Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has an impeccable geodesic dome, which is home to free-flying birds, a bonsai collection, orchids and other amazing tropical plants.
Des Moines is the dynamic capital city in the U.S state of Ohio. With a population of 203,433 residents, and it is named after the Des Moines River. Des Moines is home to a diverse selection of attractions, museums and parks. These include a tour of the Capitol building, Papajohn Sculpture Park and Terrace Hill.
Cheap flights to Des Moines are now available for a limited period of time, so get ready to explore Iowa’s “sleepy capital!” Des Moines is home to Des Moines International Airport (DSM), it is 15-minutes away from the city centre. Des Moines International Airport serves many airlines - including American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines. Popular international flights depart from Cape Town and Johannesburg. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Des Moines is approximately 21 hours and 55 minutes!
| Flight Route | Airline | Trip Type | Travel Dates | Searched | Price From |
|---|
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden has an impeccable geodesic dome, which is home to free-flying birds, a bonsai collection, orchids and other amazing tropical plants.
During summer tourists can join in the fun, which is held at the Iowa State Fair. It runs for 10 days in August, entertainment includes shows, contests and food stands.
Tourists are exposed to the city’s exquisite art collections. Take a trip to the Des Moines Art Center, which houses diverse paintings, sculptures, modern art and mixed media.
Essential details you need to know before your trip
| Country | United States of America |
|---|---|
| Currency | United States Dollar |
| Exchange Rate | 1 ZAR = 0.08 USD |
| Language | English |
| Hub Airport | Des Moines International Airport |
| Airline | American Airlines / United Airlines |
| Time Zone | GMT -6 |
| Travel Adaptor | Type A and B |
A humid and continental climate, with an array of weather conditions can be enjoyed in Des Moines. For cheap flights to this incredible destination, consider travelling in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant for outdoor adventures, and temperatures range from 12 degrees Celsius to 21 degrees Celsius. These seasons are great for avoiding the bustle of holiday crowds. Summer (June to August) is the peak season, with average temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius. The European and International Languages Meetup takes place during the month of July. Des Moines fun Iowa State Fair (August) is also a great reason to visit the city. If you are willing to brave the cold, consider visiting during winter (November to early March), when the city receives a tolerable to heavy snowfall. Hotel deals can be grabbed as the influx of tourists decreases phenomenally during this time.
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall level (mm) per month
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low °C | -10°C | -7°C | -1°C | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C | 19°C | 18°C | 13°C | 6°C | -1°C | -8°C |
| High °C | -1°C | 2°C | 9°C | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C | 30°C | 29°C | 25°C | 17°C | 9°C | 1°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 25 | 33 | 58 | 98 | 120 | 126 | 114 | 105 | 78 | 67 | 56 | 36 |
Nestled on the Des Moines River, this city is important in U.S presidential politics with many presidential candidates setting up campaign headquarters in Des Moines. This destination offers a chance to witness incredible sports - take for instance the LPGA Solheim Cup, the most prestigious women’s golf tournament, which will be held at Des Moines Golf and Country Club. Tourists can explore innovative street art which can be seen on the sides of buildings. Take a stroll downtown and bear witness to the 28-piece sculpture park, it is a mind-bending experience!
For a more relaxing escape, be sure to enjoy some of the city’s amazing local craft beers – Iowa taproom serves more than 120 craft beers on tap! The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market will surely excite you, with traditional produce, homemade goods, live music and local art, it is considered one of the best things to do in this lively metropolis.
Compare several airlines, and book your cheap flights to Des Moines online at Travelstart!
South African passport holders require a visa to visit Des Moines, Iowa and the rest of the United States of America. Travellers should allow plenty of time for visa processing. Ensure that your passport is valid for 6 months after your return date, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps.
The nearest South African Consulate to Iowa is the South African Consulate-General in Chicago.
200 South Michigan Avenue Suite 600 Chicago IL 60604
Phone: +13129397929
All travellers who wish to visit the United States of America and Des Moines are required to receive vaccinations to prevent the following diseases:
• Mumps
• Measles
• Rubella
• Polio
• Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids
• Pertussis
• Haemophilus influenza type B
• Hepatitis B
• Any other vaccine-preventable diseases recommended by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices.
Des Moines is a safe city for travellers to visit. However, it is necessary to maintain vigilance when visiting attractions, as with every major city!
Staying safe in Des Moines:
• Do not travel with a large amount of valuables.
• Be vigilant of pick-pockets in crowded tourist areas.
• Only carry as much cash as you’ll need for a couple of days.
• Ensure that your backpack and purse are securely closed.
• Keep some form of identification with you at all times.
| Item | Cape Town | Johannesburg | Des Moines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | R100 | R100 | R134 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) | R25 | R25 | R40 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | R23 | R22 | R51 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | R10 | R10 | R25 |
| Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) | R40 | R40 | R97 |
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