Johannesburg is a vibrant, surprising, and dynamic city, but it is also a city surrounded by misconceptions. Many travelers express concerns regarding safety, transportation, and planning. To help you experience Johannesburg confidently, respectfully, and stress-free, I’ve compiled my top tips and insights:

• 1. Arrival & Entry – What to Expect
• 2. Getting Around Johannesburg – The Best Options
• 3. Safety & Well-Being – Key Points
• 4. Money & Prices – What to Budget For
• 5. Food & Culinary Must-Trys
• 6. 48 Hours in Johannesburg – The Perfect Introduction
• 7. All Johannesburg Highlights in One Google My Map

1. Arrival & Entry – What to Expect

The main airport is OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), which is located about 30–60 minutes from neighborhoods such as Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose, depending on traffic.

Visa and entry information: Citizens of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Plan for 30–60 minutes at immigration, which is usually smooth but busier during peak times.

SIM card or eSIM: highly recommended. Mobile data is essential for Uber, navigation, and spontaneous planning.

• eSIM (e.g., Airalo, MobiMatter): Can be set up in advance and activated upon landing
• Local SIM: Vodacom, MTN, or Cell C – shops available directly at the airport

2. Getting Around Johannesburg – The Best Options

Johannesburg is not a walking city. It’s sprawling, its neighborhoods are far apart, and long travel times are part of daily life. Top options:

• Uber & Bolt: Standard, reliable, and safe
  • Airport → Sandton / Rosebank: ~30–60 minutes
  • Around the city: usually 10–30 minutes
• Rental Car: Ideal if you want flexibility or plan day trips
• Gautrain: Convenient for airport ↔ Sandton / Rosebank / Pretoria
• Tip: At night, always use door-to-door ride services.

3. Safety & Well-Being – Key Points

Johannesburg has a complex reputation when it comes to safety, but with the right preparation, the city is very manageable. Key takeaways:

• Safe neighborhoods for visitors: Sandton, Rosebank, Melrose, Houghton, Parkhurst
• Maboneng: Safe during the day; target specific restaurants/bars in the evening
• Don’t wander aimlessly, especially after dark
• Keep valuables discreet; avoid holding your phone openly on the street
• Guided tours (Soweto, street art, safari) are safe and highly recommended

4. Money & Prices – What to Budget For

The currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, so cash is only occasionally needed. Typical costs:

• Coffee: ~30–50 ZAR
• Main course in a restaurant: 150–300 ZAR
• Uber within the city: 50–150 ZAR
• Museum entry: 100–250 ZAR

ATMs are reliable and easy to find in malls (Sandton City, Rosebank Mall).

5. Food & Culinary Must-Trys

Johannesburg boasts one of the most exciting food scenes in Africa, offering everything from street food to fine dining. Don’t miss out on:

• Braai – traditional South African barbecue
• Boerewors – spiced sausage grilled to perfection
• Bunny Chow – curry served in a hollowed bread loaf
• Peri-Peri Chicken – try Nando’s for a local favorite

6. 48 Hours in Johannesburg – The Perfect Introduction

If it’s your first time in Johannesburg or if you only have a weekend, having a structured plan is invaluable. My 48-Hour Johannesburg Guide offers a well-paced, realistic itinerary, including breakfast spots, must-see attractions, creative neighborhoods, shopping, tours, and dinner suggestions. It includes travel times and safe neighborhoods, making it ideal for first-time visitors or as a complement to this tips guide:

48 Hours in Johannesburg: Your Ultimate Weekend Guide

7. All Johannesburg Highlights in One Google My Map

To make navigation easier, I’ve created a Google My Map showing all the recommended attractions, restaurants, cafés, hotels and malls. This allows you to adjust your route on the go via smartphone, see at a glance which spots are close together, and plan your realistic travel times:

Our conclusion: With the right preparation and realistic expectations, Johannesburg can be one of the most creative and inspiring cities in Africa. If you want to understand how the city works and make the most of your time there, the 48-hour guide is the perfect companion.

Have you ever visited Johannesburg – or is it still on your bucket list?
Share this guide with your favorite road trip buddies and leave us a comment below!

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