Population: 5.6 million
Languages: There are 11 official languages in South Africa, including English, and more than 30 spoken dialects. A third of people speak a Nguni language, including isiZulu, isiXhosa and Xitsonga.
Timezone: GMT+2 International dialling code: +27 11 Visas: Not required by UK nationals for up to 90 days.
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR), currently around ZAR19 to the UK£.
Highest viewpoint: The Carlton Centre (223m) is one of the tallest buildings in Africa and has a great viewing deck at the top.
Health issues: Consult your doctor regards any jabs, but diphtheria and hepatitis A are advised. There’s low to no risk of malaria in Joburg and most of South Africa.
Recommended guidebooks: South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland (Lonely Planet, 2018)
Web resources: visit.joburg– official website of the Johannesburg Tourism.
iPhone app: The Mandela Journey App guides you around Nelson Mandela-inspired sites in Joburg and beyond; Madibas Journey
Climate: Joburg is a year-round destination. Expect hot summers (about 27ºC) from November to March and mild, dry winters from June to August. Beat the crowds by visiting in the shoulder months (March to May; September to November).