Curated picks — we may earn a small commission, never at extra cost to you.
Common questions
Is Johannesburg safe?
Mixed. Tourist areas (Maboneng, Sandton, Rosebank) are generally fine in daylight with awareness. Avoid the CBD at night, use Uber, don't display valuables. Most visitors stay in Sandton.
When is the best time to visit Johannesburg?
April-May and September-October: mild (15-25°C), dry, perfect. Summer (Nov-March) brings dramatic thunderstorms. Winter (June-Aug) is cold but sunny.
How does Joburg's altitude affect visits?
Joburg is 1,753m above sea level — equivalent to a small mountain. Some visitors get mild altitude fatigue. UV is intense. Sunscreen and water essential.
Joburg vs Cape Town?
Completely different. Joburg is business, history, energy, real South Africa. Cape Town is beauty, mountains, ocean, tourism. Both worth visiting.