From the shanty towns of Soweto to the sophisticated buildings of its modern heart, "Jo'burg" or "Jozi" has the power to astonish, challenge and richly reward its visitors. The changes taking place in 21st Century South Africa are reflected more clearly here than in any other part of the country, in a vibrant and newfound spirit of optimism.
Show moreUse this interactive map to explore a huge range of accommodation in Johannesburg - all available on Expedia. Click on a hotel to see the hotels in that area.
When to go to Johannesburg?
The high season is winter (March-November), when - thanks to the lack of foliage on trees - wildlife viewing in the game parks is at its best. This is also the time when business travellers converge on the city for conferences and commerce. Days are mild and sunny; nights are cold. But in fact, Jo'burg is very pleasant indeed between December and late January, when many of its residents leave for the coast and life slows down to a more relaxed pace. The temperatures are not unbearably hot and attractions not so crowded.
Are we there yet?
Johannesburg Flight times
From Sydney: around 14 hours.
From Melbourne: around 16 hours.
From Brisbane: around 16 hours.
Johannesburg airport to city: taxi 30 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic/time of day. The journey is 21 kilometres. Magic Bus and Airport Link operate shuttle services to the CBD and other areas.
Apartheid Museum: not to be missed
Pilanesburg Game Reserve: one of South Africa's best; around 2.45 hours drive
Newton Cultural Precinct: music, dancing, museums, art, theatres, shopping and more; don't miss the Museum of Africa
Constitutional Hill Museum: former notorious "Number Four" prison
Cradle of Humankind: World Heritage Site (45 minutes)
Soweto: birthplace of Nelson Mandela and one of the most changed parts of Jo'burg, although shanty towns are still springing up
Mandela Family Museum (Soweto)
Sandton City shopping centre: the biggest in the southern hemisphere
Johannesburg Art Gallery's excellent collection
The marvellous rooftop market: at Rosebank Mall on Sundays
Melville Village and bohemian Seventh Street: While you're there, take a look at the Koppies Nature Reserve, which has Stone and Iron Age remains
Expect to be met by a clamour of people offering taxis/city transfers when you arrive at Jo'burg's international airport. Expect to see beggars - lots of them - in the city. The crime rate here has dropped considerably, but do exercise common sense and caution; be careful using ATMs, stick to the obviously safe areas after dark. If you're driving, keep the car doors locked. Jo'burg's many minibus taxis are not a normal taxi service; they do not run door-to-door, and are best avoided unless you know exactly how they operate. Phone for a metered taxi instead (you can't hail them in the street), or make use of organised tours to visit out-of-the-way places. Locals love to shop at Hyde Park Corner, and the selection of stores/labels is extensive. The Nelson Mandela Bridge is at its best by night, when it's transformed by special lighting. If you're visiting a game park, avoid disappointment by checking on optimum times for animal viewings. Want to gamble? Head to Gold Reef City Theme Park and Casino, or Monte Casino - or to the famous Sun City (2.45 hours' drive). Travelling with kids? The Bunny Park is a favourite. Sun City casino resort is around 2.45 hours' drive; Pretoria is even closer (50km), and an interesting place to visit (50km). Using prepaid tickets on the city's Metrobus services is cheaper than paying on board; buy them at the kiosks in shopping malls.
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