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Why visit Johannesburg
Museums and Historic Sites
While Johannesburg has made great strides in modernizing itself, the city still recognizes its complex past. Travellers will find many museums and historical sites dedicated to providing insight into what once was a starkly different place. During your stay in the city, we suggest visiting these moving and educational sites.
Apartheid Museum
This museum commemorates the rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa and explores racial tensions that still exist today. Visitors are given a glimpse into the implementation of the apartheid system as well as the ability to hear inspiring stories from those who fought for justice. This powerful museum is not to be missed.
Constitution Hill
This set of exhibits is arguably one of South Africa’s most important historical sites. There are four poignant exhibitions to visit that are split across four locations: The Old Fort, Number Four Jail, the Women's Jail, and the Awaiting Trial Block. Learn of the activists who were once held here and reflect on the power of their tireless spirits.
Chancellor House
This historic building was the site where Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo set up South Africa's first black-owned law firm. Outside the structure, visitors can see photos and panels displayed in the windows that pay homage to the work of Mandela and Tambo. Opposite the building is the steel sculpture, “Shadow Boxing” by Marco Cianfanelli, based on Bob Gasini's famous photo of Mandela sparring in 1952.
Liliesleaf Farm
In the northern suburbs of Johannesburg is the Liliesleaf Farm – the location of Nelson Mandela’s arrest and former center for the liberation movement. With several high-tech exhibits, you’ll hear the story of South Africa’s liberation struggle and further grapple with the events that occurred during this tumultuous time. Learn, reflect, and appreciate the history of South Africa here.
Townships & Neighbourhoods
The influx of young entrepreneurs and revitalization of the city’s townships and neighbourhoods have helped Johannesburg transform into a locale that’s on a number of travellers’ must-see lists. From the chic streets of Sandton, to the historic district of Kliptown, we’ve found a generous range of areas for you to explore. Get lost in the excitement and energy during your visit to Jo’burg.
Soweto
Enjoy a guided tour of Soweto – South West Township, where you’ll see a mix of luxurious mansions and humble settlements as you learn about the historical significance of the area. Some sites include Nelson Mandela’s old family abode – which is now a museum called the Mandela House – and Bishop Tutu’s home just across the street. There’s much to discover in this historic suburb where over 1.3 million South Africans live.
Maboneng
Public art, delicious cafes, and live entertainment abound in this creative, up-and-coming neighbourhood. For many, the cultural hub of Maboneng is the Arts on Main – a series of buildings revamped into an atrium of unique eateries, boutiques, and galleries. Take an afternoon stroll through this walkable, artistic neighbourhood if you have time.
Sandton
Established in 1969, Sandton used to be nothing more than a sleepy village surrounded by farmland. Now, it’s known as the bustling cosmopolitan center of greater Johannesburg and contains Africa’s richest square mile. Learn of this posh area’s significant transformation and explore opulent Sandton.
Kliptown
The oldest district in Soweto, Kliptown is known to Johannesburg locals as “the Congress of the People.” In 1955, it was where 3,000 South Africans convened to write the Freedom Charter, which later served as the basis for South Africa's liberal constitution. Visit this iconic township if you have the time.
Cuisine
The food in Johannesburg is a palate-pleaser, offering traditional township meals and fusions of exotic flavours. The variety of indigenous and immigrant populations make the cuisine difficult to replicate, but a delight to be able to savour. Here is some suggested cuisine to try while in Jo’burg.
Shebeen
Popping up in women’s homes as early as the 1800s, shebeens have been an enduring part of South African culture. These humble establishments were often havens for natives during the Apartheid era, where patrons could talk freely over drinks and traditional African foods. Today, they’re a lively place to experience the regional lifestyle and fare of Jo’burg.
Injera
Both a food and a utensil, injera is a delicious accompaniment to authentic African cuisine. This fluffy flatbread is used to scoop up delicious meats and stews, and often lines the tray on which the dish is served. You can sample some injera in Johannesburg's Ethiopian district, known informally as “Little Addis” or “Little Ethiopia.”
Bunny Chow
Originating in South Africa’s Durban Indian community, bunny chow is a hearty dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with meat and curry. It’s said that the meal was popularized by Indian migrant workers looking for a convenient way to carry their lunches to the sugar cane plantations of “Kwazulu-Natal” (Port Natal). If you want to try a smaller version of this dish, order a kota – it only uses a quarter of a loaf of bread.
Malva Pudding
This sweet pudding has a delightfully spongy exterior that’s been soaked in warmed butter and topped with a creamy apricot jam sauce. It’s a favorite confectionery treat for South Africans, and often served during special occasions. If you have room for dessert while dining in Johannesburg, we suggest you order this dish.
