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South Africa
What this means for vanlife
Food in South Africa is below the world average by 28%. Good for long-term van travel — grocery costs are noticeably lower than in most developed countries.
↑ Year-over-year change: +3.7% 2026
Index History
Based on World Bank ICP 2021, adjusted with IMF CPI
Compare with South Africa
South Africa
If you spend 100 at home:
More countries in Africa
FAQ
Is food expensive in South Africa?
No, food in South Africa is cheap. The VanBasket Index is 72 (world average = 100), meaning food is 28% below the global average — great for budget travel.
How much should I budget for food in South Africa per month?
If the world average monthly food spend is $300, in South Africa you can expect to spend around $216. This is based on the VanBasket Index of 72 (world = 100).
How does South Africa compare to similar countries?
South Africa has a VanBasket Index of 72. Similar or nearby countries: Colombia, Moldova, Tanzania.
How often is the food price data for South Africa updated?
The index is updated monthly using IMF Consumer Price Index data. The baseline is from World Bank ICP 2021.