Visitors to Johannesburg will discover stunning scenery, a lively culture, rich history, and deep-rooted traditions. Additionally, they can explore safaris and experience the diverse wildlife of Africa. Don’t miss out on these attractions!
Known as ‘Joburg’ or ‘Jozi’, Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa. First-time visitors are often amazed by its bustling urban atmosphere, offering a wide range of entertainment, tradition, culture, and nightlife, all within a vibrant and welcoming community.
There are numerous sights worth exploring, including the impressive Apartheid Museum. Make sure to visit Maboneng, a vibrant district in the city, and catch a stunning sunset at the 223-meter-high Carlton Centre. Lastly, don’t forget to visit Pilanesberg National Park to experience wildlife up close.
If you’re interested in visiting each of these locations and staying in Johannesburg for a few days, we have put together a guide with plenty of travel advice. Simply scroll down for more information!
In this article, you will find:
- Activities to partake in while in Johannesburg
- Exploring Johannesburg through guided tours.
- Accommodation options in Johannesburg
- Where to dine in Johannesburg
- When is the best time to visit Johannesburg?
- For how long should I stay in Johannesburg?
- How to reach Johannesburg
- Text: Getting around in Johannesburg
- View additional suggestions from Johannesburg.
- Commonly Asked Questions
Activities to experience in Johannesburg
Images by Virginia Falangue
During your visit to Johannesburg, be sure to start at the Apartheid Museum, constructed to honor the former system of racial inequality. This museum provides insight into the long-standing regime of segregation in South Africa and its profound effects on society. It is a must-see destination!
Another recommended place to visit is the Mandela House Museum, where Nelson Mandela, a prominent figure in the anti-Apartheid movement, resided. Situated in the Soweto district, the museum houses an extensive collection of items such as documents, photos, and political clothing.
To discover the local fauna, it is recommended to visit the Pilanesberg National Park near Johannesburg, approximately a 2-hour drive away. This park offers a chance to explore the African savannah, go on a safari, and observe majestic animals like rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, leopards, and lions in their natural environment. For a more extensive wildlife experience, you can also venture to the Kruger National Park, about a 5-hour drive from Johannesburg.
Explore the top attractions in Johannesburg that you should be aware of by reading below.
- A museum dedicated to apartheid
- Original: Pilanesberg National Park
- Humanity Cot and Lesedi Cultural Village – A place that celebrates humanity.
- The Lion Park article.
- Cullinan and Pretoria Diamond Mine – Rewrite the text.
- Museum dedicated to beer: SAB World of Beer
- The residence of Nelson Mandela
- Paraphrase: Information about the Carlton Centre
- Constitution Hill – The site of the Constitutional Court.
- The museum dedicated to Hector Pieterson
- Text: The Voortrekker Monument
- Montecasino Text
- Gold Reef City can be rephrased as “City of Gold”.
- Exploring the wildlife at Kruger National Park through a safari experience.
Exploring Johannesburg through guided tours.
Have you arranged your sightseeing in Johannesburg? Make sure everything is planned in advance to avoid waiting in ticket lines and enjoy the option to pay in installments without additional fees. Explore tour prices or browse our selection of top choices.
Simplify your travel arrangements by booking your tours on a trustworthy website offering competitive rates.
Accommodation options in Johannesburg
When deciding on accommodations in Johannesburg, it’s important to consider certain factors, like the locations you plan to visit. The distances between different neighborhoods and the reliability of public transportation can make it challenging to navigate the city.
Therefore, for those looking for upscale accommodation with good amenities, it is advisable to stay in Sandton, near Sandton City and Mandela Square. This area is ideal for exploring on foot and being near bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. On the other hand, Rosebank is a cozy, green, safe, and peaceful neighborhood, located near Rosebank Mall and the Gautrain station.
Another recommended option for accommodations is Melrose, known for its elegant ambiance and convenient central position, featuring various shops and dining establishments. If you prefer staying in the city center, keep in mind that it is bustling during the day and offers great value for money. However, it becomes less secure at night due to decreased activity in the area.
Learn about some lodging directions for your journey.
Hotels in Johannesburg
Johannesburg provides a wide range of hotels, catering to various budgets from affordable to high-end. As a result, we have chosen a few noteworthy options for you to consider.
- NH Johannesburg Sandton is available for booking at a rate starting from $107 per day, with a rating of 8.1.
- Thaba Eco Hotel offers daily rates starting at $159, with a rating of 9.0.
- The Houghton Hotel offers a daily rate starting at $248 and has received a rating of 9.0.
- The Catalyst Apartment Hotel by NEWMARK is available daily starting at $82, with a rating of 8.7.
View all available hotel choices in Johannesburg.
Accommodations in Johannesburg designed for budget travelers
For individuals seeking more budget-friendly lodging, there are hostels in the city that provide quality accommodation and amenities, with the choice of private or shared rooms.
- Explorer Backpackers offers daily rates starting at $29, with a high rating of 9.4.
- Text: Curiocity Backpackers Johannesburg – Priced at US$ 45 per day, with a rating of 7.9.
- Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers offers accommodations starting at $34 per day, with a rating of 9.0.
View all available choices for hostels in Johannesburg.
Text: Houses in Johannesburg suburbs
The chalets in Johannesburg are a great option for individuals looking for a quiet and intimate accommodation. As a result, we have handpicked some lovely and tastefully decorated guesthouses that are sure to please you. Take a look at:
- Ikamu’s lodge is available daily starting at $75, with a rating of 9.5.
- Moonflower Cottages are available for rent daily starting at $70 per night, with a rating of 9.2.
- God’s grace – Available daily starting at $114 – Rated 9.8
- Amadwala Lodge is available for booking at a daily rate starting from $80, with a rating of 7.9.
View all the available chalet choices in Johannesburg.
Hotels and accommodations in Johannesburg
Now, if you seek a more comprehensive accommodation with excellent facilities and VIP services, the resorts in Johannesburg come highly recommended for a family stay. They offer spacious, well-appointed rooms and restaurants serving delicious cuisine. Discover them:
- MOOD Health Resort is available daily starting at $107 with a rating of 9.3.
- The Fairway Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort offers daily rates starting at $112, with a rating of 8.5.
- Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff offers daily rates starting at $378, with a rating of 9.2.
- Fauchil Boutique Hotel is available starting at $124 per day, with a rating of 8.1.
View all accommodation choices available in Johannesburg.
Johannesburg Holiday Accommodation
The vacation rental, commonly referred to as Airbnb, is a great option for urban dwellers looking for more privacy and comfort, allowing them to feel at home. As a result, we have chosen a few options that we think you will enjoy. Take a look:
- Text: Easy Stay at The Vantage Rosebank is available daily starting from $57, with a rating of 8.6.
- One Hyde Park in Sandton is available for daily stays starting at $117, with a rating of 8.7.
- Experience peace and quiet right outside your door – Available every day starting at $23 – Rated 8.5
- Franklin Luxury Apartment is available for daily rental starting at $43, with a rating of 8.4.
View all available vacation rental choices in Johannesburg.
Article: Best dining spots in Johannesburg
In Johannesburg, like in other big cities, you can discover a diverse range of restaurants serving a variety of cuisines such as pasta, meat, fish, Japanese, Italian, African, and contemporary dishes. One notable aspect of the local cuisine is the emphasis on fish and seafood, which play a significant role in African culinary traditions.
Located in Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, you will find the refined Trumps Grillhouse And Butchery. Known for its inviting and upscale ambiance, visitors highly commend the quality of the meat served here. The menu features delectable options like Ribeye Steak and Tomahawk.
Situated at Trumpet On Keyes in Rosebank, Marble Restaurant is perfect for individuals looking for a refined dining experience. Offering contemporary cuisine with a stunning city view and top-notch service, this restaurant serves a diverse menu featuring seafood, vegetables, and premium meats. For a special evening, consider trying the Steak Fillet paired with a quality wine.
The upscale Amman Restaurant is located at 48 Central Road and specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine. It offers elegant decor, a welcoming ambiance, and views of Oriental Plaza, along with attentive service and a menu centered around Arabic and Mediterranean fare. For a taste of unique and tasty dishes, be sure to try the Kebab and Falafel. The desserts, such as baklava, are a standout feature that are sure to leave your mouth watering.
Below are some of the top dining options in Johannesburg that we have chosen.
- Trump’s Grillhouse and Butchery
- Restaurant made of marble
- Amman eatery
- Mozambik Randpark Ridge is the name of a restaurant located in Randpark Ridge.
- Meatball
- Mozambik Linksfield – a restaurant in Linksfield, Mozambique
- Parreir Restaurant – Restaurante Parreir.
- Sandton’s Grillhouse
- Mr. George’s name is the content of the text.
When is the best time to visit Johannesburg?
The most suitable time to visit Johannesburg, South Africa, will vary depending on your interests. If you prefer a warmer climate for outdoor activities, consider visiting during May or June, which are during the autumn and early winter months.
In this season, the temperatures are milder, there is less rain, and prices are more affordable, making it perfect for strolls and outdoor activities. If you’re planning to go on a safari, it’s recommended to visit during the winter when it’s cooler and easier to spot animals.
During the summer, which falls between November and March, there are often heavy rainfalls and high temperatures. It is recommended to wear light clothing, keep hydrated, and be prepared with rain gear as the weather can change quickly and rain showers may occur.
For how long should I stay in Johannesburg?
To make your visit to Johannesburg more convenient, we recommend allocating four days in your schedule to fully explore the city.
How to reach Johannesburg
The most efficient way to travel to Johannesburg is by taking a flight with South African Airways, LATAM, or airlines that have layovers in other countries like Qatar, Swiss, or Turkish Airlines. The travel time is typically around 8 hours, but this could change depending on the layover.
The location to stay can be found at Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, which is known as one of the world’s busiest airports. Further information is provided below.
Traveling via aircraft
South African Airways and LATAM airlines offer non-stop flights from Brazil to South Africa, while Qatar, Swiss, and Turkish Airlines have layovers in other countries before reaching Oliver Tambo International Airport.
Traveling by automobile
When you arrive at Oliver Tambo International Airport, the most convenient way to reach downtown Johannesburg is by either renting a car or taking a taxi. The trip from the airport to the city center typically takes about 40 minutes.
Johannesburg’s transportation system
If you plan to visit South Africa, it is important to have done some research on the destination beforehand. Keep in mind that public transportation is scarce and unreliable, but there are alternative options like taxis, car rentals, and the Gautrain that are more efficient for getting around.
Next, explore further details regarding the primary modes of transportation for navigating the city.
Buses – Public transportation vehicles that carry passengers from one location to another on set routes.
Buses in Johannesburg are said to operate within the city, but they are not a reliable mode of transportation as they do not follow a set schedule and may not drop you off directly at your destination.
Paraphrase: The Gautrain railway system
A convenient way to navigate Johannesburg is by using the Gautrain, a train service that is both efficient and clean, although it has limited coverage within the city.
Para llegar a tu destino, es posible que tengas que utilizar un medio de transporte adicional si tus recursos son limitados. Una buena opción para las personas sin automóvil es combinar el Gautrain con autobuses, taxis o Uber.
“Taxi” – reworded as “Cab”
The taxis available there come in two types: collective cars that take passengers to various destinations, and private taxis for individuals traveling alone to their destination.
A key suggestion is to inquire about the trip cost upfront before getting into the vehicle to avoid being overcharged at the conclusion of the journey. Additionally, opt for taxis provided by reputable and trustworthy companies like Shuttle King.
Uber service or renting a car
Renting a car is the best option for those looking for freedom and independence to travel around there, especially because the city’s public transportation is not very reliable. With a rented car, you can explore nearby cities and are not limited to staying only in Johannesburg.
If you prefer not to navigate the city yourself but still want the convenience and safety, you can use Uber in the city. Simply download the app on your mobile device and request a ride whenever you need one, whether it’s to the airport, a restaurant, or to explore the city.
View additional recommendations from Johannesburg
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- Could you please provide me with the text you would like me to paraphrase?
- Kruger National Park offers the opportunity to go on a safari.
- Exploring the Serengeti on a safari
- Hotels in Cape Verde
- African Travel Insurance
- Africa’s Mobile Chip
- Can you please provide the text that you would like me to paraphrase?
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Commonly Asked Questions
If you have not discovered the information you require, explore the brief questions and answers addressing our readers’ most common inquiries.
Some of the top attractions in Johannesburg include the Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela’s former residence, Constitution Hill, and Pilanesberg National Park.
The primary sightseeing excursions in Johannesburg include the comprehensive Johannesburg + Soweto Tour and the 5-day safari at Kruger National Park.
Two top accommodations in Johannesburg include NH Johannesburg Sandton and Thaba Eco Hotel.
Certainly! Indeed, a few of the hostel choices available in Johannesburg include CURIOCITY Backpackers Johannesburg and Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers.
Some of the top vacation rentals in Johannesburg include Easy Stay – The Vantage Rosebank and One Hyde Park – Sandton.
The ideal time to visit Johannesburg is from March to June when the weather is more favorable for exploring parks, safaris, and museums.
Johannesburg, situated in the Gauteng province, is known as the biggest city in South Africa.
The most effective way to navigate Johannesburg is by opting to rent a car, as it allows for greater independence to move around while also offering convenience and safety.
The primary languages used in Johannesburg include Afrikaans, English, Zulu, and Xhosa.
Depending on the location you are in, Johannesburg may pose a safety risk, particularly in areas with insufficient public lighting. Despite this, many tourists who visit the city do not encounter any issues. It is advisable for travelers to take precautions, such as avoiding traveling alone at night, steering clear of dangerous areas, and using secure modes of transportation.
The South African rand, symbolized by (R), is the currency used in Johannesburg.
