Is HBO Max available in South Africa? Unfortunately, no it is not available as of April 2024. However, with the help of a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, you can easily watch HBO Max in South Africa by connecting to its US servers.
HBO Max offers original series and simultaneous releases with theaters, now rebranded as MAX, merging HBO and Discovery Plus content. This provides a richer viewing experience for subscribers.
In this blog, I’ll guide you about every necessary detail of the platform so you can begin enjoying your favorite shows and movies on HBO Max in South Africa without any hassle.
How To Watch HBO Max in South Africa [5 Easy Steps]
Unlock the vast library of HBO Max in South Africa with 5 easy steps.
- Register with a premium VPN provider, preferably ExpressVPN.
- Download and Install the VPN.
- Connect to a US server in your VPN. I recommend using the New York server.
- Open the HBO Max Website and type in your credentials after subscribing.
- Stream and enjoy HBO Max South Africa!
Note: ExpressVPN’s exclusive offer for StreamingRant readers includes - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
Consider subscribing to Max to watch its movies and shows. First, ensure you’re aware of the latest HBO Max price in South Africa.
Why is HBO Max not available in South Africa?
HBO Max is one of the well-known streaming services in South Africa that is only restricted to the USA cause of licensing issues and geo-restrictions, that’s why it is unavailable. However, a VPN is key to unlocking HBO Max in South Africa.
If you try to access HBO streaming South Africa without using the VPN, you will be notified of the following geo-restriction error:
“Sorry, HBO isn’t available in your region yet.”
We faced the geo-restriction error while trying to watch HBO Max in South Africa!
With the help of a premium VPN like ExpressVPN, you can spoof your current location and make it seem like you are in the United States. This will enable you to get HBO Max South Africa. I hope all the queries regarding why do you need a VPN to access HBO Max in South Africa are clear!
3 Best VPNs to Watch HBO Max in South Africa [Quick Overview]
Does any VPN work with HBO Max? Yes, many VPNs work with HBO Max, but the best VPNs for streaming HBO Max in South Africa include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. Despite geo-restrictions, these VPN providers offer fast speeds, compatibility with various devices, and the capacity to access HBO Max content.
Let me show you the best VPNs quick overview for seamless access to endless adventure, science, and lifestyle content wherever you are!”
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 |
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|---|---|---|
| Recommended VPN for HBO Max in South Africa | Budget-Friendly VPN for HBO Max in South Africa | Largest Server Network for HBO Max in South Africa |
| US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free
Thousands of servers in 105 countriescountries 5.0/5.0 stars 8 multi-logins |
US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
3200+ servers servers in 100+ countriescountries 4.5/5.0 stars Unlimited multi-logins |
US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend
6000+ ultra-fast servers servers in 61 countriescountries 4.0/5.0 stars 6 multi-logins |
How Do I Sign Up for HBO Max in South Africa?
Follow the steps here to subscribe for HBO Max:
- Obtain an ExpressVPN Subscription: Subscribe to ExpressVPN to access US servers.
- Set Up a Virtual Prepaid Card: Register for a US-based virtual prepaid card through StatesCard. Add funds using your local credit/debit card or PayPal.
- Connect to a US Server: Use the ExpressVPN app to connect to a US server, preferably in New York.
- Change App Store Country Settings: On iOS, go to the App Store, and under account settings, select ‘United States’ as your ‘Country/Region’. Android users should do the same in the Play Store.
- Agree to Terms and Add Card Details: Accept the terms and conditions, then enter your virtual card details.
- Download and Install HBO Max: Search for the HBO Max app in the store and download it.
- Access HBO Max: Sign up for a new account or use an existing one. HBO Max is now accessible from South Africa.
Note for Desktop Users: If using a desktop, you can first sign up for HBO Max on an Android or Apple device, and then access the service on your computer by connecting to a US server through your browser using ExpressVPN.
Is HBO Max Merging with Discovery Plus?
Yes, Warner Media and Discovery have merged HBO Max and Discovery Plus into a new streaming service named ‘Max.’ This merger, effective from May 23, 2023, initially incorporates the US library and plans to extend to Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean by the end of 2024.
In the UK, Max will feature diverse content from both HBO Max and Discovery’s extensive libraries. Although there are no significant price hikes anticipated, adjustments to the membership structures are likely once Max is launched.
The service provides three subscription tiers. For the first six months after the launch, existing subscribers will have the option to keep their current plans.
How Much is HBO Max in South Africa?
HBO Max price for a monthly payment is $15.99. This is equivalent to ZAR 292.72. There are also other HBO Max subscription plans besides this. You can pick one according to your budget.
Below is the table detailing how much is HBO Max in South Africa.
| Subscription Plan | Cost in USD | Cost in ZAR |
| HBO Max With Ad | USD 9.99/mo or USD 99.99/ year (save 16%) | ZAR 182.88/mo or ZAR 1830.45/ year (save 16%) |
| Ad-Free HBO Max | USD 15.99/mo or USD 149.99/year (save 16%) | ZAR 292.72/mo or ZAR 2745.76/ year (save 16%) |
However, a premium VPN would be required to enable streaming. An ExpressVPN subscription would cost you US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
Moreover, note that the HBO Max free trial is not currently available on Hulu or Amazon Prime if you are wondering how to get HBO Max for free. The platform might offer the trial period in the future again so stay tuned.
Your subscription automatically renews for the plan you subscribed to unless you cancel HBO Max membership.
The Best VPNs to Watch Max in South Africa 2024 [In-Depth Analysis]
I tested over 20 VPN programs to find the best ones to watch Max in South Africa. After intensive testing over several trials, I narrowed the choices to three VPNs; all are compatible and capable of accessing HBO Max South Africa.
They are further explained in detail below.
ExpressVPN – Recommended VPN to Watch HBO Max in South Africa
Due to its high-speed servers and premium features, ExpressVPN is the most recommended VPN to stream HBO Max in South Africa. ExpressVPN offers a download speed of 89.38 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.66 Mbps which is great.
In addition to having thousands of servers spread in 105 countries, ExpressVPN has 20 plus US server locations in cities like New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
ExpressVPN New York server lets you watch HBO Max’s content without buffering.
In terms of speed, ExpressVPN came out on top. This VPN provided a download speed of 89.38 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.66 Mbps during the speed test.
On a 100 Mbps base connection, ExpressVPN provided incredibly fast results.
ExpressVPN uses the most recent AES-256-Bit encryption and other security features like Kill Switch, Split Tunneling, No log policy, or ad and threat filtering.
ExpressVPN offers dedicated applications for various operating systems and devices, including Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers.
Streamers who want to watch HBO Max on LG TV can do so with the MediaStreamer feature, even if their devices don’t support VPN Apps in South Africa.
ExpressVPN costs US$ 6.67 /mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. The right to a 30-day full refund is granted to customers. It also provides 8 simultaneous connections. Additionally, you can contact customer service in case HBO Max not working with VPN in South Africa.
Exclusive Deal:
StreamingRant readers can enjoy ExpressVPN’s exclusive offer - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- MediaStreamer tool
- Features like Split Tunneling and Kill Switch
- Thousands of servers worldwide
- Costly than others
Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN to Unblock HBO Max in South Africa
Surfshark is the most reasonably priced VPN for watching HBO Max South Africa. It costs US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee and enables unlimited simultaneous connections to share your subscription with friends and family.
3200+ servers are available on Surfshark in 100+ countries including 600+ US servers to watch Max in South Africa.
We used the Chicago server of Surfshark and watched HBO Max South Africa buffer-free.
The speed tests on a 100 Mbps internet connection produced download and upload speeds of 88.14 Mbps and 83.72 Mbps, respectively.
Surfshark offered a quick streaming performance over a 100 Mbps connection.
This VPN ensures online security and privacy with AES-256-GCM encryption, an automatic Kill Switch, Camouflage Mode, Bypasser, and IP and DNS Leak Protection.
Surfshark is adequately compatible with various platforms to unblock HBO Max on PS4, Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and other devices. This VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support.
Exclusive Deal:
StreamingRant readers can enjoy the Surfshark deal – US$ 2.49 /mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Features such as Split Tunneling and Kill Switch
- 600+ US servers and 3200+ servers all over the world
- No limit on device connections
- No Split Tunneling on iOS devices
NordVPN – Largest Server Network VPN to Watch HBO Max in South Africa
NordVPN has the largest server network and the widest selection to access HBO Max. It has 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries and has 1970 US servers, making it the provider with the largest server network for watching HBO Max in South Africa.
NordVPN has fast-speed servers to enjoy Max streaming service South Africa.
On the 100 Mbps internet connection, the NordVPN Atlanta server delivered download speeds of 86.39 Mbps and upload speeds of 82.86 Mbps during the testing.
For uninterrupted 4K viewing, NordVPN provides excellent speed.
This VPN is recognized for its remarkable ability to get past geo-restrictions, enhanced privacy, and strong protection.
AES 256-bit encryption of the highest military grade, server obfuscation, a kill switch, double VPN, onion over VPN, and a guarantee against IP and DNS leaks are all used to protect NordVPN’s servers.
NordVPN functions nicely with iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and routers because of its cross-platform capabilities. You can use NordVPN on six devices simultaneously.
It is available for US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend, and a 30-day money-back guarantee is included.
Exclusive Deals:
StreamingRant readers can enjoy the NordVPN deal – US$ 3.99 /mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- All security features, such as Threat Protection, Kill Switch, and Split Tunneling
- 6000+ servers worldwide
- 6 simultaneous connections
- Slow servers
- Allows torrenting on a few servers
How To Choose the Best VPN to Watch HBO Max in South Africa?
Here is a brief review of the quality criteria I used to select the best VPN for HBO Max in South Africa. However, remember that these criteria will vary depending on the VPN and our established objectives after selecting or connecting to the VPN.
- Multiple servers in the United States
- Standard Safety procedures like 256-bit encryption, VPN Split Tunneling, automatic Kill Switch, No log policy, and IP, WebRTC & DNS leak protections
- Unblocking geo-restricted websites quickly
- Unlimited bandwidth and fast connection to support 4k streaming
- 24/7 customer and simultaneous connection support
- Flexible payment plans with a money-back refund guarantee
Can I Use a Free VPN to Unblock HBO Max in South Africa?
Yes, you may use a free VPN to unblock HBO Max South Africa, but I never advise doing so since they are frequently slow and come with several limitations.
The streaming quality declines when their servers are overloaded. Moreover, they are notorious for maintaining customers’ online records and selling that information to outside advertisers.
For the best streaming experience to watch HBO Max in South Africa, you should always use a high-end VPN like ExpressVPN.
Is Discovery Plus now Max?
No, Discovery Plus remains a stand-alone service. As a result, there should be no changes in the experience or availability of Discovery Plus for streamers. However, its content catalog will be available on Max as well.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that not all of Discovery+’s content was included in the newly renamed service. The Discovery segment of Max is mostly filled with popular shows from the Food Network, HGTV, TLC, ID, and Magnolia Network.
If you want to explore what Discovery offers instead of Max’s entire collection, you can use a reliable VPN to unblock it in South Africa.
HBO Max v.s. Discovery+
HBO Max and Discovery+ have merged to create Max, a new mega-streaming service. This merger comes after a challenging year for streaming services. Let’s delve deeper into what this collaboration will bring to viewers.
- Max aims to provide a broad range of content that caters to every household member. This will include scripted shows and movies from HBO Max, unscripted reality TV from Discovery+, and children’s content from Warner Brothers’ collection.
- By integrating HBO Max’s and Discovery’s offerings, HBO Max is poised to become a super-service. Nonetheless, Discovery+ will continue to be available as a standalone, lower-tier service for users not keen on HBO’s scripted content.
- Current HBO Max subscribers will be seamlessly moved to Max with their passwords, payment details, and viewing history intact. However, Discovery+ subscribers must upgrade their subscriptions to access HBO’s scripted content.
- One of the significant changes that will take place is the addition of more children’s programming, such as Sesame Street and Looney Tunes from Warner Bros. Moreover, the platform will offer more kid-friendly features to enhance the viewing experience.
HBO Max Salient Features
You will be thrilled to find out what HBO is and its impressive features that cater to your entertainment needs.
- Kick back and relax with the luxury of offline downloads. Now, your favorite shows and movies are at your fingertips, even when the internet takes a break.
- Dive into a personalized haven of entertainment with multiple viewer profiles. Everyone gets their tailored experience on your account, whether it’s family or friends.
- Parents, rejoice! HBO’s got your back with robust parental controls. Take the wheel on your kids’ streaming journey, ensuring they only explore content that aligns with your family values.
The icing on the cake is a wide range of genres like adventure-packed tales, fantastical journeys, side-splitting comedies or suspenseful flicks, and adrenaline-pumping action movies. Everything is effortlessly accessible on only one platform: HBO Max!
What Devices are Compatible with HBO Max in South Africa?
HBO Max is compatible with a variety of devices, including iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, as well as gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. This allows you to enjoy its content both at home and on the go.
| Android phones | Chromecasts from Google |
| Mac | Roku |
| iPhone | Fire TV/Amazon Firestick |
| Xbox | iTunes TV |
| desktops and laptops | Smart TV |
How Do I Download HBO Max on iOS?
Is HBO Max in South Africa on iOS? Yes, it is available from the Apple App Store. To download HBO Max on iOS, follow these instructions:
- Join a high-end VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- On your iOS device, download and install the VPN App.
- Open the VPN App, then enter your login information.
- Select the US server from the location list to connect to. The New York server was our suggestion.
- Make a new account and select “US” as your country of residence.
- Utilize the Apple App Store to download the HBO Max App.
- Enjoy watching HBO South Africa on iPhone!
How Do I Download HBO Max on My Android?
Here are the steps to download and get HBO Max in South Africa on Android:
- Join a high-end VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- On your Android device, download and install the VPN Application.
- Select the US server from the location list to connect to. The New York server is my suggestion.
- Set up a new Google account and set your location to the US.
- Download HBO Max Android app from the Google Play Store.
- Enjoy watching the HBO series on Android!
How Do I install HBO Max on my Amazon Firestick?
Follow these steps to install and get HBO Max in South Africa on Firestick:
- Join a high-end VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN software.
- Select the US server from the location list to connect to. I recommend using the New York server.
- Look for the HBO Max App on the Fire Stick’s home page.
- Install it, then sign in using your login information.
- Use HBO Max login details and enjoy your shows.
Can I get HBO Max on my LG Smart TV?
For watching HBO Max South Africa, set up a VPN on your home router or utilize Smart DNS because most Smart TVs do not support VPN.
To watch Max in South Africa and install it on LG TV, follow these steps:
- Join a high-end VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- With MediaStreamer, configure ExpressVPN on your Smart TV.
- Select the US server from the location list to connect to. I recommend using the New York server.
- Sign up on HBO Max’s website or check out the HBO Max free trial for new users.
- You can stream HBO shows and films on your Smart TV.
Can I get HBO Max on Roku?
Yes. You may stream all of HBO content in South Africa on your Roku device because it is Roku-compatible. Follow these instructions to access HBO Max on Roku:
- Join the best VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- Install MediaStreamer DNS on your Roku device.
- Open the VPN App, then enter your login information.
- Select the US server to connect to. I recommend using the New York server.
- Locate the HBO Max Channel on Roku Home, sign in there, and then navigate back.
- Enjoy watching episodes from Max Original on your Roku device.
How Do I Activate HBO Max on Xbox One?
To activate HBO Max on Xbox One in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Join a high-end VPN service like ExpressVPN.
- On your Xbox, configure a VPN connection using MediaStreamer for HBO Max change region.
- Open the VPN App, then enter your login information.
- Select the US server from the location list to connect to. I recommend using the New York server.
- Look for HBO Max on the App Store on your device.
- Download the App, then log in.
- You may now stream HBO Max movies on Xbox.
Best TV Shows to Watch on HBO Max
HBO Max provides a great selection of TV series from suspense to horror, action to romance in South Africa. The following is the compilation of the best HBO Max shows regarding your concern over what to watch on HBO Max:
| Bookie Season 1 | The Big C | Street Outlaws Farmtruck and AZN Down Under | Help My House Is Haunted Season 4 | The Garden Commune or Cult Season 1 |
| Hard Knocks In Season With Miami Dolphins | Curb Your Enthusiasm All Seasons | Road Rage Season 1 | Buddy vs Christmas Season 1 | Mystery At Blind Frog Ranch Season 3 |
| Real Time Crime TV Series Season 2 | Sesame Street Season 54 | Holiday Baking Championship 2023 | Building Roots Season 1 | Jack Osbournes Buried Bloodlines |
Best Movies to Watch on HBO Max
Here is a selection of the top HBO Max movies in South Africa to make your leisure time more memorable.
| Murder in Boston: Roots, Rampage & Reckoning | A Cinderella Story | The Lives of Felix | Diana Our Mother Her Life and Legacy | Let Us Prey |
| The Insurrectionist Next Door 2023 | Little Richard I Am Everything | Gumbo Coalition 2022 | Hereditary | David Holmes The Boy Who Lived |
| No Accident Documentary | Last Stop Larrimah | Meg 2 The Trench | The Succession | The Warrior season 3 |
Popular Live and Sports Events to Watch on HBO Max in South Africa
Following are the live sports events on HBO Max to watch in South Africa in 2024:
| NHL Thanksgiving Showdown | Concacaf Nations League Quarterfinal | Cavaliers at 76ers | Islanders vs Canucks Game | San Antonio Spurs vs Oklahoma City Thunder |
| Golden Knights at Stars | Jazz vs Lakers | USA Vs Trinidad Quarterfinal Second Leg | Denver Nuggets vs LA Clippers | LA Kings vs Golden Knights |
| Capitals vs Panthers | Devils vs Avalanche | Rangers Vs Red Wings | Buckeyes vs Trojans Live | NCAA Basketball Tournament |
What is Coming on HBO Max in South Africa in April 2024?
Following are the shows and movies available to stream on Max in South Africa in April 2024:
| Brooklyn Nets vs Dallas Mavericks | Milwaukee Bucks at Phoenix Suns | True Detective Night Country Episode 4 | The Accidental Influencer | Tokyo Vice |
| Batman vs. Robin | Bea’s Block | God Save Texas: Hometown Prison | Bleed For This | Artfully Designed, Season 2 |
| The Bling Ring | The Truth About Jim | Grambling State vs. Jackson State | Big Little Brawlers | Vlad & Niki |
| Chitty Chitty Bang Bang | Last Week Tonight with John Oliver | Tournament of Champions | Trial By Fire | Oklahoma City Thunder at Orlando Magic |
| Citizen Kane | Jellystone | Underdogs United | Race for the White House | Florida Panthers at Pittsburgh Penguins |
HBO Max and Max Price Comparison
Since the service officially became Max, it expanded its subscription plans from two to three. Here are the main distinctions you find between Max and HBO Max South Africa prices and features:
| Cost & Features | Max | HBO Max |
| Ad lite | US$ 9.99/mo or US$ 99.99/yr | US$ 9.99/mo or US$ 99.99/yr |
| Ad free | US$ 15.99/mo or US$ 149.99/yr | US$ 15.99/mo or US$ 149.99/yr |
| Ad-Free Ultimate | US$ 19.99/mo or US$ 199.99/yr | Not Available |
| Screens use simultaneously. | 2 devices with an ad-free plan and 4 with Max Ultimate | 3 devices |
| Streaming in 4k UHD | Available on Ultimate | Limited to Ad-free |
| Offline download | 100 | 30 |
What Redditors are discussing about watching HBO Max in South Africa
Redditors are discussing ways to watch HBO Max in South Africa, though there is no direct method currently available. Redditors also recommend using a VPN service like Private Internet Access, ExpressVPN, or NordVPN to bypass geo-restrictions.
Based on my personal experience during a weekend holiday in South Africa, my friend and I watched “House of the Dragon.” ExpressVPN worked really well for us to access HBO Max.
Which country is HBO Max available in?
HBO Max is currently accessible in multiple regions. Initially launched in the United States, it has since expanded its availability to Latin America and the Caribbean. Additionally, HBO Max is now accessible in selective European countries.
Does HBO Max include live channels?
No, HBO Max does not offer live channels like traditional HBO on cable or satellite TV. Instead, HBO Max is an on-demand streaming service that provides a vast library of content, including movies, original series, and Max Originals.
While it includes all the content available on HBO, such as movies and original series, HBO subscribers may not have access to the exclusive Max Originals.
In what other regions can I watch HBO Max in South Africa?
- HBO Max in Turkey: Diverse storytelling at the crossroads of East and West.
- HBO Max in Pakistan: Premium content that resonates with Pakistani audiences.
- HBO Max in Greece: Ancient myths meet modern epics in your home.
- HBO Max in Switzerland: Precision streaming with a world of entertainment.
- HBO Max in Malaysia: Bringing global hits to Malaysia’s vibrant culture.
- HBO Max in Mexico: Tailored tales that echo the Mexican spirit.
HBO Max In South Africa: FAQs
Is Discovery Plus part of HBO Max?
Can I get HBO Max without an HBO cable subscription?
Do I need Discovery Plus if I have HBO Max?
Is HBO Max free through Amazon Prime?
Does HBO Max work in South Africa?
How many people can watch HBO Max at once?
Is HBO Max part of Showmax?
When will HBO Max be available in South Africa?
Why did HBO Max change to Max?
How do I pay for HBO Max in South Africa?
Conclusion
Without a doubt, HBO Max is the go-to streaming service for those looking to access some of the most popular TV series and movies. But it is only accessible in the US due to geo-restrictions. You will need a VPN with many servers and bandwidth to access HBO Max in South Africa.
Therefore, stop wondering how to watch HBO in South Africa and acquire ExpressVPN service. Its multiple servers and ample bandwidth allow for seamless viewing of all your favorite TV shows and movies from anywhere.
If you have further questions regarding watching Max in South Africa, please ask me in the comments section. We’re happy to help!
Harris Edwards
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