Johannesburg

South Africa

Safety rating
4.5/10
Best time to visit
The dry, sunny autumn-to-spring months from April to October are most pleasant.
Population
6.0M

Overview

South Africa's pulsating economic capital, 'Joburg' rose from gold-rush roots into a dynamic, reinventing metropolis of edgy art districts, museums and malls. The powerful Apartheid Museum and nearby Soweto make it essential for understanding the nation's story.

Top attractions

Visit the Apartheid Museum, take a Soweto tour to the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Mandela House, and explore the Maboneng and Constitution Hill precincts.

Getting around

The Gautrain links the airport, Sandton and Pretoria, while ride-hailing apps are the safest way around; avoid minibus taxis as a visitor.

Airports near Johannesburg

Johannesburg essentials