This page is for travelers living in Canada. I live in another country.
from CA to

South Africa

Socket type D in South Africa
D
Corresponding plug D
Socket type M in South Africa
M
Corresponding plug M
Socket type N in South Africa
N
Corresponding plug N
230 V
50 Hz

In South Africa, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type D, type M and type N are used. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

  • Yes, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type D, M and N in South Africa.
  • You also need a voltage converter.
  • Be extra careful with certain devices because of the difference in frequency.

Do your power plugs fit in South Africa?

In South Africa, they use power sockets (outlets) of type D, M and N. In Canada, you have plugs A and B. You need a power plug adapter in South Africa for sockets type D, M and N. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.

Socket type D in South Africa
D
Plug type A in Canada
A
Plug type B in Canada
B
Socket type D does not fit your plugs A and B
Socket type M in South Africa
M
Plug type A in Canada
A
Plug type B in Canada
B
Socket type M does not fit your plugs A and B
Socket type N in South Africa
N
Plug type A in Canada
A
Plug type B in Canada
B
Socket type N does not fit your plugs A and B

Buy a power plug (travel) adapter

We don't sell power plug adapters. We refer you to Amazon, where you will find a great selection of travel adapters.

You need to look for a power plug adapter for sockets type D, type M and type N. Alternatively, choose a world travel adapter that fits multiple sockets, in case you travel more often. Because you need a voltage converter as well (see below), you might want to use a combined travel adapter/voltage converter.

Voltage converter needed in South Africa?

The standard voltage in South Africa (230 V) is much higher than the voltage level your devices typically operate at in Canada (120 V). Without a converter, you risk serious damage to your devices. Additionally, be aware that the frequency in South Africa differs.

  • You need a voltage converter in South Africa to protect your devices!
  • Try to find a voltage converter that can also change the frequency.
230 V
50 Hz
120 V
60 Hz

A voltage converter will ensure a safe input voltage level for your devices in South Africa. You can find voltage converters at Amazon. Because you also need a power plug adapter, you might want a combined plug adapter/voltage converter.

Be warned if your converter cannot change the frequency. It is not advisable to use your devices. But if you do (at your own risk), exercise special caution with motorized devices and those containing electronic chips, such as clocks, shavers, and medical devices.

To be sure, check the label on your devices. Some devices never need a converter. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the device can be used in every country in the world. This is common for devices with chargers like tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc. For these devices you will only need a power plug adapter.

Need anything else?

Check if you have packed everything for your trip at our TRAVELER'S CHECKLIST!

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a power plug adapter in South Africa?
Yes, if you live in Canada, you need a power plug travel adapter for sockets type D, M and N in South Africa. The plugs of your electric devices don't fit without.
Do I need a voltage converter in South Africa?
You need a voltage converter in South Africa to protect your devices! The standard voltage in South Africa (230 V) is much higher than the voltage level your devices typically operate at in Canada (120 V). Without a converter, you risk serious damage to your devices. Additionally, be aware that the frequency in South Africa differs.

Find your travel adapter at AMAZON