Contact Details

Phoning home on your mobile can be very expensive, and even more so if it is from your hotel room. There is cell phone reception for SA networks, provided you have activated international roaming. Request your cell phone provider to open your cell phone for roaming at least 48 hours before you depart (N/A on pre-paid accounts). Ensure you understand the rates charged for calls and data usage while abroad.

Remember to switch off data roaming – it could still pull through data and charges would apply.  Check with your service provider what your options for international data roaming are, for e.g. Vodacom users can use 1GB in 7 days for R99.00.  You must have the Vodacom app downloaded on your phone and with enough airtime (irrespective whether you are on a contract or not).
Remember to pack your cell phone charger.

You will be charged for incoming and outgoing international calls at international call rates. Data charges may be very high when roaming. Ask your service provider if you are unsure of these charges.

Use local Wi-Fi to make use of WhatsApp for messaging and calls.

Skype, WhatsApp calls and Facetime from your device are also a great way of keeping in touch with family and friends back home. Keep in mind there are many free Wi-Fi spots

Alternatively

Look for the App “Airalo” in your Playstore or Appstore and download the App. Airalo is the world's first eSIM (digital SIM card) store that offers eSIMs for over 190+ countries and regions at the most affordable rates from around the world.
Airalo eSIMs offer you both connectivity and freedom. You'll no longer have to change SIM cards or carry multiple SIM cards, wherever you may go.