Travel Resources and Practical Information

Contact Numbers for Tourists

When traveling to Johannesburg, having essential contact numbers readily available can ensure a smoother and safer journey. Here are some key numbers to keep in your travel kit:

• Emergency Services:
  • Police (SAPS): 10111
  • Ambulance: 10177
  • National Emergency Line: 112 (can be dialed even without airtime)
• Tourist Information:
  • Johannesburg Tourism: +27 11 895 3000
  • Gauteng Tourism Authority: +27 11 085 2500
• Foreign Consulates:
  • U.S. Consulate: +27 11 290 3000
  • UK Consulate: +27 12 421 7500
  • Australian Consulate: +27 12 423 6000
• Transport Services:
  • OR Tambo International Airport: +27 11 921 6262
  • Gautrain (rapid transit railway): 0800 428 87246

It's wise to store these numbers in your phone for easy access, and keep a printed copy as well in case of phone issues.

Important Documents and Visa Information

Ensure that you have all necessary documents prepared and organized before your trip:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended departure, with at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter South Africa. Check with the South African Department of Home Affairs or your local South African embassy for specific visa requirements and application procedures.
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for coverage in case of unexpected incidents, medical emergencies, or baggage loss.
• Driver’s License: If you plan to rent a car, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) alongside your national driver’s license may be required.
• Vaccination Certificates: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from a yellow fever endemic area.

It's crucial to keep digital copies of all these documents on a secure cloud service or email them to yourself for easy retrieval in case of loss or theft.

Currency Exchange and Banking

Having a solid understanding of the local currency and banking options will facilitate your financial transactions:

• Currency: The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR), typically abbreviated as R. Common denominations include R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200 notes, along with various coins.
• ATMs: Widely available in Johannesburg. Use ATMs located in well-lit, secure locations such as malls or banks, and be cautious of card skimming devices.
• Credit Cards: Accepted at most establishments. VISA and MasterCard are more widely accepted than American Express or Diners Club.
• Currency Exchange: Available at the airport, banks, and dedicated exchange service providers. Ensure you have a small amount of local currency on arrival for initial expenses such as transportation.

Negotiating bank charges and rates beforehand can save costs, so it’s advisable to discuss this with your bank before traveling.

Connectivity and Internet Access

Staying connected is easier with Johannesburg's wide range of telecommunication services:

• Mobile Networks: Major providers include Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. Purchasing a local SIM card at the airport or local store can significantly reduce costs compared to international roaming charges. Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible.
• Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Some places may offer it for free, while others might charge a fee. Always confirm security protocols before connecting to public Wi-Fi to protect sensitive data.
• Internet Cafes: Available throughout the city, offering affordable internet and printing services.

Prepare before departure by checking with your current provider about international plans and consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot for constant connectivity.