The Ditsong National Museum of Military History is one of the places that everyone MEANS to visit, but very few ever go. Not only does this give you a glimpse into South Africa’s Military history, but you’ll have a great time viewing fighter planes, a submarine, loads of war memorabilia. This is an absolute Joburg gem!
A Must-Visit For All Ages
There’s a reason why the Distong National Museum of Military History in Saxonwold is a must-visit for both young and old. It is an absolute treasure trove. Expect emilitary-related journals, weapons, vehicles and photographs from a number of wars in South African history.
Formerly known as the South African Museum of Military History, the museum prides itself on its enormous variety of war memorabilia, both (very) large and small.
War Memorabilia For Africa
It aims to commemorate and pay homage to South Africans that have died fighting in and for their country. It is fascinating and strangely emotional to walk through the various halls and see the variety of weapons, clothing, medals, planes, books, journals, and helmets.
We were completely taken aback by the collection of fighter planes, tanks and even a submarine. Not to mention the weaponry on display, including machine guns, hand guns, magazine-fed rifles. It is a spectacular display of weapons used in the past, and quite sobering to think of the many lives that were lost as a result.
There is also a fascinating section devoted to those that resisted war – the Rebellion of 1914, Ossewa Brandwag and End Subscription Campaign. There are even items from Umkhonto weSizwe – a collection the museum is looking to enhance and increase as more items are donated.
The museum is also on the Green Line of the Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing bus – a great excuse to give that a try, if you haven’t already. We suggest budgeting at least two hours at the museum, but ended up staying a lot longer!
Entry Costs To The Museum
These are the current entry costs to The Ditsong National Museum of Military History:
- Adults: R50 per person
- Children: R30 per child
- Pensioners: R25 per person
- Learners: R30 per learner
The museum is open daily from 07:30 – 16:00, except on Christmas Day and Good Friday.
For More Information
For more information about the Ditsong National Museum of Military History, visit the Ditsong: Museums of South Africa website at ditsong.org.za.
You can contact them by calling 011 646 5513 or emailing milmus@ditsong.org.za.
Address: 22 Erlswold Way, Saxonwold, Johannesburg.
Also, follow Ditsong: Museums of South Africa on Facebook for the latest news, information, events, offerings, and more.
