Wilderness, South Africa
Last updated on Jul 09, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Wilderness, South Africa. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Wilderness?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Wilderness, they said:
"Wilderness is a small coastal town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, known for its beautiful beaches and national parks. Before moving there, expats should know that the primary language spoken is Afrikaans, although English is also widely spoken. The cost of living is relatively low compared to larger cities in South Africa, but it's important to have a reliable source of income as job opportunities can be limited. The town has a slow, relaxed pace of life which is perfect for retirees or those looking for a peaceful lifestyle. The climate is mild and temperate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters. It's important to note that Wilderness is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded during peak holiday seasons. Healthcare facilities in Wilderness are limited, so for serious medical conditions, you may need to travel to the nearby city of George. The crime rate is relatively low, but like anywhere, it's important to take basic safety precautions. Wilderness is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and water sports, so it's a great place for nature lovers. The town has a close-knit community and it's easy to get to know locals and other expats. Public transportation is not very reliable, so having a car is almost essential. Lastly, while South Africa has a complex history with racial tensions, Wilderness is generally welcoming to foreigners and expats. However, it's important to approach cultural differences with respect and understanding," explained one expat living in Wilderness, South Africa.
How do I find a place to live in Wilderness?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Wilderness?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Wilderness?
- Will I be able to find a job in Wilderness?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Wilderness appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Wilderness?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Wilderness accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Wilderness like?
- How are healthcare services in Wilderness?
- What are medical services in Wilderness like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Wilderness?
- What are emergency services like in Wilderness?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Wilderness?
- How are local medical facilities in Wilderness?
- As a foreigner living in Wilderness, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?