Johannesburg is a city with so much to offer: there are wonderful restaurants, relaxed sidewalk cafes, laughter-filled shebeens, glitzy shopping malls, tranquil parks, unique emotive museums and monuments, thrilling casinos, busy townships, stunning galleries, funky nightclubs, and more. There are approximately 10 million trees in Johannesburg − the world's biggest urban forest Johannesburg's entertainment and leisure options are vast and varied, so make sure your energy levels are high. This dynamic city has a range of restaurants – from pub 'n grub bars, pizza take-outs and African-inspired eateries to delightful delis serving everything from a great cup of coffee to healthy meals.
There are restaurants for virtually every type of cuisine, cocktail bars, cigar bars, and fine dining. You've simply got to hang out at one of the many eateries in Soweto (along the famous Vilakazi Street), or soak up the sun in the Soho-type villages of Norwood, Parkhurst and Greenside. Johannesburg is known for its incredible nightlife. From the funky clubs and pubs of Soweto to the laid-back jazzy groove of Newtown and the stylish venues of the northern suburbs, Jozi (as locals refer to the city) caters for all tastes.
What you'll love about the place is the multi-cultural cosmopolitan vibe and an attitude that says 'let's party'. If you're looking for a comedy club, a jazz lounge or a venue that plays live music – from rock to pop to kwaito to house – it's here. Johannesburg’s Central Business District continues to evolve, with an ongoing urban renewal and cultural regeneration programme breathing new life into the city.
History of Johannesburg
The gold rush saw prospectors from around the world trek up to the Witwatersrand, precipitating the Anglo-Boer or South African War of 1899-1902, in which the British fought the Boers over control of the then Transvaal and its gold.
After the war another wave of migrants entered Johannesburg - up to 60 000 Chinese labourers were imported to kick start the mines again, only to be repatriated six years later. But Chinese merchants had established themselves in the city, and still have a presence. The mines also brought European migrants to the burgeoning town. They provided the capital to reach deeper into the earth to get the gold, while black South Africans were recruited at low wages to mine the gold.
The first forced removals in the town in 1904 saw residents of Brickfields removed 25km down south after their brickmaking settlement in the town was burnt to the ground to contain a bubonic plague outbreak. They were settled in Klipspruit. This was the start of the city’s and the country’s largest township, Soweto. And so the segregated city was born.
Mahatma Gandhi
Another migrant appeared on the dusty streets of the town - Mahatma Gandhi. He fought for equal treatment for Indian and Chinese residents, developing Satyagraha or passive resistance, adopted by the African National Congress at its formation in 1912. Like Nelson Mandela decades later, Gandhi was locked up in the Old Fort Prison in Hillbrow, the town’s first prison, both of them for the same reason: fighting for equal rights for their compatriots. The striking Constitutional Court now sits among three prisons: the Old Fort, the notorious No 4 black men’s prison, and the Women’s Gaol.
Gold was the backbone of Johannesburg’s rapid growth. In time, industries were established, and more and more people came seeking jobs and a slice of its wealth, especially after the 1913 Natives Land Act, which robbed black people of their land. Buildings soared upwards and suburbs stretched in all directions, today covering an area of some 1 700km². The Sachsenwald Forest that was planted in the first decade of the city’s life has today become an urban forest of 10 million trees.
One of these suburbs was Sophiatown. It witnessed the city’s second largest forced removal in the 1950s, when 65 000 people were removed by apartheid decree to make way for working-class whites. The suburb was the incubator of bountiful talent: writers like Nat Nakasa, Bloke Modisane and Don Mattera; and musicians Hugh Masekela, Dolly Rathebe, Dorothy Masuka and Thandi Klaasen. Artist Gerard Sekoto lived in the suburb for a while, recording life on the streets in vivid colours.
The city became the microcosm of the country’s fight against race discrimination. It was here that two giants of the anti-apartheid struggle, Mandela and Walter Sisulu, learnt the ropes of resistance. It was on a dusty soccer field in Kliptown in 1955 that the Freedom Charter was ratified, bringing together people from around the country to express their desires for an equal society.
Gold was the backbone of Johannesburg’s rapid growth. In time, industries were established, and more and more people came seeking jobs and a slice of its wealth, especially after the 1913 Natives Land Act, which robbed black people of their land. Buildings soared upwards and suburbs stretched in all directions, today covering an area of some 1 700km². The Sachsenwald Forest that was planted in the first decade of the city’s life has today become an urban forest of 10 million trees.
One of these suburbs was Sophiatown. It witnessed the city’s second largest forced removal in the 1950s, when 65 000 people were removed by apartheid decree to make way for working-class whites. The suburb was the incubator of bountiful talent: writers like Nat Nakasa, Bloke Modisane and Don Mattera; and musicians Hugh Masekela, Dolly Rathebe, Dorothy Masuka and Thandi Klaasen. Artist Gerard Sekoto lived in the suburb for a while, recording life on the streets in vivid colours.
The city became the microcosm of the country’s fight against race discrimination. It was here that two giants of the anti-apartheid struggle, Mandela and Walter Sisulu, learnt the ropes of resistance. It was on a dusty soccer field in Kliptown in 1955 that the Freedom Charter was ratified, bringing together people from around the country to express their desires for an equal society.
Soweto School Children Uprising
It took Soweto schoolchildren on a winter’s day in Orlando in June 1976 to rise up against the apartheid government, to remind the world of apartheid’s brutal oppression. This catapulted Johannesburg and South Africa into the tumultuous 1980s, when apartheid was rapidly unwinding. Soweto was often the battleground of that demise - police chased protestors into the Regina Mundi Church, where you can still see the bullet holes in the ceiling and walls. Soweto has become a sprawling township of more than one million people. Its most famous road, Vilakazi Street, is where two Nobel laureates lived: Mandela and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.
It was in Joburg that Mandela lived after his release from prison in 1990. He settled in Houghton with his third wife, Graça Machel, and it is here that he died. It is in Joburg that other great struggle stalwarts died and are buried: Sisulu and his wife Albertina, Ahmed Kathrada, Beyers Naude, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Joe Slovo, Helen Joseph, Lillian Ngoyi and many others.
Today Johannesburg still struggles to undo apartheid’s segregation, but the city hardly stops to take a breath, such is the drive of its residents to explore, make money, be better, have fun. Some of that fun happens in its many parks and green lungs; some of it dancing on top of its tall buildings, some of it in its many excellent restaurants, pubs and shebeens, usually with residents basking in its beautiful sunsets.
Things to Do in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, nicknamed ‘Joburg’ or ‘Jozi’, is one of South Africa’s largest cities and a prime tourist destination. Trying to decide what to do in this vibrant city can be overwhelming, so we have come up with a comprehensive list of the best things to do and see in Johannesburg that will guarantee you a fun-filled trip.
Visit The Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum is very popular among visitors who are eager to learn about the history of the city and South Africa as a whole. The non-profit museum was opened in 2001 and relies on donations, contributions and sponsorship to keep functioning and growing. The Apartheid Museum is the first of its kind and documents the rise and fall of the apartheid system. Here you’ll be able to learn through film footage, photographs, text panels and a variety of artifacts that bear witness to the events and human stories that were part of the apartheid.
Take a trip to Lion Park
The wildlife conservation known as Lion Park is dedicated to the protection of Transvaal lions and is spread over 500 acres of land in the Gauteng province. More than 80 lions live in the park (including some rare white lions), along with many other carnivores such as cheetahs, Cape wild dogs, spotted hyenas, black-backed jackal and a wide range of antelopes. Don’t miss the rare opportunity to see such splendid wildlife variety that has even attracted famous celebrities. An outing like this is perfect for the entire family.
Go to Nelson Mandela Square
Formerly known as Sandton Square, Nelson Mandela Square was renamed in 2004 in honor of the former President of South Africa and anti-apartheid activist, the late Nelson Mandela. A striking statue of Nelson Mandela was erected in the square, which lures many visitors who want to take a picture next to the iconic president. The square also boasts a sprinkler fountain, which provides great entertainment for children.
Visit Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park
How many opportunities will you get to see a crocodile farm? Situated in close proximity to the Lion Park, Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park is one of the world’s favorite wildlife filming venues for crocodiles and other reptiles. The park provides a great experience for the whole family. Don’t miss feeding time as the crocodiles wrestle each other for chickens. Best of all, you can have a photo taken holding a baby crocodile or a snake. Be sure to check out the snake show, and once you’ve seen everything the park has to offer you can go for a meal at the pizza restaurant.
See the Golden Rhinoceros of Mapungubwe
The ruins of Mapungubwe were discovered in 1932. They provide evidence not only of the early smiting of gold in southern Africa, but also of the extravagant wealth and social differentiation of the people of Mapungubwe. Among the ruins a gold foil rhinoceros was found molded over a soft core of sculpted wood. A replica of the gold rhinoceros was erected on Fox Street, just opposite the Hollard Street pedestrian mall. The Limpopo province, where the discovery was made, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many people stop by The Golden Rhinoceros of Mapungubwe to take a photo with this historical gem.
Have a grand time at Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is an amusement park located on a gold mine that was closed in 1971. Come and enjoy a wide variety of fun rides – be aware that some have height restrictions. Here, visitors also get the opportunity to learn about real life mining disasters. For an additional fee, you can take part in an underground tour of a disused gold mine. One ride to look forward to is the giant wheel, which provides a stunning view of Johannesburg’s suburbs and the beautiful calabash of Soccer City. Test out your luck at the casino afterwards.
Place your bet at Montecasino
If you find yourself in the Sandton area you could make a trip to Montecasino. The leisure and casino complex covers 26 hectares of land and there are buskers and street performers wandering around entertaining visitors. Montecasino was first opened in November 30, 2000. It presently attracts 9.3 million visitors annually who are amazed by the theatrics and high-quality entertainment. The main casino building boasts a fake sky painted on the roof that goes from light to dark from one side to the other.
Spend a Day at Lesedi Cultural Village
A visit to Lesedi Cultural Village is always fulfilling, as the place allows visitors to get a glimpse of the different South African tribes and cultures. Located near the Hartbeespoort Dam, the Lesedi Cultural Village reproduces traditional houses and offers demonstrations of dances and other traditions of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, Nguni and Ndebele people. For a reasonable price you get to sleep in colorfully decorated traditional huts equipped with bathrooms. You can also sample authentic African cuisines prepared by talented local cooks.
Dine and shop at Fresh Earth Food Store
Located on Komatie Street, Fresh Earth Food Store was established with the aim of fostering a new understanding of healthy eating and sustainability. Its delicious vegetarian dishes are prepared from scratch and they don’t contain any artificial additives, sweeteners, colorants or preservatives, so the meals are nutritious and healthy. Not only does Fresh Earth offer tasty vegetarian treats, but here you can also shop for healthy groceries, supplements and baby food. It also stocks cleaning products and kitchen equipment. One added bonus are the detailed vegetarian recipes available for free at the store.
Go to Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo sits on 140 acres of land and is home to about 2,000 animals of 320 different species. The zoo has been around since 1904 and was formerly owned and operated by the Johannesburg City Council. However, it has recently been turned into a corporation and registered as a non-profit organization. Though often overlooked by tourists, the zoo has been upgraded over the past few years and is definitely worth a visit. Here, you’ll be able to see pygmy hippos, primates, reptiles, monkeys, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, zebras, rhinos, antelope, and leopards among other animals.
Nightlife info
Sandton City Area is known for its very sophisticated, opulent, expensive ambiance. This part of Johannesburg has many beautiful locations, mostly within walking distance and close to the Gautrain station. There is plenty of safe underground parking available, including Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City.
Icon Club
Sophisticated nightclub experience for a mature and trendy crowd in the 25-45 age group. Tastefully decorated, smart and sexy atmosphere, nice selection of music genres throughout the weekend.
VIP Room
Located in the heart of Sandton’s bustling business district, the intimate VIP Room encompasses an intimate, luxurious informality with a sensual combination of deep jewel tones and opulent finishes. Adding to the intimate luxury is a wide selection of unique cocktails and premium brands served by a perfectly polished team of beautiful hostesses. The focus at The VIP Room was on creating the most exclusive venue in the city, offering chic glamour and progressive entertainment, thereby ensuring that The VIP Room becomes a new social haven for the cities most beautiful and high profile movers and shakers.
Cocoon Lounge
With a subtle marriage of Urban chic and a sensational integration of chilled ultra lounge aesthetics, Sandton introduces a new champagne, cocktail cigar bar in its metropolitan hub. Natural yet elegant nodes of wooden cladding, mirror mosaic, hand-picked leather seating pods as well as an al fresco deck area, Cocoon is just the place for Johannesburg’s young, influential elite to meet for after work gatherings, private celebrations or corporate meetings - with a scenic view of the Sandton skyline. This is definitely a place to look your best and to be seen. Open from 09h00 till late, Wednesday to Saturday.
San Bar Sandton Sun
Sandton’s new premier drinking destination is the San Bar at the Sandton Sun. It has separate restaurant and bar sections. The outdoor deck section is amazing – there are groupings of chairs and couches as well as tables. There are also huge fire-pits which some of the seats are grouped around. On Friday and Saturday nights there is live music on the deck and the ambience is awesome. There’s also a full swimming pool with deck chairs. This bar is best for sundowners as the sun sets behind an exquisite view of Sandton.
The Sands
The Sands is a luxurious venue with the look and feel of a classic Las Vegas hotel bar, attracting Jozi’s glamorous crowd. This central location is the place for the ultra hip to sip champagne while listening and dancing to the finest hip hop, house and afro pop. Sit out on the pool deck in summer or enjoy the indoor space which offers the lights and mirror ball club experience.
Taboo
Situated in the heart Sandton, Taboo is a world class venue that offers patrons a glamorous and utterly unique, upmarket, chilled experience. Taboo caters to an esteemed and worldly clientele with a visionary cocktail of superlative musical acts, cutting edge lighting and audiovisual equipment and contemporary interiors complimented by breathtaking skyline views of Sandton. Party to house music upstairs and R&B downstairs.
Central One
After an exciting day in Johannesburg, settle in and sip a cool cocktail or enjoy a steaming cup of gourmet coffee with friends at the Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel’s sophisticated Central One Bar. This relaxing retreat boasts warm woods and modern styling, along with gorgeous views and an extensive drinks menu. The bar offers an ideal spot to relax with friends or unwind after a busy day.
Skye Bar at the Holiday Inn
This bar has a fantastic location, with an excellent view of the Sandton skyline, which is even more impressive at night. The modern décor of plush upholstery is offset by chandeliers and timeless classicism showing incredible attention to detail and luxury that characterizes the hotel. The bar is well stocked and busy, especially at the weekend. There is a deck for smoking and a huge room which is available for functions.
Southern Sun Hyde Park
The Southern Sun Hyde Park is the new hotel on top of Hyde Park shopping centre and is home to the Island Bar. Sporting a huge inside space with a dining area and a beautiful outside deck with plunge pool. The deck is the place to sip cocktails while you lounge in inviting couches and watch the sunset over leafy Hyde Park and Craighall. The Whisky & Cigar Bar allows you to relax and enjoy your selection of the refined combination of fine Whiskey or Cognac and a select Cigar. Explore what is arguably one of the best selections of whiskey in Johannesburg.
Culture and history info
Settlement of Johannesburg began in 1886, when gold was discovered in the Witwatersrand by an Australian prospector named George Harrison. The discovery spurred a feverish gold rush as fortune hunters from all over the world descended on the area. Blacks from all parts of southern Africa came to work the gold fields either permanently or temporarily as contract laborers. The government of the Transvaal, then a Boer republic, established a city at the site, and in the space of three years it became the largest settlement in South Africa. By the 1890s, several large mining companies had taken control of the area's gold mines, creating huge fortunes for their owners. Tensions between the mine barons, the English-speaking newcomers to the area, and the Transvaal's Boer government—fed by British colonial aspirations in the region—led to the Anglo-Boer War of 1899–1901. By its end, the Transvaal and the Orange Free State were under British control.
At the start of the twentieth century, the population of Johannesburg had reached 100,000. Early in the century, the British colonial government began forcibly relocating blacks from the central city to areas on its outskirts, inaugurating the principle of racial separation that became entrenched in the administration of the city and eventually led to the system known as apartheid. The substandard conditions in which most of the city's black majority lived led to protests and strikes, including a 1920 strike by 70,000 black mine workers. There was agitation among Johannesburg's white miners as well, culminating in the general strike and "Rand Revolt" of 1922, in which over 200 people died.
The growth of manufacturing in the 1930s and 1940s brought an even greater influx of blacks into the city, especially during World War II (1939–45), when many white workers were serving in the military. The city's black population doubled, with many of the new arrivals crowded into squatters' camps. The beginnings of a black nationalist consciousness that arose during this period led to a white backlash in the 1950s when the conservative National Party came to power and implemented the policy of apartheid, banning all black opposition movements. Beginning in the 1960s, hundreds of thousands of blacks were relocated from Johannesburg to remote "homelands," and their movements were regulated by strict enforcement of pass laws.
The milestone event in the black resistance movement that eventually overthrew apartheid and white dominance came on June 16, 1976, when South African police opened fire on a student protest in the black township of Soweto. The shooting sparked a months-long popular uprising that spread to dozens of other cities in South Africa, and unrest continued through the 1980s, with massive violence erupting in Johannesburg's black townships again in 1984. Black militancy, combined with the effects of international sanctions, finally toppled the apartheid system in the early 1990s and led to South Africa's first democratic elections in 1994.
With the removal of discriminatory laws, Johannesburg's black townships have slowly been integrated into the city's municipal government, and blacks have moved into formerly white districts in the central city and inner suburbs. The city still faces many challenges, including a serious crime problem and de facto segregation as many whites retreat to the northern suburbs.
