Visa, Weather, & Places of Interest

Visa

The conference attendees should check directly with the South African Consulate for visa application and requirements as it varies from country to country. 

Weather

In Johannesburg, November marks the late spring season, transitioning into summer. The weather during this month is generally warm and can be characterized by the following features:

• Temperature: Average daytime temperatures range from about 15°C (59°F) to 27°C (81°F). It can sometimes get warmer, but temperatures above 30°C (86°F) are uncommon.
• Rainfall: November typically experiences increased rainfall, with occasional thunderstorms. This marks the beginning of the rainy season, so afternoon or evening showers are quite common.
• Humidity: Humidity levels can rise due to the increased rainfall, but they are usually moderate compared to coastal cities.
• Sunshine: There is plenty of sunshine, with November having an average of around 8 hours of sunshine per day.

Overall, the weather in Johannesburg in November is warm and pleasant, making it a good time for outdoor activities, though it’s wise to be prepared for sudden rain showers.

Places of Interests

Apartheid Museum: A poignant and comprehensive museum that details the history of apartheid in South Africa through powerful exhibits, photographs, and film footage. It provides a deep and emotional understanding of the country's past struggles and progress towards equality.

Johannesburg Zoo: A popular family destination featuring over 320 species of animals. The zoo offers various educational programs and exhibits, including the Big Cat Enclosure and the Reptile House.

Gold Reef City: An amusement park and entertainment complex that includes thrilling rides, a casino, and a recreated 19th-century mining town. The park also offers an underground tour of a former gold mine, giving visitors a taste of Johannesburg's mining history.

Soweto: A culturally rich township with significant historical sites such as Vilakazi Street (the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Prize winners: Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu), the Hector Pieterson Museum, and the Mandela House Museum. Soweto offers guided tours that delve into the township's history and its role in the fight against apartheid.

Wits Art Museum (WAM): Located in Braamfontein, this museum showcases a diverse collection of African art, including contemporary and historical pieces. It hosts regular exhibitions and educational programs.

Origins Centre: Located at the University of the Witwatersrand, this museum explores the origins of humankind and South African heritage through exhibits on ancient fossils, rock art, and the history of early humans.

Pilanesberg National Park: Situated approximately two hours from Johannesburg, this park is home to the Big Five. It offers excellent game viewing and birdwatching opportunities, with a variety of lodges and campsites.

Kruger National Park: One of Africa's largest game reserves, Kruger National Park is about a 4–5-hour drive or a short flight from Johannesburg. It offers spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), and a variety of accommodation options ranging from campsites to luxury lodges.

Pretoria: The administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria is about an hour's drive from Johannesburg. It boasts attractions like the Union Buildings, the Voortrekker Monument, and the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.

Cape Town: Though further afield, Cape Town is a must-visit South African city. It's a 2-hour flight from Johannesburg and offers iconic attractions like Table Mountain, Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, and stunning beaches. The Cape Winelands and the scenic Cape Peninsula are also nearby.