Immerse yourself in the most vibrant, buzzing city on the African continent, Johannesburg, the City of Gold. You can feel the energy of money, of business and creativity flowing through the citizens of this fabulous city and partake in it by visiting the world-class destinations and experiences on offer in Johannesburg and the area around it, the province of Gauteng.
Johannesburg is about living and experiencing and there is no better way to do this than to take to the streets of this cosmopolitan city. Take an urban safari into the world-class shopping malls and destinations found in the city; there are some serious retail therapy options available from designer clothing stores to upmarket jewellery outlets and more. Eating out is a big deal in Johannesburg, the cuisine on offer a true reflection of the melting pot of cultures in the city. Feel free to try anything from umngqusho (beans and corn) to the European-style fine dining.
You are standing in a city whose lifeblood stems from the gold reserves under its surface, in total more than 40% of the gold ever mined from the earth came from this area. Visit the popular Gold Reef City for a glimpse into the early days of gold mining in South Africa and then spend some time in the popular entertainment complex with its theme park and casino facilities.
Pop over to nearby Pretoria, one of the other major cities in the Gauteng region, to stroll along the pretty Jacaranda tree-lined avenues and enjoy the buzz of this culturally diverse destination. You can tour the impressive Union Buildings or picnic on the lawns in front of South Africa’s official government residence. Shop up a storm in the trendy malls of Pretoria before heading back to the glitzy lights of Johannesburg.
There are more reasons to visit Soweto than ever before, formerly known as the South Western Townships, this sprawling suburb has morphed over the years into one of the most vibrant destinations in Johannesburg. Besides the historical significance of many of the streets there are eclectic pubs and watering holes, a buzzing shopping centre and the Adventure Centre at the old Orlando Power Station.
You can choose from the many luxury accommodation options in the leafy suburbs of Johannesburg city, close to world-class malls and gourmet restaurants and know that you have been in one of the most happening cities in the world.
Spoil yourself with the ultimate in luxury travel by taking the prestigious Blue Train or Rovos Rail departing from nearby Pretoria or escape from the city buzz by flying out to the easily accessible luxury African safari destinations of Sabi Sand, Kruger National Park and Madikwe to enjoy their wonderful wildlife offerings. Contact Southern Africa Travel today.
Gauteng is best known for:
The Cradle of Humankind
This world heritage site is rich in fossils and the skeletons of ancient man. There are nearly 400 attractions including museums, restaurants and craft outlets within the site as well as many places of historical interest such as the Sterkfontein Caves, the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Cradle, a nature and game reserve.
The Apartheid Museum
Gain insight into current South African life by exploring the past at the Apartheid Museum in Ormonde, Johannesburg. Acknowledged as the best museum dealing with the rise and fall of Apartheid, you will need at least two hours to engage with the exhibitions and gain a true sense of South Africa’s story.
Newtown Cultural Precinct
One of Johannesburg’s latest attractions is the Newtown Cultural Precinct. Tour the fabulous Museum Africa, go over Nelson Mandela Bridge and visit the Newtown Art Gallery before stopping off at Moyo African Restaurant for an unusual dining experience.
Off the Beaten Track:
Swing between the Orlando Towers
The adventure centre at Orlando Towers in Soweto not only boasts the biggest art murals in the world but also offers you the opportunity to test your courage by basejump swinging between the two towers or taking the 100m-bungee jump.
Go digging for gold
If you are experiencing some gold fever yourself head underground on the Dig Deep mine tour that will deliver you 3 500m down the world’s richest and deepest gold mines. Although you can’t take any out you will learn how gold is mined, cleaned and refined.
Lesedi Cultural Village
West African Marimba bands will welcome you to this unique cultural venue, allow yourself to sink into the story of South Africa’s history from the beginning of man and enjoy the singing and dancing and educational entertainment laid on for you. The village showcases the culture of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele peoples. Lesedi Cultural Village is a great destination for the ‘culturally inquisitive’.
