Gauteng, South Africa
South Africa has excellent mobile network coverage in urban areas.
Internet access and Wi-Fi are widely available in hotels, guesthouses, cafes, and shopping malls. Wi-Fi is often free for a limited time or data.
South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken in urban areas, businesses, and tourism sectors. Afrikaans is common in Pretoria. Zulu, Xhosa, Sepedi, and Tswana are also spoken.
Examples in Afrikaans and Sepedi:
A local SIM card makes communication and navigation easy. Remember your passport for registration.
Be aware of typical operating hours and public holidays that might affect services.
Shops in malls open 09:00-18:00 weekdays, 09:00-17:00 Saturdays, 09:00-14:00/16:00 Sundays. Banks operate 09:00-15:30 weekdays, 08:30-11:00 Saturdays.
Lunch service typically starts from 12:00, and dinner from 18:00. Many cafes open earlier for breakfast.
Generally open from 08:00 to 16:00 on weekdays.
South Africa has numerous public holidays throughout the year. Banks and some businesses may close or operate reduced hours. Public transport schedules might also vary.
Some smaller businesses might close or have reduced hours over the December and January holiday period, as many locals take extended breaks.
Check local public holidays before your visit to account for potential closures or altered schedules.
South Africans are generally friendly and welcoming.
A handshake is common when meeting people. Maintain eye contact during greetings. Using formal titles like Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Dr. Is polite until invited to use first names.
Dress is generally casual. Modest dress is appropriate for religious sites, requiring covered shoulders and knees. For formal business or fine dining, smart casual attire is typical.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children. Respect a "no" if someone declines. Be discreet when taking photos.
Avoid discussing politics, especially topics related to apartheid or racial issues, unless initiated by a local you know well and trust.
A friendly approach and a willingness to learn local customs greatly enrich your experience.
Pretoria strives for accessibility, but infrastructure can vary. Travelers with mobility challenges may find some areas more difficult.
South Africa has pursued accessibility. Infrastructure can still present challenges outside of major new developments.
Major malls like Menlyn Park and Brooklyn Mall are generally accessible, with wide walkways and elevators.
Contact specific attractions or accommodations directly to confirm their accessibility features before your visit. A smoother trip results.
