Johannesburg

Getting In and Around

If you’re visiting Johannesburg specifically from overseas, you’re in luck: Tambo International Airport is based in Johannesburg and is South Africa’s main airport.

Most daily traveling within the city takes place by car. If you’re not planning to drive, there are plenty of buses to take in the city, including the Baz Bus, Greyhound, Intercape, and Translux. As the World Cup began in June 2010, South Africa also debuted the continent's first high-speed train: the Gautrain links the Tambo International Airport with Sandton, Pretoria, Johannesburg, and other locations on both above- and underground tracks.

Safety and Security

Pickpockets and petty thieves generally target tourists: we suggest using common sense when carrying bags and wallets while you’re exploring the city. Keep small bags close to you, try to not keep wallets in your back pockets, and be aware of your belongings at all times. As well, be aware of your surroundings: if you’re out at night and you are unsure of where you are, take precautions and be safe as you travel to a better-populated area.

The Top 3: Local Advice

1. While its center of the city is home to the financial district, featuring landmarks such as the stock exchange, the Magistrates Court, and the Carlton Panorama, the northern area of the city contains the prestigious University of the Witwatersrand in Braamfontein, and the Johannesburg Zoo in neighboring Parktown. The popular townships of Soweto and Alexandra, residing in the southern and eastern areas of the city respectively, are great places to learn about the city’s history and vibrancy through museum tours, local galleries, and shopping.

2. Johannesburg has three main news publications including The Star and The Sowetan, both of which are daily newspapers, and the weekly Mail & Guardian.

3. Johannesburg goes by a number of nicknames in town and across South Africa—City of Gold, Joburg, and Egoli are three. Johannesburg’s official website is even named joburg.org.za.