Johannesburg Tourism And Travel Guide

One of the prime cities in South Africa, Johannesburg is famous all over the world for its gold-mining prowess. The city can woo tourists with its unusual blend of concrete jungles and orthodox towns that lie on its outskirts. Johannesburg also boasts of a splendid assortment of nature reserves and botanical gardens that attract tourists from all over the globe. Along with its natural and cultural attractions, the city allows visitors to rejuvenate amidst vibrant amusement parks and groovy cafes and restaurants. Let us dig into this travel guide to know more about Johannesburg tourism and what you will enjoy there.

By Air:

Set approximately 22 km away from the central hub of Johannesburg, the O.R. Tambo International Airport offers the fastest means to reach Johannesburg. Some of the eminent airlines that ply their flights in and out of Johannesburg include Etihad, Emirates, South African Airways, and Kenyan Airlines. World-renowned cities such as Delhi, Paris, Mumbai, London, and Frankfurt enjoy great connectivity to this city.

By Rail:

Located just 2 km away from the city's focal point, Johannesburg Park Station is the prime railway station for the city. It facilitates apt connectivity to other parts of the country such as Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town. Johannesburg also offers tourists from neighboring countries, such as Zambia and Zimbabwe easy access to its mainland through connecting trains.

By Road:

Johannesburg offers locals and tourists with a number of options for commute by road. Some of the major carriers that operate in and out of the vicinity include S.A. Roadlink, Greyhound and The BAZ Bus. While these buses ply to internal hubs such as Pretoria and Durban, providers such as Translux also ply to neighboring countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi.

Owing to its hoisted mainland, Johannesburg witnesses temperate tropical weather. The temperatures in the city constantly fluctuate between 15˚C and 25˚C. Tourists visit this city throughout the year; however, the bright sunshine of summer season attracts a truckload of tourists.

Spring (August to Mid-October):

Johannesburg's spring season brings along with it sunny and pleasing weather. With temperatures ranging between 10˚C and 25˚C, this season is perfect for touring the vibrant streets of the city. Spring in Johannesburg allows visitors to soak up the sunshine on sandy beaches without emptying their pockets too much.

Summer (Mid-October to Mid-February):

Summer season is the best time of the year to pay a visit to Johannesburg. The climate constantly alternates between 15˚C and 30˚C, with odd rain showers occurring during the afternoons or evenings. The warm and welcoming weather of the city allows tourism to prosper, keeping tourists busy with the social buzz around its streets.

Autumn (Mid-February to April):

Johannesburg's autumn season witnesses a temperate warm climate, with temperatures normally hovering between 10˚C and 25˚C. Tourists visiting during March are lucky to catch a glimpse of the festivities that re-live the Sharpeville massacre of 1960. It is a great experience to partake in the Easter celebrations during chilly nights.

Winter (May to September):

Winters in Johannesburg are surprisingly cold, with temperatures often ranging between 5˚C and 20˚C. However, even in this chilly climate, Johannesburg can amaze visitors with attractive sites such as the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. The game reserves of Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park provide tourists with fascinating wildlife prospects.

Explore historical facts and figures:

Johannesburg offers tourists with an intriguing glimpse of the freedom struggle of South Africa and its valiant people. Some of the fascinating museums of Johannesburg that can make you travel back in time include the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. In addition, the erstwhile penal settlement at Constitution Hill gives tourists a sneak peek into the workings of traditional courts in Africa.

Understand the Art and Culture of Africa:

Tourists that step foot into Johannesburg can either indulge in social mingling at one of their exuberant cafes and restaurants or directly interact with the local tribes. A visit to Soweto Township will help any visitor gain significant knowledge about the ins and outs of Johannesburg's cultural heritage. The Market Theatre is another vibrant spot where tourists can unwind in the presence of exceptional artists and their performances.

A vast expanse of game reserves:

Emulating some of the other tourist spots of South Africa, Johannesburg also boasts of a rich variety of game reserves and national parks. Reserves such as Lion Park, Pilanesberg National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park are brimming with fascinating wildlife. Tourists can either indulge in getting up close and personal with fierce reptiles or gape at the Big Five wild animals of Africa.

The local menu of Johannesburg includes delicious cuisine, with dishes such as Piri-Piri Chicken, Amanqina, and Malwa Pudding. Comprising of a multi-cultural blend of Indian, Mozambican and Zimbabwean ethnicities, some interesting dishes of Johannesburg include pap, umleqwa, boerewors, and samosa. Tourists would find solace at Wombles restaurant, where savory steaks are served in traditional style. Other fascinating local eateries of the city include Springbok Pie, Casamance Chicken and Ostrich Burger.