Johannesburg City Guide

Food is diverse with local dishes like braai and bunny chow, and many international options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Late-night food is available but limited outside entertainment hubs.

Nightlife is lively with bars, clubs, and live music, especially in Sandton, Rosebank, Melville, and Maboneng.

Coffee culture is strong with many specialty cafes and skilled baristas. Ethical sourcing is common.

Tipping is expected for good service. Restaurants usually expect 10-15%. Taxi and ride-hailing tips are small but appreciated.

SIMs are sold at the airport and mobile stores in malls. Vodacom and MTN have the best coverage. You must register SIMs with ID or passport and proof of address.

Cleanliness varies by neighborhood; wealthy areas are well-maintained but some central zones have litter problems.

Some pharmacies and hospital emergency rooms operate 24/7. Convenience stores at petrol stations are open all night. Late-night food mostly fast food in select areas.

Large supermarkets offer international products, especially in wealthier areas. Fresh markets open mainly on Saturdays. Supermarkets open 8am-8pm, with shorter weekend hours. Bargaining happens only in informal markets.

Card payments work at most places like shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. Cash is useful for small vendors and informal markets.

ATMs are common at banks, malls, and petrol stations. Major banks include Standard Bank, FNB, Absa, and Nedbank. Fees for foreign cards vary; check with your bank.

Johannesburg has many international schools with English instruction, including American International School and Crawford International. Apply early as spots fill fast.

The digital nomad scene is growing but still small. Meetups and coworking exist mainly in business districts.

Johannesburg is a man-made forest with many parks offering shaded paths and running spots.

Good running routes in parks and residential areas but be cautious in isolated places. Air quality can be an issue in winter.

Plenty of gyms across the city, including popular chains and smaller local spots.

Tennis courts are available at clubs and residential areas; booking and membership usually required.

Padel courts exist but are less common; membership is often needed.

Many yoga studios in areas like Sandton and Melville offer classes in English.

Many martial arts gyms offer classes in BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, karate, judo, and taekwondo, mostly with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing in Johannesburg; South Africa's only ski resort is far away in the Eastern Cape.

Limited mainly to dams and lakes outside the city for boating and paddleboarding.

No surfing in Johannesburg; nearest spots are on the coast, requiring long travel.

Diving only on the coast, far from Johannesburg.

Good private hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff are common. Public facilities exist but can be crowded. OTC meds are widely available at pharmacies.

Tap water is generally safe to drink but many prefer bottled water.

Parks and malls have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes are common. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Gold Reef City, Johannesburg Zoo, and Sci-Bono Centre.

Johannesburg is one of Africa's most LGBTQ+ friendly cities with venues and pride events.

Pet-friendly places are increasing. Vet care is good. Some parks allow dogs off-leash. Importing pets follows strict rules.