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Johannesburg or Jo’burg, which it is commonly called is the heart of South Africa and the financial capital of all of Africa. Jo’burg is an incredibly vibrant and cultural city, but one that has been maligned with crime and poverty. However, a trip to South Africa is not complete without at least a couple days stay here. Museums, the history of apartheid, as well as the excellent nightlife and arts make Jo’burg a necessary stop on any trip.

Johannesburg Pictures

Things to do in Johannesburg

Without a doubt, the most popular tourist destination in Jo’burg is Soweto. Soweto is home to the apartheid museum, the birth of the Soweto uprising, and the first home of Nelson Mandela. The apartheid museum is a must see location with a detailed and saddening description of apartheid era in South Africa. Other places to go see is Gold Reef City, an amusement park with a casino and an opportunity to learn about gold mining in South Africa. Also, be sure to check out the Hecter Pieterson Memorial, which is home to the death of the 13 year old student who protested against apartheid.

Nightlife in Johannesburg

It is without a doubt that Jo’burg has some of the best nightlife in all of South Africa. If you are looking for a night out of dancing and drinking, then check out the Melville student district which is home to some of the best pubs and clubs. For a bit more upscale check out the Rivonia or Sandton areas for good clubs. For clubs in Melville, I’d check out Rhythm Bar. Other great clubs are Carfax which is one of the cities main venue for entertainment. If you like Reggae, check out Cool Runnings as it is a favorite in the Jo’burg area for some Jamaican style music.

Dining in Johannesburg

If you are in the Melville area then you must go try the Mezzaluna, where they serve some delicious Mediterranean food and dishes including ostrich fillet and frangelica chocolate mousse. Mhmmm! If your looking for a high quality meal check out the Saxon Hotel, it’s one of the best restaurants around and where Nelson Mandela wrote his book “A Long Walk to Freedom”. If you are thinking about a chain restaurant, the always recommended Nando’s is a safe choice, but also check out Moyo’s which offers a wide range of contemporary African food and has stylish cigar bars and top-notch wine list.

Shopping in Johannesburg

The EastGate mall is the largest mall in Jo’burg, but there’s also the Northgate and Westgate malls that offer all the same qualities that malls in America offer. If you are looking for some Curios, check out the African Craft Market which is located at the Rosebank Mall and open till 6pm daily. For those who want to try something a bit different try the Mai Mai mall where you’ll see traditional healers selling herbs and remedies. Another interesting spot for some shopping is the Soweto Art Gallery which is one of the few locations where Black artists can showcase their work.

Johannesburg travel tips

• When exchanging currency or using an ATM, make sure to always use one located in a Mall, or inside or bank. ATMs on the streets are considered “dodgy.”
• Look for local advice and remain cautious at all times, Jo’burg is dangerous but only if you put yourself in those situations.
• Check out Soweto and the apartheid uprising to learn about the dynamic social history of South Africa.