Things To Do
Johannesburg is energetic, creative and culturally rich, with plenty to explore beyond the conference programme. Visitors can enjoy galleries, theatres, museums, heritage sites, restaurants, markets, university spaces, nature reserves, caves and day trips in and around the city.
Arrive early or stay on after the conference to explore Johannesburg. To help you plan enjoyable outings during your time in Johannesburg, read through the linked documents and contact the recommended tour operators.
Recommended Transport
We recommend the following forms of transport for ease of use and to optimize safety.
AIR TRAVEL
OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL
Fly to OR Tambo International Airport which is just outside JHB.
Some international flights may go to Cape Town International first and then you will need to take a domestic flight to OR Tambo.
Flights to JHB may also go to Lanseria Airport in Gauteng but this option has fewer ground travel options to the accommodation and conference venue.
AIRPORT - HOTEL
GAUTRAIN | EZ SHUTTLE | CAR HIRE
1. Gautrain: On arrival at the airport follow signs to the airport's Gautrain Station (this is inside the airport and close to the international arrivals terminal). Take the next train to Sandton Station and change trains for the Rosebank Station. You can pay for the train ticket by simply tapping in and out with your bank card. If you are staying at the recommended Rosebank hotels then you can walk between the station and the hotel or use their shuttle service. Check the Gautrain operating hours before choosing this option.
2. EZ shuttle: Pre-book EZ Shuttle from the airport to the hotel. This option is recommended if you are arriving early in the morning or late at night when the train is not operational. You can also enquire with your hotel about their shuttle services.
3. Car hire: Hire a car at the airport.
HOTEL - CONFERENCE
WITS SHUTTLE | UBER | HIRE CAR
1: Wits Shuttle Service: If you stay at a recommended hotel, use the Wits shuttle service.
2: E-hailing Services: Take an e-hailing service like Uber to the Wits Yale Road Entrance. Enter campus through security and walk to the conference venue. Use Uber safety features.
3. Care Hire: Use a hire car and park in guest parking on campus.
TRAVEL GUIDANCE
Johannesburg is a metropolis best navigated by specific transport services. It is not a pedestrian city and walking between areas/neighbourhoods is not viable.
Many public transport options are very difficult to navigate for non-locals. If you are not a local, avoid using non-recommended transport such as metered-taxi's, buses, and mini bus taxi's.
We do not recommend catching e-hailing services from the airport.
Accommodation
We have negotiated special rates at the hotels listed below and arranged for shuttles between these hotels and the conference venue.
These hotels are close to the Gautrain Rosebank Station and the Rosebank Mall's shops, restaurants and gym.
Holiday Inn Rosebank
Address: The Zone, Oxford Road Rosebank Johannesburg, 2196 South Africa
2026 Rate: R1565 for a single occupancy
2027 rate: tbc
Description:
Perfectly positioned in the heart of Rosebank, the Holiday Inn Johannesburg – Rosebank offers a seamless blend of convenience, comfort, and connectivity, ideal for conference delegates. With direct, secure access to The Zone @ Rosebank shopping centre and just steps from the Rosebank Gautrain Station, guests enjoy effortless travel between the airport, Sandton, and the wider city.
The hotel is well suited to business travellers, featuring modern rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour business centre. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool or enjoy contemporary dining at the on-site restaurant and lounge. Its central location places visitors within walking distance of key attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences, making it a convenient and vibrant base during your stay.
Contact:
Reservations: 0800 064 577 or book online
Front desk: +27-11-2186000
Email: reservations@hi-rosebank.co.za
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Southern Sun
Rosebank
Address: Cnr Tyrwhitt & Sturdee Ave, Rosebank, Gauteng, South Africa
2026 Rate: R1495 for a single occupancy
2027 rate: tbc
Description:
Southern Sun Rosebank is a stylish and contemporary hotel known for its warm hospitality and full-service experience, making it a popular choice for conference attendees. Located just a short walk from the Rosebank Mall precinct and Gautrain Station, the hotel offers easy access to shopping, dining, and key business hubs.
Designed for both business and leisure, the hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms, uncapped Wi-Fi, and excellent conference and business facilities. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a fully equipped gym, outdoor pool, spa services, and multiple dining options—from relaxed buffet-style meals to premium grill dining. With its balance of comfort, accessibility, and service excellence, Southern Sun Rosebank provides a refined stay in one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant districts.
Contact:
Hotel telephone:+27 11 448 3600
Email: ssrosebank.reservations@southernsun.com
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On Campus
Olives and Plates at Wits Club*
Great food at a seated indoor & outdoor restaurant.
Vida E Cafe *:
Food and coffee stand at the Amec Deck Traffic lights.
Zesty Lemons*:
An informal canteen, with indoor and outdoor tables, below the Amec Deck.
Postgraduate Club (aka The Pig):
An informal bar for afternoon and evening drinks.
The Matrix Student Mall*:
A small student union with book shops, banking facilities, and food stalls.
Solomon Mahlungu House*:
The building has a canteen & the Wits Shop for Wits merchandise
*Please note that these facilities are open during office hours only
Off Campus
The Rosebank Mall and The Zone shopping complex has many restaurants to choose from.
4th Avenue in Parkhurst is a street that is full of restaurants and shops.
44 Stanley is a shopping area with restaurants that is close to Wits.
Melville's 7th Street has coffee shops, restaurants and bars.
Parkview's Tyrone Avenue has many restaurants and shops to explore.