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The 11 Best Days Out in Johannesburg

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Welcome to Johannesburg, the vibrant and bustling city that never sleeps. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to explore more of what this dynamic city has to offer, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we have curated the most popular and unmissable attractions that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the history, culture, and natural beauty of Johannesburg. From iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to wildlife reserves and captivating museums, we’ve got you covered. Come along with us as we unveil the best things to do in Johannesburg.

The 11 Best Days Out in Johannesburg

  1. Cradle of Human Kind Tour and Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour from Johannesburg
  2. Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre
  3. Ultimate Private Johannesburg Experience
  4. Half Day Pretoria City Tour
  5. Johannesburg Day Tour
  6. Johannesburg Half Day Small Group Your
  7. Soweto Tours
  8. Johannesburg Hop on Hop Off Tour Plus Soweto Eco Tour
  9. Private Day Tour of Arignar Anna Zoological Park from Chennai
  10. 4 Day Lodge and Treehouse Kruger National Park Safari
  11. Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

The 11 Best Days Out in Johannesburg

1. Cradle of Human Kind Tour and Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour from Johannesburg

Immerse yourself in South Africa’s ancient history and cultural heritage with a day tour of the Cradle of Humankind and Lesedi Cultural Village from Johannesburg. Begin your journey exploring the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind, where some of the world’s oldest hominid fossils were discovered. Visit the Sterkfontein Caves and the Maropeng Visitor Center, and marvel at the fascinating exhibits and collections.

Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch (at your own expense) before continuing the adventure at the Lesedi Cultural Village. Learn about the traditions and heritage of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele people through a guided tour of the village. Experience authentic African drumming, singing, and dancing performances, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of South Africa.

This hassle-free tour includes hotel pickup and round-trip transportation from Johannesburg, as well as bottled water and a knowledgeable local guide. Gratuities and drinks are not included in the tour, but souvenir photos are available for purchase. Join this tour to uncover the fascinating history and vibrant culture of South Africa.

2. Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre

Spend a half day exploring the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre on this tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria. With round-trip transportation provided, there’s no need to rent a car and you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery on the ride. If you choose a weekend visit, you’ll be able to witness a cheetah run, and weekday visits include a cheetah interaction in the animals’ spacious enclosure. Your guide will talk about the biology, behavior, and conservation status of cheetahs. The tour includes bottled water to keep you hydrated, all entrance fees, and hotel/port pickup and drop-off. Lunch, food and drinks, and donations or sponsorship are not included. If you’re staying at a hotel, please wait for the guide at the reception or foyer on the ground floor. They will have a name badge identifying themselves. If you are staying at a guest house or private residence, please provide the address so that you can be picked up.

3. Ultimate Private Johannesburg Experience

Experience Johannesburg like never before with the Ultimate Private Johannesburg Experience! Enjoy the luxury of a private vehicle and guide as you create your own personalised itinerary for a tour tailored to your interests. With the option to visit the Apartheid Museum in Soweto or take a group bike tour around the city, marvel at its public art and amazing architecture, this tour is flexible and customizable to your preferences. Indulge in brunch at one of Joburg’s haute cuisine restaurants or sample some delicious pastries at Patisserie de Paris. Finally, make your way to Mr Vinyl to discover records and mix-tapes of all genres and decades from across the globe. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide you with the personal attention and expertise needed to make this an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on the Ultimate Private Johannesburg Experience!

4. Half Day Pretoria City Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Pretoria on this half-day tour, which takes you to the most iconic and historically significant landmarks. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Johannesburg or Pretoria in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, accompanied by an expert guide who will provide insight into the city’s colonial history. You’ll visit Pretoria’s top attractions, including the Union Buildings, the Voortrekker Monument, and the Paul Kruger House Museum. With your guide, you’ll learn about the rich culture and past of South Africa. At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel. This is an ideal tour for those who want to explore the city of Pretoria and learn more about its history and culture.

5. Johannesburg Day Tour

Explore the stunning city of Johannesburg on a private day tour. Start your adventure at the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, where you will have 20 minutes to snap some photos and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Next up, you’ll head to the beautiful Houghton Estate for a quick 15-minute stop.

Afterwards, you will visit 18 more stops to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions. This comprehensive tour will give you a glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Throughout the tour, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with private transportation. Bottled water, coffee and/or tea, lunch, and soda/pop are included in the package.

Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions. Confirmation will be received at time of booking and most travelers can participate.

Cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

6. Johannesburg Half Day Small Group Your

This half-day small group tour is the ideal way for first-time visitors to discover Johannesburg’s top sights. A knowledgeable guide will take you to see the must-visit attractions such as Constitution Hill and Nelson Mandela Bridge. In addition, you’ll get a glimpse of the vibrant urban culture of the city by exploring restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. Enjoy stress-free transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Your driver/guide and a local guide will be with you throughout the tour. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase during the tour, and hotel drop-off is included. Pickup times will vary depending on your location. Don’t miss the chance to visit Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct and Mary Fitzgerald Square on this exciting tour.

7. Soweto Tours

Explore the vibrant culture, history, and traditions of Soweto on this private tour departing from Johannesburg or Pretoria. With the expertise of a professional private guide, you’ll discover some of the nation’s most incredible sights, such as Nelson Mandela’s home and the Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum. You could even choose to bungee jump (additional cost) or tour the streets on two wheels with an optional bike tour (own expense). The tour includes round-trip transport and pickup from your hotel or preferred meeting point. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into one of the most exciting towns in the country.

8. Johannesburg Hop on Hop Off Tour Plus Soweto Eco Tour

See the sights of Johannesburg at your own pace and learn about its history with a 1 or 2-day ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. On this tour, you will have a chance to discover the cultural attractions of the Braamfontein neighborhood and learn the story of apartheid at the Apartheid Museum. There will also be a commentary especially for kids.

In addition to the bus tour, take a 2-hour eco tour of the township of Soweto, also known as the “New York of Africa.” This tour will take you to Vilakazi Street in Soweto to see Mandela House and Desmond Tutu House and the 1st ever sports facility built for black South Africans in a residential area. You’ll also drive past the huge Baragwanath Hospital and taxi rank, go to the site that was the catalyst of the Soweto Uprising, and hear stories about the legal and political career of Mahatma Gandhi. Get ready to learn history and embrace a new culture.

9. Private Day Tour of Arignar Anna Zoological Park from Chennai

Experience the wildlife of the Arignar Anna Zoological Park on a private day tour, departing from Chennai. This self-guided audio tour will provide you with direct access to an audio guide playlist, a personally created tour itinerary map for each attraction, and 6 days of access validity. Entry fees are included in the tour package where required. The tour is flexible, allowing you to choose your own starting point and ending point. The tour includes a visit to the Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, the Johannesburg Zoo, and three additional stops. Please note that the quality of the voice used to create the audio guide is universally accepted. Confirmation details for the tour will be provided at the time of booking. Please be aware that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but is easily accessible by public transportation.

10. 4 Day Lodge and Treehouse Kruger National Park Safari

Explore South Africa’s largest game reserve and spot Africa’s Big Five on this amazing four-day tour of Kruger National Park. This tour offers guided game drives, bush walks, and open-top safari tours for maximum wildlife-watching opportunities. Enjoy a traditional bush braai and spend the night in a charming treehouse. Round-trip transfers from Johannesburg airport or hotels are included, as well as three nights of accommodation and all taxes, fees, and handling charges. Lunch is not included, but there will be stops at places where it can be purchased. Book now to experience the unforgettable beauty of Kruger National Park.

11. Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

Explore the vibrant and lively Soweto township on this full-day guided tour from Johannesburg. Your guide, a native of the township, will take you on a detailed tour of Soweto, showing you landmarks such as the Apartheid Museum, the Diepkloof area, and Carlton Centre. You’ll also see the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. In addition to the tour of Soweto, you’ll also get to explore some of the top attractions of Johannesburg, including Constitution Hill and Carlton Centre. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and food and drinks. Don’t miss out on the ultimate Johannesburg experience!

Frequently Asked Questions about Johannesburg

Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan place that is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors to Johannesburg often have many questions about the city and its attractions. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Johannesburg.

1. What’s the weather like in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a subtropical highland climate, meaning that it enjoys warm summers and mild winters. Summer lasts from October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C. Winters last from May to August, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 18°C. The city also has a high altitude which can make the temperature cooler than expected, and sudden, brief thunderstorms are common in the summer months.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has many must-see attractions that visitors won’t want to miss. One of the most popular is the Apartheid Museum, which tells the story of apartheid and South Africa’s struggle for freedom. The Cradle of Humankind is another must-see attraction, which is a World Heritage site that showcases some of the oldest hominid fossils ever discovered. Other popular attractions include the Lion and Safari Park, the Nelson Mandela Square, the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, and the Market Theatre.

3. Is Johannesburg a safe city for tourists?

Johannesburg has a reputation for being a dangerous city, but this is largely a misconception. While it is true that some parts of the city are more dangerous than others, if you stick to the main tourist areas, you should be perfectly safe. It’s always a good idea to take precautions like never leaving your valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.

4. What’s the best way to get around Johannesburg?

Johannesburg has a well-developed transport system, including buses, taxis, Uber, and a high-speed rail service, the Gautrain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing, renting a car might be the most convenient option. However, if you plan to stick to the main tourist areas, public transport or Uber might be a more affordable and convenient option.

5. What are some good day trip options from Johannesburg?

There are many great day trip options from Johannesburg. Some of the most popular include the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, located just a couple of hours from the city, where you can see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. The Hartbeespoort Dam is another good option, where you can enjoy water sports, hiking, and more. The Cradle of Humankind, mentioned earlier, is also close enough to visit in a day trip.

6. What should I know about the local culture in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg is a melting pot of cultures, and locals are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, there are some cultural norms that visitors should be aware of. For example, South Africans tend to be very formal and polite, so it’s important to address people respectfully, using their titles and surnames, until you’re given permission to use their first names. South Africans also tend to be very punctual, so it’s important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.

7. What’s the cuisine like in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg is a foodie haven, with many great restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Traditional South African cuisine features meat, particularly beef, lamb, and ostrich, as well as maize and sweet potatoes. However, Johannesburg’s multicultural population means that you’ll also find a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Indian, and Chinese.

8. What’s the currency in South Africa?

The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Visitors can exchange currency at banks, foreign exchange offices, and at airports. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in large cities like Johannesburg, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Johannesburg

Johannesburg, also known as Jo’burg or Jozi, is the largest city in South Africa and the capital of Gauteng province. It is a vibrant and diverse city with lots of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Jozi has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Johannesburg.

1. Visit the Apartheid Museum

One of the most important museums in South Africa and a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history is the Apartheid Museum. The museum showcases the rise and fall of apartheid and its impact on the country. The exhibits include photographs, film footage, and personal accounts of those who were directly affected by apartheid. The museum is open seven days a week, and guided tours are available.

2. Take a Tour of Soweto

Soweto is the largest township in Johannesburg and is home to over two million people. It played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid and has a rich and fascinating history. Taking a tour of Soweto is a great way to learn about the township’s past and present. You can visit landmarks such as the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Vilakazi Street, where both Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu lived.

3. Explore the Johannesburg Botanical Garden

The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a beautiful park that’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll or a picnic with family and friends. The garden is home to over 30,000 trees and plants, including a collection of indigenous South African species. There are several walking trails, bird hides, and a restaurant on-site.

4. Go on a Safari Tour

Johannesburg is located near several game reserves and national parks, making it a great destination for a safari tour. You can expect to see wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos on these tours. The most popular reserves near Johannesburg include the Pilanesberg National Park and the Kruger National Park.

5. Visit the Market Theatre

The Market Theatre is one of the best-known performing arts venues in Johannesburg. It was established in the 1970s as an alternative to the racially segregated theater scene at the time. The Market Theatre hosts a variety of shows, including plays, music performances, and comedy shows.

6. Experience the City’s Nightlife

Johannesburg has a vibrant and lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. For live music, check out venues such as The Orbit or Bassline. For cocktails with a view, head to The Living Room rooftop bar. The Maboneng precinct is also a popular nightlife destination, with its trendy bars and restaurants.

7. Visit the Johannesburg Zoo

The Johannesburg Zoo is a popular family-friendly attraction that’s home to over 3,000 animals, including tigers, elephants, and zebras. The zoo is also involved in conservation efforts, and you can learn about various conservation projects during your visit.

8. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a unique and memorable experience in Johannesburg, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the city. You’ll get breathtaking views of the city skyline and the surrounding countryside. Several tour operators offer hot air balloon rides, and most tours include a champagne breakfast.

Book Your Tour Now

Johannesburg is a unique and exciting destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to see and do in the city. From visiting the Apartheid Museum to taking a safari tour, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy during your stay in Jozi. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Johannesburg has to offer.

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The 11 Best Days Out in Johannesburg

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!