment to relax, and savor the charm of South Africa even in the absence of electricity.

Loadshedding doesn’t have to dim your enthusiasm for exploring South Africa. By staying informed, being prepared, and embracing the adventure, you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. So, charge up, light your way, and get ready to experience the vibrant spirit of South Africa, even in the moments when the lights go out.