johannesburg tourism places

14 Top-Rated Attractions and Things to Do in Johannesburg

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Johannesburg, affectionately called Jo'burg, Jozi, and E'Goli, the "city of gold," is the financial and industrial metropolis of South Africa, built on a rich history of gold mining. The city is rapidly evolving from an edgy safari stopover to a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

Cutting-edge contemporary galleries and the new Maboneng Precinct, with its funky restaurants, cafés, and art studios, now rank among the city's top tourist attractions, along with the poignant Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.

Glaring disparities – the shanty towns of Soweto, birthplace of the nation's struggle for democracy – still contrast sharply with the walled villas of wealthy enclaves and the city's gleaming skyscrapers.

However, rapid changes are coaxing tourists to linger. Hop aboard one of the new Gautrain trains and buses to explore or take a guided tour, and not far from the city's borders, more adventures await.

You can commune with wildlife at a popular lion park; stroll among the beautiful gardens, parks, and other attractions in Pretoria, the country's administrative capital; and explore the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind, one of the richest paleoanthropological sites in the world. Discover the best things to do with our list of the top attractions in Johannesburg.

See also: Where to Stay in Johannesburg

1. The Apartheid Museum

2. constitution hill, 3. gold reef city, 4. soweto & mandela house, 5. the maboneng precinct, 6. lion & safari park day trip, 7. the cradle of humankind day trip, 8. pilanesberg national park day trip, 9. day trip to pretoria, 10. walter sisulu national botanical gardens, 11. the lindfield victorian house museum, 12. south african national museum of military history, 13. wits art museum, 14. market theatre, where to stay in johannesburg for sightseeing, visiting victoria falls from johannesburg: 3-day tour, johannesburg - climate chart.

The Apartheid Museum graphically portrays the apartheid story through photos, artifacts, newspaper clippings, chilling personal accounts, and film footage. The sights and sounds of the apartheid era assail visitors as they move through the thought-provoking permanent exhibits on an emotional journey through South Africa's history.

Paths follow the country through decades of oppression to the birth of democracy. Reserve at least two hours and preferably longer to get the most out of a visit here. Those interested in learning more about South Africa's struggle for freedom, should also visit Liliesleaf Farm Museum , the former center for the leaders of the liberation movement.

Address: Cnr Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Road, Ormonde, Johannesburg

Official site: http://www.apartheidmuseum.org

Overlooking the city of Johannesburg, Constitution Hill is a former prison, which provides fascinating insight into South Africa's history. At the site, you can explore provocative exhibits at the Number Four museum, the Women's Gaol museum, and the Old Fort museum. Together, the precinct was once known as The Fort, and it forged a reputation for its brutal treatment of political prisoners, common criminals, and passive resistors; famous former prisoners include Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.

Today, the old Awaiting Trial building has been transformed into the Constitutional Court of South Africa, a symbol of freedom that works to protect the rights of all the nation's people. The court welcomes visitors who want to attend hearings and watch the judicial process. Guided tours of Constitutional Hill offer valuable insight into its rich history.

Official site: https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/

Gold Reef City, eight kilometers from the city center, takes you back to the gold rush days through a series of thrilling theme park rides and historical exhibits. This family-friendly attraction hosts reproductions of buildings and businesses from the era, and you can also tour a disused shaft of the Crown Mines, one of the richest gold-mines in the world.

Children love the trampoline park, ten-pin bowling alley, and exhilarating theme-park rides, including the twisting and turning Anaconda roller coaster. The park also offers dedicated rides for young children, as well as a petting zoo. Putt-putt golf, sideshow games, and gold panning round out the adventures. If you can't tear yourself away from all the fun, you can stay overnight in the Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel .

Address: Shaft 14, Northern Parkway, Johannesburg

Soweto (an abbreviation for Southwestern Townships) lies 20 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg and offers a journey into the soul of the fight for freedom. This was an area of planned segregation, where black laborers were housed far from the city center, many in shacks made of corrugated iron. It was also the birthplace of the struggle for democracy. In 1976, the Soweto Uprisings sought to overthrow the apartheid state and spread from here to the rest of the country.

Today, you can see a land of contrasts. Mansions have sprouted up among the shanties, and the democratic government is trying to establish much-needed infrastructure and green spaces. Popular attractions to visit here are Mandela House , where Nelson Mandela lived from 1946 to 1962, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum , which honors the brave students who protested apartheid during the Soweto Uprisings, some of whom were shot by police, including the museum's namesake, who was only 12 years old.

The easiest – and safest – way to experience Soweto is on the full-day Soweto City and Apartheid Museum tour . A knowledgeable guide will take you into the shanty towns to meet the residents, and you'll have the chance to visit the famous Vilakazi Street and the former homes of two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, as well as explore the excellent exhibits at the Apartheid Museum.

The vibrant Maboneng Precinct is a fantastic example of a successful mixed-use urban renewal project. Once a rather run-down neighborhood, Maboneng, meaning "place of light," now fizzes with life. Funky restaurants, cafes, art galleries, shops, hotels, and entertainment venues mix smartly with residential buildings.

A top attraction here is the weekly Market on Main with food from all over the continent. Arts on Main and Revolution House are two of the first developments where warehouses are transformed into artists' studios, galleries, and shops. Other developments host Bioscope, an independent cinema; a community center; designer hotels; and boutiques. This is a wonderful area to wander around, feel the vibe of the city, and grab a bite to eat or a cool drink.

At the Lion & Safari Park, you can get up-close with some of Africa's famous wildlife less than an hour's drive north from downtown Johannesburg. Animal interactions are the highlight here. You can cuddle a lion cub, take the Cheetah Walk, and hand feed giraffes.

Self-guided tours are permitted, but you can also join a guided game drive in the park's vehicles to see lions, cheetahs, zebras, ostriches, wild dogs, hyenas, and various species of antelope. Nighttime feeding tours and river rafting tours are other popular things to do. Make sure you adhere to all safety regulations and keep your windows up when driving through the park.

Official site: http://www.lionandsafaripark.com/

About an hour's drive from Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most productive and important paleo-anthropological areas. One of the top attractions here are the Sterkfontein stalactitic caves, which consist of six linked underground chambers with a lake at a depth of about 40 meters.

Archaeological excavations here unearthed the skull of a humanoid creature known as Australopithecus africanus , estimated to be two million years old, called "Mrs Ples," and in 1998, scientists discovered a skeleton that dates the presence of early humans in the valley at 3.5 million years ago.

Stop by the Maropeng Visitor Center to view related exhibits and learn more about this fascinating site. Better still, explore all the highlights with an expert guide on the Cradle of Humankind Tour from Johannesburg . This eight-hour excursion includes a guided visit of the Sterkfontein caves and the Maropeng visitor center, as well as an open-vehicle game drive at the Lion & Safari Park.

An easily accessible 2.5-hour drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most popular game reserves in South Africa. You have a chance to see Africa's Big Five here (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino), and the park is known for its extraordinarily rich ecosystems and diversity of wildlife, thanks to its location in a transition zone between the lush Lowveld vegetation and the parched Kalahari desert.

Apart from the Big Five, the park is also home to African wild dogs, sable antelope, zebras, and more than 300 species of birds. Strategically placed photographic hides make it easier to capture close-up photos.

To get the most out of a day trip to the park, it's a good idea to sign up for the full-day Pilanesberg National Park private tour from Johannesburg . An experienced guide will take you into the park for both a morning and afternoon game drive, tracking the animals you most want to see and sharing fascinating details about the wildlife and unique ecosystems along the way.

Official Site: https://www.pilanesbergnationalpark.org/

About 55 kilometers from Johannesburg, Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa and is worth visiting for its impressive lineup of historical buildings, monuments, and museums. Ablaze with the purple hues of jacarandas in the spring, Pretoria is also a city of beautiful parks and gardens.

Highlights of a visit here include the Pretoria National Botanic Garden, the Voortrekker Monument, Freedom Park, the large zoo, and a clutch of peaceful nature reserves within the city limits, with diverse wildlife and an abundance of birds.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pretoria

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens offer a serene slice of wilderness on the edge of the city. Managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute, the garden is one of nine national botanical gardens in South Africa, and this particular location offers plenty of space and beautiful views of red-rock cliffs.

The garden's centerpiece is the impressive Witpoortjie Waterfall . Sprawling fields surround the falls, with plenty of prime picnic nooks, and a river and hiking trails weave through the well-tended gardens. Highlights include the Cycad Garden, Fern Trail, Succulent Rockery Garden, the Birds and Butterfly Garden, and the Geological Display Garden.

Birders and photographers will appreciate the bird hide, and kids can burn off steam in the Children's Garden. Keep an eye out for the park's abundant birds and insects, including black eagles that nest in the park.

Address: Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort

Official site: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu/

Anyone interested in life during the Victorian era will love this "living museum" and Provincial Heritage Site. The current owner, Katherine Love, who has lived here since 1967, dresses in Victorian clothing, greets visitors, and leads them on a tour through the rooms of this beautifully preserved middle-class Victorian home, designed by one of South Africa's most famous architects, Herbert Baker.

Along the way, you can view impressive collections of 19th- and 20th-century furniture, art, and household items and learn fascinating stories about the former residents and how Victorian culture and customs have influenced Johannesburg today.

A tour here takes about two hours and immerses you into the ambiance of the era. After the tour, you can top off the experience with a cup of tea on the veranda.

Address: 72 Richmond Ave, Auckland Park, Johannesburg

Official site: http://lindfield.wix.com/museum#!explore/c1jmx

Exactly as its title states, the South African Museum of Military History traces the story of all the country's military conflicts. Highlights here include the World War II fighter planes and bombers, as well as exhibits of tanks, ammunition, arms, and medals.

Particularly interesting is the exhibit on medicine at war, which details the Zulu's use of traditional healing during the Anglo-Zulu war, as well as modern day treatments used on the battlefield. Another exhibit unveils life in the trenches during World War I.

Official site: http://www.ditsong.org.za/militaryhistory.htm

Opened in 2012, this impressive museum hosts a superb collection of African art with many works from South Africa as well as West and Central Africa. The museum is part of the Wits University Cultural Precinct in the trendy area of Braamfontein , which buzzes with students and university professors. Frequent temporary exhibitions infuse a freshness to the exhibits in this modern, light-filled space.

The Market Theatre complex housed in a converted market building, plays a major part in Johannesburg's cultural life. It has four live theater venues where some of the finest productions in South Africa are presented. The complex also includes a bookshop, art and photographic gallery, and restaurants.

Kippie's is a popular jazz venue, with music by well-known musicians in the evenings. In the huge parking lot opposite the Market Theatre complex, a large flea market is held every Saturday. Adjoining the Market Theatre, Museum Africa displays reproductions of the huts, tools, arts and crafts, dress, and toys of South African tribes.

Address: 56 Margaret Mcingana Street, Johannesburg

In Johannesburg, the upscale northern suburbs, such as Rosebank, Sandton, and Melrose are typically the safest and best areas to stay. Shopping malls, theaters, museums, and restaurants are minutes away, and top attractions such as Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum are easily accessible in about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or private car. Here are some highly-rated hotels in these affluent residential areas and other appealing locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Perched on a hill overlooking the Johannesburg Zoo and the posh neighborhoods of The Parks, the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg is only nine minutes by car to Constitution Hill and not much further to the Apartheid Museum.
• The recently opened Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf is another good choice. It is a five-star hotel in an upmarket residential complex that boasts an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. Rooms and suites are swanky, and there are four swimming pools plus multiple restaurants and a swanky spa.
• One of the best hotels in Jo'burg, The Residence Boutique Hotel is one of Jo'burg's top boutique luxury properties. It has elegant rooms with free-standing bathtubs and furnished balconies. The suites come with private hot tubs that are perfect for soaking away jet-lag aches.
• In the upscale residential neighborhood of Melrose, the boutique, eco-chic Peech Hotel feels more like a private house than a hotel with its pool, free parking, and well-appointed rooms.
• For travelers who prefer all the amenities of a big hotel, the Hyatt Regency Johannesburg features a distinctively African-style decor in the prestigious suburb of Rosebank.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• For those who want to start their safari early, Thaba Eco Hotel overlooks Johannesburg's Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve and offers stunning valley views and guided game walks, yet it lies only 14 minutes by car from the Apartheid Museum.
• North of the city, is the Georgian-style Garden Court Morningside Sandton , with great-value rates that include complimentary parking, breakfast, and a lovely pool surrounded by lush gardens.
• Perfect for families, Genesis All-Suite Hotel , also in Johannesburg's northern suburbs, offers luxury apartments for an affordable price, about 17 minutes by car from Constitution Hill.

Budget Hotels:

• Near the Wanderers Cricket Stadium in Sandton, the pet-friendly Premiere Classe Suites , with one- and two-bedroom apartments and bright, cheery decor, is great for families and extended stays. The apartments come with full kitchens, so you can do some DIY cooking, which is especially nice if you have kids with you. The apartments also feature separate living space and a good location in the Melrose suburb.
• About 30 minutes from the international airport and 20 minutes from Sandton CBD, the Mercure Johannesburg Midrand offers clean, modern rooms and free parking. There is also a restaurant next door that serves up tasty fare, so you need not wander far.
• The Road Lodge Southgate , about 12 kilometers south of Johannesburg's city center, has comfy rooms and an outdoor pool.

It's easy to visit Zimbabwe and see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World on the 3-Day Victoria Falls Tour from Johannesburg . This action-packed tour includes a guided walk through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to see the spectacular Victoria Falls, as well as a sunset cruise along the might Zambezi River, round-trip airfare from Johannesburg, and two nights' accommodation. An expert local guide is on hand to make sure your trip runs smoothly.

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Take a Safari: If a safari is top on your agenda, Kruger National Park is just over four hours's drive from Johannesburg and is one of the best game reserves in South Africa . Thanks to its well-established tourist infrastructure, it's also one of the easiest national parks in Africa to explore on self-guided tours.

City Sights: Less than 55 kilometers from Johannesburg, you can explore all the highlights of Pretoria, including monuments, museums, and beautiful botanical gardens. For more urban attractions, check out our articles on things to see and do in Cape Town and Durban .

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The 15 best places to visit in johannesburg.

Take a Look a the 15 Best Places to Visit in Johannesburg

1. gold reef city theme park.

Source: Facebook / @Gold Reef City Theme Park

2. Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct

Source: Facebook / @Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct

3. Apartheid Museum

Source: Facebook / @Apartheid Museum

4. Johannesburg Zoo

Source: Facebook / @Johannesburg Zoo

5. South African National Museum of Military History

Source: Facebook / @South African National Museum of Military History

6. Mandela’s House

Source: Facebook / @Mandela’s House

7. The Wilds Nature Reserve

Source: Facebook / @ The Wilds Nature Reserve

8. Maboneng Precinct

Source: Facebook / @Maboneng Precinct

9. Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

10. hector pieterson memorial.

Source: Facebook / @Hector Pieterson Memorial

Explore a few More Places to Visit in Johannesburg:

11. the playground market.

Source: Facebook / @The Playground Market

12. Victoria Yards

Source: Facebook / @Victoria Yards

13. Wits Art Museum

Source: Facebook / @Wits Art Museum

14. Sci-Bono Discovery Centre

Source: Facebook / @Sci-Bono Discovery Centre

15. Zoo Lake

The 20 Best Parkhurst Restaurants

The 9 Best Maboneng Restaurants

10 Best Restaurants in Krugersdorp

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Must-see attractions in Johannesburg

Constitution Hill

Johannesburg

Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…

Constitutional Court

Inaugurated in 2004, with its design based on the African concept of 'justice under a tree', the Constitutional Court is a very real symbol of modern…

Liliesleaf Farm

A highlight of Jo'burg's northern suburbs is Liliesleaf Farm. This was the secret headquarters of the ANC (African National Congress) from 1961 until a…

Nothing sums up the changing fortunes of inner-city Jo'burg better than Ponte City, which can be visited on tours with Dlala Nje. This 54-storey…

Nizamiye Mosque

Built as a replica of the Ottoman Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, Turkey, the Nizamiye Mosque is a real find in the far-northern Jo'burg suburb of Midrand…

Spaza Art Gallery

The home, sculpture garden and small 'matchbox' gallery of artist Andrew Lindsay is extraordinary. The garden is dominated by a mobile phone signal tower…

Anglo American Head Office

This handsome building, taking up an entire block, has been the mining company's HQ in Africa since 1939. It has an impressive main entrance with delicate…

Lam Rim Buddhist Centre

Located on the site of an old Afrikaans Dutch Reformed church in a hard hit neighborhood in Jo'burg's western suburbs, the Lam Rim Buddhist Centre is an…

Goodman Gallery

One of Jo'burg's most prestigious private art galleries, Goodman shows the work of William Kentridge, Sam Nhlengethwa, and many more of South Africa's…

Wits Art Museum

Completed in May 2012, this is one of the leading museums of African art on the continent. Although it has an extraordinary collection of 10,000 works –…

Newtown Pillars

The massive concrete pillars holding up the M1 Highway in Newtown have become an outdoor art gallery, featuring ever-changing graffiti murals by some of…

Yukon House

A Victorian mansion built between1906 and 1911, Yukon House was home to two Johannesburg mayors during the early 20th century. Today, owners Loretta and…

Gandhi Square

in 2002 Van der Bijl Sq was revamped and renamed Gandhi Sq in honour of Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi. Look out for the bronze statue representing him as a…

Founded in 1887, this version of the illustrious (and once whites- and men-only) club dates from 1904. It's now open to all, and so long as you're not…

Chancellor House

It was in this three-storey building that, in the 1950s, Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo set up South Africa's first black-owned law firm. After a 2012…

Mary Fitzgerald Square

Named after South Africa’s first female trade unionist, this square is partly decorated with an array of heads, carved from old railway sleepers by…

This busy park is a firm favourite with Jo'burgers from all walks of life. Lace up your trainers and join locals for a run on the paved paths or games on…

Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre

Officially opened in 2018, the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre was founded to raise awareness about the evils of genocide, with a particular…

Sci-Bono Discovery Centre

Testament to the remarkable reawakening of downtown Jo'burg, this well-organised science museum, full of interactive exhibitions, occupies a former power…

Ditsong National Museum of Military History

If you’re fascinated by guns, tanks and aircraft, you can see artefacts and implements of destruction from the 1899–1902 Anglo-Boer War through to WWII at…

Victoria Yards

These old brick buildings of what used to be a steam-powered laundry have been transformed recently into studios for artists and artisans. The site is…

One of Jo'burg's largest public parks, Delta Park is ideal for long strolls and picnics. It is best known for its stunning explosion of pink and white…

Workers’ Museum

This important museum is in the restored Electricity Department’s compound, which was built in 1910 for 300-plus municipal workers and has been declared a…

Origins Centre

This stunning museum explores the African origins of humankind through interactive exhibits. The centre is brilliant for school-age children and holds the…

Arts on Main

Occupying a former warehouse complex, the Arts on Main development is one of the key catalysts of the Maboneng precinct. The once-dilapidated building has…

L Ron Hubbard House

Architecture and design buffs will not want to miss a chance to visit the home of L Ron Hubbard. The prolific pulp fiction author and founder of the…

Main St Pedestrian Mall

Honouring Jo'burg's history of mining are a series of information panels, statues and artifacts lining the partly pedestrianised mall at the western end…

Thunder Walker

Inside century-old Somerset House, a former bank office, Thunder Walker is a bar/restaurant/events venue with a historic twist. The building's interior is…

Alexandra Heritage Centre

This architecturally striking museum – it's built on either side and on top of a busy street – in Alexandra, Jo’burg’s oldest township, finally opened in…

Johannesburg Art Gallery

Fenced off from the southern end of sketchy Joubert Park is this elegant Lutyens-designed gallery dating from 1915. The JAG has one of the largest art…

CIRCA Gallery

This striking spiral structure houses unusual sculptures, sketches and contemporary works by local artists and has wonderful views from its roof. It is…

Workhorse Bronze Foundry

The Workhorse Bronze Foundry, based in a former factory in the gritty centre of downtown Jo'burg, is where many of South Africa's top sculptors create…

Museum Africa

This museum, housed in the old Bree St fruit market, offers a wide range of exhibitions on historical themes, including the Treason Trials of 1956–61, the…

Walter and Albertina Sisulu Statue

By Jo'burg artist Marina Walsh, this charming statue depicts larger-than-life versions of the Sisulus in their elder years, seated and facing each other…

Centre For The Less Good Idea

Founded by renowned South African artist William Kentridge, the centre is an incubator and platform for experimental, collaborative and cross-disciplinary…

Shadow Boxing Sculpture

Based on Bob Gasini's famous photo of Mandela shadow boxing in 1952, this 5m-tall painted steel sculpture by Jo'burg artist Marco Cianfanelli stands…

Top of Africa

The Carlton Centre (223m) has been Africa's tallest building since 1973. The basement shelters a buzzing shopping mall. For awesome city vistas, head to…

Madiba Mural

This 10-storey-tall mural by Capetonian street artist Freddy Sam (aka Ricky Lee Gordon) is inspired by the famous photo taken by Robert Gosani of Madiba…

Everard Read

A key player in South Africa's art world, Everard Read is a superb gallery curating regularly changing exhibitions of contemporary works. As well as its…

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The 13 best things to do in Johannesburg

Revel in our guide to the best things to do in Johannesburg, including museums, breweries, history and local hangouts

Here’s hoping you like excitement because the best things to do in Johannesburg will have you on the edge of your seat. That isn’t true if you take the Red Bus tour, as you can sit back comfortably and enjoy everything this famous South African city offers. What does it have to offer? Where to begin? Johannesburg is one of the biggest cities in Africa and the biggest in the world not built on a water source. Joburg was actually built on a goldmine, so keep that in the back pocket of your pub quiz team for future reference. Joburg has its problems, but take the proper precautions, and a fabulous city will soon reveal itself.

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Johannesburg

1.  Apartheid Museum

What is it?  A world-renowned documentation of one of modern history’s most shameful eras. An impressive collection of photographs, posters, videos, and oral histories are curated into a sequence of unique and striking displays.

Why go?  South Africa will still be recovering from its past for some time, and this excellent museum explains what happened and why.

2.  Soweto

What is it?  The township of Soweto, now home to a third of the city’s population, has a complicated past. It was created in the 1930s as a segregated neighbourhood for black residents pushed out of Jo-burg’s predominantly white suburbs. Today, you can join a local in exploring the town while learning more about the area’s past and present as you go.

Why go?  In many ways, this community is Jo’burg’s heart, so you’d be doing the city a disservice if you skip it. Ask nicely, and you’ll visit a local café for lunch and be served a pile of pap (sticky cornmeal porridge) so big you could use it to build a sandcastle.

3.  Neighbourgoods

What is it?  The food market where all the cool kids are to be found each Saturday lunchtime. Though visitors are welcome, this is very much aimed at locals, and you’ll find a young but very mixed crowd of them eating everything from pokē bowls to pecan pie.

Why go?  As well as superb eating opportunities, there’s shopping to be done; you can buy crafts from independent designers on the top floor. And on your way up, you can grab a craft beer from the rooftop bar.

4.  The Orbit

What is it?  A highly regarded music venue in lively Braamfontein where the schedule is bursting with South African talent virtually every night of the week. The food offering is unadventurous but very reliable.

Why go?  This city pulses with music, and The Orbit is among its best venues. Book a table or look out for one of their free open mic nights, where the standard makes our Britain’s Got Talent finalists sound like the local Primary school’s recorder choir.

5.  Maboneng

What is it?  Fox Street in Maboneng has become an after-hours favourite partly by engineering: local businesses put on security guards after dark to keep their customers safe. That means you’re free to chat, dance and shake your ass in the excellent restaurants and bars until late as long as you’re sensible enough to get an Uber home at the end of it.

Why go?  Incredibly delicious (and incredibly cheap) Ethiopian food from Little Addis; South African food and music at Pata Pata; whatever fun you find in between.

6.  Parkhurst

What is it?  You can barely compare the hectic, urban city centre to Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, where Mercs line the streets and flowers tumble over the garden walls’ security cameras. Parkhurst is a lovely place to spend an evening bar-hopping and eating very well.

Why go?  Atypical of the flashy neighbourhood (though still quite posh) is Coobs, a restaurant turning mainly their own organic produce into dishes that look fancy and taste extraordinarily good. The restaurant is temporarily closed, but expect it to return with a vengeance at any moment.

7.  Wits

What is it?  The University of Witwatersrand’s museum of African art has more than 12,000 pieces in its collection and is widely considered the best of its kind. Not one for paintings? No matter. Head straight for the beadwork or ceremonial sticks.

Why go?  As well as works by Irma Stern and Edoardo Villa, you’ll encounter a whole new world of artists rarely represented elsewhere. By the way, it’s pronounced ‘vitz’.

8.  Mad Giant

What is it?  A massive craft brewery right in the centre of town that offers lighthearted tours of the on-site equipment. The beer garden and spacious bar are mainly built out of strips of giant Meccano, and a massive steel monster towers over the indoor tables. Perhaps Dennis the Menace has retrained as an interior designer?

Why go?  Mad Giant beers are mad good, especially the fruity, hoppy Urban Legend IPA. 

9.  Red Bus Tour

What is it?  You know the deal; a double-decker open-top bus circles the city’s top attractions, and tourists hop on and off as they wish. An audio commentary gives background to the buildings and districts as they pass.

Why go?  It’s easy to be sneery, but in a city where exploring by foot and public transport comes with considerable risks, this is a great starting point. The audio guide’s soundtrack of South African classics might just be your new favourite mixtape.

10.  44 Stanley

What is it?  A chic little shopping complex supporting independent artists and designers. High-end chocolatiers, jewellery makers, antique shops, clothing designers and beautiful crafts are all interconnected by shaded, calm courtyards.

Why go?  If you don’t have extra space in your suitcase, you can ask about international shipping. You can mull over the decision over craft ciders at one of the cool bars nearby.

11.  Linksfield Ridge House

What is it?  A handsome mid-century building that was home to L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, for six months in late 1960. His movements in the country were unsurprisingly well documented, so displays tell-all about his prison visits and work in Zimbabwe. Visits must be booked in advance.

Why go?  Apart from the obvious appeal of having a nosy around LRH’s chosen summerhouse, this striking building is like a time capsule. You half expect Don Draper to offer you a Scotch.

12.  Rosebank

What is it?  A shopping mall. Although air con and US brands may not be the main reasons you’ve travelled to a different continent, this mammoth shopping mecca is a great example of South Africa’s modern side.

Why go?  On Sundays, the rooftop car park becomes a craft market, which means unique souvenirs and excellent food, all with sunset views over the city. You can go to H&M or Topshop next time. 

13.  The Living Room

What is it?  A rooftop café and bar that is a self-proclaimed part of inner-city gentrification (which is not as controversial in Jo’burg as in Hackney or Brooklyn). The name references living things rather than settees.

Why go?  Said living things are plants – the décor is wall-to-wall leaves, literally. They used ‘plantscaping’ to create an indoor/outdoor garden that looks an absolute dream in front of the cityscape, especially as the sun sets.

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Johannesburg in South Africa is the second largest city in Africa, currently there are 6.1 million people living in the City of Johannesburg. Joburg or Jozi as some prefer to call it, offers visitors an experience as unique and diverse as the city itself. Whether you are on business, in search of a cultural encounter, an adrenaline rush or simply want to relax and unwind for a few days, the city of Johannesburg has everything you're looking for and more!

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The JTC in its re-establishment is modelled as a Destination Management Organisation [DMO], which is a leading organisational entity, which facilitates partnerships with various authorities, stakeholders, and professionals to achieve a unified mission towards a destination’s vision. Destination management is a broad and holistic management process that includes managing, developing, marketing, and coordinating tourism amalgams such as access, attractions and activities, amenities and ancillary services and ambience. Read More.

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Johannesburg   Travel Guide

Why Go To Johannesburg

Urban, diverse and full of energy, Johannesburg is the quintessential city. With 11 national languages – all of which are spoken in Jo'burg – as well as a thriving economy based off the area's gold deposits, it's no wonder why South Africa's largest city also holds the distinction of being the world's largest city not located beside a river, lake or coastline. But Jozi hasn't always had such a praiseworthy reputation. A political and often violent hotbed during the country's notorious apartheid era (from the late 1940s through the mid-1990s), Johannesburg suffered from racial segregation until apartheid's end in 1994. However, out of this period of inequality rose important political figures, including Robert Sobukwe (the founder of one of South Africa's opposition political parties, the Pan Africanist Congress), Walter Sisulu (a prominent African National Congress politician held for more than two decades at Robben Island) and Nelson "Madiba" Mandela (South Africa's most recognized anti-apartheid leader who eventually became the country's first black president). Another revolutionary leader, Mohandas Gandhi, also got his start as an activist in Johannesburg while working in the city as a lawyer.

Today, Jozi's apartheid past and gold mining-based economy continue to be felt throughout the city. Attractions such as the Apartheid Museum , Gold Reef City and Constitution Hill offer snapshots into these important Jo'burg attributes, while other sites like Nelson Mandela Square and the Mandela House remind locals and visitors about the monumental impact Mandela had on the city. However, Johannesburg doesn't just focus on the past. Since apartheid, the city has evolved into a vibrant urban center, thanks in part to its trendy fashion boutiques, hip music, bohemian art and array of international cuisine. To experience some of the best new Jo'burg has to offer, trips to the city's Maboneng Precinct and Melville neighborhood are a must.

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Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

• # 1 in Apartheid Museum
• # 2 in Mandela House
• # 3 in Constitution Hill

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Johannesburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Johannesburg are from March to May and September to November. During these low season months, crowds lessen, prices drop and the weather is relatively warm and dry. Keep in mind, though, that Jo'burg's Southern Hemisphere location means its winter starts in June and lasts through August, while summer runs from December to February. As a result, the region's high season, which is defined by large crowds and high prices, occurs during the summer months (America's winter). But once temperatures start to fall in March, the city clears out and hotel and flight rates drop, making winter an ideal time to explore Jozi on a budget.

Weather in Johannesburg

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• It's a sports town Much like the rest of the country, Jozi loves its sports, especially soccer, cricket and rugby.
• Be aware of your surroundings Although most tourist areas are safe to visit, some neighborhoods in Johannesburg have notoriously high crime rates. To evade any incidents during your trip, avoid displaying cameras, cellphones and other high-value items when in public and travel with a companion or group at all times.
• Power outages may occur Despite radical improvements in the city's power supply since 2015, random power outages – known as load shedding – can still happen from time to time. Power outages can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, so pack a flashlight just in case.

How to Save Money in Johannesburg

• Exchange currency at home ATMs may be the cheapest option for getting money, but due to the prevalence of ATM scams (especially at the airport), using in-country ATMs is discouraged. Instead, exchange some currency before your trip to save on fees and avoid theft concerns.
• Consider visiting during the low season To avoid crowds and high prices, plan on visiting Johannesburg during the winter months (from March to November). Hotels and car rentals tend to be more affordable in the winter, plus airlines offer cheaper flights once the offseason rolls around.
• Shop at craft markets Instead of splurging on souvenirs at one of Jozi's mall complexes or tourist attractions, try haggling at one of the local crafts markets like Rosebank African Craft Market or Panorama Flea Market.

Culture & Customs

With a diverse population that consists of nearly all of South Africa's ethnic groups – Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho, Tswana and Tsonga to name a few – and residents that speak a variety of languages, it's clear that Johannesburg exudes culture. Although English is spoken by many Jozi residents, other languages, including Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa and Afrikaans, are widely spoken as well. In fact, many locals switch between multiple languages within a conversation, so you may struggle with a language barrier at times. To minimize any confusion, consider remembering a few key phrases in multiple languages, such as "sawubona" (Zulu), "hallo" (Afrikaans) and "molo" (Xhosa) for hello, and "ngiyabonga" (Zulu), "dankie" (Afrikaans) and "ndiyabulela" (Xhosa) for thank you. Another useful phrase used throughout the region's languages is "howzit," which is slang for how are you. However, if you find yourself having a difficult time with the languages, don't worry: Translators and employees at tourist attractions and accommodations are more than happy to assist with translations.

In addition to its diverse population, Jozi acts as South Africa's cultural hub, offering an array of theater performances, concerts, art galleries and museums. Quintessential South African music, such as kwaito (a post-apartheid music genre that incorporates African sounds and rhythms into house music), got its start in Jo'burg. Another favorite: Ladysmith Black Mambazo (a Grammy Award-winning choral group best known for its collaborations with Paul Simon and soundtrack contributions for "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride.") And for art enthusiasts, there's the FNB Joburg Art Fair, the continent's first and most prominent art fair that takes place every September.

Alongside the city's thriving culture, there are several practical tips to keep in mind when visiting Jozi. Like Cape Town , Jo'burg uses the South African rand (1 ZAR = $0.06). Since the rand to U.S. dollar exchange rate regularly fluctuates, be sure to see what the latest exchange rate is before you visit. And much like the U.S., tipping tour guides, restaurant staff, hotel porters and taxi drivers is expected. For restaurant wait staff, plan on tipping 10 percent of your total bill unless a service charge is already included. All other industries typically receive 5 to 50 rand (or roughly 30 cents to $3) depending on the service.

Also important to note is the region's notoriously high crime rate. Although Johannesburg's popular tourist attractions are relatively safe, the city is plagued by countless violent incidents like murders, sexual offenses, assaults and robberies, especially in poorer neighborhoods and on public transportation. To avoid dangerous situations, stick to popular tourist areas and travel by car or Gautrain. Additionally, the region has recently experienced several xenophobic attacks against African immigrants, as well as occasional violent workers strikes, so be sure to abide by U.S. Department of State travel warnings when visiting the region.

What to Eat

Thanks to Jozi's diverse population, which consists of multiple ethnicities and sizable Zimbabwean, Mozambican, Nigerian, Somali, Chinese and Indian communities, Jo'burg cuisine features an array of influences and flavor profiles. Notable local delicacies include umleqwa (a Xhosa-style chicken stew), pap (boiled corn meal that has the consistency of mashed potatoes), samoosa (a savory, triangular pastry commonly found in Indian and Malay cuisine) and boerewors (or "farmer sausage" that resembles a Dutch sausage called verse worst).

For the ultimate bush-like atmosphere, Jozi diners recommend a visit to Wombles . Known for its exceptional steaks – enjoyed within a hunting lodge-inspired space – and top-notch service, Wombles receives tons of praise from former visitors. And for those with a smaller food budget, consider grabbing a bite at Lucky Bean , which is located in Johannesburg's trendy Melville neighborhood and features local bistro-style fare like an ostrich burger (a traditional burger with an ostrich patty), springbok pie (a meat pie made with antelope instead of beef) and casamance chicken (a chicken casserole dish originally from Senegal).

Getting Around Johannesburg

Although the city offers multiple public transit and taxi options, the best way to get around Jozi is by car. Jo'burg's public transit and shuttles – especially those that carry tourists, excluding sightseeing tour buses – are notoriously prone to robberies, while taxis and minibus taxis are known for their confusing hand signals and unlicensed, irresponsible drivers. Also, due to the spread out nature of many of Johannesburg's attractions and safety concerns in lower income neighborhoods, walking is discouraged. However, walking near attractions is relatively safe. And for longer distances or a quicker ride to and from Jo'burg's O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), which is about 13 miles northeast of the city center, Gautrain is an ideal choice.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit South Africa, Americans must bring a passport that's valid at least 30 days after the date of departure, with at least two blank visa pages. If visiting for less than 90 days, a tourist visa is not required. However, if you are traveling to South Africa from a country where yellow fever is present (including a layover scenario), you must present a valid World Health Organization approved International Certificate of Vaccination (or "yellow card"). For more information regarding entry and exit details, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

A true metropolis, Johannesburg boasts tons of towering skyscrapers in its skyline.

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36 Hours in Johannesburg

By Lynsey Chutel Updated March 23, 2023

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For too long, Johannesburg was a victim of its own reputation for violent crime, with citizens retreating behind high walls and socializing in shopping malls. A culture shift — partly spurred by the city’s strict pandemic lockdowns — has many Joburgers rediscovering the outdoors and the city’s Goldilocks weather (not too hot, not too cold) to dine and dance under the open sky. Over a weekend in this modern, contradictory city, wander through changing neighborhoods that are embracing galleries and sidewalk cafes, pull up a plastic chair at a market for unfussy barbecue, or sing along at a theater with a rich history of protest performance. And no longer the no-go area for tourists, as it was during the apartheid era, Soweto is a testament to Black South Africa’s contemporary creativity and unbridled joy. Take a turn, or as South Africans say, a “short left,” and be rewarded in Joburg.

Recommendations

• 44 Stanley is a collection of interesting boutiques, galleries and cafes, all centered around a canopied courtyard. The Drum Archive Shop , with its apartheid-era magazine covers, and Chocoloza , a creative chocolatier, are two worthy stops.
• Konka , a day-to-night club in Soweto, celebrates car culture, barbecue and music.
• 1947 on Vilakazi Street is a Soweto restaurant offering refined South African cooking and local wines.
• The Shortmarket Club is a brasserie serving European and Asian dishes, with some South African touches.
• Marble is a stylish restaurant with a no-reservations bar area that offers a fabulous view at sunset.
• Peachy , a restaurant and bar awash in pastels, is perfect for soaking up the afternoon sun.
• Bean There , a cafe and roastery, sells ethically sourced African coffee.
• Sakhumzi Restaurant has a daily buffet in Soweto where you can try a traditional “seven colors” lunch.
• BKhz , a gallery in the Rosebank district, highlights work by emerging South African artists.
• Kwa Mai Mai , originally a traditional medicine market, is a dizzying and vibrant destination for real-deal chisa nyama (South African barbecue).
• Thesis Lifestyle is a store by Thesis Brand , a streetwear label, and a gathering place for the township’s young, creative scene.
• The Market Theater , in a former fruit market downtown, has a long history of staging protest plays.
• Joburg Theater , also downtown, has a program encompassing dance, theater, music and children’s shows.
• Vilakazi Street in Soweto draws visitors to see the Mandela House , where Nelson Mandela and his family lived, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum , which commemorates the 1976 Soweto student uprising.
• Joburg Places offers half-day walking tours that follow in the footsteps of famous South African figures, as well as highlighting the migrants who shaped the city.
• Alternatively, Bridge Books , an inner-city bookshop, leads tours through the lens of the city’s literary history, while Dlala Nje ’s food tours hop from one African eatery to another.
• 54 on Bath is a luxury hotel in Rosebank offering a tranquil atmosphere amid the bustle of a growing business district. Double rooms start at around 3,655 rand, or about $197, a night.
• Nearby is Voco Johannesburg Rosebank , an upscale hotel that opened in 2022 with an all-day restaurant and bar and a remote-working hub. A standard double room with breakfast starts at around 2,700 rand.
• If you decide to spend the night in Soweto, Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers offers simple, safe accommodation. Four- and six-bed shared dorm rooms start at 220 rand per night, and private double rooms with an en suite bathroom start at 545 rand.
• For short-term rentals , look at Rosebank as well as the Parkhurst and Parkview neighborhoods, which are close to the city center and offer an array of sidewalk cafes.
• Johannesburg is a sprawling city with unreliable public transportation. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are good options. Although Soweto is tourist-friendly these days, Ubers may not be dependable and it can be confusing to navigate if you’re driving yourself. Ask your hotel to recommend a driver for the day, which should cost around 1,500 rand.
• While the city is relatively safe for tourists, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially for pickpockets in crowded areas. Avoid walking around at night outside the designated pedestrian zones.

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Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

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• 15 Places To Visit In Johannesburg That Prove There’s More To The City Than Meets The Eye

23 Mar 2023

Colloquially popular as the ‘city of gold’, Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa that has mostly been known for being Nelson Mandela’s home or for its astonishing museums. But, there’s more to the city than meets the eye. There are places to visit in Johannesburg like Zoo Lake and Market Theatre that would change anyone’s opinion about the city being an attraction only for the history buffs.

15 Places To Visit In Johannesburg

So, if you have been holding the same opinion, it’s time you take a look at these 10 best places that prove Johannesburg is as much a hub for the romantics, art-lovers & culture-vultures as it is for the history buffs.

1. Market Theatre 2. The Lion Park 3. Holy Hill 4. Wits Art Museum 5. The Apartheid Museum 6. Gold Reef City 7. SAB World of Beer 8. Mandela House 9. Zoo Lake 10. Mary Fitzgerald Square 11. Constitution Hill 12. The Maboneng Precinct 13. Lindfield Victorian House Museum 14. South African National Museum of Military History 15. Pilanesberg National Park

1. Market Theatre

Image Source While in Johannesburg, points of interest for tourists are innumerable, the Market Theatre complex is one place you cannot afford to miss. Housed in a converted market building, this place portrays the vibrant culture of the city by showcasing some of the finest productions in its theatres. Not just this, but it also has a bookshop, an art & photograph gallery, a number of restaurants, and more where you can chill even after the sun sets.

Entry Fees: ZAR 30 Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday, and 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM from Tuesday to Sunday Location: 56 Margaret Mcingana Street, Newtown, Johannesburg

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2. The Lion Park

Image Source Located in the Gauteng Province, the Lion Park is one of the most essential places to visit in Johannesburg, South Africa. While the Transvaal lions here are the major point of interest for the visitors, the park also houses a number of other animals that are indigenous to Africa. And apart from interacting with the lions, you can also indulge in fun activities like a safari expedition, a tour of the four lion pride camps, and more.

Entry Fees: ZAR 195 for adults, ZAR 100 for senior citizens, and free entry for kids Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all the days Location: R512 Pelindaba Rd, Hartbeespoort, Broederstroom

Suggested Read: Best Safari In South Africa: Adrenaline Pumping Experiences In The World’s Wildest Corner

3. Holy Hill

Image Source One of the most beautiful places to visit in Johannesburg , the Holy Hill is definitely worth a visit. Located in the center of the city, this not-so-popular place offers the most soul-stirring views that will definitely leave you in awe. You can spend hours sitting or capturing moments here, and you won’t get tired. After all, what’s a holiday worth without witnessing breathtaking sights?

Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting this place.

4. Wits Art Museum

Image Source Opened in 2012, the Wits Art Museum houses a great collection of African art, which makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in Johannesburg . Being a part of the Wits University Cultural Precinct, this place also has temporary exhibitions, which you can admire for hours before you head out for a meal at the nearby popular cafe.

Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting this place. Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Wednesday to Sunday (closed on Monday & Tuesday) Location: University Corner, Jorissen St & Bertha St, Johannesburg

Must Read: 10 Things To Do In South Africa To Convince You For Your Next African Adventure!

5. The Apartheid Museum

Image Source Of all the Johannesburg attractions , the Apartheid Museum is one place that might s boring but actually isn’t. Spectacularly portraying the apartheid story through photographs, artifacts, newspaper clippings, film footage, and more, this museum is the most intriguing place to visit. If you ever wanted to learn about South Africa’s freedom struggle, do visit this place.

Entry Fees: ZAR 95 for adults, and ZAR 80 for pensioners, university students & children Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all the days Location: Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Road, Ormonde, Johannesburg

6. Gold Reef City

Image Source Located some 8 km away from the city center, the Gold Reef City is one of the most famous places to visit in Johannesburg . From thrilling theme park rides to historical exhibits, there are so many things here that would take you back to the country’s golden days. You can also take a tour of the disused shaft of Crown Mines to get a glimpse of the talent gold miners had.

Entry Fees: The fees would depend on the experience you choose. Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on all the days Location: Shaft 14, Northern Parkway, Johannesburg

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Johannesburg That Bring Out Its Vibrant Charm

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7. SAB World of Beer

Image Courtesy: South Africa Tourism Owned by the South African Breweries, this attraction located in Newtown is amongst the most fun places in Johannesburg . From learning about the drink’s rich history to exploring its significance in the cultural space, there’s a lot to do here. You can take a tour of the whole brewery, watch a 3D movie, taste the famous beer, and savor the bar snacks during the session.

Entry Fees: ZAR 127 for adults, which include a tour, a souvenir glass, bar snacks, a halfway beer, and two drink vouchers Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from Sunday to Monday, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday Location: 15 Helen Joseph St, Newtown, Johannesburg

8. Mandela House

Image Source Located in the Soweto Street, this museum was once home to Nelson Mandela, the hero of the liberation movement. Irrespective of whether you are a history buff or not, this place is an intriguing attraction to visit in Joburg. The four rooms in the house showcase an array of photographs, paintings, and more of the Mandela family. Not just this, but it also exhibits the awards & recognitions earned by Nelson Mandela.

Entry Fees: ZAR 40 for local tourists (adults), ZAR 60 for foreigners (adults), and ZAR 20 for kids Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Location: 8115 Vilakazi St & Ngakane St, Johannesburg

Suggested Read: 6 South Africa Travel Tips That Are A Must For Every Traveler

9. Zoo Lake

Image Source If you’re looking for romantic places in Johannesburg , don’t worry because the city would never disappoint as it’s home to the surreal Zoo Lake. An all-time favorite amongst the Joburg residents, this place is ideal for enjoying a stroll together, a boat ride, and even taking a dip in the pool. And if you feel doing nothing, you can just sit across the fountain and soak in the bliss of serenity.

Entry Fees: While there is no entry fee, the activities like boating and swimming are chargeable. Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all the days Location: Lower Park Dr Parkview, Johannesburg

10. Mary Fitzgerald Square

Image Courtesy: Afro Tourism Named after the country’s first female unionist, the Mary Fitzgerald Square is one of the best places to visit in Johannesburg for free . As per popular review, anybody who visits here surely has the time of his or her life. This square also marks the start for the Jazz Walk of Fame, which a walkway that pays tribute to the country’s most eminent jazz musicians.

Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting this place. Timings: NA Location: 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Suggested Read: 7 Places For An Adventurous Bungee Jumping In Johannesburg

11. Constitution Hill

Image Source Constitution Hill is among the most scenic places in Johannesburg owing to the fact that one can gaze at marvelous views of the entire city from here. Once a prison, this site now provides insightful information about South Africa’s history. Representing the brutal treatment of political prisoners and criminals at that time, this erstwhile prison features rather provocative exhibits at its museums like Number Four, Women’s Gaol, and Old Fort. These former prisoners even included Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi at that time. Apart from transforming this prison into a museum, the old Awaiting Trial building has also been renovated and made into the Constitutional Court of South Africa, which stands as a symbol of freedom and operates on the aim of protecting the rights of this nation’s people.

Location: 11 Kotze St, Johannesburg, 2017, South Africa Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Constitution Hill Entry Fee

12. The Maboneng Precinct

Image Source Johannesburg’s brilliant multi-use urban renewal project, the jolly Maboneng Precinct is was once a rather a normal, shabby neighborhood. Maboneng literally means the “place of light,” and what it has now been transformed into represents just that. Lit and fizzing with life, this site now has chic cafes, restaurants, art galleries, hotels, shops, and various entertainment hubs, all thrown into one single mix rather smartly to make this part of the town hip and happening. One of the top attractions here include the Weekly Market on Main where you can get food from any part of the continent. Art lover? Get to Arts on Main and Revolution House where you’ll find warehouses-turned-art-studios, along with shops where you can buy art pieces. Among other attractions are the Bioscope Cinema, classy hotels, a community center, and various boutiques. It’s a wonderful place for youngsters to hang around amid a cic and lively vibe while gorging on their favorite African food and drinks.

Location: 276 Fox St, City and Suburban, Johannesburg, 2094, South Africa Timings: 9 AM – 11 PM

Suggested Read: An All-Inclusive Guide To Johannesburg Botanical Garden

13. Lindfield Victorian House Museum

Image Source This “living museum” is one of the most queer, yet exciting sites in Johannesburg. What delights visitors here is the fact the current owner of the museum, Katherine Love, dresses up in Victorian clothing to match the vibe and purpose of the museum, and very courteously shows them around the whole place, leading them from room to room of this brilliantly preserved middle-class Victorian house. One of the best Johannesburg museums and attractions , it houses an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century Victorian furniture, art, and common household items that all tell tales of the how this culture and heritage is influencing Johannesburg even today. After your two-hour tour inside this museum, you can indulge in a fine cup of tea in the verandah while looking over the Johannesburg city.

Location: 72 Richmond Ave, Auckland Park, Johannesburg Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Entry fee: INR 250/- (guided tour)

Suggested Read: Johannesburg Zoo: A Guide To This Fun-filled Place In South Africa

14. South African National Museum of Military History

Image Source Reciting the story of Africa’s military conflicts over the years, the South African Museum of Military History is among the most fascinating Johannesburg museums and attractions for those who love to hear war stories. The highlights of this museum include World War II fighter planes, tanks, arms and ammunition, bombers, and even medals. Visitors’ favorite section includes the exhibit on medicine at war, which showcases details of the Zulu’s method of traditional healing during the Anglo-Zulu war, along with modern day treatments employed on the battlefield.

Location: 22 Erlswold Way, Johannesburg, 2132, South Africa Timings: 9 AM – 4:30 PM Entry fee: INR 125 (adults) | INR 75 (children)

15. Pilanesberg National Park

Image Source Located a mere 2.5-hour drive away from Johannesburg city center, the Pilanesberg National Park is among the most celebrated game reserves in South Africa. Other than giving wildlife enthusiasts a chance to spot Africa’s Big Five, the park also acts as one of the most scenic places in Johannesburg owing to its amazingly rich ecosystems, a wide array of wildlife, and its lush location smack in the middle of the Lowveld vegetation and the Kalahari Desert. Other than the lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalos, and leopards, one shall also be able to spot African wild dogs, zebras, sable antelopes, and over 300 bird species at this park. But don’t just rely on the photographic hides here. In order to ensure you sight most animals at the right place and time, you must opt for the full-day Pilanesberg National Park private tour that comes with an experienced safari guide.

Location: Bojanala, North West, South Africa Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM Entry fee: INR 400/-

Further Read: The Only Pilanesberg Game Reserve Planning Guide You Need

So, which of these places have you already added to your bucket list? Do let us know in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to include them in your trip itinerary by customizing your South Africa holiday package with TravelTriangle!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Johannesburg

Want to know more about the park? Take a look at these common queries travelers put up:

Which are the best places to visit in Johannesburg for couples?

For couples looking for a relaxing time together, Zoo Lake is the one of the romantic places to visit in Johannesburg.

Which are places to visit in Johannesburg for the day?

Apartheid museum, Gold reef city, Mary Fitzgerald Square are some of the best places to visit in Johannesburg for the day.

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48 Hours in Johannesburg: Everything You Need To Know, From What To Do To How To Get Around

Quick links, learning from the history of johannesburg, what to do in johannesburg: day 1 morning, what to do in johannesburg: day 1 afternoon, what to do in johannesburg: day 2 morning, what to do in johannesburg: day 2 evening, keeping safety in mind in johannesburg, where to stay in johannesburg.

Johannesburg – also known as Joburg and Jozi – is the biggest city in South Africa, which is home to many beautiful cities and stunning towns . Johannesburg is also the gateway to the popular safari destination of Kruger National Park . Given its central location and convenient direct flights to Tambo International Airport from big cities around the world, it serves as a connecting hub for travelers on their way to other Southern African countries. But this capital of Gauteng province, and home of Nelson Mandela, offers many interesting attractions for visitors.

Be it culture, history, fine dining, or world-class shopping; there is something for everyone. With a choice of high-end accommodations, cosmopolitan districts, and pleasant weather year-round, this vibrant metropolis makes for a relaxing and illuminating getaway. In this Southern Hemisphere city, days are warm during the summer months between November to February and cool from June to August.

Whether on the way to a Big Five safari or to another Southern African destination, this detailed guide will provide information about the city’s history, top attractions, and safety tips for a wonderful few days in Jozi.

The young city of Johannesburg was founded in 1886 following the discovery of gold. Unfortunately, the burgeoning mining industry laid the foundations of apartheid by the all-white South African government and the institutionalized racial segregation that lasted nearly 50 years, starting in 1948. Great Britain colonized South Africa from 1806-1961, while the Dutch ruled it from 1652. The first post-apartheid democratic elections were held in 1994, inaugurating Nelson Mandela as the president, the country's first Black head of state.

Despite strides made to shed its racial heritage and colonial past, huge imbalances still exist in the city, with many Black South Africans still being shut out from economic opportunities and being ill-prepared by a poor education system.

Visitors looking to learn about the city’s political beginnings and its role in the anti-apartheid movement can arrange a tour around historically prominent locations in Soweto, including Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Memorial, and the Apartheid Museum. For a journey back to the beginning of humankind, a visit to one of the world's richest hominid ancestral sites at Sterkfontein Caves, at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of The Cradle of Humankind, will provide a deeper understanding of our origins , just a short driving distance from Joburg.

Nelson Mandela National Museum

Freedom fighter and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was an icon, an anti-apartheid activist, and the first president of South Africa. Before his rise to power as the nation’s first Black head of state, he was imprisoned for 27 years for opposing apartheid. Born in the village of Mvezo in the Eastern Cape, Mandela is from the Xhosa ethnic group and was lovingly called by his clan name, Madiba, in his later years. He became politically involved when he joined the African National Congress in 1944.

Upon his marriage to his first wife Evelyn, Mandela moved into a single-story red brick house on Vilakazi Street, Orlando West in Soweto, the largest urban Black complex in the country. He lived at this humble abode with his second wife, Winnie Mandela, and kids until his arrest in 1962.

Visitors have the honor of touring the house, now called the Nelson Mandela National Museum, run by the Soweto Heritage Trust. Inside, rooms with original furnishings and memorabilia of the late Mandela, along with photographs of his family, showcase their spirit of resilience. The walls of this National Heritage site still bear the bullet holes and scorch marks from attacks by apartheid supporters during the time he was imprisoned.

Just a short drive away from the Nelson Mandela House in the suburb of Houghton is Sanctuary Mandela , a newly opened hotel and home of Mandela, towards the end of his presidency. This luxury guest house gives guests a chance to reflect on the freedom fighter’s life and an opportunity to savor dishes prepared by Madiba’s own family and personal chef.

Related: Budget-Friendly Spring Vacation: 10 Affordable, Yet Unique South Africa Hotels Worth Staying At

No trip to Joburg is complete without visiting Soweto. With a population of two million, it is the largest Black city in South Africa. Made up of 37 suburbs, with everything from grand mansions to tin shanties, it’s a place of stark contrasts. Soweto was established in the 1930s as a ghetto for Black Africans working in the gold mines. To say that the city has a tumultuous political history would be an understatement. Johannesburg was the epicenter of campaigns to overthrow the apartheid state, beginning with the 1976 student uprising that spread to the rest of the country.

On a tour of Soweto, in addition to visiting the Nelson Mandela National Museum, visitors can pay their respects to the teenage boy who was shot and killed during the uprisings that took the lives of 170 students at the Hector Pieterson Memorial. The museum tells the story of a pivotal moment in the anti-apartheid movement through films, news, personal accounts, and photographs, most notably the influential image by Sam Nzima of a dead Pieterson, being carried by a young man with his sister by his side.

The youth in Soweto today are still fighting for better education and opportunities. In the suburb of Kliptown, three out of four adults are unemployed. The Kliptown Youth Program , founded in 2007, is a South African-run non-profit providing opportunities for kids to rise out of poverty. On a tour of the brand-new facility, meet the passionate staff that’s bettering the community and learn about their tutoring, athletic, and arts programs that are transforming lives.

Apartheid Museum

Any visitor interested in learning about the dark history of South Africa can spend at least a half day at the Apartheid Museum . Opened in 2001, the museum’s design and multiple exhibits paint a detailed picture of the beginnings of apartheid, the struggle for liberation, and its eventual downfall.

The ruthless apartheid under the white minority rule discriminated against Africans, Indians, and mixed-race individuals. Non-white South Africans were required to live in separate settlements and use separate facilities, with limited contact with whites; interracial relationships were illegal. People of color did not have the right to vote and were relegated to laborer jobs.

The museum is purposefully designed with separate entrances for Whites and Non-Whites, a haunting callback to the discrimination faced by people of color. Upon entry, patrons walk past a row of images of oversized ID cards that individuals were forced to carry, another means of racial classification and segregation.

The large building houses several permanent exhibits, complete with photographs, audio, and video footage about life under structured racism, the 1976 uprisings, and the civil unrest that followed in the 80s. It has sections dedicated to Mandela’s release, his presidency, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of 1995, chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Cradle Of Humankind

Go way back in time to the origins of humanity at the Cradle of Humankind museum, an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. This paleoanthropological site, boasting UNESCO World Heritage Status, is home to nearly 40% of the human fossils found in the world. The network of limestone caves in the area spanning 47,000 hectares is where around 1,000 humanoid fossils and animal species spanning three to four million years were discovered. Some of the most significant discoveries include Mrs. Ples, Little Foot, and the Taung child.

When the water levels are down, visitors get a rare opportunity to dive deep into history at the world-famous Sterkfontein Caves, one of the excavation sites, to admire the underground formations, lake, and fossils.

The large, striking building that houses Maropeng, the official visitor center for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site, is built like an ancient burial mound called a tumulus. It takes patrons through a fascinating journey of the entire history of Earth, starting from the beginning of our universe nearly 14 billion years ago. Interactive displays are fun for the whole family, and the fossil discoveries, life-like depictions of hominids, and exhibits about the history and future of humankind are sure to answer some burning questions for archeology buffs and curious travelers alike.

Related: Here Are The World's Most Recent Archaeological Discoveries

Nelson Mandela Square

After all the touring, it’s tempting to return to the comfort of your hotel room but set aside a few hours to experience one of the largest malls in South Africa. Located in the heart of the swanky district of Sandton, Nelson Mandela Square has plenty of dining and shopping at the famed Sandton City Shopping Centre , featuring 300 global retail brands.

Enjoy delicious curries and savory breads at Raj on the Square Indian restaurant, savor American cuisine at the Hard Rock Cafe, and indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at Pappas on the Square. Before leaving, be sure to snap a picture in front of the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela and spend some time checking out the Out of Africa store for some souvenirs.

Unlike its South African counterpart of Cape Town , Johannesburg carries a perceived notion of being unsafe and dangerous. However, similar to any big city, including ones like New York and Los Angeles, there are pockets of unsafe areas, but it’s a relatively safe place to visit.

“The city is energetic and vibrant, so we wouldn’t want people to completely skip Jozi. It’s rich in experience and natural resources gaining popularity back to the gold rushes,” says Sunit Sanghrajka, Founder of tour operator company Alluring Africa . “There are parts of downtown Los Angeles I would avoid,” he adds. He has been operating in Johannesburg for more than 25 years and hasn’t had any of his guests experience issues with safety.

“You have to take regular precautions as in any city, hide the jewelry and keep your valuables close to you,” he recommends. Alluring Africa works with local tour companies, such as Jarat Tours , that hire knowledgeable guides who are sensitive to the safety of their guests. Jarat Tours is a locally owned and operated guided tour company that organizes customized private luxury tours in South Africa.

“We typically arrange all the logistics and recommendations for our clients. It makes it seamless and takes the worry about being in a new city,” Sanghrajka says. But if you are to do it on your own, he recommends using an official car service like a marked taxi called by the hotel concierge to be safe. As for Uber, he suggests checking the vehicle’s license plate before entering.

Johannesburg offers myriad options , from modern hotels in high rises to elegant suburban sanctuaries surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and lawns. High-end hotels can be found all over South Africa .

Sanghrajka recommends staying in the suburbs, such as Sandton, Houghton, Rivonia, Morningside, and Melrose Arch “which are walkable and offer a selection of restaurants and shopping areas. One such hotel located in Sandton is the DaVinci Hotel and Suites on Nelson Mandela Square which offers contemporary rooms overlooking the city and is steps away from the Square.

For those looking to escape from the bustling inner city, the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, located just outside Sandton, provides a calming respite. With its individually decorated rooms, whimsically curated common areas set in a former manor house, and a Balinese-inspired spa, the Fairlawns is a tranquil place to spend a few nights before venturing onward. The Fairlawns is located 35 minutes from the international airport and ten minutes from the Sandton hub by car. It is family-friendly, has an onsite gym, restaurant, bar, and an outdoor pool. Accommodations include 41 rooms, a cottage, including and the stunning Mandela Suite.