Hong Kong experiences a high influx of tourists all year round. Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) are the busiest seasons and peak vacation periods for the mainland Chinese. The lunar Chinese New Year sees the island teeming with visitors and locals. Spring and autumn also see many festivals and trade fairs booking up the city’s hotels. Summers (May-September) are very hot and humid, and most people avoid the city altogether or head to the beaches on the surrounding islands. Winter (December-February) is a great time to visit as the cooler temperatures chase away the visiting crowds. Many hotels offer lower rates and package deals during summer and winter – perfect for those on a budget!

South African passport holders can generally visit Hong Kong without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, subject to meeting entry requirements. Longer stays, employment or study may require a visa or entry permit.

Before travelling, confirm the current requirements with Hong Kong’s immigration authorities for your passport and purpose of visit. Check passport validity and any supporting documents required, including return or onward travel arrangements.

If your itinerary includes mainland China or another destination, check its entry requirements separately. Visa-free access to Hong Kong does not automatically cover onward travel. Entry and the permitted length of stay remain subject to immigration approval.

Travel information disclaimer: Visa, passport, entry and transit requirements may change without notice. This information is a general guide and does not guarantee visa approval, boarding or entry. Always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate or immigration authority for every country you will visit or transit through, and with your airline before departure. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the correct documents. To the extent permitted by law, Travelstart cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies, changes to requirements, visa refusals, denied boarding or entry, or resulting costs.

Hong Kong is a remarkably safe destination. Visitors are free to walk around by day and night, and violent crimes are practically unheard of. Nonetheless, as in any foreign city, keep a watchful eye on belongings and, if possible, leave valuables in your hotel safe. Police offers patrol areas frequently and are very helpful if you need assistance.

There are no vaccinations required to enter Hong Kong. Be aware that as you enter the airport, automatic sensors gauge your temperature, and if it is considered to be high, you may be required to undergo a quick health check. Should you have a cold or the flu, it is considered courteous to wear a mask in public. Smoking is banned almost everywhere, and you’ll be liable to a hefty fine should you be caught smoking illegally. The air in Hong Kong is quite heavily polluted so if you suffer from asthma, try to avoid spending too much time outside.

Hong Kong has excellent healthcare facilities, though you may want to consider taking out health insurance before travelling, as medical bills can work out expensive.

Find accommodation in Hong Kong to suit your trip, from budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels to serviced apartments, boutique stays and luxury waterfront properties. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a city break or a business trip, compare Hong Kong hotels by location, facilities and price.

Consider Tsim Sha Tsui for shopping and harbour views, Central for business stays and dining, or Mong Kok for markets and neighbourhood energy. Choose accommodation near an MTR station to make exploring easier, and check room sizes, lift access, breakfast options, additional charges and cancellation terms before booking. Compare accommodation on Travelstart and book a Hong Kong stay that fits your plans and budget.

Getting around Hong Kong is easy to plan with MTR trains, buses, trams, ferries and taxis connecting many popular attractions. Choose accommodation near an MTR station and plan your journeys around the neighbourhoods and islands you want to explore.

The MTR is useful for travelling between major districts, while trams and ferries offer a different view of the city. An Octopus card provides a convenient way to pay on many public transport services. Check current routes, fares and payment options before travelling.

Walking is a good option for exploring nearby attractions in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and other neighbourhoods, although some routes involve hills and steps. For journeys from Hong Kong International Airport, compare the Airport Express, airport buses, taxis and private transfers based on your arrival time, luggage and accommodation location. Plan onward transport from your arrival station if choosing the train.

Prefer to drive for part of your trip? Check car rental availability with Travelstart for your pick-up location and dates. Compare insurance, deposits, mileage limits and driving-document requirements before booking, and factor parking and tolls into your budget. For island visits, check ferry connections and local transport options in advance.

Cathay Pacific connects South African travellers with Hong Kong and destinations across Asia. Fly direct from Johannesburg to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), or explore onward connections to places such as Bali and Tokyo.

Whether you’re travelling for business, visiting family or planning a holiday, compare Cathay Pacific fares and cabin options on Travelstart. Choose from Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class, with First Class available on selected routes and aircraft.

Ready to book? Search Cathay Pacific flights to Hong Kong, Bali (Denpasar), Tokyo and beyond. Compare prices for your travel dates, explore available flight specials and book the journey that suits your schedule and budget.

Cathay Pacific baggage allowance

Baggage allowances depend on the fare and cabin class selected. Compare the cabin baggage, checked baggage and optional extras included in each fare before booking.

Cathay Pacific online check-in

Booked your Cathay Pacific flight with Travelstart? You can check in through the Cathay Pacific website or app using your airline booking reference or e-ticket details. Online check-in is available for eligible bookings, although some passengers will need to check in at the airport.

Have your passport, booking details and any required visa or emergency contact information ready before you begin.

Passport and travel documents

Your passport must meet the requirements of your destination and any countries you transit through. Validity rules vary by nationality and itinerary, so check the requirements for your trip before departure.

Mobile boarding passes

For eligible journeys, you can access your digital boarding pass on your phone, including through a link sent by email or SMS. If a digital boarding pass cannot be issued, follow Cathay Pacific’s instructions to collect it at the airport.

Allow enough time for baggage drop, travel-document checks and airport security, even if you have checked in online.

Cathay membership and Asia Miles

Add your Cathay membership number to your booking to earn Asia Miles and Status Points on eligible flights. Earning eligibility depends on your fare and the programme’s rules.

Cathay Pacific cabin classes

Cathay Pacific offers Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First Class, with availability depending on your route and aircraft. Compare Cathay Pacific flights on Travelstart to find the cabin and fare that suit your trip.

Inflight entertainment and charging

Settle in with movies, TV shows, music and more on Cathay Pacific’s inflight entertainment system. Whether you’re catching up on a favourite series or keeping the kids entertained, there’s plenty to enjoy along the way.

USB charging ports and in-seat power outlets help keep your devices charged during your journey. Screen sizes, charging connections and headphone options vary by aircraft and cabin.

Cathay Pacific connects travellers to destinations across Asia, the Pacific, Europe, North America, Africa and the Middle East through its hub at Hong Kong International Airport. Compare Cathay Pacific flights on Travelstart and find a fare that suits your travel plans