Johannesburg is the great mining city that led an economic boom at the southern tip of Africa. With the discovery of gold in the 1800s, a rush of pioneers, prospectors and fortune seekers descended upon the area known as "The Rand" and today we see the rise of Africa's greatest economic success story. There is a lot to see around Johannesburg, Sandton, Soweto, Pretoria and the rest of the Gauteng province.
You cannot say that you have been to Johannesburg without at least a stop at Gold Reef City. Located in the south of the city, it is easy accessible from the OR Tambo Airport by highway. It celebrates the gold history of the city with a reconstructed and rather stylish classical gold town. Many museums, restaurants and gift shops are ready to be explored. There is a hotel and a casino, but the main attraction is the theme park, with an impressive array of coasters and rides, all available on a single day ticket.
Next to Gold Reef City is the Apartheid Museum, which is a must visit for anyone who is interested in learning about the contemporary African history of South Africa.
If you are in Johannesburg over the weekend, pay a visit the rooftop market at Rosebank on Sundays where you will find the weird and wonderful, as well as odd gifts. Fire dance equipment, swords, clothing and foods are sold.
Learn about the wonders of our night sky and vast universe with a show at the Planetarium.
Located in the Northern parts of the city, the zoo offers good old family fun. It has a stunning lay-out and features a wide variety of animals. The Military Museum’s entrance is just on the other side.
A great day out with the family with cattle shows, horse jumping, hunting opportunities and bird and tree identification competitions. The annual festival is located in the Waterberg district of Limpopo.
“With its beginnings in art, Maboneng has evolved into a collaborative hub of culture, business and lifestyle that entices curiosity, encourages exploration and promotes a sense of urban togetherness.” This is what the official website describes the Maboneng Precinct as but of course there are many more layers to explore. Maboneng means ‘place of light’ and there’s no arguing that at night, it comes alive. From it’s monthly nighttime market, to hip places to hang out and a nightlife that’ll have you jiving until the dawn, you’ll never want the night to end.
Situated 50km northwest of Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is World Heritage Site that’s a must-visit spot in South Africa where numerous archaeological discoveries have been made over the years. Satisfy your curiosity by visiting the exhibitions, taking the tours and discovering the resource parks.
The City of Gold brings you Gold Reef City, choc-a-block with so many family fun and games, you’ll have to go back another day! Young and old can enjoy one of the epic rides such as the Anaconda (not for the feint of heart!), the Golden Loop, the Tower of Terror and Miner’s Revenge. After working up a sweat, you can fill up at any of the number of restaurants that are around the theme park.