A Visit to Johannesburg South Africa
Johannesburg is a city that surprisingly most people skip over when visiting South Africa. Also known as Joburg or Jozi, it’s a vibrant city and also a large hub for those traveling throughout Africa. Because most people prefer beaches and coastal holidays, Joburg is usually bypassed. After visiting Johannesburg solo I’m happy I didn’t skip it and highly recommend anyone take some time to explore this creative mixture of culture, history and art.
Getting Here:
I arrived in Johannesburg via direct flight from New York City with South African Airways and no visa was required for U.S. citizens. I visited Johannesburg at the end of October and the weather was perfect. Sunny and warm but not unbearably hot.
Getting Around:
I found Uber to be easily accessible, affordable and most importantly, safe. I used it to get to every place I went including to/from the airport so I actually never took the trains or buses. When using Uber, don’t be afraid to ask your driver for recommendations. I found some great restaurants and things to do thanks to my Uber drivers. Checkout the neighborhoods I visited in Johannesburg and activities.
Maboneng:
For seeing arts and culture, head to Maboneng and admire the street art, the local theater and the lively scene of people. The neighborhood comes alive on Sunday’s but due to time constraints I was not able to see this weekly event. However I enjoyed the restaurants, bars and the local people.
Where to Hang Out: Living Room; Jojo Rooftop
Where to Eat: Pata Pata; Blackenese
Where to Stay: Artisan Lofts; Revolution House; 12 Decades Hotel
Soweto:
For historical significance take a tour of Soweto which is short for South Western Township. You can book a tour with Soweto back packers to see the township via walking, bikes, or Tuk Tuk. I opted for the afternoon Tuk Tuk ride for 2 hours. This is the township in which Nelson Mandela and Trevor Noah were raised during apartheid. I was driven around by one of the knowledgeable guides that actually lives in the area and explains the different sections of the township.
Vileski street:
During the Soweto tour, we made a stop on the famous Vileski street. This is the only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize winners once lived: Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Note that Desmond Tutu’s house is closed off because his oldest son lives there and his privacy is respected so you cannot actually visit. But you can visit Nelson Mandela’s house that is now a museum. It’s a pretty small place but worth a visit if you’re in the area. Entry is about $5.
Where to Stay: Soweto Backpackers; Soweto Hotel
Parkhurst:
If you want to have more of a relaxing day with less exploring, a visit to the Parkhurst area is the perfect place to do so. It’s a bit of a slower pace compared to the main city and has a ton of shops and restaurants to stroll through. On my last full day in Joburg I had a laid back day in Parkhurst with some shopping, a quick lunch and some light strolls.
Where to Shop: Parooz; Dr Pachanga
Where to Eat: Rockets; Craft
Brammafontein :
This area I found to have a much more younger and hip crowd. I learned that this area is where a lot of the college students come to mingle. Every Saturday the neighborhood steps out for the NeighborGoods Market. Here you will find an indoor marketplace with vendors selling all kinds of food and drinks (including alcohol). Every thing in the market was affordable and delicious. Just upstairs from the market is also a day party which was a very good time. The NeighborGood’s event ends is from 10am to 4pm so get there at a decent time to enjoy the festivities.
Where to Stay: Marriott Parktonian All-Suite; The Devonshire
Sandton city:
If you’re a mall lover, making a stop and Sandton City is a must. It’s a large shopping mall with department stores and clothing boutiques. You can find a few African designer stores in this mall as well as high end European designers.
Apartheid Museum:
My opinion on this museum may differ from many others. I actually wasn’t planning to visit but after receiving feedback from my audience on Instagram I decided to take the trip. The museum is an interactive experience of the apartheid era starting with the purchasing of your randomly generated ticket that either says “white” or “non white”. Upon receiving your ticket you walk in to your corresponding entrance.
Lion Park:
If you don’t have the time to do an actual safari, you can take a day and spend it at Lion Park. At first I was unsure if I wanted to visit here because I couldn’t confirm if there was any animal cruelty. I had to do some deep research and talking to some of staff to learn that although the animals are kept in confined spaces, they are treated very well and kept safe from harmful poachers. I booked a mini safari tour here for two hours and this was sufficient for me but there are plenty of other options to choose from if you want to spend more time with the animals.
