The New Johannesburg

Long known as the stopover city for safari travellers, Johannesburg is increasingly becoming known as a cultural and cosmopolitan capital. Beyond the busy corporate centre there are a myriad of places and events to satisfy any age or interest. 

Top five spots in Johannesburg:

1 Apartheid Museum

This special museum follows the rise and fall of apartheid. You'll see film footage, photographs and artefacts illustrating the events and human stories of this significant time.

Opening in 1904 as a small public park with just a few animals, Johannesburg Zoo has grown to become one of the most popular public places in Johannesburg. Head along on one of the zoo's family days and you'll enjoy animal encounters, talks, games and more. And keep your eye out for the new baby giraffe!

3 Heritage Walks

Grab a map and take a stroll. One of the best ways to take in the new sites (and history) of a town is by walking. The Parktown & Westcliff Heritage Trust conducts weekly tours of old Johannesburg. If you prefer getting more in touch with nature - Johannesburg has more than 2300 parks.

4 Gold Mine Pub

Enjoy a beer at the world's deepest pub - a quarter of a kilometre underground! Inside what was formerly one of the world's richest and deepest gold mines, the pub is now a part of the historical amusement park, Gold Reef City.

5 Soweto

A tour of Soweto is a must for every visitor to Johannesburg. Although most well known for the violent riots against apartheid in 1976, Soweto has now become an emerging hub of fashion, dance and culture.  Be sure to try some authentic African dishes at one of the local restaurants.

Need more? Here’s just a few more ideas to whet your appetite:  visit a spa, play a round of golf, shop at a local food or flea market, try your luck with a throw of the dice at one of two casinos… or take a walk through a museum or garden.