Book cheap flights to Chóngqìng

Chóngqìng experiences a subtropical monsoon climate. Chóngqìng earned its status as one of the ‘Three Furnaces’ because of sweltering weather that grips the city in summer (mid-May to September). Humidity is stifling and temperatures can reach highs of 42 degrees Celsius, while rainfall frequently soaks the city streets. Winter (December to February) is mild, with temperatures reaching highs of 11 degrees Celsius and lows of 6 degrees Celsius. Occasional flurries of snow descend during winter. Autumn (October to November) in Chóngqìng is pleasant and cool, with average highs of 22 degrees Celsius and average lows of 16 degrees Celsius. The autumn months experience moderate rainfall. Spring (March to May) is considered the best time to visit Chóngqìng. The city becomes a colourful quilt of magnolia, plum, cherry, peach and begonia blossoms, while temperatures reach average highs of 22 degrees Celsius and average lows of 15 degrees Celsius.

South African passport holders do require a visa when travelling to Chóngqìng, or anywhere else in China. Ensure your passport has two blank pages for entry stamps and has a validity of at least six months. You will also need to leave ample time for processing.

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China is situated in Pretoria.

Address: 972 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, 0083, Pretoria.

Phone: 27 12 431 6500

Chóngqìng is relatively safe. However, crime happens everywhere. There are a number of precautions that apply when travelling to an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is highly recommended.

Avoid public demonstrations and political rallies. Leave any important documents or valuable items in the hotel safe. Keep a photocopy of your passport or identification on you. Be vigilant of pickpockets at bus and train stations and other crowded areas. Children are often supervised by nearby adults. Women should exercise caution when travelling alone. Always make sure you are accompanied when venturing out at night.

China is affected by natural disasters such as flooding, earthquakes and typhoons. Remain up-to-date by following news reports and emergency channels. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from a yellow fever endemic area. Other routine and recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A & B, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, rabies, malaria, tuberculosis and Japanese Encephalitis.

Situated in the heart of Chóngqìng, and surrounded by the Yangtze River, Yuzhong District is the business and entertainment hub of the city. Lofty skyscrapers and bustling streets are distinct features of this area. Accommodation ranges from glittering boutique hotels to homey inns.

Nan’an District, situated on the south-east side of the Yangtze River, is a vast sprawl of natural attractions, historical monuments, mega malls and entertainment complexes. It is the vibrant cultural hub of Chóngqìng. Accommodation ranges from palatial hotels, contemporary apartments, trendy art hotels and budget inns.

Chóngqìng is an enormous metropolis with several transportation options: bus, subway, taxi and cable car.

Buses are regular and easy to use. A labyrinth of routes criss-cross the city, while bus stations are located in numerous parts of the city. Cards can be purchased at bus stations, subway stations and Transportation Card Company offices.

Although the subway is restricted to one line, it is the best way to get around Chóngqìng. It is clean, reliable, and inexpensive. It serves over 18 stations around the city. Tickets can be purchased from tellers at the station or via a ‘vending machine’.

Taxis in Chóngqìng are abundant and reliable. However, while you may not have any problem finding one, you may find yourself paying significantly more for a trip and subject to the nightmarish congestion that plagues the streets of Chóngqìng. Be prepared to haggle with drivers.