Top 10 Interesting Things To Do In Johannesburg

The various, diverse, and enlightening sights that can be found in Johannesburg are frequently missed in favor of South Africa’s other picture-perfect tourist destinations. Jo’burg, Jozi, or E’Goli, as the inhabitants fondly call it, is also known as the “city of gold,” as its past is inextricably related to gold mining. Jo’burg, Jozi, or E’Goli. Keep reading this post to learn about some of the top things to do in Johannesburg as well as some helpful hints for making the most of your time in the city.

Today, Johannesburg is still the financial capital of South Africa. It is also a city that has molded the history and politics of the country, and it is a city of dramatic contrasts: on the one side, there is the poverty and struggle of Soweto, and on the other side, there are the flashy skyscrapers and the isolated villas of the few rich.

Over the past 20 years, Johannesburg has seen significant transformation, shifting from its traditional role as the starting point for safaris to one that is primarily experienced during a brief layover.

You’ll find that there’s a lot more to do in Johannesburg than you might expect to find there.

Things To Do In Johannesburg

As the most populous city in South Africa, Johannesburg serves as the country’s primary gateway for tourists. Johannesburg is a hard-working city with a cool atmosphere. Though it lacks Cape Town’s natural beauty, its character more than makes up for it. A stay in Johannesburg can help you better understand this complex country because it is more integrated, has a sizable black middle class, and is edgy, hip, and confident. Soweto, which was once a center of anti-apartheid activism, is also a great place to learn more about South Africa’s recent past. Spend your time learning new things in one of the city’s numerous museums, interacting with locals on one of the city’s many posh rooftops, taking a stroll through art galleries, enjoying thrills at amusement parks, or exploring nature reserves.

#1. Visit the Apartheid Museum

This is an excellent tourist destination in Johannesburg, South Africa. You should know that visiting museums that detail the history of a country is a fantastic approach to becoming more familiar with that nation. Therefore, similar to the Museum of Human Rights in Chile, Yad Vashem in Israel, and the Museum of the Revolution in Havana, Cuba, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa, is an absolute necessity to see.

There is no other way to explain it: the Apartheid Museum is simply one of the must-see attractions in Johannesburg, and if you ask me, it is the one that most merits a visit when one is only in town for a short period. There is no other way to put it. Established in

The huge display, which was opened in 2001, takes you through the history of apartheid by using paper clippings, documents, films, images, and other historical artifacts in a variety of formats. There is a whole display devoted to Nelson Mandela that you can visit.

#2. Spend some time in Soweto.

Between the second half of the 19th century and the start of the 20th century, the white government of South Africa established the sizable township known as Soweto (short for South Western Township, which was a separate municipality until 2002) to maintain racial segregation among the nation’s white and black populations.

Soweto is the largest township in South Africa and is located approximately 20 kilometers outside of Johannesburg. It has a population of over 1.3 million people. It was the site of the final match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup as well as the venue for the tournament’s closing ceremony, which contributed to its rise to prominence on the international stage.

#3. Go to the Cradle of Humanity.

When in Johannesburg, one must make the trip to the Cradle of Humanity. As a result of the discovery of the earliest ever hominid fossil, an Australopithecus Africanus, in 1924, this location is today recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can be reached by car in about 40 minutes from the center of Johannesburg and it is known as the spot where humans began.

#4. And to Constitution Hill

Your trip to Constitution Hill will provide you with a deeper comprehension of the history of the nation. This horrific old facility was referred to as “The Fort,” and it was notorious for the appalling living conditions as well as the cruel treatment of political prisoners and other inmates.

#5. Wander around Maboneng Precint

When in Johannesburg, it is necessary to make time to go to Maboneg Precinct. The name means “place of light,” and light is something that may be expected to be found there.

Once upon a time, this was a run-down section of town; however, a rehabilitation effort turned it into one of the most up-and-coming neighborhoods, where you’ll discover fantastic restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, art galleries (be sure not to miss Arts on Main and Revolution House), and great places to stay. Arts on Main and Revolution House are two art galleries that you shouldn’t miss.

#6. Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park has more than 4,500 square miles (12,000 square kilometers) of floodplains, forests, wetlands, and rivers and is located in the northeastern part of Botswana. The park is well-known for having one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in all of Africa, including a sizable number of elephants, which stands out in particular.

#7. Sun City

North-west of Johannesburg is where you’ll find the resort and entertainment complex known as Sun City. The resort complex, which is known as one of the best places to go for recreation in South Africa, can be found at a very accessible location on the South African Garden Route, right near Pilanesberg National Park. The casino, spa, water park, and golf courses are among the attractions that make Sun City so appealing.

#8. Mandela House

The Nelson Mandela National Museum, also known as Mandela House, is committed to ensuring that the history, tradition, and legacy of the Mandela family are maintained for future generations. Nelson Mandela, a former president of South Africa, and his family resided in this Johannesburg home from 1946 until the 1990s, at which point they gave it to the Soweto Heritage Trust.

#9. Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill is the place in South Africa where the change from apartheid to democracy is probably most obvious to visitors. Over more than a century, the structures located here served as a dreaded prison complex. Within its walls housed everyone from common criminals to activists Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and even Winston Churchill (for a brief period during the Boer War). The Constitutional Court of South Africa has called this location its home since 2004.

#10. Gold Reef City

Both children and adults can enjoy the amusements and activities available at this theme park and casino complex, which was built on the site of a former gold mine. A live theater, cinema complex, bowling alley, trampoline park, theme park with thirty rides, and Johannesburg’s only true underground mining tour are just some of the attractions that can be found at Gold Reef City.

Fun things to do in Johannesburg

The following is a list of entertaining activities that may be done in Johannesburg for less than R200. People come from all over the world to live in Johannesburg because it has the energy, the friendliest people, the freshest ideas, and the high-octane lifestyle that everyone wants to experience. We aim to assist you in making this the year that you finally make it to Johannesburg by providing you with engaging activities that are surprisingly affordable.

#1. Spend some time exploring the Locrate Market in Soweto.

The Locrate Market bills itself as a “lifestyle market to break all markets,” and it features “mother trucker” food trucks, live music, poetry readings, bike tours, artisan beer, and unique designer apparel. The event is held on the first Sunday of every month (Feb – Nov) from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and the mission of its founders is to inspire entrepreneurs and create moments that will be remembered forever.

#2. Reflect at the Nelson Mandela Center of Memory.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation, a charitable organization that Madiba established in 1999, is home to the Center of Memory, which honors Madiba’s legacy. Come see the photography that was taken during the State of the Century at the exhibition that is currently on display. To visit the center, please send a booking request through the website. The Nelson Mandela Center of Memory is open from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visitors’ convenience.

#3. Wits Origins Centre

This one-of-a-kind museum is devoted to illuminating the history of early humankind, including the intriguing rock art that was discovered there. On the grounds of the University of the Witwatersrand, you’ll find this wonderful museum. Experience a journey that spans more than 80,000 years and is filled with significant information about the art and culture of the past. The Wits Origins Center offers visitors the opportunity to participate in audio tours. Evenings will occasionally play host to public lectures at various locations. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week and until 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

#4. Catch a Performance at The Market Theatre

The Market Theatre played a significant role in the struggle and is still going strong to this day, producing plays that are forward-thinking and powerful. The excellent level of theater is maintained with innovative acts being offered, and going to the theater is a delightful and thought-provoking activity to do with friends or a significant other.

#5. Zorb around in a giant inflatable ball at Jozi X

The Zorb ride at Jozi X is the longest one in all of South Africa. Climb inside the inflated ball, which has a diameter of 3 meters, and roll down the slope that is 200 meters long. In addition, Jozi X has the wacky sport of Bubble Soccer, the Big Air Krush Kushion Jump, and slacklining, which allows participants to hone their balancing abilities and gain core strength.

#6. High tea at Lindfield Victorian House Museum

At Lindfield House, you can experience what it was like to live in the Victorian era while indulging in traditional high tea. The historic rooms at Lindfield House provide the ideal setting for an immersive experience that transports visitors to bygone eras. It is required that you make your reservation at least one week in advance.

#7. Get your adrenaline fix at the Orlando Towers

This is the location of the very first bungee leap in the world, which took place between two cooling towers. The rock climbing course at 25 meters and the group paintball game that can be played at the bottom of the western cooling tower are the two most reasonably priced options among the various activities for people who are addicted to the rush of adrenaline.

#8. Coffee tasting at Bean There Coffee Company

Bean There Coffee Company, which can be found in the hip neighborhood of 44 Stanley, is an excellent spot for grabbing a cup of coffee on the go or for having a relaxed get-together with a buddy. It is the first roaster in South Africa to be awarded the Certified Fairtrade label. Join them in the mornings for coffee cupping to learn about the process of coffee roasting, from crop to cup, and enjoy a sample of coffee that has been paired with appropriate foods.

#9. The Rooftop Market at Rosebank

The city of Johannesburg is a thriving metropolis with an estimated 10 million trees and rooftop gardens. On the top of Rosebank Mall is where you’ll find a Sunday market that’s great for the whole family.

#10. Neighbourgoods Market

This storied Saturday market features the kinds of wares that will make you want to keep coming back for more. The Neighbourgoods Market is well-known for the extensive selection of food that is supplied locally, the lively atmosphere that it provides, and the live performances given by Majozi. On Saturdays, people flock there for brunch and mimosas since it is the place to be.

What is Johannesburg best known for?

In common parlance, Johannesburg is regarded as the “city of gold,” and it is the most populous city in South Africa. Its primary claim to fame, however, is that Nelson Mandela made the city his home, and it is also renowned for its remarkable collection of museums.

What do people go to Johannesburg for?

There is a lot to get excited about in the city, and there is definitely enough here to keep you busy during your time here, from hipster coffee shops to fashion boutiques, art galleries to museums, botanical gardens to theaters, and so on.

Is it worth visiting Johannesburg?

It is highly recommended that you pay a visit to Johannesburg since it is the most populous city in South Africa and the economic powerhouse with the most influence over the entire African continent. There is a lot to see and do not only in the city itself but also in the townships that surround it because it is a very active metropolis with a population of 4.4 million people in the central city district alone.

Does Johannesburg have a Beach?

There is a small beach with white sand and a few sun loungers set up around the edge of the water that looks out over the dam. On the weekends, you should go there as early as possible to secure a space. The water temperature rises to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the summer, making it ideal for taking a pleasant, refreshing swim. Those who are capable of following the buoys around the dam can swim the one-kilometer circuit.

Summary

One of the cities in South Africa is called Johannesburg. It is well-known for its long history and the significant role it plays in the culture of South Africa.

Six landmarks make up the heart of the city. These six landmarks are representative of everything that Johannesburg has to offer, which is one of the reasons that it is such a well-liked tourist destination around the world. Your journey won’t be complete unless you stop at each of these locations, so make sure not to miss any of them!

Top 10 Interesting Things To Do In Johannesburg