Midrand City Guide

Try local dishes like Braai, Biltong, and Bunny Chow. International food is widely available near Mall of Africa. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Late-night options exist, especially through delivery apps.

Nightlife is emerging around Waterfall City and Kyalami with pubs and bars. It’s quieter than Johannesburg's city center.

Coffee culture includes chains and cafés mostly catering to convenience and meetings, with few specialty roasters.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (10-15%) and services. Taxi tips are appreciated, usually rounding up or 10%. Petrol attendants and parking guards often get R5-R10.

SIM cards available at OR Tambo Airport and local stores. Providers include Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. ID registration is required for all SIM purchases.

Midrand is mostly clean, especially in developed areas, though informal dumping can happen outside main zones.

Some petrol station stores open 24/7. Late-night food mostly via delivery. Few 24/7 pharmacies; hospitals handle emergencies.

Supermarkets like Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, and Spar carry international products. Fresh produce markets are rare. Stores usually open 8 AM to 8 PM, including Sundays with reduced hours.

Card payments work in most places. Smaller vendors may prefer cash, but overall it's easy to pay without cash.

ATMs are common in shopping centers, petrol stations, and banks like FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, and Nedbank. Fees may apply for out-of-network withdrawals.

Schools like Curro Midrand, Reddam House Waterfall, and Beaulieu College teach mainly in English, some also offer Afrikaans.

Community is growing with several co-working spaces and online groups, though smaller than Johannesburg or Cape Town.

Green areas mostly inside estates and business parks with some shaded paths. Public parks are limited.

Running is common inside estates and parks. Daylight running is safe; caution advised in isolated areas.

Several gyms and fitness centers offer standard facilities and classes.

Tennis courts are available at private clubs and estates, typically requiring membership.

Padel courts exist in some clubs, with bookings and memberships common.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in and membership options.

Various martial arts schools teach Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, BJJ, and Boxing with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing facilities exist in Midrand or South Africa.

Limited water sport options nearby; some dams offer kayaking and paddleboarding.

Surfing is not available in Midrand.

No diving near Midrand; nearest sites are coastal.

Private hospitals like Netcare Waterfall City and Mediclinic Midstream have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Dis-Chem and Clicks offer common meds and pharmacist consultations.

Tap water is generally safe, supplied by Rand Water following strict quality standards.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés are available. Attractions include Lory Park Zoo and indoor play areas.

Generally accepting city with inclusive venues; Pride events are in Johannesburg. Discrimination is low but stay aware.

Pet services and supplies are available; some pet-friendly spots exist but check ahead. Import rules are strict.