While its coastal cousins sparkle by the sea, the largest, richest city in South Africa dazzles you with bling. Glitz and glamour are Johannesburg’s two main calling cards. Gold was discovered here in the 1880s and, along with diamonds, it has added a shine to Jo’burg ever since. With a population of 4 million people, Jo’burg (AKA Jozi or Joeys) is a bustling metropolis. It may not have the wow factor of a Table Mountain, but it will offer you a glittering array of activities instead.
Things to do.....
Visit Johannesburg
A visit to South Africa’s biggest city gives you the chance to experience a wealth of Johannesburg attractions. The streets of Jozi have been paved with gold for many, and as a result, brash skyscrapers and office blocks dominate. But you’ll also get a taste for cosmopolitan Gauteng in the cafes and restaurants or see rags turn to riches in the Market Square market. Further afield, you can dig deep into South Africa’s soul in the magical diamond mines. In the beginning, Johannesburg’s bars were of the golden variety, now they attract a different crowd of prospectors. South Africa’s largest city is party central with a pub or club to suit all tastes.
There is no typical night out in Johannesburg just a myriad of choices. So for soulful rhythms, head for a South African jazz bar like Sophiatown. Alternatively, check out the cocktail and cafe ‘Vaab’ (vibe) in stylish 7th Street in Melville or relax in a Greenside restaurant.
The Main Attraction
South Africa’s parks and reserves teem with native species, and perhaps the most famous is Kruger Park. But Jo’burg takes real pride in Lion Park. This sanctuary just west of Jozi is home to many species, including hyenas, zebras, giraffes and antelope. But as you’d expect, the lion is king here. Four prides prowl the bloodcurdlingly-named Carnivore Camps. Other highlights include cuddly Cub World and Gambit the Giraffe who is always on the lookout for snacks.
Rock up with the Ancestors
Less than an hour from Johannesburg, you can come face-to-face with some of our earliest ancestors. South Africa’s “Cradle of Humankind” is home to 40% of all hominid fossils and a much-visited World Heritage Site. Centred around Sterkfontein Cave and a complex of caverns, you’re invited to delve into 4 million years of history. Alongside archaeology, you’ll also encounter pockets of adrenaline. This multi-activity hub caters for activities including zip-lining, go-karting and horse riding.
Visit Soweto
Synonymous with the struggle against Apartheid, the sprawling township of Soweto provides a fascinating insight into a changing nation. From Mandela to Tutu, its inhabitants have helped shaped South Africa’s cultural and political history for decades. The gangs have mainly gone and the middle class is on the rise, but it’s still edgy and eye-opening. Closer to the city, Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum also provides a vivid portrait of township life in the 1960s and 70s.
Tuscany Transplanted to Africa
Jo’burg is not always renowned for its tourist attractions, but in Montecasino it trumps the lot. This faux-Tuscan entertainment complex really has to be seen to be believed. At its heart are a casino, cinemas and the impressive “Teatro Theatre“, home to a succession of big hitting musicals. Yes it’s tacky, but there’s no denying the spectacle. As dusk falls and the lights flicker around the fountains and ornate facades, it can be enchanting. Or perhaps that’s the Chianti talking!
South Africa has a warm temperate climate making it a popular spot for foreign visitors. South Africa is a relatively dry country and is well known for its sunshine. With an average annual rainfall of only 464mm (18.2 in), the Western Cape gets most of its rainfall in winter.
Best time of the year to travel to South Africa depends on what you want to do. The flowers are at their best in August and September. The best time for game viewing is in the late spring months of September and October. The Southern Right Whales are off the coasts from about mid-June to the end of October.
