Affectionately called Joburg by locals, Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest, most populous city. With a thriving economy, many neighborhoods in this young, sprawling city are experiencing gentrification and offer visitors a wealth of multicultural activities.

South Africa’s vibrant financial hub is home to some of the tallest buildings on the continent. The 50th-floor observation deck of the Carlton Centre offers panoramic views of the city. Convention venues, including MTN Expo Centre and the Coca-Cola Dome, attract up to 19,000 delegates for conferences and trade shows. Millions of trees in parks, lining city sidewalks and around private gardens make Johannesburg one of the greenest cities in the world. Break from the city for a ramble through Johannesburg Botanic Gardens in the suburb of Emmarentia.

Johannesburg is a gateway to South African history and culture. Tour the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum for an understanding of South Africa’s controversial past. The popular Mandela Museum is located in Nelson Mandela’s former house. Johannesburg Civic Theatre presents international and local performances.

If shopping is your goal, find upscale shops at Sandton City and Hyde Park or stop by the Rosebank Flea Market for authentic African art. Lively murals and sculptures decorate the streets of Johannesburg. Kwaito music is unique to the region; its post-apartheid message is popular among Johannesburg youth.

Info To Go

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) serves more than 28 million travelers annually. The Gautrain rail system links the airport to Johannesburg and surrounding areas, transporting nearly 8,000 passengers from the airport daily. Fares to and from are $13–16.

Public transportation is not ideal in Johannesburg. Frequented by locals, minibuses don’t have designated stops, so it’s easy for first-time visitors to miss their destinations. Metered taxis must be ordered in advance. They are more expensive but safer and more convenient. Negotiate fares before departure.

Numbers To Know

U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg
1 Sandton Drive
Sandhurst
Johannesburg
South Africa
tel 27 11 290 3000
Emergency tel 10111

Lodging

Michelangelo Hotel

Visit the upscale on-site shopping facilities. 135 West St., Sandton tel 27 11 282 7000

Saxon Boutique Hotel and Spa

Water features are just one of the luxurious touches at this hotel. 36 Saxon Road, Sandhurst tel 27 11 292 6000

The Westcliff Hotel

Guestrooms in the business wing feature an in-room printer and fax machine. 67 Jan Smuts Ave., Westcliff tel 27 11 481 6000

Dining

The Butcher Shop & Grill

Modeled after a traditional butcher shop, the eatery serves unusual game meats. Shop 30, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton tel 27 11 784 8676

Carnivore

Despite its moniker, the restaurant offers a variety of fish and vegetarian options. 69 Drift Blvd., Gauteng tel 27 11 950 6000

Gramadoelas African Restaurant

Adventurous diners can sample exotic fare, including a plate of mopani worms. Breë Street Market Theatre tel 27 11 838 6960