Johannesburg, the city of gold, is full of culture and opportunity. Located in the Gauteng province. Joburg is one of the largest cities in South Africa.

From exploring the city’s rich history to enjoying its vibrant nightlife, whether you’re in for a new adventure or just seeking to relax and take in the sights, Johannesburg has something for everyone

Here are the best things to do in Johannesburg, South Africa:

Visit the Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about South Africa’s tumultuous past. The museum does an excellent job of explaining the country’s journey from segregation to democracy and is sure to leave a lasting impression. The museum is also a space for dialogue and discussion, as it strives to promote understanding and reconciliation.

The Apartheid Museum is located in Johannesburg’s Northern suburbs and is easily accessible by public transport. You can visit the Apartheid Museum from Thursday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm, but avoid weekends if possible as it can get quite crowded. Admission is R150 for adults and R100 for children, pensioners, and students.

The apartheid museum - The Best Things To Do in Johannesburg, South Africa
The apartheid museum in Johannesburg, South Africa | @femeli

Take a tour of Soweto

Soweto or Southwestern Townships is the birthplace of the anti-apartheid movement and is one of the most important historical sites in South Africa. A tour of Soweto is a great way to learn about the lives of its people. You’ll visit landmarks such as Nelson Mandela’s former home and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, two of the bravest students from the well-known 1976 uprising.

The township is physically divided into two parts, the East and West. Most tours will take you to both sides so that you can get a full understanding of Soweto’s life. The East is more developed, with modern buildings and amenities, while the West is still considered a “township” with limited resources.

Tours of Soweto typically last around 4 hours and depart from Johannesburg’s CBD. You can book a tour of Soweto through many different companies, but we recommend using Soweto Bicycle Tours.

The soweto towers - The Best Things To Do in Johannesburg, South Africa
Orlando Towers in Soweto | @afonography

Explore the Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is a World Heritage Site located just outside Johannesburg. This is where you can find some of the world’s oldest hominin fossils, dating back over 3 million years. The site consists of a network of caves, including one of the most important fossil sites in the world known as Sterkfontein Caves.

A visit to the Cradle of Humankind is an exciting way to observe human evolution. Several tour operators offer day trips from Johannesburg, lasting anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. This includes a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves as well as other attractions in the area including the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve.

It is best to book in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the high season of November to February.

Walk through Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill is a former prison and now a museum that tells the further story of South Africa’s struggle for democracy. The site is also home to the country’s Constitutional Court, which is open to the public. You will be able to get access to museums like the Old Fort, Women’s Jail, and Number Four, the site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment. The place features interactive displays, audio-visual presentations, and personal accounts that make for a very enlightening experience.

There is also an outdoor exhibition called the Long Walk to Freedom, which chronicles the journey of South Africa’s freedom. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm.

Enjoy the Johannesburg Lion and Safari Park

The Johannesburg Lion and Safari Park are perfect for those who want to live through Africa’s wildlife. The park highlights animal interactions such as the popular lion, giraffe, and cheetah feeding. It also offers game drives and safari walks for an up-close encounter with lions, ostriches, and other animals.

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