Johannesburg

Africa’s richest metropolis and gateway into South Africa, is affectionately called Joburg, Jozi or eGoli (City of Gold) and embodies a fast-paced, cosmopolitan city that pulses with non-stop energy, a vibrant cultural scene and thriving nightlife. Since the discovery of the world’s richest gold fields in the 1880s, Johannesburg has grown from a dusty mining settlement into South Africa’s largest city and the continent’s leading economic powerhouse.

With over ten million trees making up the world’s largest man-made forest, Johannesburg is also unexpectedly green with several green spaces and lakes serving as a respite from the congested traffic and frenetic tempo of the city.

Apartheid’s legacy is most visible in South African’s famous township, Soweto, and well documented in the outstanding Apartheid Museum, both of which are a must-see for any local or visitor alike. Other museums, art galleries, theatres and music venues offer the cultural backdrop for the city that’s been dubbed ‘the New York of Africa’, and includes many world-class restaurants and excellent shopping malls.

While many visitors may confine themselves to the leafy northern suburbs, Johannesburg’s inner city is undergoing regeneration and is becoming a vibrant cultural hub. At the centre of urban revival is the Newtown Cultural Precinct, home to theatres, art galleries, cafés and nightclubs.

Culture and heritage

The Apartheid Museum opened in 2001 and has become one of Johannesburg’s most significant tourist attractions. The museum presents the grim history of the apartheid state with powerful, graphic exhibits.

Johannesburg Art Gallery is the biggest art gallery in South Africa, and a national monument. Housing a comprehensive selection of South African art, it also exhibits 17th century Dutch art and other international works.

• Stroll Johannesburg’s heritage walks
• Parks and gardens
• Nightlife
• Secret Johannesburg
• Getting around
• Budget restaurants in Johannesburg
• Johannesburg photo diary