OTT Conference 2025 JOHANNESBURG CITY GUIDE

Before you get there 

Check visa requirements 

Visitors from many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter South Africa, with stays ranging from 30 to 90 days depending on nationality. For a detailed list of exempt countries and further visa requirements, please visit the South African Department of Home Affairs website. 

If you need a visa letter, please contact Camila Ulloa.

Check yellow fever vaccine requirements 

Travellers from many countries require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for entry into South Africa.  

South Africa requires all travellers journeying from yellow fever-risk countries to show proof of yellow fever vaccination by means of a valid yellow fever certificate. This also applies to those who have transited through a yellow fever risk country. The certificates, which are valid for 10 years, must be approved by the World Health Organization and should be administered at a yellow fever-approved vaccination centre at least 10 days before departure to South Africa, as the vaccine only offers protection 10 days after administration. Failure to produce a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at a South African port of entry could lead to refusal of entry or quarantine until your certificate becomes valid. The quarantine will not be longer than six days.  

We strongly encourage all attendees to check whether they need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Please ensure you look up the latest information regarding the country of your departure: South African High Commission. 

Book a hotel in Johannesburg  

Below are OTT’s hotel recommendations in Johannesburg, all located close to the conference venue. If you wish to stay at the Capital Melrose, you can use OTT’s payment link provided below to book at a discounted fee.

Name	Distance to the venue	Approximate price per night for a single room	Breakfast	Discounted payment link and contact information
The Capital Melrose	2.7km (7 min by car)	OTT rate: USD102	Included	Use promo code: SAIIAOTT
Protea Hotel Johannesburg Wanderers, Marriott	1.1km (3 min by car)	USD125	Included	[email protected]
Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch	2.7 km (7 min by car)	USD243	Included
Radisson RED Hotel, Johannesburg Rosebank	1.9 km (6 min by car)	USD142	Included	[email protected]
Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank	2.5km (6 min by car)	USD109	Included

 Safety measurements: If you are staying at Radisson RED Hotel, and Hyatt House we strongly recommend that you do not walk around the area at night as it may be unsafe. If you must walk during the day, we recommend that you do so in groups and take the necessary safety precautions. 

Plan in advance  

Johannesburg tourist information 

We recommend accessing the official Johannesburg city website for comprehensive information about the city’s attractions, events, and activities.  

IMPORTANT: Plugs and adapters 

In South Africa, the standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The country primarily uses Type N plugs with three round pins in a triangular configuration, as well as the older Type M plugs with larger round pins and Type C plugs. It is advisable to bring a travel adapter FOR SOUTH AFRICA to ensure compatibility with your devices. You can read more here.

Weather and clothing

June is typically the coolest month in Johannesburg. Remember that in June it’s winter in the Southern hemisphere! The temperature reaches around 19℃ during the daytime, falling away to 8℃ at night.  

OTT Conferences do not have a dress code. Dress comfortably. Take care of cool nights.  

Gifts

If you like, you can bring a small item from your country as a gift to everyone (e.g. sweets, key chains, fridge magnets, etc.). 

Ask AI

We recommend asking ChatGPT, Gemini or your preferred AI for recommendations on what to do while in Johannesburg.

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In Johannesburg

Conference venue 

The OTT Conference 2025 will take place at the GIBS Institute in Johannesburg, South Africa, on the 17th and 18th June 20225 

Address: 26 Melville Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa

Arriving at the airport 

Transportation Options from O.R. Tambo International Airport 

• Rideshare Apps: Bolt, Uber, or Didi operate from designated pickup zones.
• Airport Taxis: Use official airport taxi services. Avoid unregistered drivers. 
• Gautrain: A rapid train connects the airport to Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Sandton. 

Safety Considerations: While public transport options like the Gautrain, Rea Vaya, Metrobus, and minibus taxis are generally safe, it’s important to remain vigilant, especially when travelling after dark. Using ride-hailing services can be a safer alternative during late hours. 

Transportation to the public event at SAIIA on June 16th 

We are arranging shuttles to take you to the public event at SAIIA to kick off the OTT Conference 2025. We will share the details with you on the Conference website and app. 

Address: East Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.