Johannesburg sometimes unfairly gets painted with a brush that marks it as nothing more than an industrial, crime-ridden, one-night stopover with nothing much to see. When looked at more closely, ‘Jozi’ is a vibrant hub of history, culture, sport, great food and fantastic shopping that you really can’t find anywhere else on the continent.
Take a look at our recommendations for things to do in Johannesburg and be inspired to spend a night or two in the bright lights of the City of Gold.
The Apartheid Museum
Although not the proudest time in South African history, The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of the Apartheid regime offering a sobering glimpse into what life under Apartheid was really like.
The exhibits have been assembled by a team of multi-disciplinary curators, film-makers, historians and designers. The museum itself is a superb example of design and landscaping.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is one of the best things to do in Johannesburg for travellers with children. The theme parks portrays the gold rush of the Witwatersrand in the late 1800s and is home to some of Africa’s tallest and fastest rides, as well as more family friendly entertainment.
The Lion Park
The Lion Park is a 500 acre sanctuary near Lanseria Airport for Transvaal lions. The park is home to rare white lions, as well as cheetah, wild dog, hyena, jackal and lots of antelope.
The Lion Park offers a great opportunity to squeeze in an extra bit of game viewing on a trip to South Africa.
Hartebeespoort Dam, Snake Park, Cable Cars
Hartebeespoort Dam is one of the best things to do in Johannesburg for a day of fun in the sun, the ways the locals do it. You can enjoy cruises around the dam, hire jet skis or head onto the trail route on horseback or quad bike.
Sandton Shopping and Nelson Mandela Square
A stay in Johannesburg wouldn’t complete without some retail therapy in Sandton City. Sandton is Africa’s most prestigious shopping centre, home to international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Jenni Button and Apple.
Nelson Mandela Square adjoins Sandton City and is named for former President and anti-Apartheid activist, Nelson Mandela.
Maboneng District
If you find yourself in Johannesburg on a Sunday, there’s no hotter place in town to be than Maboneng. Maboneng is an evolving precinct, revolutionising itself through art, business and creative young individuals from all walks of life.
There are lots of fine restaurants, art galleries, shops and entertainment venues that offer the ideal place to spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon in the hippest part of town.
If your heading to Jo’burg, chat to our one of our consultants while planning your trip about how to get the most our of your time there.
ROBERT MARK SAFARIS 