watch South African TV abroad

It’s easy to forget that some of the services we use every day aren’t available everywhere. For instance, many people only remember that they can’t keep watching South African TV shows abroad while on vacation. However, most geo-restricted platforms rely on the user’s IP address to find their location, and this kind of blocking is extremely simple to get around with a Virtual Private Network.

VPNs encrypt your data, hiding it from anyone who might be watching, before sending it through servers in a different country. In short, if you use a South African VPN server, you can stop websites from realizing you’re abroad. This lets you regain access to your favorite services while traveling. Here’s a brief overview of the best VPNs for South African channels:

Best VPNs for South African TV:

  1. NordVPN: Our #1 pick for South African TV. This no-logs service has some of the strongest security around, as well as high-speed servers and great unblocking ability. Also offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly.
  2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN service. No connection or bandwidth limits, impressive unblocking abilities, and a great set of security features built-in.
  3. ExpressVPN: Promising fast speeds, easy to use apps, and a solid set of security features, there’s very little this VPN can’t do.
  4. CyberGhost: A speedy, secure VPN with dozens of African servers and a strict no-logs policy. Ideal for safely accessing geo-restricted content abroad.
  5. PrivateVPN: An excellent choice for almost any task, whether it’s streaming South African TV or torrenting.
  6. Hotspot Shield: Boasts a good set of security features and steady speeds. Works with most geo-blocked SA content we’ve tested.
  7. Private Internet Access: Servers available in 80+ countries. Fast enough for uninterrupted DStv streaming. Strong privacy protection and allows 10 devices.

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There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

How to watch South African TV abroad with a VPN

VPNs make it very easy to access geo-blocked content abroad. In fact, you can get started in a matter of minutes.

Here’s how to unblock South African TV channels anywhere:

  1. First, create an account with one of the VPNs below (we recommend NordVPN).
  2. Download and install the VPN app. Often, you’ll be allowed five or so connections at once, so you may as well install it on any device you want to stream on.
  3. Log in and select a South African server to get a South African IP address.
  4. Visit a previously inaccessible TV channel and see if you can watch now. In most cases, your video will begin immediately.
  5. If you encounter any issues, clear your cookies and reload the page to fix the most common problems. Alternatively, ask your VPN’s support team for advice.

Best VPNs for South African TV – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for accessing South African TV from anywhere.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkExpressVPNCyberGhostPrivateVPNHotspot Shield
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comPrivateVPN.comHotspotshield.com
Ranking for South African TV123456
Total number of servers6,000+3,200Undisclosed11,000+200+1,800
Devices SupportedWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, LinuxWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, RoutersWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TVWindows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Chrome, Smart TVs, Routers
Avg Speed (Mbps)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps39 Mbps100+ Mbps
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%86%85%85%85%
Best deal (per month)$3.39
67% off NordVPN for you. 3 months free for a friend
$2.29
Save 82% + Get 2 Months FREE
$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
$2.99
SAVE 77% ON THE 3 YEAR PLAN

Criteria for testing VPNs for SA television

We know how difficult it can be to decide which VPN to use, which is why we only recommend services that meet a strict set of criteria. The guidelines below ensure that regardless of which you choose, you’re guaranteed to get a highly versatile VPN. In other words, the services we recommend are not just great at unblocking South African TV, they can handle just about anything else you throw at them too.

  • Offers at least one server in South Africa for a local IP
  • Provides speedy, reliable connections sot streaming
  • Unblocks popular South African TV channels from abroad
  • Refuses to store any data that could identify you
  • Keeps you safe with advanced security features and effectively uncrackable encryption
  • Can be installed on a wide range of desktop and mobile devices

Best VPNs for watching South African TV shows abroad

Take a look below for a more detailed look at each of our recommended VPNs:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Mar 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN is our top choice for watching South African TV. It has more than 50 South African servers, so you’re all but guaranteed a high-speed connection, even at peak times. In fact, with over 5,400 servers in 60 countries and impressive unblocking abilities, you’ll be able to use services like SuperSport, BBC iPlayer, and Prime Video from anywhere in the world. This VPN permits six simultaneous connections per account.

NordVPN values its users’ privacy. For a start, it doesn’t keep any logs. Additionally, it accepts three different cryptocurrencies and has certain servers specifically optimized for maximum protection against snoopers. 256-bit AES encryption is included, as are a kill switch, IPv6 and DNS leak protection, and a built-in ad-blocker/malware scanner. If you need assistance, you can reach NordVPN’s support team over live chat, day or night.

NordVPN apps are available for Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android. Further, select wireless routers are supported via manual configuration.

NordVPN speed test data

No valueNordVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)354 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)262 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)284 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$3.39
67% off NordVPN for you. 3 months free for a friend

Pros:

  • 5,400+ global servers and 50+ in South Africa
  • Achieves consistently impressive speeds
  • Works with plenty of South African TV channels
  • Impeccable security credentials
  • Doesn’t keep any logs
  • Offers around-the-clock support

Cons:

  • Collects advertising IDs on mobile devices

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST VPN FOR SOUTH AFRICA:NordVPN is our #1 pick. It’s an inexpensive service that doesn’t compromise on security. Further, it offers high speeds, impressive unblocking ability, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. With a true no-logs policy, your privacy is all but guaranteed.

Check out our comprehensive NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Surfshark is a fantastic budget VPN. It has has more than 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, not just South Africa. It’s fast too, and offers unlimited bandwidth, meaning users won’t have to worry about lag or buffering keeping them from streaming their favorite shows. In fact, in addition to channels like SuperSport, Surfshark works with well-known services like Netflix USA and Hulu. Best of all, there’s no connection limit.

This VPN features a wide range of security features, such as 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, automatic ad-blocking and malware scanning, and protection against IPv6 and DNS leaks. It can also swap your South African IP address periodically, plus its NoBorders is capable of getting around country-wide internet censorship. Crucially, Surfshark doesn’t keep any logs. Should you run into any problems, you can reach customer support 24/7 over live chat.

Surfshark offers iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux apps. You can also use it with supported routers but you’ll have to follow manual configuration instructions.

Surfshark speed test data

No valueSurfshark
WebsiteSurfshark.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)521 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)702 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)561 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.29
Save 82% + Get 2 Months FREE

Pros:

  • Servers in 100+ countries
  • Works with most major platforms
  • Strong commitment to your security
  • No limit on the number of devices connected
  • Zero-logs provider

Cons:

  • Surfshark One account needed to access some advanced tools

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is the best budget provider. It’s fast, works with major streaming platforms, and comes packed with advanced security features. If that still doesn’t convince you, perhaps its lack of a connection limit or its 30-day money-back guarantee will.

Read our comprehensive Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for streaming South African channels or, really, TV from just about anywhere. This is because it offers unlimited bandwidth and access to high-speed servers in 94 countries. As such, you should be able to watch eTV and SuperSport without any noticeable lag or buffering. It now boasts a higher connection limit than ever before too, supporting up to 10 devices at a time.

Once connected, your online activities are hidden thanks to ExpressVPN’s 256-bit encryption and kill switch, as well as its DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. It even blocks malicious sites and turns obfucation on automatically whenever it’s needed. Further, this service doesn’t log any data that could be traced back to you. If you’d like, you can sign up with a disposable email address and Bitcoin. There’s a 24/7 live chat-based help desk in case you have any issues.

ExpressVPN provides apps for Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and Linux. Additionally, it has custom firmware for routers that can help you more easily protect your home network.

ExpressVPN speed test data

No valueExpressVPN
WebsiteExpressVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)319 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)303 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)278 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free

Pros:

  • Solid speeds and unlimited bandwidth
  • Strong unblocking capabilities
  • Plenty of advanced security and privacy features
  • Pay anonymously with Bitcoin
  • 24/7 live chat support

Cons:

  • Slightly more expensive than some other options

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

GREAT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN is a great streaming VPN with speedy connections, powerful security and privacy features, and support for a wide range of South African TV channels. It also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Why not take a look at the full ExpressVPN review?

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4. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

CyberGhost has a truly huge network, with 9,000+ servers in 90+ countries including around 30 in South Africa. This alone would make it a strong choice for anyone looking to stream geo-restricted content on vacaction, but when you factor in its consistently high speeds and fantastic unblocking capabilities, its real value becomes clear. Further, with up to seven simultaneous connections permitted, you’ll be able to securely stream eTV, DStv, or SuperSport wherever you go.

This VPN makes staying safe online as simple as possible. There’s no configuration required as connections are secured with IPv6 and DNS leak protection, 256-bit encryption, and a kill switch by default. There’s also a malware-scanner and ad-blocker, giving you even greater protection. Additionally, CyberGhost doesn’t log any personally identifiable data, so you can rest assured that your privacy is in good hands. Support staff are on-hand 24/7 over email and live chat.

CyberGhost offers easy-to-use apps for macOS, iOS, Linux, Windows, and Android, This service also works with Linux systems and select routers via manual installation.

CyberGhost speed test data

No valueCyberGhost
WebsiteCyberghost.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)449 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)269 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)167 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan

Pros:

  • Plenty of fast South African servers and over 9,000 worldwide
  • Very easy to use
  • Streaming-optimized servers
  • Solid privacy and security features enabled by default
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Lack of configuration options could frustrate power users
  • Doesn’t work in China

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

USER-FRIENDLY:CyberGhost is a high-speed, VPN that’s great for streaming. What’s more, with solid unblocking capabilities, pre-configured security features, and a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, it’s ideal for anyone looking for their first VPN.

Read our full review of CyberGhost.

CyberGhost Coupon
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan
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5. PrivateVPN

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

PrivateVPN doesn’t have as large a network as some of its competitors, but its 230 servers cover 60+ countries and offer exceptionally high speeds. What’s more, they’re capable of securely accessing South African streaming services like eTV, SuperSport, and more. It permits up to 10 simultaneous connections and offers near-24/7 support over live chat.

This service comes packed with powerful security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, a customizable kill switch, and a stealth mode that helps you hide the fact that you’re even using a VPN in the first place. There’s also built-in protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. PrivateVPN follows a strict zero-logs policy and provides live chat-based support almost (but not quite) around the clock.

PrivateVPN has apps for a wide range of platforms (iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS). Further, it can be manually configured for use with Linux systems and most routers.

PrivateVPN speed test data

No valuePrivateVPN
WebsitePrivateVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)94 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)57 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)62 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Pros:

  • Servers in 60+ countries including South Africa
  • One of the fastest VPNs around
  • Perfect for watching geo-restricted content abroad
  • Keeps no logs and offers a wide range of security features

Cons:

  • Only has a handful of servers in Africa
  • Customer service is not 24/7

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

NO LAG WHATSOEVER:PrivateVPN provides very fast, consistent connections and unblocks plenty of South African streaming services. What’s more, it has plenty of advanced security features, a zero-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Take a look at our in-depth PrivateVPN review.

PrivateVPN Coupon
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free
Get Deal >
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6. Hotspot Shield

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Hotspotshield.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

Editor’s Note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Editor’s note: Hotspot Shield is owned by Pango, Comparitech’s parent company.

Hotspot Shield has more than 1,800 servers in over 80 countries including South Africa. As such, it allows users to easily stream TV from all over the world. Further, with high speeds, no bandwidth limits, and fantastic unblocking ability, you’ll be able to watch almost anything, almost anywhere, without any noticeable lag or buffering. Hotspot Shield recently increased its simultaneous connection limit and can now protect up to 10 devices at a time.

This VPN comes with an impressive array of security features. For instance, there’s 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch that stops sending data the moment your connection drops. Also included are split tunneling functionality and automatic wifi protection. Hotspot Shield deletes all identifiable data once your session ends, which means it can’t reveal what you get up to online under any circumstances. This service operates a 24/7 live chat help desk.

Hotspot Shield has apps for desktop (Windows, Linux, and MacOS) and mobile devices (Android and iOS). If you’d like to use it on a router, you can follow a manual setup guide.

Pros:

  • Steady speeds and unlimited bandwidth
  • Unblocks some of the most popular streaming services from abroad
  • Good range of security settings

Cons:

  • Some past privacy concerns
  • Doesn’t support any anonymous payment options

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

HIGHLY VERSATILE:Hotspot Shield isn’t just great for streaming South African TV abroad; its steady speeds, powerful security, and large network make it a strong choice for almost any task. Still not convinced? This service also comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our Hotspot Shield review.

Hotspot Shield Coupon
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7. Private Internet Access

 

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Private Internet Access stands out for offering servers in more than 80 countries.In our latest tests, it delivered average speeds of more than 110 Mbps and worked with plenty of South African streaming services. In fact, you’ll also be able to use platforms like Netflix USA and BBC iPlayer without any trouble. This VPN recently scrapped its connection limit and can now secure every device you own.

The service includes live chat and email support which is available 24 hours a day. Security-wise, you’re very much protected thanks to the use of 256-bit AES encryption. There’s also DNS leak protection and a kill switch, while PIA operates a true no-logs policy. Indeed, it doesn’t even keep the connection logs that many other VPNs retain.

Private Internet Access apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV. Browser extensions are offered for Chrome and Firefox. You can even use PIA with select compatible routers, but manual setup is required.

Private Internet Access speed test data

No valuePrivate Internet Access
WebsitePrivateInternetAccess.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)93 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)58 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)200 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.19
SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan

Pros:

  • Servers in over 80 countries, South Africa included
  • Works well with Netflix as well as South African TV
  • Can be used on all of your devices simultaneously

Cons:

  • Unable to bypass VPN restrictions in China
  • Slightly cluttered app design

Our score:

4 out of 5

SERVERS WORLDWIDE:Private Internet Access works with South African TV from anywhere. It also works with Netflix US. Good, consistent connections and no simultaneous connection limit, plus a no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Private Internet Access review.

Private Internet Access Coupon
SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan
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Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for South African TV

Nobody wants to spend their vacation struggling to access their usual streaming services. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and identified the best VPNs for streaming South African TV. Our experts eliminated contenders using the strict list of criteria below:

  • Servers in South Africa: You’ll need at least one of these to get a South African IP address and watch TV from back home. Ideally, your VPN will have several to choose from, spread out across several cities, since this provides the most reliable performance.
  • Speed: Live streaming is fairly data-intensive, so you’ll need a quick and reliable VPN if you’re going to watch TV regularly. We regularly speed-test various providers to see which are the fastest and ensure all of our recommendations are suitable for streaming.
  • Streaming ability: We want to make sure you can access all of your usual services, which is why our team tests VPNs with major platforms like SuperSport, M-Net, eTV, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
  • Security and privacy: VPNs are privacy tools, which is why we require 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a kill switch, plus a no-logs policy. Obviously, we prefer providers that go even further.
  • Ease of use: All of the VPNs we recommend are simple enough for newcomers to grasp. Additionally, we like to elevate services that put user-friendliness first, whether it’s by offering 24/7 support, removing connection limits, or providing apps for all major platforms.
  • Cost-effectiveness: We’ll never recommend a service that charges more than is fair. What’s more, we’ll always let you know about deals, discounts, free trials, and money-back guarantees so that you always pay as little as possible.
  • Apps and devices: You should be able to watch South African TV channels online on any device. This means, when abroad, you will need a VPN that can go with you. We test each VPN with a number of devices, including Android, IOS, Mac, PC, and others.

This is actually only the first stage of our testing. To find out more, check out our full VPN testing methodology post.

Streaming South African TV abroad: FAQs

Is watching TV from other countries with a VPN illegal?

In most countries, it’s not actually illegal to access geo-blocked content with a VPN. However, doing so may be against the terms of service of whichever streaming platform you’re using. In most cases, there won’t be any consequences; if a service realizes you’re connected to a VPN, you’ll simply be asked to disconnect before you’re able to watch anything.

Disclaimer: Although we’ve spent hours researching this topic, we are not legal experts. As such, nothing we’ve said above should be taken as legal advice. We encourage you to consult local laws or perhaps even seek a professional’s opinion before attempting to use a VPN if you’re not totally sure they’re legal.

Why might I need a South African IP address?

You can do all kinds of things with an IP address from South Africa. Maybe you’re looking to stream DStv Now channels while on vacation, for example. Perhaps you’re traveling and just want to access your FirstRand, Absa, or Barclays online banking service without having your account access restricted by automated fraud prevention systems. 

South Africa has relatively free internet, which means that your VPN’s South African servers will allow you to bypass online censorship in nearby countries like Kenya and Angola. Of course, as well as changing your IP address, VPNs encrypt your traffic, preventing it from being read by hackers or the government. This is useful whether you’re a journalist reporting from oppressive regimes or just a holidaymaker who wants to stay safe on public wifi networks. 

Which South African TV channels can I watch online?

You’re in luck: some of South Africa’s most popular TV channels allow you to watch their content online. Better still, many of them are free to watch, without even the need to create an account. Here are a few South African streaming services you can watch abroad with a VPN:

  • SABC
  • eTV
  • Soweto TV
  • SuperSport
  • M-Net
  • Mzansi Magic

Can I stream South African TV with a free VPN?

You might be able to watch TV from South Africa using a free VPN, but you’re far likely to have a poor experience. These services often only have a handful of servers, despite having far more users than their paid rivals. This leads to an overloaded network, which manifests as extremely slow speeds and videos that buffer endlessly. What’s more, as there’s so much traffic coming from so few IP addresses, free VPNs are usually the first to be blacklisted by popular streaming services. 

You should also be aware of the security issues that free VPNs pose. Many seemingly legitimate services fail to encrypt your data, which means they offer no protection whatsoever from snoopers. To make matters worse, a large percentage of free VPN apps contain malware, so you’re gambling with your system security every time you install one. We’d recommend you use a well-respected, no-logs VPN provider instead of relying on potentially unsafe free services. Â