Johannesburg (also ‘Jo’burg’ or ‘Jozi’) is a place where scintillating cultures and cosmopolitan energy meet for a mesmerising rendezvous beneath warm African skies. Promises of prosperity attracts fortune seekers, while provocative urban magnetism lures hedonists. With over 4 million residents, it is the largest city in South Africa. Attractions include the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, and Soweto.
With cheap flights to Johannesburg you can lose yourself in the spellbinding mystique of this sassy metropolis and finally understand why it is called the ‘City of Gold’. Johannesburg is home to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), which is a 25-minute drive from the trembling city centre.
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Where else can you walk down a street where two Nobel Peace Prize winners once lived, visit the oldest human fossil, and explore an 1886 gold mine - all without leaving the city?
Nowhere else but Johannesburg! This city isn’t just built on gold; it’s built on record-breaking history.
Gold Reef City – SA’s biggest amusement park. Joburg Zoo & Zoo Lake – Wildlife and chill. Maboneng Precinct – Arts, culture and vibes. Sandton – The richest square mile in Africa. Soweto – SA’s largest, most vibrant township. Soweto Towers – Bungee jump if you dare! Mall of Africa & Fourways mall – SA’s biggest shopping havens.
And that’s just a taste; Joburg’s got loads more adventure everywhere!
When the sun sets, Joburg turns up! Rooftop bars, underground jazz spots, amapiano-filled clubs—this city doesn’t sleep; it grooves. Whether you're sipping cocktails in Sandton or dancing till dawn in Soweto, the nightlife here is pure vibes!
Essential details you need to know before your trip
| Country | South Africa |
|---|---|
| Currency | South African Rand |
| Language | isiZulu / English |
| Hub Airport | O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Airline | South African Airways |
| Time Zone | GMT + 2 |
| Travel Adaptor | Type C / D / M / N |
Johannesburg experiences a pleasantly mild climate, with balmy summers and crisp winters. Average temperatures range from 26 degrees Celsius in summer to 4 degrees Celsius in winter. Johannesburg is famous for its spectacular summer thunderstorms. Temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, making Johannesburg a great place to visit all year round. However, if you want to avoid the holiday crowds and take advantage of lower rates, March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Johannesburg. Notable events include Back to the City (April), Fête de La Musique (June), Arts Alive International Festival (September), and the Soweto Wine Festival (September). For cheap flights to Johannesburg, the best time to visit is during winter (June to August).
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall (mm) per month
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low °C | 15°C | 14°C | 13°C | 10°C | 8°C | 4°C | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| High °C | 26°C | 25°C | 24°C | 22°C | 20°C | 16°C | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C | 25°C | 25°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 130 | 110 | 100 | 40 | 10 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 | 80 | 120 | 110 |
Johannesburg is a city in the midst of a renaissance. It is making its second debut into South African society, this time in a shimmering shawl that oozes urbane charisma and magnetism.
Known as Jo’burg or Jozi by locals (and those who have been seduced by its provocative mystery and suave sophistication), it is the largest metropolis in South Africa and home to extraordinary diversity.
Chase decadence through the glittering nightlife districts of Sandton, Rosebank, Melville, and Greenside. Pulsing nightclubs, bars humming with African jazz, Morcoccan hideaways, and beer gardens abound.
Maboneng is the artsy heart of Johannesburg. Browse art studios, galleries, restaurants, bars, a distillery, bespoke shops, a coffee roastery, craft rooms, museums, a theatre, independent cinema, and music stores.
Although lost in the intoxicating hustle, it has not forgotten its roots. Wander along Vilakazi Street in Soweto, or visit the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.
Delve into a world of glamour and mystique, and get ready to find out why Johannesburg is called the ‘City of Gold’.
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Although Johannesburg has garnered a reputation as a dangerous city, this is largely due to the sheer magnitude of the city. In reality, Johannesburg is a warm and welcoming place. Therefore, if you take the necessary precautions and use common sense you should be able to enjoy a trouble-free trip.
Remain vigilant and aware and avoid notorious areas such as Hillbrow, Moroka and Alexandra. Avoid flashy displays of wealth and carrying large sums of cash, valuables and important documents, as pick-pocketing does happen. Keep car doors locked, windows rolled up, and maintain a safe travelling distance behind taxis (they are notorious for their reckless driving). Avoid isolated areas during the day, and do not walk around at night.
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from a yellow fever endemic area. Immunisation against hepatitis A & B, and rabies are recommended. Other routine vaccinations include MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella and polio.
Accommodation in Johannesburg is varied and bountiful.
Grandiose 5-star hotels trimmed with gold; vintage villas reminiscent of old world Marrakech and Hollywood; wicker and cotton guest houses that open up onto gardens alive with birds and butterflies; modern self-catering apartments overlooking the twinkling city centre; and gleaming spas and golf resorts. There is something for every type of traveller and budget in the ‘City of Gold’.
Rosebank and Sandton are bustling suburbs each with their own personality and rhythm, while Melville and Norwood are within walking distance to bars and restaurants. Greenside is also a great area if you want easy access to the lively nightlife.
Public transport is the most affordable way to get around Johannesburg. Options include: minibus taxis, buses, metered taxis, car rental, and the treasured Gautrain.
Minibus taxis are the most affordable, but can be quite overwhelming for someone who is not used to the public transport system in South Africa. Metered taxis and Uber are recommended.
Buses comprise the Rea Vaya Rapid Bus Transit and Johannesburg Metrobus. Each operate throughout the city. Bus points are scattered around the city, with a major interchange at Gandhi Square. Fares vary according to journey length, but Smartcards are available for multiple trips. Cards can be bought at bus stations.
Gautrain is the most popular option. It forms part of a rapid transit system that sprawls across the city. Trains operate daily from 5.30am to 20.30pm at 12-30 minute intervals. Gold Cards can be purchased at the station. A Gautrain app. is available and offers all the necessary information (including timetables).
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