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Mandela Bridge with trains underneath
Mandela Bridge with trains underneath - Photo by Tembinkosi Sikupela

Discover the Excitement of Johannesburg, South Africa on Your Next

About Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg is a vibrant city in South Africa famous for its rich history and culture. With numerous museums, art galleries, and restaurants, there is something for everyone. The city is also a gateway to nearby game reserves and natural wonders. Plan your trip to Johannesburg today and experience the magic of South Africa.

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, and it is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city has a lot to offer visitors, from its many museums and art galleries to its lively nightlife and outdoor activities.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Johannesburg is the Apartheid Museum, which tells the story of South Africa's struggle against apartheid. The museum features a range of exhibits and interactive displays, as well as a moving tribute to Nelson Mandela.

Another must-visit attraction in Johannesburg is the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to some of the world's oldest fossils. Visitors can explore the caves and learn about the history of human evolution.

For those who love the outdoors, Johannesburg has plenty to offer. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural parks and reserves, including the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden and the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. These parks offer a range of activities, from hiking and birdwatching to picnicking and fishing.

Johannesburg is also home to a thriving arts scene, with a number of galleries and museums showcasing the work of local and international artists. The Johannesburg Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest galleries in the country, and it features works by some of South Africa's most celebrated artists.

Finally, Johannesburg is known for its excellent food and wine. The city is home to a wide range of restaurants, from traditional African cuisine to international fusion. Visitors can also take a tour of the local wineries and vineyards, which produce some of the best wines in the world.

In summary, Johannesburg is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or food and wine, this vibrant city is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Popular Stays in Johannesburg, South Africa

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Johannesburg, South Africa

JNB - Johannesbourg - 28 M S ANEW Hotel Centurion PretoriaANEW Hotel Centurion PretoriaANEW Hotel Centurion PretoriaJNB - Johannesbourg - 28 M S Please contact property for informationPlease contact property for informationPlease contact property for informationPlease contact property for information
This luxurious hotel is located in the quiet area of Fourways, Johannesburg. The Sandton business district is just 15 minutes away, and the O.R. Tambo International Airport is a 40-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel's spacious rooms are decorated in warm colours and elegant furnishings, and all come with modern comforts such as coffee and tea stations, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen televisions. In the morning breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant, which also serves Mediterranean and South African cuisines for lunch and dinner. There is also a business centre and fitness centre for guest use, and visitors can enjoy world-class entertainment at the adjacent Montecasino Entertainment Complex.
Welcome to the Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport Hotel! With 151 modern &comfortable rooms, our hotel is equipped with all the amenities that you need, whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure. If business is on the table, our speedy Wi-Fi &24-hour business centre will help you to stay on top of things and perhaps even leave you some time to enjoy some of our other amenities. If you’re travelling for leisure, our sparkling outdoor pool will leave you soaking up the sun in style. With an in-house fitness centre that overlooks the pool, you can ensure that you keep up with your fitness regime. While you’re at it, why not explore the area? We have a host of friendly staff who are more than willing to arrange the perfect day tour for you, based on your needs. Our complimentary airport shuttle service to take you to your comfortable accommodation in Johannesburg. It runs every 30 minutes from 06:00 to 10:00 and 17:00 to 20:00 and hourly thereafter until 23:00.
Providing convenience, style and all the upscale facilities you'd expect from an award-winning hotel, the InterContinental Johannesburg O. R. Tambo Airport Hotel offers travelers a truly memorable stay. Enjoy a host of services and facilities, such as conferencing, a spa and the Quills restaurant. Explore Gauteng’s City of Gold, Johannesburg, with art galleries, museums and shops nearby. While game reserves are a short drive away for an authentic South African safari vacation.
This upscale establishment is located just 500 metres from the airport of Johannesburg, a short driving distance from the Eastrand Mall and close to a wide choice of business facilities, restaurants, shops and local attractions. Ideal for business and leisure travellers, this stylish hotel provides all the necessary services and amenities to enjoy a truly memorable stay in this vibrant region. Ranging from the Standard to the gorgeous Executive rooms, all the accommodation units have been tastefully decorated and finely furnished, including a choice of modern comforts. This award-winning establishment includes different conference facilities completely equipped to host any kind of event, as well as a restaurant offering Mediterranean-style dishes.
The hotel is in the heart of Africa's most exclusive shopping centre, Nelson Mandela Square, offering guests access to a variety of nearby restaurants. Johannesburg international airport is approximately 26 km away. The hotel's facilities include a restaurant, conference facilities and a bar. Car parking is available for those arriving by car. Each of the rooms and suites has been tastefully decorated and all of them come with an en suite bathroom. The hotel offers a heated indoor pool, a sauna and a steam room. Furthermore a range of massage offerings and spa treatments is available. Sports enthusiasts may try their hand at windsurfing, riding, and the gym. The nearest golf course is roughly 10 km from the hotel. Guests may select their breakfast, lunch and dinner from a buffet. Lunch and dinner may additionally be taken as a à la carte.
You can't miss the National Monument and heritage site of Holiday Inn Johannesburg Sunnyside Park Hotel. The famous façade amongst the Victorian style architecture is instantly recognizable. With direct access to the Central Business Districts of Johannesburg and Sandton, our hotel provides easy access to the city's corporate area, making business a breeze. When you arrive, take some time to relax alongside our outdoor pool or sample some of the best South African wines on our beautiful outdoor deck overlooking our lush gardens. Feeling peckish? Dine on some fresh cuisine prepared at our Milner's Restaurant. Our hotel is ideally located close to all major highways. The University of Witwatersrand’s Medical School is in close proximity and the Gautrain Station, Parkstation, is a mere 2 km away allowing for favourable travel in and around Johannesburg and Pretoria.
This 5 star hotel is located in the suburbs of Johannesburg and was established in 1984. It is close to the Nelson Mandela Square and the nearest station is Gautrain. The Hotel has a coffee shop, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 334 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe, trouser press and air conditioning.

Things to do in Johannesburg, South Africa

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Johannesburg, South Africa

Learn more about the top 5 tourist attractions in Johannesburg. Its history, culture, myths, architecture, and other important facts are in this audio commentary. The top 10 advantages for those who prefer flexibility on their tour. 1. Safe - Not required to download, with just a click of secure access links it can be listened to online on any device. 2. Save - The lowest price in the city. 3. Stories - No imagination stories, only verified information. 4. Schedule - Listen at your own convenience of time, pace, and location, 5. Select - Preferred languages and attractions. 6. Self-control: No need to be behind someone's instructions in always. 7. Share - with co-travelers in just a click. 8. Soft - Selective crafted words that make you listen again. 9. Simple - Use our personally created itinerary which starts from the city's central location and then gradually moves one by one. 10. Smart - in all aspects
Visit this historical township of Soweto, where political icons lived during Apartheid, fighting against the regime. Exploring the everyday life, meet the locals, taste local cuisine and get an authentic experience with a Sowetan native guide. Starting at the Hector Pietersen Museum where the Soweto uprising that transpired in 1976. The famous house of Nelson Mandela in Vilakazi Street & Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the only street in the world to house two noble price recipients. Mandela house entrance not included but 20min allocated to the visit. Enjoy a traditional, local lunch of Kota. Continue through Orlando East, the first formal settlement of Soweto and take local minibus taxi ride to the Orlando Towers. We do have optional Visits. - Kliptown Freedom Chater - Soweto Gold Beer Brewery. - Community centre in Kliptown
Get the experience of being a local Soweto resident by spending your day in one of the largest townships in South Africa; as we drive and walk through the vibrant Soweto Township. Come enjoy the by going through the Rich history that Soweto boasts, as we also top it up by having lunch at a local restaurant for a Sowetan lunch. We can always customize the tour to meet your expectations.
One Day in Johannesburg tour is a great choice for travelers with limited time in the city of gold. Enjoy a private guided tour that reveals more about the city’s history, and ticks off multiple famous sights in a day—such as the township of Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, Maboneng Precinct, and the Nelson Mandela House. No need to worry about sharing the trip with other travelers, as you’ll have a private driver for just your group in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. All entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water included. Pickup and drop-off at your Johannesburg hotel.
Personal interaction, Bungee Jumping Landmark of Orlando Cooling Towers, Nomzamo Squatter Camp(tour with local resident) History of the gold mines Establishment of a stock exchange Soccer stadiums, Mandela and Desmond Tutu at Vilakazi Street both Nobel Peace Prize awardees, Elephant Houses Hector Pieterson, Freedom Square, Roman Catholic Church aka Regina Mundi and learn of their impact to the liberation movement
Enjoy a full packed day in Johannesburg in this exciting tour day from history to culture and then get a glimpse to the cultural lifestyle of South Africa. The tour is good for those who want to keep their day busy and really grab the best of the city all in a days' work.
Did you know Soweto is the largest township in South Africa? Ever wondered where Nelson Mandela grew up or what Apartheid is or even what makes Soweto Township to be internationally acclaimed? Well, here's tour that will teach & touch you! Your visit  to South Africa will never be complete without a taste of the culturally-rich Soweto Cultural Township. This popular half-day (5hrs) Soweto Tour covers visits to the following heritage sites: • Apartheid Museum (entry fees excluded) • Nelson Mandela House on Vilakazi Street  • Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum • Orlando Twin Towers and Bungee Jumping (own expense) • Soweto slums/shacks Requests to include or exclude certain sites or routes will be accepted within reasonable limits. A private tour guide can be hired for an additional fee. Driver is not a professional tour guide but will share his deep local knowledge and experiences of Soweto with you.
Let a local guide tell, you the story of the South Western Township, the birth place of South African democracy and struggle. This is South Africa’s most famous and developed township nor home to two Nobel Peace prize winners living on the same street .This is also the largest township in the country. Soweto is the melting pot of South African urban culture with a constant evolving fashion, food, lifestyle and entertainment. This is a Township filled with Historic landmarks. This is the place where apartheid history is still revolutionized.

Why People Love Johannesburg, South Africa

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Johannesburg, South Africa

TA
Tanis A
4
Aug 2016

The guide, Mr. Ranjit, was very helpful and provided an easy experience. He was very friendly and knowledgeable.

K
karencG4926SQ
5
Oct 2022
Great tour of an intense neighbourhood with an important story led by knowledgeable local guide. With delicious kota and local beer. Plan to take some cash for tipping guides and supporting the hustle of local artists and street performers.
MP
Michelle P
5
Sep 2022
This was such a lovely tour! I’m a solo female traveler and I booked this on my first functioning day in South Africa. Sibongile was pure joy and knowledgeable and it was extra special since she lived Soweto. She prepared us for potential things we can tip on. The tour itself was so unique and ...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Johannesburg

What are the top attractions in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg is home to several must-see attractions, including the Apartheid Museum, the Lion Park, and the Constitution Hill. The Apartheid Museum tells the story of South Africa's apartheid era, while the Lion Park offers visitors the opportunity to see lions, cheetahs, and other animals up close. Constitution Hill is a former prison and current museum that provides insights into the country's history and struggle for democracy.

What are some of the best activities to do in Johannesburg?

There are plenty of exciting activities to do in Johannesburg. Take a bike tour of Soweto, the township where Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived during apartheid. Go on a hot air balloon ride over the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the world's oldest hominid fossils. Visit the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, where you can hike, have a picnic, and spot wildlife.

What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Johannesburg?

There are several great neighborhoods to stay in Johannesburg, depending on your interests. Sandton is a popular business district with plenty of luxury hotels and shopping opportunities. Rosebank is another great option, with a variety of restaurants and nightlife options. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in Maboneng, a revitalized neighborhood that is now a hub for artists and creatives.

What's the best time of year to visit Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is also the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals tend to congregate around water sources during the dry season. Keep in mind that June and July can be chilly, especially at night.

What are the best day trips from Johannesburg?

There are several great day trips you can take from Johannesburg. Visit the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the world's oldest hominid fossils. See the Big Five at Pilanesberg National Park, which is just a two-hour drive from Johannesburg. Take a tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, where several important hominid fossils have been discovered.

What's the best way to get around Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a fairly extensive public transportation system, including a bus rapid transit system and a commuter rail network. However, many visitors find it more convenient to hire a car or take a taxi. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available in Johannesburg and are a safe and affordable way to get around.

What are the best restaurants in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a thriving food scene, with plenty of great restaurants to choose from. For traditional South African cuisine, head to Moyo or the Sakhumzi Restaurant in Soweto. For fine dining, try Marble Restaurant, which specializes in wood-fired meats and seafood. If you're in the mood for a burger, check out the Royale Eatery or RocoMamas.

What are some of the best museums in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg is home to several great museums, including the Apartheid Museum, the Johannesburg Art Gallery, and the Museum of African Design. The Apartheid Museum tells the story of South Africa's apartheid era, while the Johannesburg Art Gallery showcases works by local and international artists. The Museum of African Design features exhibitions on contemporary African design and architecture.

What are the best shopping destinations in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has plenty of great shopping opportunities, from luxury malls to craft markets. For high-end shopping, head to Sandton City or the Mall of Africa. For a more authentic experience, check out the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, where you can find everything from artisanal cheeses to vintage clothing. The Rosebank Sunday Market is also a great place to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

What are some of the best hotels in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including luxury hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. For a luxurious stay, try the Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa or the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff. If you're looking for something more affordable, check out the Curiocity Backpackers or the Once in Joburg hostel.