Arrival Guide
SIM cards, transport, cash, accommodation, and power adapters — everything you need sorted in order of priority before jet lag even kicks in.
Step 1: Get Connected. Grab a Vodacom or MTN SIM at the airport arrivals hall. Vodacom has better urban coverage, MTN is cheaper for data. Budget R300 for a tourist SIM with 10GB — enough to get you through the first week while you sort out fibre at your flat.
Step 2: Sort Transport. Uber works perfectly here and is your best option from the airport (R250–R350 to the CBD). Download Bolt too — sometimes cheaper, always good to have options. Skip the metered taxis unless you enjoy negotiating.
Step 3: Get Rands. Draw cash from an FNB or Capitec ATM at the airport — avoid the Travelex bureau. Most places accept cards, but you’ll want cash for markets, parking guards, and tips. Wise or Revolut cards work everywhere and give the best exchange rates.
Step 4: Secure Your Base. Book your first 2 weeks on Airbnb before you arrive, then apartment-hunt in person. Online listings don’t show you the load-shedding reality, the noise levels, or whether the fibre box is actually connected. See it first, sign later.
Step 5: Power Up. South Africa uses Type M (large 3-pin) plugs. Your European or US chargers won’t fit. Grab a universal adapter at the airport Woolworths or order one from Takealot for next-day delivery.
