When planning a trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, it is essential to be well-prepared to make the most of your visit. Here are some travel tips to help you navigate the vibrant city and make your experience unforgettable.
- Safety First: Johannesburg has a reputation for being a crime-prone city, so it’s important to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive belongings and be cautious when using public transportation.
- Transportation: The best way to get around Johannesburg is by car. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, Uber is a safe and affordable option for getting around.
- Currency: The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). It’s recommended to have some cash on hand for small purchases, as not all establishments accept credit cards.
- Weather: Johannesburg has a moderate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly, depending on the time of year you plan to visit.
- Explore the Culture: Johannesburg is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss out on visiting museums, art galleries, and historic sites to learn more about the city’s heritage.
Now that you have some travel tips to Johannesburg in South Africa, or Joburg, here are
Things to do in Johannesburg / Top 20 sites and monuments you Must Visit in Johannesburg:
and are ready to explore Johannesburg, here are 20 sites and monuments you must visit during your stay:
- The Apartheid Museum – Learn about South Africa’s history of apartheid at this powerful museum. (Price: ZAR 100, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.apartheidmuseum.org/]
Mandela House – Visit the former home of Nelson Mandela in Soweto. (Price: ZAR 60, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.mandelahouse.com/]
Constitution Hill – Explore this former prison turned human rights museum. (Price: ZAR 85, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.constitutionhill.org.za/]
Lion Park – Get up close and personal with lions on a safari experience. (Price: ZAR 220, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.lionandsafaripark.com/]
Cradle of Humankind – Discover ancient fossils and archaeological sites at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Price: ZAR 190, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[http://www.maropeng
.co.za/]
- Johannesburg City Sightseeing Bus Tour – Explore the city’s top attractions on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. (Price: ZAR 180, how to get there: nearest bus stop)
[https://www.citysightseeing.co.za/johannesburg]
Gold Reef City – Experience the thrill of a theme park and learn about Johannesburg’s gold mining history. (Price: ZAR 215, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.tsogosun.com/gold-reef-city-casino]
Soweto Bicycle Tour – Explore the vibrant township of Soweto on a guided bicycle tour. (Price: ZAR 300, how to get there: tour operator pick-up)
[https://www.sowetobicycletours.com/]
Market on Main – Shop for unique crafts and taste delicious street food at this trendy market in Maboneng. (Price: Free entry, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[http://www.marketonmain.co.za/]
Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens – Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking waterfalls. (Price: ZAR
55, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu/]
- Nelson Mandela Square – Shop, dine, and admire the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela in the heart of Sandton. (Price: Free entry, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.nelsonmandelasquare.co.za/]
Hector Pieterson Museum – Learn about the 1976 Soweto Uprising and pay tribute to the youth who lost their lives. (Price: ZAR 40, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.hectormuseum.org.za/]
The Market Theatre – Enjoy a night of live performances at one of Johannesburg’s most renowned theatres. (Price: Varies, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.markettheatre.co.za/]
Melville Koppies Nature Reserve – Hike through a nature reserve offering stunning views of the city skyline. (Price: ZAR 60, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.mk.org.za/]
Johannesburg Botanical Garden – Relax in the peaceful surroundings of
this botanical garden, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. (Price: Free entry, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.jhbzoo.org.za/johannesburg-
botanical-gardens]
- Maboneng Precinct – Explore this trendy arts district filled with galleries, boutiques, and rooftop bars. (Price: Free entry, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[http://www.maboneng.com/]
James Hall Transport Museum – Discover a collection of vintage cars, buses, and trains at this unique museum. (Price: ZAR 30, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.friendsofthejhtm.org.za/]
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre – Engage in hands-on science exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum. (Price: ZAR 40, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.sci-bono.co.za/]
Emmarentia Dam and Botanical Gardens – Enjoy a picnic or paddleboat ride in this scenic park with beautifully landscaped gardens. (Price: Free entry, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.jhbzoo.org.za/emmarentia-
dam]
- Montecasino – Experience a taste of Italy at this Tuscan-inspired entertainment complex, featuring a casino, restaurants, and live shows. (Price: Varies, how to get there: Uber/taxi)
[https://www.tsogosun.com/montecasino]
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
 |  |  |
| World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
3 days in Johannesburg Visit Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Visit the Apartheid Museum to learn about South Africa’s history.
- Afternoon: Explore Soweto and visit Mandela House.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Maboneng Precinct.
Day 2:
- Morning: Take a trip to Lion Park for a safari experience.
- Afternoon: Explore the Cradle of Humankind and visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre.
- Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant in Sandton and stroll around Nelson Mandela Square.
Day 3:
- Morning: Visit Constitution Hill and the Old Fort Prison Complex.
- Afternoon: Take a bicycle tour of Soweto and visit the Hector Pieterson Museum.
- Evening: Enjoy a performance
- at The Market Theatre.
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Where to Stay in Johannesburg / Top Rated Johannesburg Hotels and Accommodation
Top Rated Johannesburg Hotels priced over $200 per night:
Best Reviewed Johannesburg Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:
Best Hotels in Johannesburg priced between $50 to $100 per night:
Top Joburg Hotels priced between $20 to $50 per night:
Best Johannesburg Hostels and Budget Hotels priced below $20 per night:
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Johannesburg and make the most of your time in this diverse and dynamic city in South Africa, enjoy your travels!
For more about South Africa, Johannesburg and other travel destinations in South Africa, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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