How to organise an itinerary in Sandton: A practical guide to plan your trip

Widely known as ‘Africa's richest square mile’, Sandton is a city which offers upscale experiences for those who are seeking luxury shopping ventures and leisure. Since it is also a business hub, corporate travellers head there to attend business meetings and take part in major industry conventions. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning a trip to Sandton and make the most of your stay there. 

Getting there 

Sandton generally has two peak seasons: mid-December to mid- January and June to July. Therefore, if you plan to travel to this destination during this span, make sure to book your flight to O.R. Tambo International Airport early. A massive volume of flights fly there daily from around 80 cities in more than 35 nations. Then it is generally less than half an hour’s drive away to Sandton. However, the best way to travel is to use the Gautrain, which is a fast and convenient option as it takes less than 15 minutes to reach Sandton. 
Download a ride-hailing app like Uber or Bolt, as they are a safe and smooth way to travel, so that you will be dropped directly at the place that you have in mind. If you are on a budget, you can even take the metrobus and reach your destinations with the help of locals. 

Exciting experiences and amenities

Recognised as Africa’s financial and corporate location, Sandton is a place that business travellers visit to network with top-tier firms, multinational corporations and major banks. Therefore, some of the best hotels in Sandton offer amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, spacious meeting rooms, A/V equipment and more to allow your experiences to run smoothly. You will also have a plethora of top tourist attractions at hand to indulge in during your breaks. 
A must-visit site in Sandton is Nelson Mandela Square. Named after the former president, this place houses a 6m bronze statue of this globally famous patriot. Known as an upscale lifestyle destination, this site is renowned for its European-style open-air pizza and high-end shopping experiences. There is also a range of world-class dining places to choose from. Try the South African steak, biltong and local wines while you are there. Sandton City is another shopaholic’s dream that you might like to explore on the way, as it is directly connected to the square. It is a shopping mall which is one of the largest on the continent that houses more than 300 stores with items from renowned brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. NH Johannesburg Sandton is only a stone’s throw away from Sandton City. Other places to add to your must-visit list include Liliesleaf Farm, Montecasino Bird Garden and The Johannesburg Zoo.

Image via NH Johannesburg Sandton

What to take along 

Since Sandton is known for its dining experiences, it would be suitable to take along some smart–casual outfits so that you can enjoy the local nightlife there. Some nights can also be chilly, so toss in a light jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must to explore nearby attractions. 
Type M travel adaptors are used in South Africa. So take along an international travel adaptor and a portable power bank to keep your devices charged. Pack a high SPF sunscreen and a hat to keep the harsh sunrays at bay. Take along your toiletries and any medicine you are using, as it might not be possible to locate the same brands there. One of the most important things you need to have is physical copies of flight tickets, accommodation reservations and a passport in case you lose digital access.