Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa's biggest city and capital of Gauteng province, began as a 19th-century gold-mining settlement. Its sprawling Soweto Township was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Mandela’s former residence is now the Mandela House museum. Other Soweto museums that recount the struggle to end segregation include the somber Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex. Johannesburg in South Africa is the second largest city in Africa, in 2016 there were approx 5 million people living in the City of Johannesburg. Joburg, or Jozi as some prefer to call it, offers visitors an experience as unique and diverse as the city itself. Whether you are on business, in search of a cultural encounter, an adrenaline rush or simply want to relax and unwind for a few days, the city of Johannesburg has everything you’re looking for and more!
Travel Information
Delegates are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Johannesburg, and accommodation for the duration of their stay, unless advised otherwise by the symposium organisers. In most cases, booking airline tickets via the internet is a cost-effective option.
International travel, as per international practice, requires visitors to South Africa to be in possession of a valid passport. Passports must meet the following 2 requirements:
- It should not be less than 6 months from the date of expiry on the date of travel; and
- There should be at least 1 full, free page in the passport for stamping by passport control officials.
Citizens from countries that require visas for the Republic of South Africa (RSA) - Those who arrive without visas will be refused entry into the RSA and placed on return flights in terms of current legislation.
Delegates are responsible for making their own visa arrangements. The SAMRC will provide letters of support for purposes of visa application, on request. Travel agents and South African diplomatic missions will provide you with relevant information. Information and visa application forms can be found on the website of the South African Department of Home Affairs: www.dha.gov.za. Visas are not issued on arrival at South African ports of entry.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for delegates from a number of countries in Central, East and West Africa. Please confirm these and other requirements with the South African diplomatic mission in your country.
The conference organisers cannot accept liability for personal injuries sustained, or for loss or damage of property belonging to participants or any accompanying persons. It is therefore recommended that delegates and/or accompanying persons arrange for appropriate travel and health insurance before travelling.
About Johannesburg
Johannesburg
The climate in Johannesburg and on the Highveld is pleasant throughout the year. Please click on the link www.weatherhq.co.za/johannesburg to view the weather forecasts.
ZAR
The South African currency is the Rand (ZAR). The rate of exchange against international currencies is variable. Foreign delegates are advised to check the daily published rates, or click here http://www.oanda.com/converter/classic to use a currency converter.
11 Official Languages
South Africa has 11 official languages. English, however, is the first language and is spoken throughout the country.
South Africa
While vigilance and common sense will ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable stay in South Africa, it is advisable to take the following precautions: do not leave luggage, mobile phones or valuables unattended; use the safety deposit boxes provided by most hotels; do not carry large amounts of cash, and keep cash, credit cards and identification documents in a secure place on your person.
Emergency
If you're travelling to Gauteng, make sure to save these general telephone numbers to your mobile device to ensure you're prepared in the case of an emergency.
- Any emergency (from a mobile phone): 112
- Ambulance: 10177
- Netcare 911 (life-threatening emergencies): 082911
- Fire: 10177
- Police Flying Squad: 10111
General contact details
- Automobile Association (roadside assistance): +27 (0)11 799 1000
- Johannesburg Central Metropolitan Police: +27 (0)11 375 5911
- National Tourism Information Centre (24 hours): +27 (0)83 123 2345
- OR Tambo International Airport: +27 (0)11 921 6262
- OR Tambo International Airport – Arrivals and Departures: +27 (0)86 727 7888
Directory inquiries
- Local numbers: 1023
- International numbers: 10903
What to do in Johannesburg?
For more information please visit the website at https://visit.joburg