Book cheap flights to Karachi

The location of the city on the coastline causes it to have a relatively tropical climate. Karachi has two main seasons: summer (June – September) and winter (December – February). The summers are longer and temperatures can get scorching hot. Sultry days give way to orangey, silky twilights – which melt into sapphire nights. During this time, the breeze coming from the coastline tends to cool the city and keeps the temperatures bearable. Winters do not last very long. The best time to visit Karachi is from December to January, when there is a fair balance amongst the arid climate and cold weather of the region. February is the last month of winter, and unfurls chilling temperatures. In winter schools often close for long periods as the roads are either flooded or overthrown with snow – thus making commuting difficult. Spring (March to May), see the soft hues of ochre turn to lush green savannahs, whilst and hailstorms are not uncommon during this season. The rest of the year sees significantly less rainfall.

South African Passport holders do not need a visa to visit Karachi, Pakistan.

• Ensure your passport has 3 blank pages available for entry stamps.

• Apply through the embassy in Pretoria and ensure your passport has a validity period of at least 6 months.

• The South African High Commission in Pakistan is in Islamabad at 48 Khayaba-e- Iqbal (also known as Margalla Road), Sector F-8/2, Islamabad 5120 Phone: 92.51.226.2354.

All travellers should be up to date with routine vaccinations, as vaccinations are required. There are no real health risks associated with travel to Karachi, Pakistan.

• Japanese encephalitis in Pakistan: if you are planning on staying for more than one month, and depending on where in Pakistan, and what time of the year you are travelling, you will need this vaccine. If you are planning on visiting the rural areas in Pakistan, or spending a lot of time outdoors, you should consider this vaccine.

• You may need to take prescription drugs to prevent malaria in Pakistan, before and after your visit, so speak to your doctor.

• The dry climate can cause excessively high temperatures, so sunburn is a concern. Make sure you bring lotion with a high sun protective factor.

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

• Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A & B, typhoid and rabies.

• Try to avoid spending too much time in the sun. Wear a hat when spending time outdoors.

• Obtain travel insurance.

• Obey the laws of the city you are visiting.

• Stay away from public and political demonstrations.

Located along Club Road, there is a hostel within walking distance to the National Museum, and 2.5 kilometres from the Clifton Fish Aquarium. Rooms are stylishly draped in exquisite interior designs, high tech air-conditioning units and are well furnished. Hotels feature an outdoor swimming pool, gym, spa and free parking facilities.

Situated opposite the Frere Hall and Park, is a hotel, 30-minutes drive from the city centre. This guest house offers modern, comfortable rooms fitted with en-suite and private bathrooms. Conveniently located on the premises is a drug store, florist and currency exchange. Laundry, dry cleaning and ironing services can be done at additional costs.

This little cosy-cone offers a sun terrace and great views of the city. Each room at this bed and breakfast is air-conditioned, has a private bathroom and flat screen television. Staff are super friendly, and guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant.

• Train: An express train runs from Karachi to Lahore, and visa-versa. The train is newly refurbished with original compartments. This is a comfortable ride if you plan on taking this route when visiting.

• Bus: Explore the highlights of the city with a guided bus tour, ending in an elaborate sunset camel ride in the desert.

• You can also rent a car from any one of the number of car rental agencies within Karachi.

• Walking: Of course, walking has always been the best way to explore any city. This way you get to see a lot more and meet some of the friendly locals as you travel through the streets of the city.