Johannesburg

South Africa, Africa

Johannesburg, known as Jozi, is a vibrant metropolis that is rich in history and culture. It is famous for its diverse neighborhoods like Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, and the bustling Maboneng Precinct, where art and local cuisine collide. Visitors are drawn to the city's dynamic atmosphere, historical significance, and its role as a gateway to the rest of South Africa, including safari adventures in nearby Kruger National Park.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Rand

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Apartheid Museum

Explore South Africa's history and struggle for freedom.

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Soweto

Experience vibrant culture and visit historic sites.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Constitution Hill

Discover South Africa's constitutional history and rights.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Gold Reef City

Enjoy thrilling rides and learn about gold mining.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Cradle of Humankind

Explore ancient hominid fossils and caves.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nelson Mandela Square

See the iconic statue and enjoy shopping.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Maboneng Precinct

Discover art, dining, and nightlife in a trendy area.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Relax in beautifully landscaped gardens and picnic spots.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Rand

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Zulu

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bobotie

Spiced minced meat baked with egg. (National dish)

Biltong

Cured, dried meat, often beef or game.

Braai/Shisa Nyama

Barbecued meat, often served with sides.

Bunny Chow

Curry in a hollowed-out bread loaf.

Potjiekos

Slow-cooked stew in a cast-iron pot.

Phrases to learn

English

Zulu

Hello

Sawubona

(Sah-woo-boh-nah)

Yes/No

Yebo / Cha

(Yeh-boh / Chah)

Thank you

Ngiyabonga

(Ngee-ah-bon-gah)

Excuse me

Uxolo

(Oo-ksoh-loh)

How much?

Malini?

(Mah-lee-nee)