Johannesburg
Introduction
You will find that Johannesburg, often called Jozi, Joburg, or the "City of Gold," serves as the economic capital of South Africa. Located on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand, the city sits at the historic heart of international gold and mineral trade.
As the provincial capital of Gauteng, you will experience a hub of significant wealth and influence. The city is home to the country's highest court, the Constitutional Court, and houses the continent's largest stock exchange.
Before you go
Prepare for a city defined by its role as an economic hub where stark contrasts in wealth create diverse living conditions. You will find a landscape shaped by its gold mining legacy, visible in the mine dumps scattered throughout the area, and a vast man-made urban forest that provides greenery against the natural savannah. While English serves as the lingua franca, you may encounter a variety of cultures, including a significant Chinese community with two distinct neighborhoods. The climate is generally excellent, featuring warm summer months with occasional afternoon thunderstorms and cold winter temperatures where snow is rare. Due to the high altitude, be mindful that you may find it easier to get out of breath when moving around.
Safety is paramount in Johannesburg due to high crime rates; therefore, you should remain alert at all times and avoid displaying wealth or electronics on the street. To navigate safely, follow these guidelines:
- Keep your phone hidden, leave jewelry behind, and use a simple plastic bag for any necessary items rather than backpacks or purses.
- Limit the amount of cash and credit cards you carry, ensuring they have low limits in case of an emergency.
- When traveling at night, stick to well-lit areas, move with purpose, and only ask for directions from established shops.
- In the central business district, plan your specific destinations and parking ahead of time rather than wandering aimlessly.
- If you are driving, use a GPS to navigate complex routes and avoid certain off-ramps that lead into less secure townships like Alexandra.
Getting there
You can reach the city by car via several major highways, including the N1 from Cape Town and Bloemfontein, the N3 from Durban, and the N4 from Mbombela and the Kruger National Park. Other routes include the N12 from Kimberley and Potchefstroom, the N14 from Upington and Namibia, and the N12. Be mindful that traffic can be heavy during peak hours and accidents are frequent; take extra care when traveling toward O.R. Tambo airport due to high accident rates at Gillooly's Interchange and on the R24.
If you arrive by plane, O.R. Tambo International Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, while Lanseria International Airport caters to regional, corporate, and diplomatic travel. For those arriving at O.R. Tambo, you can take a high-speed Gautrain to Sandton or Pretoria, or use licensed taxis with meters located outside the building. To avoid high commissions at airport exchange bureaus, use the ATMs located in the retail mall. If you prefer rail, the city serves as a hub for the Shosholoza Meyl national passenger service and the MetroRail commuter network. Long-distance buses from companies such as Greyhound, Intercape, Translux, Magic Bus, S.A Roadlink, Baz Bus, Eldo Coaches, and Eagle Liner arrive at Park Station or the Johannesburg International Transport Interchange.
Getting around
Johannesburg is a sprawling city designed primarily for car travel, making private vehicles your best option for flexibility and exploring the area. If you choose to drive, be prepared for fast-paced traffic and potential delays during peak hours when traveling into or out of Sandton. Use a GPS and a good road map to navigate the large city, as it is not always well signposted. To ensure safety, avoid stopping at traffic lights after dark in certain areas, stay on main freeways when traveling from the airport, and stick to well-lit, secure parking spaces.
For those preferring public transport, the Gautrain offers a clean, safe, and fast rail service connecting the airport to various hubs including Sandton, Rosebank, and Pretoria. You can also use the Gautrain feeder bus network for local travel around stations. Other options include the Rea Vaya, a dedicated bus rapid transit system with its own lanes, and larger double-decker metro buses that run along main roads like Oxford Street. While minibus taxis are common and provide an authentic experience, they are often unreliable and not recommended for visitors unless accompanied by locals. Ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber are also available as alternatives to traditional taxis.
Where to stay
You can find a diverse range of accommodation options in Sandton and the surrounding northern suburbs. If your travel plans require proximity to O.R. Tambo International Airport, you should look toward the neighboring areas of Kempton Park and Benoni.
Food & drink
You can explore a wide variety of dining options in Johannesburg, ranging from international cuisines to local delicacies. While you can find standard South African chain restaurants in northern shopping malls, you might prefer the European feel of various "restaurant streets" scattered throughout the suburbs. These areas offer distinct atmospheres: Melville serves as a cultural hub with street vendors and charity shops, while Gleneagles Road provides a collection of cafes and restaurants away from the crowds. For uncomplicated dining like sushi or pizza, Grant Avenue in Norwood is an option, while Derrick Avenue offers numerous Asian restaurants in a local Chinatown. If you prefer a more bustling atmosphere, Fordsburg features authentic Indian cuisine and active outdoor markets.
Depending on your preference for nightlife, different neighborhoods offer unique experiences:
- Melville, Braamfontein, Rosebank, and the Newtown cultural precinct all host various pubs and clubs.
- The Rivonia and Sandton areas are known for more upmarket clubbing.
What to see and do
Explore the diverse character of the inner city, where the Central Business District now features numerous galleries and art spaces. You can experience the cultural pulse of Newtown and the Market Theatre area, known for its live music venues and bars, or visit the artsy Braamfontein district to enjoy a lively atmosphere and a popular Saturday market. On the east side, wander through the Maboneng Precinct and Arts on Main to find an independent cinema and a Sunday market. If you head west, Fordsburg offers a vibrant scene with various ethnic restaurants and markets, while Yeoville serves as a hub for the Francophone African diaspora with numerous Cameroonian and Congolese establishments.
Visit several significant cultural and historical sites across the city:
- The Johannesburg Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of local and international works.
- Constitution Hill provides a look into history at the site of the Old Fort prison complex, while the Workers Museum depicts the lives of migrant labourers.
- The Origins Centre features multimedia displays of rock art, and the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre offers interactive experiences in science and technology.
- The WITS Anglo American Digital Dome uses high-resolution projectors to create an immersive environment for learning about the universe.
- In the northern suburbs, visit the Sophiatown Heritage & Cultural Centre or see performing Lipizzaners in Sandton.
- Travel south to experience the Apartheid Museum and the James Hall Museum of Transport, or visit Gold Reef City to learn about gold mining at an amusement park.
For a broader view of the region, you can find greenery at the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens or enjoy a panoramic perspective from the top of Africa's tallest building in the Carlton Centre. If you prefer active pursuits, you can watch international cricket matches at Wanderers Stadium or play golf at Glendower.
When to go
You can enjoy pleasant weather in Johannesburg throughout the year. During the summer months, you can expect hot conditions with little to no wind and occasional spectacular afternoon thunderstorms.
The winter season brings cooler temperatures that can occasionally drop below freezing. Because of the high altitude, you may experience breathlessness while exploring the city.
Three days in Johannesburg
Day one, you can begin your exploration of the city by exploring the historical landscape of the Witwatersrand. While you navigate the Gauteng region, keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe experience in Jozi.
Day two, travel through the heart of Joburg as you discover the local culture. You can explore different areas like Alexandra while staying mindful of your surroundings during your time in this part of South Africa.
Day three, you can spend your final day exploring more of the city. Whether you call it Jozi or Joburg, enjoy the unique atmosphere of the region before preparing for your next journey beyond the city limits.