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Bookmark & shareJohannesburg is the place to feel the pulse of South Africa.
A city of astonishing contrasts, a huge metropolis where opulent wealth and desperate poverty live side by side, Johannesburg is the intriguing, dynamic heart of this turbulent country. If you want to see the real South Africa - and try to understand it - Jo'burg has to be on your itinerary.
Jo'burg, Jozi, eGoli or 'the city of gold' (never Johannesburg) is by far the largest city in South Africa. It's brash, fast-growing and often ugly, but it has got wealth, energy and a beautiful climate. If you take reasonable precautions and listen to the locals, you can enjoy it in safety.
Travel Warning: Street Violence and Crime
Johannesburg was hit by a wave of violence recently as mobs of locals roamed the city centre and surrounding townships in search of foreign refugees and migrants. At least 22 people were killed, tens of thousands displaced, and the government deployed the army to contain the disturbances. Travellers should steer well clear of any street clashes.
There are enough horror stories emanating from Johannesburg to make caution essential, especially at night. Use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and do not advertise your wealth or tourist status. Be sure to heed any local advice regarding safety.
If you're driving, make sure your doors are locked, and when you're waiting at traffic lights leave enough room in front of you to drive away if necessary. Running a red light is not illegal if you're in reasonable fear of assault.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Population
4,900,000
Currency
Name: South African Rand
Code: ZAR
Symbol: R
Electrical Plugs
220/230V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Zulu, Afrikaans, English, Swati,,,,
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +2
Country Dialing Code
+27
Weights & Measures
Metric
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
