Things To Do
in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, often called Jo'burg or Jozi, is the largest city in South Africa by population and a vibrant heart of the country's economic and cultural life. It is renowned for its urban renaissance, featuring a mix of modern skyscrapers, bustling markets, and trendy art galleries, alongside historical sites that tell the complex story of South Africa's past.
Despite its challenging history with apartheid, Johannesburg today is a diverse and dynamic city that embodies the spirit of resilience and transformation.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Apartheid Museum to gain insights into South Africa's past. It offers powerful exhibits that educate about the nation's apartheid struggle.
Head to Soweto to explore Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize winners lived. Sample local cuisine at one of the vibrant eateries.
Enjoy a sunset view from the top of the Carlton Centre, the tallest building in Africa. Wind down with a dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring local flavors.
Take a day trip to Pilanesberg Game Reserve for a thrilling safari experience. Hop on a guided tour to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
Continue the adventure with a packed lunch in the reserve. Join a walking safari for a closer look at the flora and fauna.
Return to Johannesburg and relax at your hotel. Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a restaurant with a view.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural diversity and rich history.
- Strong economy with numerous job opportunities.
- Well-developed infrastructure and transportation systems.
- Access to beautiful parks and nature reserves.
- A variety of entertainment options, including restaurants, theaters, and museums.
- High crime rates in certain areas can be a concern.
- Traffic congestion is common, especially during peak hours.
- Inconsistencies in public service delivery in some regions.
- Economic disparities and social inequality are evident.
- Extremely hot summers and occasional severe weather events.
Best Activities in Johannesburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic views of the city while exploring the indigenous vegetation and ancient geological features.
Explore a variety of wildlife and enjoy family-friendly activities at one of the largest zoos in South Africa.
Relax in the beautiful gardens, spot indigenous birds, and take in stunning views of the Witpoortjie waterfall.
Enjoy a peaceful ride through one of Johannesburg's largest parks, featuring open grassy areas and scenic trails.
Experience breathtaking views of the world heritage site and its unique landscape from a hot air balloon.
Tours
Uncover the best of Johannesburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Johannesburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Located on the 50th floor of the Carlton Centre, offering panoramic views of the city.
Provides stunning views over the city and is a popular spot for sunset photos.
Offers beautiful natural vistas and photo opportunities of waterfalls, cliffs, and indigenous plants.
Food in Johannesburg
Johannesburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular South African street food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with flavorful curry. One can savor this dish at the famous Hollywood Bunny Bar in Fordsburg or the Oriental Plaza.
Must-Try!
A staple South African dish featuring pap (maize porridge) accompanied by boerewors (spiced sausage). You can sample authentic Pap and Wors at local braai (barbecue) spots like Moyo at Zoo Lake or Chaf Pozi in Soweto.
A spicy vegetable relish that is often served as a side dish. It pairs well with braaied meat or pap and is readily available at most local eateries and braai joints.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Johannesburg better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the vibrant district of Braamfontein, this market is a hotspot for food enthusiasts. It offers a wide variety of street food, artisanal goods, and local delicacies amidst a lively atmosphere.
This bustling market is a treasure trove of diverse cuisines ranging from traditional South African dishes to international street food. It's an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Johannesburg, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is courteous to address older individuals with the appropriate title, such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.'
Respect for elders is highly valued in Johannesburg's culture. It is customary to show deference and politeness towards older individuals and to listen attentively when they speak.
Respect personal space and be mindful of hand gestures and body language, as certain gestures that are acceptable in other cultures may be considered offensive in Johannesburg. It is important to be aware of cultural sensitivities and adapt behavior accordingly.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Johannesburg with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Johannesburg
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Johannesburg, South Africa is generally expected in restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. A standard tip is typically around 10-15% of the bill, although some restaurants may include a service charge.
In Johannesburg, South Africa, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, although it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals, and contactless payment methods are increasingly common.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Johannesburg.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The summer season in Johannesburg can be hot with occasional thunderstorms. This is a great time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Autumn brings milder temperatures and colorful foliage. It's a good time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Winters are dry and cool with clear skies. This is a good time for cultural experiences and exploring the city.
Springtime is marked by blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Johannesburg at Night
Hiking in Johannesburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the city and Table Mountain.
A scenic park with various trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
A historical site with hiking paths that give panoramic views of Pretoria and the surrounding area.
A large nature reserve featuring numerous hiking trails through beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Known for its archaeological significance, it also offers beautiful trails amidst diverse fauna and flora.
A mountain range with multiple hiking routes that provide breathtaking views over the valleys.
A stunning garden with several trails, featuring waterfalls and unique plant species.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Johannesburg through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Johannesburg by plane.
The main international airport serving Johannesburg, located approximately 20 kilometers east of the city center. It is the busiest airport in Africa.
Located about 40 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Though not in Johannesburg, it is one of the largest airports in South Africa, located about 1,400 kilometers away in Cape Town. It handles numerous international flights.
Located about 550 kilometers southeast of Johannesburg in Durban, this airport serves as an international gateway to the KwaZulu-Natal province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Johannesburg, representing approximately 76% of the population, consisting of diverse ethnicities including Zulu, Xhosa, Tswana, and many others.
Comprising around 14% of Johannesburg's population, this group includes individuals of European descent, primarily Afrikaners, English, and other European communities.
Making up about 4% of the population, this group has a mixed heritage, primarily of African, European, and Asian ancestry.
Representing about 3% of Johannesburg's population, with a significant number of people of Indian and other Asian backgrounds, often with a rich cultural heritage.
A small percentage of the population, including individuals from various foreign countries and ethnicities not categorized in the main groups.
The Soul of Johannesburg
Discover the essence of Johannesburg through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer, or football as it is known in South Africa, is the most popular sport in Johannesburg. The city is home to several professional teams, including the Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, attracting large crowds and passionate fans.
Rugby is another major sport in Johannesburg, with a strong following. The city hosts teams that compete in national leagues, and rugby matches are popular events for local fans.
Cricket has a significant following in Johannesburg. The city is home to historic grounds like the Wanderers Stadium, which hosts both domestic and international matches.
Athletics is a popular sport in Johannesburg, with numerous events and competitions held throughout the year. The city has produced many talented athletes who compete at national and international levels.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Johannesburg, especially among the youth. Various leagues and schools encourage participation in the sport.
Netball is widely played in Johannesburg, particularly among women and girls. The sport has a strong community presence with local clubs and schools actively participating.
Johannesburg has several top-tier golf courses, making golf a popular recreational sport for both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Johannesburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan dining options are increasingly prevalent in Johannesburg, with many restaurants and cafes offering dedicated menus to cater to these dietary preferences. Notable venues include Leafy Greens Café, Fresh Earth, and Lexi's Healthy Eatery.
For those seeking gluten-free dishes, several establishments in Johannesburg accommodate this dietary requirement. The Fussy Vegan, Salvation Café, and Jackson's Real Food Market are renowned for their gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Johannesburg with these cultural adventures.
