Here’s what’s in this Johannesburg travel guide:
- Why Jo’burg?
- When to visit
- How to get around
- Where to go
- What to eat
- Travel tips
- How to stay connected
Why Visit Jo’burg?
Often overlooked for the beautifully-situated Cape Town, Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and the second-largest on the continent. It’s a city with its own vibes and reputation, and has surprising depths and contrasts. Here, the scars of South Africa’s history are woven into its arts scene, craft culture (including coffee, vino, beer, and artisanal goods), and some of the best parties in the country. It’s also a great jumping-off point for going on safari in Kruger National Park.
When to Visit
Joburg boasts a pleasant climate year-round, and shoulder seasons (Sept.-Oct. & April-May) are when hotels in nice areas can be most affordable. Summers are hot, busy, and can get crowded with tourists transiting across the country.
How to Get Around
- Plane: South Africa is big, so taking a plane can be your most-efficient option if you’re looking to cross the country to or from Jo’burg. You can easily fly between major cities and even smaller locales with local carriers. Look for deals with airlines like FlySafair and Airlink.
- Train: The world-famous Blue Train from Cape Town to Pretoria (60 km from Johannesburg) is a luxurious, though expensive, ride through some incredible scenery. The Rovos Rail, which calls itself “the most luxurious train in the world,” is a nostalgic, leisurely experience that will take you through South Africa and beyond. The more affordable Premier Classe and Shosholoza Meyl trains are not in service at the moment, but the Gautrain suburban routes around Joburg are safe and still in operation.
- Intercity Bus: This budget-friendly travel option has extensive connections all over the country. You can book coaches with companies like Greyhound, Baz Bus, Intercape, and City to City from Johannesburg to the rest of the country.
- Metrobus: The Rea Vaya is a bus system in Johannesburg that runs on its own lanes. Check the website for its operating routes.
- Car: Renting a car to travel around South Africa is a great option for exploring the coasts, but in Johannesburg it’s best to stick to rideshare apps like Uber or let a hired driver do the driving.
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Bolt are widely available in South African cities, and are the safest way to get around Johannesburg. Check out our recommendation of apps for travel in South Africa to learn more.
Where to Go
- Museums: From Museum Africa to the Hector Pieterson Museum, there is an abundance of history, archaeology, and art to take in at Joburg’s museums. While all are worth a visit, the Apartheid Museum is an absolute must. Brace yourself for a deeply moving and thought-provoking journey through South Africa’s complicated history of apartheid, which only ended in 1994 and can still be felt across the country.
- Soweto Township: Take a guided tour through the birthplace of the anti-apartheid movement. You’ll visit the Nelson Mandela House and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, which commemorates the student uprising of 1976. Take in the street art that speaks to the continued resilience of the township, especially the murals adorning the famous Soweto Towers.
- Downtown and Maboneng Precinct: Book yourself on a walking tour through Johannesburg’s vibrant downtown or the artsy Maboneng Precinct. Art deco buildings rise above the city’s urban buzz, and the nightlife is unparalleled – rooftop bars and live music compete for the city’s best parties. In Maboneng, art galleries, studios, and trendy cafes are the big charmers.
- The Cradle of Humankind: This unusual UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the oldest discovered hominid fossils.
- Constitution Hill: A former prison complex sits atop this hill, now home to the Constitutional Court and some beautiful views of the city.
- Markets: Johannesburg’s markets are some of the coolest parts of the city. On Sundays, browse the stalls at Rosebank Rooftop Market for unique crafts and local produce. Or during the week, head to the Neighbourgoods Market for delicious food, local goods, and vibes that are teeming with life.
What to Eat
- Braai (barbeque): This South African tradition is all about the grilled meat. You’ve got tasty boerewors (sausage), sosaties (kebabs), and sides like pap (maize porridge).
- Bunny Chow: While this is technically a specialty of the Indian communities in Durban, you can find it all over Joburg, too. It’s a hollowed-out bread loaf loaded with curry.
- Biltong: This air-dried, cured meat – softer and saltier than beef jerky – is a popular snack that you can pick up in markets and shops.
- Kota: This popular street food is a meaty sandwich stuffed with french fries and other add-ons.
- Umngqusho: A Xhosa staple, this is a stew of samp, sugar beans, umleqwa (hard body chicken) and butter.
Tips For Safe Travel in Johannesburg
Johannesburg often gets a bad rap, but don’t let that deter you from taking in this energetic, unforgettable city. By staying observant and keeping these tips in mind, you can make your way through the city with confidence.
- Street safety: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your phone and other valuables out of sight. Avoid poorly lit areas and walking around at night.
- Use rideshare apps: Uber and Bolt are reputable ride-hailing apps that are safe and convenient ways to get around the city. With the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM, you’ll never have to worry about not having data, and can always have your location tracking activated.
- Book at gated hotels and guest homes: Choose hotels or guesthouses with gated entrances and security personnel in secure areas of the city. Take a look at guest reviews around safety before booking.
- Join group tours: If you want to explore different parts of Johannesburg, signing up for a group walking tour is a great way to experience the city on foot. You’ll get exclusive experiences and a chance to chat with locals and learn more about the city through their eyes.
- Know where you’re going: Research your destination before setting off to avoid checking your phone or a map while out. Consider running your itinerary by hotel staff for a second opinion.
- Stay connected: Make sure you always have data with the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM. You can hail a car, message friends or family, or get in touch with your hotel in case of an emergency.
For more information on how to have data and avoid roaming charges while traveling in South Africa, check out our piece on the benefits, FAQs, and installation process for the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM.
