Travel Guide to Johannesburg, South Africa

Up to 1886 Johannesburg was a small town without anything outstanding or popular. The destiny of this settlement was changed by the European named George Harrison who found a rich gold mine on the territory of the town. Starting from that time Johannesburg began developing rapidly and just 10 years later already 50 thousand of Europeans lived there. Today this is the largest megalopolis on the territory of South Africa, a famous industrial center and a popular resort. Johannesburg is surrounded by several satellites with each of them having its sights and places of interest, but you should start your exploration of the city from its unique buildings and cultural centers.

Exhibitions to mines and old towns built during the times of Gold Rush still remain the most popular attraction among tourists. Loose pit refuse heaps and mines are turned into museums that feature collections of equipment, historical items and documents. Old towns make up a huge museum under the open sky, where you can see houses of miners. Gold Reef City is considered the most popular miner settlement.

We simply cannot fail to mention Sun City town that has been created by skillful architects and is located in the center of an ancient volcano. All tourists interested in active rest and night entertainments should definitely visit this place. You will not find so many aqua parks, entertainment centers and discos in any other city of Republic of South Africa. Near Sun City is located another attraction – Pilanesberg National Park that is a home to over 6 thousands of wild animals including the representatives from the so called “big quintuple” – leopards, rhinoceroses, buffalos, elephants and lions. One more unique nature sight is 40 meters deep Sterkfontein Caves.

Read more about Johannesburg:
Restaurants and cuisine in Johannesburg
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Johannesburg
Nightlife and attractions in Johannesburg
Preparing for Johannesburg: Advices
Johannesburg photogallery