Johannesburg is South Africa's largest city and the main gateway to the country, a vibrant, energetic metropolis built on a gold rush. Most visitors pass through O. R. Tambo airport on the way to Kruger, Sabi Sand and the Cape, and a night or two here repays a little curiosity.
The Apartheid Museum is a powerful introduction to the country's history, and Soweto, home to Nelson Mandela's former house and Vilakazi Street, shows the creativity and resilience of its people. Constitution Hill, the Maboneng district, Neighbourhood Goods Market and the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site an hour away, add depth to a short stay.
The city is not a wildlife destination, though Johannesburg has more urban trees than almost any city. Lion Park and the Cradle of Humankind, to the north, offer easy wildlife and fossil experiences.
Activities here
Johannesburg has a mild highland climate, with warm summers and dry, sunny winters. Summer days are 24°C to 28°C with afternoon thunderstorms, and winter days are 16°C to 20°C with cold nights near freezing.
| Month | Day °C | Night °C | Rain mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26 | 16 | 125 |
| Feb | 26 | 16 | 95 |
| Mar | 24 | 14 | 90 |
| Apr | 22 | 11 | 50 |
| May | 19 | 7 | 15 |
| Jun | 16 | 4 | 8 |
| Jul | 17 | 4 | 8 |
| Aug | 20 | 6 | 6 |
| Sep | 24 | 10 | 25 |
| Oct | 25 | 12 | 70 |
| Nov | 25 | 14 | 110 |
| Dec | 26 | 15 | 120 |
Approximate long-term averages. Higher ground is cooler, and forests can rain in any month.
May to September is dry and sunny, with clear skies and cold nights. Days are comfortable for sightseeing.
October to March brings afternoon thunderstorms, usually short and heavy, with fresh evenings. Mornings are often bright.
Johannesburg can be visited all year. The dry winter months are the most comfortable.
Best time to visit Apr to Oct
O. R. Tambo International Airport is about 25 kilometres from the city centre and is Africa’s busiest airport, with direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the rest of Africa. Domestic flights link Johannesburg with Kruger, Cape Town, Durban and other cities.
Many nationalities, including most of Europe, the UK, the US, Canada and Australia, can enter South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days. In August 2026 South Africa launched an electronic travel authorisation for some nationalities that normally need a visa, arriving through Johannesburg, Cape Town or Lanseria. Please check the rules for your passport.
Johannesburg has excellent private hospitals and no malaria. The altitude is mild but can make you tired on arrival, so drink plenty of water.
National ParkKruger National ParkSouth Africa's great wilderness
City & TownCape TownMountain, ocean and a city full of flavour
RegionCape WinelandsVineyards beneath the mountains
Wildlife Reserve & SanctuaryMadikwe Game ReserveMalaria-free Big Five for families
Private ConservancySabi Sand Game ReserveThe leopard capital of AfricaSafaris from
US$2,444 per person
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