Gauteng is the smallest province in South Africa, but it is also the wealthiest and most densely populated. Johannesburg, the provincial capital, is the largest city in South Africa and is a major economic and cultural hub. The city is known for its rich history and cultural diversity, and there are many tourist attractions in and around Johannesburg that are worth visiting.
Gold Reef City
Golf Reef City is a top tourist attraction in Johannesburg. It is an amusement park that is located on the site of a former gold mine. The park is named after the gold reef that runs through the area, and it offers a range of exciting rides and attractions that are suitable for all ages. Some of the highlights of Golf Reef City include the Anaconda, a looping roller coaster, and the Jozi Express, a wooden roller coaster. The park also has a range of other rides, including water rides, thrill rides, and family rides, as well as a range of restaurants and other amenities.
Constitutional Hill
Constitution Hill is another top tourist spot in Johannesburg. It is a cultural and historical precinct that is located in the city center and is home to a number of important landmarks, including the Old Fort, which was once a prison, and the Women’s Gaol, which was used to imprison political prisoners during the apartheid era. Today, Constitution Hill is a popular tourist attraction that is known for its rich history and cultural significance. Visitors to Constitution Hill can take guided tours of the precinct, visit the museum, and learn more about the history of South Africa.
The Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum is another important tourist attraction in Johannesburg. It is a museum that is dedicated to telling the story of the apartheid era in South Africa, and it is an important place to visit for anyone interested in the history of the country. The museum is home to a range of exhibits that explore the history of apartheid, including photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays. Visitors to the museum can learn about the struggle for civil rights in South Africa and the efforts to end apartheid, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s complex and often troubled history.
The South African National Museum of Military History
The South African National Museum of Military History is a top tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is dedicated to telling the story of the country’s military history. The museum is home to a range of exhibits that explore the history of South Africa’s armed forces, from the Anglo-Boer War to the present day. Visitors to the museum can see a range of military vehicles, aircraft, weapons, and other equipment, as well as learn about the role that the military has played in the country’s history. The museum is an important place to visit for anyone interested in military history, and it provides a unique perspective on South Africa’s past and present.
The Maboneng Precinct
The Maboneng Precinct is another popular tourist destination in Johannesburg. It is a trendy, artsy neighborhood that is known for its vibrant culture, street art, and independent boutiques and galleries. Visitors to the Maboneng Precinct can explore the area on foot, visiting the galleries and shops, and trying some of the local food and drink. The precinct is also home to a number of events and festivals throughout the year, making it a great place to experience the city’s cultural scene.
The Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo is another popular tourist attraction in the city. It is home to a wide range of animals, including lions, chimpanzees, gorillas, and elephants, as well as a range of other species from all over the world. Visitors to the zoo can take guided tours, visit the animal enclosures, and learn about the conservation efforts that are underway to protect these species. The zoo is a great place to visit for animal lovers, and it is a fun and educational experience for people of all ages.
Mandela’s House
Mandela’s House, also known as the Nelson Mandela National Museum, is a popular tourist attraction in Soweto, a township located on the outskirts of Johannesburg. The museum is located in the house where Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president, lived from 1946 to 1962. The house has been restored to its original condition and is open to the public as a museum.
Visitors to Mandela’s House can take a guided tour of the museum, which includes a visit to the historic house, as well as the exhibition galleries that tell the story of Mandela’s life and work. The museum is an important place to visit for anyone interested in the history of South Africa and the struggle against apartheid, and it provides a unique glimpse into the life of one of the country’s most important figures.
Vilikazi Street
Vilikazi Street is another popular tourist destination in Soweto. It is a street that is known for its rich history and cultural significance, and it is home to a number of landmarks and attractions. Some of the highlights of Vilikazi Street include the Hector Pieterson Museum, which is dedicated to telling the story of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, and the Regina Mundi Church, which played a key role in the struggle against apartheid. Visitors to Vilikazi Street can learn about the history of Soweto and experience the vibrant culture of the township.
The Wits Art Museum
The Wits Art Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is known for its collection of modern and contemporary African art. The museum is located on the campus of the University of the Witwatersrand, and it is home to a range of exhibitions that showcase the work of artists from across the continent. Some of the highlights of the Wits Art Museum include the permanent collection, which features works by artists such as William Kentridge and Frances Goodman, and the temporary exhibitions, which showcase the work of emerging and established artists from South Africa and beyond. The museum is a great place to visit for anyone interested in African art, and it provides a unique perspective on the continent’s rich artistic heritage.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a top tourist destination in Johannesburg that is known for its beautiful gardens and natural beauty. The garden is located on the outskirts of the city, and it is home to a range of plant species from all over the world. Visitors to the garden can take guided tours, explore the gardens on foot, or enjoy the scenery from one of the many picnic areas. The garden is a great place to visit for nature lovers, and it is a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Market Theatre
The Market Theatre is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is known for its vibrant cultural scene. The theatre is located in the city center, and it is home to a range of performances, including plays, concerts, and other events. Some of the highlights of the Market Theatre include the Main Theatre, which is home to a range of productions by local and international artists, and the Jazz Club, which features live music and performances by local and international musicians. The theatre is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the arts, and it is an important part of the city’s cultural landscape.
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden
The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are another popular tourist destination in the city. They are located on the outskirts of Johannesburg, and they are home to a range of plant species from all over the world. Visitors to the gardens can take guided tours, explore the gardens on foot, or enjoy the scenery from one of the many picnic areas. The gardens are a great place to visit for nature lovers, and they provide a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Gandi Square
Gandi Square is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is known for its rich history and cultural significance. The square is located in the city center, and it is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the Nelson Mandela Bridge and the Gandhi Statue. Gandhi Square is a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to visit to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The square is also home to a number of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit.
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math education. The centre is located in the city center, and it is home to a range of interactive exhibits, workshops, and other educational resources that are designed to inspire curiosity and encourage learning. Some of the highlights of the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre include the Science Gallery, which features a range of hands-on exhibits, and the Planetarium, which offers immersive shows and presentations about the universe. The centre is a great place to visit for anyone interested in science and technology, and it is an important resource for education in the city.
Sandton City
Sandton City is a popular tourist destination in Johannesburg that is known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The mall is located in the suburb of Sandton, and it is home to a range of stores, restaurants, and other amenities. Some of the highlights of Sandton City include the Diamond Walk, a section of the mall that is home to high-end stores, and the Food Court, which features a range of dining options. The mall is a great place to visit for shopping and entertainment, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Nelson Mandela Square
Nelson Mandela Square is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is named after South Africa’s first democratically elected president. The square is located in the city center, and it is home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the Nelson Mandela Statue and the Nelson Mandela Wall of Tribute. The square is a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to visit to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The square is also home to a range of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit.
The Wilds Nature Reserve
The Wilds Nature Reserve is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is located on the outskirts of the city. The reserve is home to a range of plant and animal species, and it is a great place to visit for anyone interested in nature. Some of the highlights of the Wilds Nature Reserve include the bird hide, which is a great place to observe local birdlife, and the hiking trails, which offer scenic views of the reserve. The reserve is a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers, and it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Lindfield Victorian House Museum
The Lindfield Victorian House Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the city. The museum is located in the suburb of Parktown, and it is home to a range of exhibits and artifacts that explore the history of Johannesburg and the surrounding region. Some of the highlights of the Lindfield Victorian House Museum include the Victorian garden, which is home to a range of plants and flowers, and the Victorian kitchen, which is a replica of a kitchen from the 19th century. The museum is a great place to visit for anyone interested in history, and it is an important resource for education in the city.
The James Hall Museum of Transport
The James Hall Museum of Transport is a popular tourist attraction in Johannesburg that is dedicated to the history of transportation in South Africa. The museum is located in the suburb of La Rochelle, and it is home to a range of exhibits and artifacts that explore the evolution of transportation in the country. Some of the highlights of the James Hall Museum of Transport include the collection of vintage vehicles, which includes cars, buses, and trains, and the interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to learn about the history of transportation in a hands-on way.
Places you can visit around Johannesburg to see animals and wild life!
South Africa is a popular destination for animal lovers because it is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the “big 5” (lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo). Many international tourists visit South Africa specifically to see these animals in their natural habitat and to learn more about them.
There are several wildlife parks and reserves located near Johannesburg that are popular with tourists. The Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve is a conservation project that aims to protect and breed endangered species. The Lion Park is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can see lions, hyenas, and other animals up close. The Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park is home to a variety of reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and lizards. The Dinokeng Game Reserve is a large nature reserve that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the big 5.
