Things To Do
in Katlehong

Pap (a stiff maize porridge) served with chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish) and sometimes grilled meat; find it at local eateries and shebeens (taverns).

Must-Try!

Charcoal-grilled meat cooked on open fires; look for local shisanyama spots or community braais for the freshest experience.

Deep-fried dough filled with spiced mince or jam—available from street vendors and bakeries for a quick snack.

Traditional offal dishes eaten in many townships and served at specialty vendors and local restaurants for adventurous eaters.

Small community markets on weekends where vendors sell prepared foods, grilled meats, sweets and homemade goods—ideal for tasting varied local treats.

Food stalls along major routes offering vetkoek, grilled meat, samosas and soft drinks—great for quick, affordable bites.

Greet people politely (a simple hello or wave) before engaging; showing respect to elders and community leaders is important.

Always ask permission before photographing people, homes or private property—many will agree if asked politely.

Dress modestly when visiting residential areas and religious sites; avoid loud or disruptive behavior and be mindful of local customs.

If you buy crafts or food, try to purchase directly from vendors to support local livelihoods; bargaining is acceptable in markets but do so respectfully.

Tipping is appreciated for good service: around 10% in restaurants where service is not included, small change for taxi drivers and R5–R20 for helpful porters or attendants. For informal food vendors tipping is not expected but rounding up or leaving small change is welcomed.

Cash is still widely used—carry small notes and coins for markets and minibuses. Debit and credit cards are accepted at larger shops and some restaurants; mobile payment apps and EFT (electronic bank transfers) are common. ATMs are available in nearby suburbs; avoid flashing large amounts of cash.

December–February: Hot afternoons, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, long daylight hours. Wear sun protection, expect humid spells and pack a light rain jacket for sudden showers. Summer is great for braais and outdoor events but heavy rains can cause localized flooding or muddy conditions.

March–May: Cooler evenings, pleasant daytime temperatures and generally stable weather—good for walking tours and outdoor activities. Early autumn can still be warm; layers are useful.

June–August: Mild to cool days and chilly nights; frost occasionally on highveld mornings. Rain is infrequent—bring a warm jacket for evenings and mornings. Daytime sun can be pleasant for outdoor exploring.

September–November: Warming temperatures, blooming landscapes and increasing activity outdoors. Expect variable weather early in the season with occasional winds; good season for hiking and photography.

Vegetarian options exist (pap with vegetable stews, chakalaka, salads), but choices can be limited at small vendors—ask about ingredients and choose cafes or markets with visible vegetable dishes.

Vegan options are growing but scarce in traditional tuck shops; planning ahead and visiting larger supermarkets or suburban cafés in Germiston/Alberton will provide more variety.

Maize-based foods like pap are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible—communicate needs clearly and stick to simple dishes.

Halal-certified outlets are available in the broader Johannesburg area; in Katlehong specifically, check with vendors about meat sourcing or opt for vegetarian preparations.