5 Best VPNs for South Africa in 2024 for Security & Speed

Not all VPNs can reliably access sites in and out of South Africa. Also, many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in South Africa still limit how much data you can transmit in a given amount of time. So, a VPN that can bypass ISP throttling is a must.

My team and I tested over 40 VPNs and found the best ones for South Africa. All the VPNs on my list have a global network of fast servers to get around geoblocks — including servers in SA if you need a South African IP address. Plus, they protect your data with advanced security features like military-grade (AES 256-bit) encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for South Africa. It has fast servers for seamless browsing across 105 countries (including South Africa). Plus, it's easy to use and won't compromise security and privacy. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.Get ExpressVPN for South Africa >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for South Africa in 2024

Editors' Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, Cyberghost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.

Best VPNs for South Africa — Full Analysis (Updated 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds for Uninterrupted Browsing in and Outside South Africa

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Tested April 2024

Available on:

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www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN's fast speeds are ideal for smooth browsing. Its Lightway protocol improves performance by establishing connections faster and using less processing power. I tested UK, US, South Africa, and Germany servers, averaging 112.2Mbps from my base speed of 121.55Mbps. UHD streaming requires 25 Mbps, so you can easily watch content available in your region in 4K. Also, with unlimited bandwidth, ExpressVPN is a top choice for torrenting.

I experienced only a 5.2% speed reduction connected to a UK server

Geo-restrictions aren't a problem with its global network spanning 105 countries. That means you have many IP addresses at your disposal to read international news anywhere. There are also servers located in South Africa to give you a local IP address. So, you can stay secure online with the VPN while still watching your favorite sports teams on the SuperSport app when in SA.

Robust security features protect your online privacy in South Africa. AES 256-bit encryption scrambles your data, making it unreadable to hackers and snoops. Perfect Forward Secrecy further secures your browsing by regularly changing your encryption keys. Various protocols are also available — Lightway gave me the fastest connection, whereas OpenVPN is my go-to when banking online. I recommend using the former on your mobile because it drains less battery.

A kill switch also cuts your internet connection if the VPN accidentally drops. For example, when you’re switching between servers. On top of that, I didn't find any IP/DNS/WebRTC leaks, so the VPN won't expose your data. ExpressVPN also won't log, store, or share your data with anyone, thanks to its no-logs policy and headquarters in the privacy-friendly British Virgin Islands (outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances).

Its MediaStreamer is useful when you want to stream content on your Smart TV and other devices that don't typically support VPNs. You can even install ExpressVPN on your router to use the VPN on any device connected to your WiFi.

One disappointment was that it lacks a built-in ad-blocker. However, it makes up for this with Threat Manager, which automatically blocks sites known to be dangerous. The feature relies on a regularly updated database of known malicious websites and trackers to accomplish this.

Subscriptions start from $6.67/month. Plus, ExpressVPN offers great discounts throughout the year that can make your plan more budget-friendly. I saved 49% and got 3 months of service free with the 1-year option. On top of that, all plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested its refund policy by canceling via 24/7 live chat. I got my money credited to my bank account after 2 days.

Useful Features

• Split tunneling. This feature allows you to access local and international websites simultaneously by choosing which apps use the VPN and which use your regular internet connection.
• Smart location. Automatically connect to the fastest server based on your actual location. This comes in handy when you don’t have a server preference.
• TrustedServer technology. ExpressVPN uses RAM-only servers that delete your web history with every reboot. So, there’s no data to be shared in the first place.
• User-friendly apps. Its straightforward design makes getting a South Africa IP address a breeze.
• Device-specific tutorials. If you want to customize settings on a specific device, its website is full of practical set-by-step guides.

2. CyberGhost — Worldwide Servers to Access Local and International Content

Available on:

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost’s huge network makes finding a server in a country with the content you need hassle-free. The VPN also offers servers optimized for specific online activities — streaming, torrenting, and online gaming. Simply expand the app’s view and tap on the category of your choice. In my tests, I could torrent at fast speeds without interruptions on CyberGhost’s optimized torrenting servers.

You can “favorite” your most used servers by clicking the star icon next to them

Like ExpressVPN, speeds are also impressive. When I connected to its US, India, and France servers, I averaged 109Mbps (a 10.4% decrease from my non-VPN speeds of 121.6Mbps). This is more than enough to achieve 4K streaming via any of the services available in your region.

The VPN guards your data with AES 256-bit encryption and a built-in kill switch. I tend to forget to switch on my VPN in restaurants, so the automatic WiFi protection always comes in handy. This feature launches the VPN when it detects a new network, so you’re always protected. Switch on its ad-blocker to improve the loading speeds of sites and maintain a safer online experience.

On top of that, the VPN uses RAM-only servers and an audited zero-logs policy to keep your information secure from prying eyes. I also didn't detect any data leaks, which indicates that CyberGhost keeps your IP addresses and DNS requests hidden. For extra privacy, you can upgrade to the VPN's independently operated NoSpy servers.

One drawback is its short-term plans are pricey and have a limited refund period. However, long-term plans are available at only $2.03/month. The VPN also allows you to make payments using Bitcoin — another way CyberGhost enhances your online privacy.

You can try CyberGhost free for 45 days using its extended money-back guarantee. The cancelation process is extremely easy — I ended my subscription and applied for a refund via email without talking to anyone. My money was back in my PayPal account after 4 days.

Useful Features

• Privacy-friendly jurisdiction. CyberGhost's headquarters are in Romania — outside the intelligence-sharing pact of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances. That means it isn’t subjected to any data retention laws.
• Easy to use. Apps are very simple to use and available for all major operating systems like Windows, Linux, and Mac. Plus, customer support is 24/7 via email or live chat.
• Security protocols. It has several industry-leading protocols, including the very secure OpenVPN, speedy WireGuard, and IKEv2 (best for mobile).
• Dedicated IPs. For a small fee, you can avoid repetitive CAPTCHAs when surfing, browsing, or torrenting with an IP that belongs to you alone.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Robust Security Features To Keep You Safe When Using WiFi in South Africa

Available on:

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Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA gives you a choice of encryption and protocols for enhanced online safety in SA. For example, I use AES 128-bit and WireGuard (which uses less code to boost speed) to hasten torrent downloads. I switch to AES 256-bit with OpenVPN when using banking and shopping apps as they offer the best protection. In addition, IP/DNS/WebRTC leak protection, a kill switch, and an audited no-logs policy protect your data from third parties.

You can activate Split Tunneling under the settings, too

I experienced only a 15.5% speed reduction during my tests with UK, Canada, and South African servers. I clocked an average download speed of 104.5Mbps from my original 123.7Mbps connection. This high-speed performance allows for uninterrupted content browsing and file transfers from South Africa.

Its servers are spread out over 90 countries to access more content in and outside South Africa. Besides being able to use my international services, the VPN seamlessly worked with local sites, including e-banking. Like ExpressVPN, the entire network supports P2P traffic and doesn’t restrict bandwidth, so you can download large files without limits.

On the downside, the VPN’s multiple settings can be tricky to customize if you’re new to VPNs.
However, PIA's apps are preconfigured, so you can use them immediately. On top of that, customer support is on standby 24/7 if you need help configuring more advanced features, like split tunneling.

All plans come with the same features, including 30-day money-back guarantee, but PIA's long-term options offer the best prices, starting at $2.03/month. You can even save more on your subscriptions by taking advantage of its special discounts and offers.

Useful Features

• Multi-hop and obfuscation. Activating this feature hides VPN usage by disguising your encrypted connection as regular internet traffic. This makes it more difficult for restrictive networks (like those at school or work) to detect and block your VPN connection.
• RAM-only servers. PIA ensures no data is stored permanently on its servers. These servers erase your data every time you disconnect from the VPN.
• MACE ad-blocker. This feature improves your streaming or torrenting experience by fending off resource-heavy ads and trackers. It also stops malicious websites from loading.

4. NordVPN — Beginner-Friendly Apps to Quickly Find a South African Server

Available on:

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Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's clean and intuitive user interface makes navigating and configuring the VPN easy. Its main screen features a world map with all available servers, making connecting to your preferred location straightforward. Plus, its Quick Connect feature selects the fastest server near you, so you don't have to pick one yourself. I connected to NordVPN's South Africa server during my tests with two clicks.

Quickly connect to NodVPN's SA server by simply tapping the pin on the map

With over 6,339 servers worldwide, you’ll always have a reliable connection wherever you’re browsing. You can also take advantage of its P2P servers and unlimited bandwidth to share large files without delays.

While slower than ExpressVPN, its speeds were fast for most online activities. I recorded 104.1Mbps on its SA, Brazil, and Poland servers — only a 17.6% drop from my non-VPN speed of 126.3Mbps. I didn’t experience any buffering while watching my favorite local South African shows in UHD.

NordVPN's NordLynx protocol, based on the fast WireGuard, ensures secure and stable connections. With its Double VPN feature, it provides double encryption for your data. Integrated features like a kill switch, IP/DNS leak protection, OpenVPN protocol, and auto WiFi protection in its apps safeguard your identity online.

Unfortunately, its policy indicates a willingness to comply with government requests for user information. Still, there’s no need to worry since its servers are RAM-based, and it doesn’t log or store any identifiable information.

Prices start from $3.09/month for a long-term plan and include a 30-day money-back guarantee. Short-term options have the same features, but they cost more. I always opt for longer subscriptions to cut down on my expenses.

Useful Features

• Obfuscated servers. NordVPN uses these servers to hide VPN usage, making it easy to avoid limitations such as ISP throttling when streaming, browsing, or torrenting.
• Split tunneling. I used it to encrypt my torrenting activity while I stream or surf local content using my regular internet connection.
• Threat Protection. This feature provides an extra layer of security to your online activity by safeguarding you against ads, malware, and trackers.

5. Surshark — Many Simultaneous Connections to Protect All Your Devices in South Africa

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

You can use Surfshark on an unlimited number of devices at once. This is particularly useful if you have a multi-device household and want to protect all of them. My connection remained stable throughout while testing Surfshark. I connected my Windows PCs, Android tablet, and various smartphones at the same time and didn’t run into any issues.

The VPN has 3,200 servers in 100 countries to help you access your subscriptions. With such a large selection of servers, you have a better chance of finding ones that reliably work with your local and cross-border services.

Leveraging its WireGuard protocol, Surfshark maintained an average speed of 100Mbps across Australia, Singapore, and UK servers, a mere 19.7% drop from my 124.6Mbps base speed. As such, it’s convenient for heavy browsing activities. Surfshark also excels in efficient file sharing with dedicated torrenting servers and unlimited bandwidth.

My only concern was that the VPN is based in the Netherlands, at the heart of the 9/14 Eyes Alliances. However, its RAM-only servers and verified no-logs policy prevent it from logging or sharing your data. Besides, the VPN also uses AES 256-bit encryption, leak protection, Perfect Forward Secrecy, and a kill switch to secure your connection.

All subscriptions offer advanced features like split tunneling (Bypasser), MultiHop for double encryption, and an ad-blocker. But, the long-term plan is the most affordable at $2.89/month. Additionally, Surfshark ensures customer satisfaction with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Useful Features

• NoBorder mode. This feature enables uninterrupted streaming and torrenting by helping you avoid ISP restrictions like bandwidth throttling. It hides VPN usage when you connect to its servers using OpenVPN (UDP or TCP).
• User-friendly apps. The VPN is very straightforward — I installed it on my Windows laptop and connected to a South African server in under 5 minutes.
• Dedicated IPs. Like CyberGhost, Surfshark lets you browse, torrent, or stream with a private IP address that only belongs to you.

Quick Comparison Table: South Africa VPN Features

The table that follows compares my recommended VPNs on various criteria, including the most affordable pricing, download speed, and the maximum number of devices that can be connected.

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for South Africa

To narrow down the selection of the finest VPNs for South Africa, I utilized the subsequent criteria. By employing these features, you can ascertain that the VPN you choose fulfills all your requirements:

• South Africa (and global) servers. The VPN must have reliable servers in South Africa to give you local IP addresses for accessing SA services and sites. A global network helps unblock international sites too.
• Fast speeds. All VPNs reduce your internet speed when encrypting your traffic. Look for a VPN that doesn’t lower your speeds by more than 20% to still stream, browse, and torrent without delays in South Africa.
• Robust security and privacy measures. Maintain your privacy in and outside South Africa by choosing a VPN with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a proven no-logs policy.
• Ease of use. Stream or torrent right away by choosing a VPN with user-friendly apps compatible with all major operating systems.
• Responsive customer support. Professional online support (ideally via 24/7 live chat, email, or contact form) should be available too.
• Reliable money-back guarantee. Get a VPN with a tried-and-tested refund policy so you can try it knowing you can get your money back if it doesn’t suit you.

FAQs on Using a VPN for South Africa

Are VPNs legal in South Africa?

Yes, using a VPN in South Africa is legal, but their legality in other countries may vary. Many people in South Africa use VPNs to enhance their security and protect their online privacy. However, while using a VPN is legal, it's important to remember that any illegal activities (like downloading copyrighted files) conducted while using it remains unlawful. Always ensure you use VPNs responsibly and follow all applicable laws and regulations. I recommend checking with local regulations or a legal expert for the most current information.

Why use a VPN in South Africa?

VPNs give you reliable access to local and international sites. Most websites and apps use geoblocks to limit access based on your IP address. However, VPNs with servers worldwide (including South Africa) can get around these limitations, allowing you to use your accounts anywhere.

They also let you stream, torrent, and game without connection restrictions. ISPs in South Africa often limit speed based on your data usage. Using a VPN with fast servers can help overcome ISP throttling.

South Africa is a playground for hackers, with data breaches regarded as a common occurrence. A VPN with robust encryption and a no-logs policy keeps you protected online.

Can I watch Disney+ with a VPN in South Africa?

Disney+ is now available in South Africa. However, you'll only have access to its regional library. Make sure you choose a VPN with reliable, high-speed servers in South Africa to be able to stream Disney+ content in the highest quality without buffering.

Can using a VPN for South Africa affect my internet speed?

A VPN will always impact your speed to some extent. However, the best VPNs for South Africa make the speed drop unnoticeable. It’s recommended to choose a VPN that slows you down by only 15% - 20% to maintain a smooth online experience.

How can I test if my South Africa VPN works?

You can use an IP address lookup tool to determine if your IP address changed and your data is being encrypted First, launch your VPN and connect to your preferred server. Then visit a free IP-checking site, like vpnMentor's IP checker, and wait while it scans for your location. If the it shows an IP address in the same country as your VPN server, then your VPN is working correctly.

Which VPNs for South Africa should I avoid?

Some VPNs can open you up to cyber threats, and it’s recommended to avoid such services if your security is a top priority. Instead, you can try a secure service like ExpressVPN that offers a money-back guarantee.

Here are some VPNs that you should avoid at all costs:

• Hola. This isn’t a VPN, but a P2P network that allows other people to use your IP address. That means it’s possible to trace their online activity back to your computer. So, you can get in trouble if someone uses your IP address for illegal purposes.
• SuperVPN. Stores your records, has vague privacy policies, and is riddled with annoying ads.
• EasyVPN. One of the most malware-infected VPN apps that have also been caught leaking user data. This service isn’t just risky; it’s downright dangerous.
• BetternetVPN. Lacks basic security features (like a kill switch) and shares your data with third parties. It can also infect your device with malware.

Can I use a free VPN for South Africa?

It isn't recommended as free VPNs have limited servers and subpar speeds. They also cap bandwidth and lack important security features, forcing you to upgrade to unlock their full potential. A premium VPN backed by a trustworthy money-back guarantee is a better alternative, as you can try it risk-free.

On top of that, some free services even sell your data to third parties and ad networks, compromising your privacy. Worse, others are laden with malware and trackers that can expose you to hackers and snoops.

Which VPN for South Africa is the cheapest?

PIA and Surfshark are currently the most affordable VPNs that won't compromise quality. With their long-term plan, you can pay as little as $2.03/month for PIA and $2.89/month for SurfShark.

However, it's important to note that prices can vary and change over time. While cost is important, it shouldn't be the sole determinant in choosing a VPN. Security, privacy features, speed, server locations, and customer support are just as important, if not more so.

Get the Best VPN for South Africa

VPNs offer an easy way to safely access content and services in and outside South Africa. However, very few are capable of providing reliable access. The ones on my list have excellent unblocking capabilities and deliver impressive speeds without compromising your security.

ExpressVPN is my number one choice for South Africa, thanks to its fast global network of servers in and outside South Africa, military-grade encryption, and a proven no-logs policy. You can try ExpressVPN with confidence as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for South Africa...

Rank

Provider

Our Score

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1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 84%!

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3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

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4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 69%!

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5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 85%!

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