Johannesburg is the industrial and financial capital of South Africa, thanks to the fact that it has risen from a rich gold mining tradition. Very fast, the city has developed from a common safari stopover to a vibrant hub full of culture and arts, and today it continues to attract tourists from all corners of the world.
As a visitor, you can indulge in diverse attractions that range from urban sights to wildlife adventures, and if you’re not sure how to organize your journey, check out our list of spots and activities you shouldn’t miss:
The Lion & Safari Park
No visit to Johannesburg is complete without seeing some of the region’s famous wildlife. The Lion & Safari Park is conveniently located less than an hour’s drive from the city, which makes it ideal for tourists.
The sight allows self-guided tours, but you can also sign up to explore the area through a guided drive in one of the park’s vehicles. The drive will take you on an exciting route where you’ll get to see lions, antelopes, ostriches, zebras, hyenas, and even wild dogs.
However, the best part about the park is the interaction with various species. For example, you can hand-feed the giraffes or cuddle a lion cub. Additionally, you can go on exciting nighttime feeding tours and thrilling river rafting excursions.
The City’s Gambling Scene
South Africans are quite passionate about casinos, and Johannesburg is one of the best places where you can indulge in the local gambling scene.
The city is home to a number of vibrant venues where you can play some of your favorite casino games like slots, poker, roulette, and more. Establishments like the Gold Reef City Casino, the Southern Sun Montecasino, and the Emperor's Palace are the ideal spots for a fun day with friends or an unforgettable night out.
But if you’re more into quiet nights at the hotel, you can still go for online gambling options. The South African market is constantly updated with new online casinos that offer players a plethora of inviting features. These operators treat players with attractive bonuses such as no deposit rewards, free spins, and other freebies that help them play more games for the same money. They also offer excellent customer support so if you have any questions about wagering requirements or anything else, you will get assistance in no time.
The Maboneng Precinct
Going on a tour through the vibrant Maboneng Precinct is a great way to explore the lively culture of the locals.
Maboneng means the ‘place of light’, and even though it used to be a rather run-down area, today it’s full of life. In fact, it is an incredible example of a well-done urban renewal project. Nowadays, visitors can spend a day enjoying funky restaurants, shops, cafes, art galleries, and numerous entertainment venues.
The Revolution House and the Arts on Main are some of the best examples of the developments that transformed warehouses into studios and shops. Other developments host cinemas, community centers, boutiques, and even hotels. However, the top attraction is still the weekly Market on Main which brings all kinds of local foods from different parts of the continent.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens
Exploring the city is always fun, but if you’re eager to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature once again, make sure to visit the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. This serene piece of wilderness is managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute, and it is one of nine botanical gardens located in the country.
Even though there are other gardens in the area, this particular location features plenty of space and breathtaking views of red-rock cliffs. The garden’s main attraction is the stunning Witpoortjie Waterfall surrounded by sprawling fields, a beautiful river, and inviting hiking trails that go through the site’s lovely scenery. Other important highlights include the Fern Trail, the Birds and Butterfly Garden, the Cycad Garden, and the Geological Display Garden.
The Market Theatre
The Market Theatre complex is housed in the city’s converted market building, and today it plays a huge role in the cultural life of Johannesburg. It features four live theatre venues where visitors can enjoy some of the finest productions presented in all of South Africa, as well as some outstanding festivals.
Moreover, the complex includes an art and photo gallery, a bookshop, as well as various restaurants. The place is also a fantastic choice for evening entertainment, especially if you’re into jazz. Kippie, the area’s popular jazz venue hosts fun music events where you can hear the performances of well-known artists.
Johannesburg is one of the most vibrant places to see in South Africa, and exploring its main sights is a fabulous experience that should not be missed. Now that you learned all about the city’s top attractions, you are ready to start making plans for your next trip.
