Things To Do
in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, often called Joburg, is the largest city in South Africa and the economic heart of the continent. Renowned for its vibrant street art, rich history, and dynamic urban regeneration projects, it offers a compelling blend of culture and commerce. Once a gold-mining settlement, the city has transformed into a bustling metropolis with world-class museums, parks, and dining scenes.
Johannesburg’s energy is infectious, inviting visitors to explore its diverse neighborhoods, arts precincts, and nearby natural wonders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at O.R. Tambo International Airport and breeze through immigration before meeting your driver. Settle into your centrally located hotel and freshen up after the journey. Step out for a leisurely stroll around the leafy streets of Rosebank, taking in the modern malls and local cafés.
Enjoy a light lunch at a vibrant café in Melrose Arch while planning your week ahead with the concierge. Discover the nearby Johannesburg Botanical Gardens for a relaxed wander among indigenous flora. Pause at Emmarentia Dam for a moment of tranquility and people-watching by the water.
Dine at a renowned African fusion restaurant, sampling game meats and local wines. Head to a cozy jazz club in Melville for live music and cocktails. Return to your hotel to rest up for the adventures ahead.
Venture to Soweto with a local guide and start at the Hector Pieterson Museum to grasp the sacrifices of the 1976 uprising. Walk along Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world that was once home to both Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Tutu. Feel the vibrant community spirit as children play in the streets and vendors sell snacks.
Share a home-cooked meal at a neighborhood shebeen, tasting dishes like pap and chakalaka. Tour the Mandela House Museum to learn intimate stories of his life and legacy. Stop by Regina Mundi Church to admire the artifacts and hear recollections of anti-apartheid gatherings.
Join locals for traditional music and dance at Sakhumzi Restaurant, soaking in the energetic atmosphere. Sample moerkoffie and vetkoek as the sun sets over Orlando West. Return to Johannesburg proper with a richer understanding of South Africa’s history.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-3 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (5 km) | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant arts and culture scene
- Gateway to wildlife and natural attractions
- Diverse culinary experiences
- Dynamic neighborhoods with ongoing regeneration
- Safety concerns in certain areas
- High altitude can cause mild discomfort
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Occasional service disruptions
- "Sawubona" - Hello (Zulu)
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you (Zulu)
- "Dankie" - Thank you (Afrikaans)
- "Sala kahle" - Stay well (Zulu)
Places to Visit in Johannesburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic complex with dramatic architecture and panoramic city views from the Old Fort complex.
Colorful street murals and industrial-chic backdrops perfect for urban photography.
Lush landscapes, a cascading waterfall, and abundant birdlife make for scenic nature shots.
Vintage mining surrounds and theme-park attractions provide evocative, offbeat photo opportunities.
Vibrant murals along Vilakazi Street and surrounding neighborhoods showcase local talent and history.
Food in Johannesburg
Johannesburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf filled with spicy curry; best found in Indian restaurants in Fordsburg.
Must-Try!
Maize porridge served with a spicy tomato and vegetable relish, commonly enjoyed at local braai spots.
Air-dried cured meat snack available at street vendors and specialty butchers across the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Happens every Saturday in Braamfontein with a range of artisanal foods, global street eats, and live music.
Sunday market in Maboneng serving local produce, gourmet treats, and ethnic specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with eye contact is customary; use titles like ‘Mr.’ or ‘Mrs.’ until invited to use first names.
Avoid sensitive topics like race and politics unless you know someone well; be polite and patient in discussions.
South Africans respect orderly lines—always wait your turn at counters and bus stops.
Safety
Tipping in Johannesburg
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tip is 10–15% of the bill in restaurants; taxi drivers and guides appreciate rounding up or a small 10% tip.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash (ZAR) for small vendors and informal markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; pack sun protection and a light rain jacket.
Warm days and cooler nights with lower rainfall; ideal for outdoor exploration.
Mild days and chilly nights; bring layers for early mornings and evenings, but enjoy clear, dry conditions.
Blossoming jacaranda trees in October; warming temperatures and moderate chances of rain.
Johannesburg at Night
Hiking in Johannesburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Urban nature reserve with rocky ridges, archaeological sites, and panoramic views of the city.
30-minute drive from Joburg; offers trails through grasslands and hills with birdwatching opportunities.
Classic day-trip destination offering guided hikes, rock climbing, and stunning geological formations.
Airports
How to reach Johannesburg by plane.
Main gateway to South Africa, 25 km east of the city center with frequent shuttle and Gautrain connections.
Smaller, less busy airport northwest of the city serving regional and charter flights; accessible via shuttle services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority group including Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, and other ethnicities, shaping the city’s culture.
Descendants of British and Afrikaans settlers, prevalent in business and residential areas.
Concentrated in areas like Fordsburg and Phoenix, contributing to vibrant food and cultural scenes.
Mixed-heritage community found throughout the city, known for its own distinct cultural traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Supported passionately, with local Premier Soccer League teams like Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.
Springboks rugby is a national obsession; local clubs and matches draw large crowds.
High-level domestic and international matches are hosted at the Wanderers Stadium in Illovo.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Johannesburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian chakalaka, salads, and veggie curries. Look for ‘vegan-friendly’ labels at markets.
Fordsburg and surrounding areas have numerous halal-certified eateries serving biryani, kebabs, and curries.