Johannesburg, often called Jozi or Joburg, is a vibrant city in South Africa that offers visitors a mix of urban and natural attractions. This is the biggest city in Gauteng and probably one of the busiest in South Africa. Whether you are stopping by on a trip from Pretoria or exploring Johannesburg as a local, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
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Things to do in Johannesburg
From parks and gardens to trendy eateries and historical sites, here are some of the best things to do in Johannesburg:
Johannesburg Botanical Garden
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Located in Emmarentia, it is a free activity for the whole family. Wander through its themed gardens, which offer a variety of plants and flowers to admire year-round. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with friends, or even birdwatching.
📍Location: Olifants Road, Emmarentia
Coffee or Lunch at The Whippet
Now, this spot has been popping up a lot on my Instagram lately. In the neighbouring suburb of Linden, you’ll find The Whippet. It offers one of the best spots for a coffee or a casual lunch and is known for its pleasant aesthetics. Even though they were quite busy when we arrived, we didn’t wait long for a table. And once we placed our order, we understood why. We didn’t wait long, making the service impeccable.
📍Location: 7th Street, Linden
Instagram: @thewhippetcoffee
Hike at the Wilds Nature Reserve
For those who love the outdoors, The Wilds Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in Johannesburg. This nature reserve offers easy trails that wind through the reserve with panoramic views of the city. It’s also home to beautiful art installations and is a serene escape from the bustling city life.
The entrance to the reserve is free and the gardens are well kept and nothing seemed out of place. If you are not keen on a hike, you can also relax in the lawn area.
📍Location: Houghton Drive
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Shop at 27 Boxes
If you’re a fan of unique shopping experiences, 27 Boxes in Melville is a must-visit. This container mall offers an eclectic mix of local designers, artisan stores, and food vendors. It’s a fun place to find locally-made crafts, clothing, and gifts while supporting small businesses in Johannesburg.
I suggest you visit them during the week, as not much is happening over the weekend.
📍Location: 4th Avenue, Melville
Shop and Dine at Melrose Arch
For a more upscale shopping experience, Melrose Arch is the place to be. This chic precinct is home to high-end boutiques, luxury brands, and a variety of trendy restaurants and cafes. It’s an ideal spot for both shopping and dining in style, with a lively atmosphere that lasts into the evening.
📍Location: Corlett Drive
They are also famous for their amazing Christmas lights display over the festive season.
See the Jacarandas in Bloom
During springtime, from late September to November, Johannesburg and its neighbouring city Pretoria are transformed into a sea of purple. Take a drive through the city to see these beautiful trees in full bloom. It’s a magical sight that’s unique to this part of the world.
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Visit Montecasino
For a fun day out, Montecasino offers a mix of entertainment options. This Tuscan-themed casino and entertainment complex features restaurants, theatres, shops, and a bird garden. Whether you’re in the mood for a show, fine dining, or just a bit of fun, Montecasino is one of Joburg’s popular entertainment spots.
📍Location: Montecasino Blvd, Fourways
Explore Nelson Mandela House
Located in Soweto, the Nelson Mandela House offers a deep dive into the life of South Africa’s most iconic leader. The house-turned-museum is where Nelson Mandela lived before his arrest in 1962. It’s a moving experience that provides insight into his life and the country’s journey to freedom.
📍Location: Vilakazi St, Soweto
Visit the Apartheid Museum
For a more in-depth look into South Africa’s history, the Apartheid Museum is a must-visit. The exhibits here tell the story of apartheid, from its inception to its fall, and reflect on the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom. It’s an educational and emotional experience that highlights the country’s difficult but inspiring journey to democracy.
📍Location: Gold Reef Road
Visit the Sterkfontein Caves
A short drive from Johannesburg lies the Sterkfontein Caves. It forms part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. These caves are not only a geological wonder but also one of the world’s most important fossil sites, where some of the earliest human ancestors were discovered. Guided tours will take you through the cave, offering a glimpse into humanity’s ancient past.
📍Location: Kromdraai Rd
Operating Times: Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm.
Book your tickets online here and make sure you arrive 15 minutes before your chosen timeslot.
You can also enjoy a nice lunch at the Sterkfontein restaurant located on the premises.
Wander Around the Nirox Sculpture Park
Just outside of Johannesburg is the Nirox Sculpture Park. It is also in the Cradle of Humankind and offers an impressive outdoor art gallery. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll come across various sculptures by local and international artists. Afterwards, treat yourself to a meal at the park’s restaurant – And Then There Was Fire.
Just take note that booking at the restaurant is essential. And if you make a booking at the restaurant, then you’ll get a discount on the entrance fee.
📍Location: Kromdraai Rd
Operating Times: Only on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm.
Bungee Jump at Soweto Towers
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, try the bungee jump at Soweto Towers. These brightly painted cooling towers in Soweto are an iconic part of the Johannesburg skyline and offer thrill-seekers the chance to experience a 100-meter bungee jump or a swing between the towers. It’s a heart-racing adventure you won’t forget.
📍Location: Chris Rani Rd
Have Fun at Gold Reef City Theme Park
For a day of fun and adventure, head to Gold Reef City. This theme park is one of Johannesburg’s most popular attractions, offering a mix of thrilling rides. It’s built around an old gold mine, and you can even take an underground tour to learn more about Johannesburg’s mining history.
There are also ample restaurants available and rides for baby brother/ sister.
Book your ticket here.
📍Location: Northern Pkwy
Operating Times: Thursday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Wander Through the Gardens at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
One of Johannesburg’s most picturesque natural spaces is the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. Nestled against the backdrop of the Witpoortjie Waterfall, this garden offers beautiful walking paths through indigenous flora, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to escape the city hustle.
📍Location: Malcolm Rd
Operating Times: Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm.
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I’ve shared more on what makes this garden special in this post.
Take a day trip
What is nice about Johannesburg, is that it is close to so many great possible day trips. Here are some places you can visit that is close by.
Sun City
Just a short 2-hour drive is Sun City – the premier resort destination. It offers a mix of luxury, entertainment, and relaxation. It is nestled in the North West Province and is the perfect place for a fun-filled day trip or quick getaway.
Activities include the Valley of the Waves – a famous water park, featuring a massive wave pool, water slides and a lazy river. The Sun City Resort is a world-class facility, which includes two championship golf courses, a casino and a variety of restaurants and shops. Just a stone’s throw away from Sun City is Pilanesberg National Park. It offers an incredible safari experience where you can spot the Big Five on a game drive.
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Pretoria
Pretoria is South Africa’s administrative capital and is a fantastic destination for a day trip filled with history and nature.
You can visit places such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument or enjoy nature at the Pretoria Botanical Gardens. There are many great coffee spots to visit and some great hiking trails to try.
Hartebeespoort
Just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg, Hartbeespoort (often referred to as ‘Harties’ is a popular weekend getaway, offering stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities.
From the famous Hartbeespoort Dam that is in the heart of the area, with many water sports, to the gorgeous panoramic views on the Aerial Cableway. But there is so much more this quaint town has to offer
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