Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, is a dynamic hub of history, culture, and urban energy. From powerful museums to buzzing markets and scenic neighborhoods, Joburg offers a deep dive into the country’s past and present through engaging attractions.
1. Apartheid Museum
Why visit: A moving and essential experience that traces the rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa.
Highlights: – Emotional exhibitions – Mandela section – Real prison relics
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Entry: R150 (adults), R100 (students)
2. Constitution Hill
Why visit: A historic site and former prison complex that now houses South Africa’s Constitutional Court.
Highlights: – Old Fort Prison – Courtroom art – Guided tours
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R100 (adults), R50 (children/students)
3. Gold Reef City
Why visit: A theme park and living museum built on an old gold mine, offering rides and cultural shows.
Highlights: – Underground mine tour – Roller coasters – Traditional dances
Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Wed–Sun)
Entry: R250–R295 per person
4. Maboneng Precinct
Why visit: A trendy, revitalized neighborhood filled with art, cafés, and weekend markets.
Highlights: – Street murals – Rooftop bars – Sunday Market on Main
Timing: Daytime to late evening
Entry: Free
5. Soweto & Vilakazi Street
Why visit: The heart of South Africa’s liberation history and the only street in the world where two Nobel laureates lived.
Highlights: – Mandela House – Desmond Tutu’s home – Hector Pieterson Museum
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Free to enter the area; museums charge R40–R100
6. Johannesburg Zoo
Why visit: A family-friendly attraction with a wide variety of animals in well-maintained enclosures.
Highlights: – Big cats – Gorilla enclosure – Zoo night safaris
Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry: R120 (adults), R75 (children)
7. The Neighbourgoods Market
Why visit: A lively weekend food and craft market in Braamfontein popular with locals and tourists.
Highlights: – Gourmet street food – Local fashion stalls – Rooftop seating
Timing: Saturday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Carlton Centre
Why visit: Once Africa’s tallest building, offering panoramic views of the Johannesburg skyline from the top.
Highlights: – 50th floor observation deck – Cityscape views – Central location
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R30 per person
9. Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens
Why visit: A tranquil escape with indigenous plants, walking trails, and even a waterfall.
Highlights: – Hiking paths – Birdwatching – Black eagles in the cliffs
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R60 (adults), R20 (children)
10. Cradle of Humankind (nearby)
Why visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where some of the world’s oldest hominid fossils were found.
Highlights: – Sterkfontein Caves – Maropeng Visitor Centre – Archaeological insights
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: R100–R195 per person (combo tickets available)
