Africa : Southern Africa : South Africa : Gauteng : Johannesburg

Johannesburg

Johannesburg [1] (in spoken language also referred to as Jo'burg, Egoli or Jozi ) is South Africa's largest city.

Districts

Understand

Johannesburg has a population of 3.2 million people (South African 2001 census), half of which live in Soweto and adjacent suburbs. Black people form an overwhelming majority of 2.4 million residents (mostly concentrated in Soweto), while whites represent 500,000 residents (although the number is likely to be higher) and 300,000 Coloured and Asian residents. Unlike other South African cities, no language group dominates, although English is the established lingua franca.

The city is the economic hub of South Africa, and increasingly for the rest of Africa. Although estimates vary, about 10% of sub-Saharan Africa's GDP is generated in Johannesburg. Yet the city is also one of the most unequal in the world. Its riches are not evenly divided upon its people and the city is an interesting contrast between the First World and Third World. The contrast between rich and poor has led to one of the highest crime rates in the world. The haves tend to live in houses with a high level of security by western standards, whilst the have nots live in shacks or cheap housing. The traveller should not avoid Johannesburg because of its crime, since it is possible to have a safe and enjoyable stay if precautions are taken. Many South Africans elect to live here over other, safer parts of the country. Throughout the city, mine dumps are a reminder of the city's legacy of gold mining. These dumps are fast disappearing as new gold extraction techniques have made it profitable for mining companies to reprocess these dumps.

There are many things that are unique to Johannesburg. It features a distinct street entrepreneurship, and motorists are able to buy almost anything from vendors selling goods at traffic lights. This includes food, umbrellas, soccer balls, cellular phone accessories and many other goods. Barber shops consisting of nothing but a chair and an enthusiastic barber can be found on the sides of roads, although they tend to specialize in African rather than Caucasoid hair.

With around 6 million trees, Johannesburg is most likely the world's largest man-made urban forest. The city is certainly one of the greenest in the world, considering that the natural landscape is savannah. Jo'burg is also the largest city in the world not on a coastline or major river. The weather is generally regarded as excellent, temperatures reach the mid-30s Celsius in summer with little to no wind and occasional spectacular afternoon thunderstorms. Temperatures in winter can go into single digits but snow is extremely rare.

Orientation

By far the easiest way to find your bearings in Johannesburg is by finding the two telecommunication towers on the horizon. The Hillbrow tower is located near the city center while the Brixton tower (also called the Sentech tower) is located out to the west of the city. Since they are both tall towers located on high ground and easily distinguishable from other structures and each other, they make excellent landmarks.

If the Hillbrow tower is to the left of the Brixton tower, then you are in the north
If the Hillbrow tower is closer than the Brixton tower, then you are in the east
If the Brixton tower is to the left of the Hillbrow tower, then you are in the south
If the Brixton tower is closer than the Hillbrow tower, then you are in the west

Depending on your location, you may also see a cylindrical building (Ponte City Apartments) located close to the Hillbrow tower.

There is a ring road system of freeways, with the city centre located at the centre of the ring. The ring is formed by the N1 on the north and west, the N3 on the east and the N12 on the south. The ring is dissected north/south by the M1 freeway and partially dissected east/west by the M2 freeway.

Get in

By car

A high number of highways from everywhere in South Africa go to Johannesburg, like the N1 from Cape Town and Bloemfontein or the N3 from Durban making it an easy to reach destination. Highways are:

N1 from Cape Town and Harare in Zimbabwe
N3 from Durban
N4 from Nelspruit and the Kruger National Park, as well as Botswana
N12 from Kimberley and Potchefstroom
N14 from Upington and Namibia

Traffic can be particularly bad during peak hours (M-F 7.30AM-9AM and 4PM-6.30PM) so plan your journey accordingly. Due to the increasing number of cars sold traffic in Johannesburg has progressively got worse and travel times during the Monday to Friday need to consider this. As the city is spread out and large getting around may require covering large distances e.g. from Midrand to Soweto is in excess of 45 km.

By plane

OR Tambo International Airport in Ekurhuleni is located just east of Johannesburg and is the major airport in South Africa.

Other airports, such as Lanseria Airport or Rand Airport are preferred by charter operators and small airlines. There are regular flights from Lanseria to Cape Town.

By train

Spoornet [2] operates regular inter-city trains to destinations all over the country, including Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Bloemfontein, Kimberley, Port Elizabeth, East London, Pietermaritzburg, Nelspruit and Polokwane.

MetroRail [3] operates frequent commuter trains to many suburbs and outlying towns.

Johannesburg's central station (called Park Station) is in the city centre between Rissik (west), Wolmarans (north), Wanderers (east) and De Villiers (south) streets - it occupies several blocks. Whilst the station itself is quite safe, the areas around it may not be ; be careful and try to organise onward transport prior to arrival. All long-distance Spoornet trains are quite safe, as are most MetroRail trains,

By bus

Long-distance buses arrive at Park Station (see "By train" above). All major bus companies provide a service to and from Johannesburg.

Get around

Car rental

Rental car is best as public transport is limited. If driving it is worth buying a good road map of Johannesburg, the city (inc northern suburbs) is very large and not very well signposted. MapStudio produce a good map

Avis, ☎ (+27) 11 923 3660, [4]. Professional, low hassle car hire giant. Easy to get a quote and reserve online.
CABS Car hire, ☎ (+27) (0)11 392-1388(info@cabs.co.za), [5]. affordable and reliable, at all major airports in South Africa
Pace Car Rental Offers very reasonable rates for car hire. They are very friendly and the rates are better than the larger brands. You can call Berne on +27 84 840 2847
Tempest Car Hire, ☎ +27 (0)11 552-3700(toll free: 0861 836 7378, reservations@tempestcarhire.co.za), [6]. Affordable car rental service available at all major locations and airports in South Africa.

Bus

Metrobus, ☎ +27 (0)11 833-5538, [7]. Buses are available but routes and times are somewhat limited by western standards.
Minibus taxis should be avoided unless you are with a local - this is principly because the routes are very confusing, and the conductors will often say 'yes' when you ask 'are you going to X?' so that they get your fare, then they drop you at a crossroads and say 'change here'. Also they are frequently un-roadworthy (although they are in much better condition than in most of Africa) and involved in fatal accidents. Extreme and sometimes warlike competition has resulted in affordable transportation for the masses.

Taxi

In general all the taxi operators collude with each other and fix prices - so taxis are not cheap (and not metered). Haggling is usual (best to agree a price when you phone). Don't rely on taxi ranks in shopping malls, often there aren't any. Always have a few taxi numbers with you so you don't get stuck somewhere.

Bumble Bee Roadline, [8]. The smartest & cheapest way to move in Joburg. Coming Soon... Watch this space. www.flythebee.co.za
Airport Link, ☎ +27 (0)11) 792 2017, [9]. Fixed price airport transfer service.
Elias, ☎ +27 (0)76 834 0670. Friendly taxi driver based in the CBD.
Magicbus, ☎ +27 (0)11 548-0822, [10]. Offers affordable shuttle services between OR Tambo Airport and Sandton. They also offer door-to-door transfers. A bit expensive for the single traveller, but reasonable when traveling in groups.
Maxi Taxi, ☎ +27 (0)11 648 1212, [11]. Reputable taxi firm based in Yeoville.
Roses Taxi, ☎ +27 (0)11 403 9625. Operates throughout the city.

Be aware that ongoing traffic diversions will be in effect in Sandton, Rosebank and other areas over the next few years. This is due to the construction of the Gautrain [12] rapid rail link between Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport [13]

See

Soweto is an increasingly popular destination for travellers from around the world. The Apartheid museum is a worth while stop for any traveller wanting to learn more about the South Africa's previous regime.

The Market Theatre precinct, Museum of Africa and Newtown (New Town) are particularly vibrant sectors of the city centre. By day, a walk around Newtown (preferably in a small group) will give you a taste for the wide range of traditions and cultures the city plays host to.

Top of Africa, Carlton Centre, 150 Commissioner St(Take the elevator from the second floor to the fiftieth), ☎ +27 (0)11 308-1331. 8AM to 7PM daily. Get a panoramic view of the city from the top of Africa's tallest buildingR7.50.

Johannesburg Planetarium, Yale Road, Entrance 10, University of the Witwatersrand, Milner Park, ☎ +27 (0)11 717-1392(planet@planetarium.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 339-2926), [14]. See their website for upcoming shows. From R16 to R25, depending on show.

Museums and Galleries

Johannesburg Art Gallery, Corner of Klein and King George streets, Joubert Park, ☎ +27 (0)11 725 3130. The biggest gallery on the African continent with a good collection of local and international work on display. And its free.

Mandela Family Museum in Orlando West, Soweto (Mandela's first house).

The Apartheid Museum, ☎ +27 (0)11 309-4700, [15]. A very moving and informative trip through South Africa's turbulent past and present. It takes at least a half day to go through and includes video, pictures and many artifacts that you can easily spend a day looking through. It is located alongside Gold Reef City and is simply a must see.

Chérie De Villiers Gallery, Lower Level, Rosebank Mall, Rosebank, ☎ +27 (0)11 788-9949(cheart@global.co.za), [16]. Art by South African artists.

Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Electric Workshop building, cnr Miriam Makeba and President street, Newtown, ☎ +27 (0)11 639-8400(cynthia.sithole@sci-bono.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 832-3360), [17]. 9AM to 5PM Mon to Fri and 9AM to 4:30PM weekends and public holidays. Adults: R20, children: R10.

Standard Bank Gallery, Corner Simmonds and Frederick Streets, Johannesburg, ☎ +27 (0)11 631-1889, [18]. Open 8AM to 4:30PM Monday to Friday and 9AM to 1PM on Saturdays. Entrance is free.

South African National Museum of Military History, Erlswold Way, Saxonwold(Next to the Johannesburg Zoo), ☎ +27 (0)11 646-5513(milmus@icon.co.za), [19]. Open daily 9AM to 4:30PM. A good collection of military hardware, including one of very few ME 262 jet fighters from WW2 still in existence. There is also a South African build G6 self propelled, 155mm howitzer on show. A snack shop as well as a shop selling genuine and reproduced vintage military equipment is located within the museum.R20 entrance fee.

James Hall museum of Transport, Pioneers' Park, Rosettenville Road, La Rochelle, ☎ +27 (0)11 435-9718(curator@jhmt.org.za, fax: +27 (0)11 435-9821), [20]. Open Tue to Sun 9AM to 5PM. Largest museum dedicated to transport in South Africa.Free entrance.

Origins Centre - The South African Museum of Rock Art: A Museum in Africa for the people of the world. An excellent multimedia display of the rock art and the origins of humankind. Good curio shop, book shop and coffee shop. Yale Road, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, Ph: +27 (0)11 717-6051, enquiries@rockart.wits.ac.za [21]. 9AM to 4:30PM. Students R35. Adults R65

Do

Cloud 9 Spa(Angela Hardy), 32 Richmond Road, Craighall Park(See directions on website), ☎ +27-11-788-9934, [22]. Tues to Sat 10:30 to 19:00. Cloud 9 is a small spa offering massage, floatation and other spa therapies.From ZAR200.

Go on a Township Tour to Soweto

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, (The gardens can be tricky to find as it is not well signposted from the main roads. From the N1 get onto Hendrik Potgieter at exit 80 (Roodepoort/M8 14th Ave). Follow the signs indicating Tarlton (M47) to the north. Pass Clearwater mall, turn left into Handicap Road and right into Malcolm Road where you see the first signpost for the gardens. The gardens will be on your left a couple of hundred meters from here.), ☎ +27 (0)11 958-1750(SisuluGarden@sanbi.org, fax: +27 (0)11 958-1752), [23]. One of the last green areas remaining within Johannesburg. Lots of birds, including the endangered Black Eagle. There is a restaurant situated within the grounds as well as picnic and braai areas.R18 per person, discounts for students and pensioners.

Take a trip to Constitution Hill, site of the notorious Old Fort prison complex.

South African Lipizzaners, 1 Dahlia Road, Kyalami(Follow the N1 towards Pretoria, take exit 108 Midrand, R561 Allandale Road towards Kyalami. Kyalami Road and Main Road intersects at the entrance to the Kyalami racetrack, turn right here. At the second traffic light, turn left and follow Main Road, look out for Maple Road to your right. Turn right into Maple Road and right again into Crocus Road), ☎ +27 (0)11 702-2103(lipizzaner@hixnet.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 468-2718), [24]. Other than Vienna, this is the only place you will ever got to see performing Lipizzaners recognized by the Spanish Riding School. Booking can also be done via Computicket [25]

Lesedi Cultural Village, (Just past the Lanseria Airport on the R512), ☎ +27 (0)12 205-1394, [26]. Traditional dances and food in authentic Zulu, Sotho, Pedi, Xhosa and Ndebele villages.

Lion Park, R114 near the corner with Hans Strijdom (R512), Honeydew(From the N1, take exit 90, Randburg/R512 Hans Strydom Dr. and follow this north past Kya Sands. At the 4 way stop with the R114, take a right turn. The Lion Park is two hundred meters down the road on the right.), ☎ +27 (0)11 691-9905(lionpark@cknet.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 691-9904), [27]. The entrance ticket entitles you a visit with the lion cubs (yes, you get to touch them) and a self drive game viewing through the lion camps and game area (antelope, zebra, giraffe and others live here). The Lion Park can be very busy over weekend and public holidays. If you want some quality time with the lion cubs, rather go during the week when it is not so busy. If you are going to drive through the lion enclosures, make sure that there are no loose objects on the outside of your vehicle and keep your windows closed. The lions are especially fond of 4x4 spare wheel covers, so remove those before you enter.R80 per person.

Montecasino Bird Gardens, (From the '''N1''', take exit 95 (''Marked: 95 Sandton/R511 William Nicol Dr.'') and head north, cross over Leslie Ave and turn right into Mentecasino Blvd.), ☎ +27 (0)11 511-1864. Open weekdays from 8:30AM to 5PM and weekend from 8:30AM to 6PM(Shows at 11AM and 3PM daily with additional 1PM shows over weekends). Many birds and other small wildlife. Also look out for the 2500 year old tree located near the parrots.

Visit a gold mine

Gold Reef City, Northern Parkway, Ormonde(From the M1 South, take exit 5, Johannesburg/M17 Xavier Street and follow Crownwood Rd until intersection with Northern parkway. Turn right into Northern Parkway and follow that road for about 1 km), ☎ +27 (0)11 248-6800(nfo@goldreefcity.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 248-6863), [28]. An amusement park with a casino. The visitor can also learn about gold mining and go into a mine here. Unfortunately Gold Reef isn't a theme-park of international standards so if you are expecting "Disney Land Africa" give it a miss.
Ferreira's Mine, Standard Bank Centre, 5 Simmonds Street, ☎ +27 (0)11 636-9111(info@standardbank.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 636-4207). Open during normal banking hours 8AM to 4PM. This bank literally sits on gold. An old abandoned gold mine from the late 19^th century was rediscovered during construction of the Standard Bank headoffice in the 1980s. After taking the access tunnels of the mine into account, construction continued over it. Portions of the original mine as well as a new museum associated with it is has been opened to the public.Entrance is free.

Adventure

Abseil & Rapp Jumping, ☎ +27 (0)11 465 6937. Seeing Jo'burg from a new perspective and pushing your adrenalin for fun. See website for upcoming events.

Events

The A1GP [29] is hosted during mid February at the Kyalami racetrack in Midrand. (From the N1 freeway, take the Allendale/Kyalami offramp, turn west and follow Allendale road to the racetrack entrance.)

A number of venues cater for conferences, exhibitions and shows throughout the year.

Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Olievenhout Avenue and Northumberland Road, North Riding(Next to the Northgate shopping mall), [30].

Learn

University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), Braamfontein, Johannesburg, ☎ +27 (0)11 717-1000(studysa@international.wits.ac.za, fax: +27 (0)11 717-1065), [31].
University of Johannesburg, Bunting Road, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, ☎ +27 (0)11 489-3129(international@uj.ac.za, fax: +27 (0)11 489-2191), [32].

Work

Due to South Africa's negotiated settlement which heralded the dawn of South Africa's democracy in 1994, South Africans have gained a reputation for holding meetings or lekgotlas (the Tswana word meaning "meeting place") to resolve their concerns, and plan for the future.

This desire to meet, discuss and strategise is also found amongst South Africa's business leaders, and Johannesburg as Africa and South Africa's economic hub is filled with conferencing venues and meeting places which can host a wide range of events for small or large groups.

Popular conference areas include the Rosebank and Sandton areas where conferences tend to be held in and around some of the city's top hotels. The Muldersdrift area and western region of Johannesburg has developed a reputation for outstanding function venues, particularly weddings and private events. While the midrand area located halfway between Johannesburg and Pretoria is also a popular conferencing and events area.

Buy

There are many craft markets in Johannesburg & surrounding areas. You will also find plenty of beautifully crafted beadwork & wirework being sold on the roadside & at intersections. Though you will be able to bargain with the locals, give a thought to the crafters who are often unemployed & rely on sales to support themselves & their family. Craftsmen and women from all over Africa sell their goods at the Rosebank flea market on Sundays and in a bazaar type shop in the Rosebank mall on week days.

Oriental Plaza, Fordsburg, [33]. A little bit of the East in Africa were you can find some good bargains. Unlike other malls in South Africa you can bargain with the shopkeepers here. The Oriental Plaza is unique in the world as one of the few malls with over 360 independently owned stores. A block away from the Oriental Plaza is the site where Mahatma Ghandi had the famous pass burning ceremony a 100 years ago. The location, which is outside the nearby Newtown mosque, is appropriately marked with a cauldron and the relevant historical details.

Mai Mai, Anderson and Berea St. The oldest market in Joburg. Here you'll see plenty of traditional healers selling traditional herbs & remedies.

African Arts & Crafts

African Craft Market, Rosebank Mall, Cnr Cradock and Baker St, Rosebank., ☎ 011 880 2906(fax: 011 880 2944), [34]. Open 9AM to 6PM daily.

Flea Markets

Rosebank Rooftop Flea Market, Top parking level of the Rosebank Mall,Between Bath and Cradock Avenues, Rosebank, ☎ +27 (0)11 442-4488(fax: +27 (0)86 636-5964), [35]. Open Sundays only, 9AM to 5PM. Find a vast selection of African crafts
Bruma Flea Market, Ernest Oppenheimer Ave, Bruma(Close to Eastgate), ☎ +27 (0)11 622-9648. Daily 10AM to 6PM.
Market Theatre Flea Market, Newtown Cultural Precinct, Bree St, Newtown, ☎ +27 (0)11 832-1641. Open Sat 9AM to 4PM.
Panorama Flea Market, Klipriver Drive, Mulbarton, ☎ +27 (0)11 682-2222(howard@panoramafleamarket.com, fax: +27 (0)86 513-3267), [36].

Shopping Malls

There are many shopping malls throughout Johannesburg, the larger ones being Sandton City, 5th St, ☎ +27 (0)11 217-6000(info@sandtoncity.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 883-0978), [37]. Open 9AM to 6PM Mon to Sat and 10AM to 4PM Sun. A large and popular mall in Sandton

Northgate, Corner of Northumberland Road & Olievenhout Avenue, ☎ +27 (0)11 794 1687, [38]. In the north west
Bedford Centre, [39]. In the east, a smaller mall that is worth seeking out - a good selection of independent shops, rather than the chainstore overload of standard South African malls.
Westgate, 120 Ontdekkers Road, Roodepoort, ☎ +27 (0)11 768-0616(westgatemall@motseng.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 768-2291), [40]. Open Mon to Fri 9AM to 6PM, Sat 9AM to 5PM and Sun 9AM to 2PM. Bordering on the West Rand.
Eastgate, Cnr Nicol and Bradford, Bedfordview, ☎ +27 (0)11 616-2209(egmarketing@libertyproperties.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 622-2473), [41]. 9AM to 6PM.
Cresta Mall, Cnr Beyers Naude and Weltevreden Road, Cresta, ☎ +27 (0)11 678-5306(info@crestashopping.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 678-4096), [42].
Rosebank, Between Bath and Cradock Avenues, Rosebank(From the M1 south, take exit 19 (Johannesburg/M20 Gelnhove Rd), turn right and follow Glenhove to Oxford, cross over Oxford and turn right into 4th Ave that leads directly into the mall parking), ☎ +27 (0)11 788-5530(info@themallofrosebank.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 880-6250), [43]. Along with the usual assortment of shops it is also home to the famous Rosebank Rooftop Flea Market in the mall parking every Sunday and an excellent African Craft Market.
Southgate, Cnr Columbine Ave & Rifle Range Rd, Mondeor, ☎ +27 (0)11 942-1061, [44]. The centre is located in the south of Johannesburg, just five minutes from Soweto.
Fourways Mall, Cnr Witkoppen Rd & William Nicol Drive, Fourways, ☎ +27 (0)11 465 6095, [45].

You will also find many smaller shopping malls close to residential areas. Usually with one or two of the larger retail stores, a number of smaller chain stores, fast food and possibly a restaurant or coffee shop.

Eat

Melrose Arch, [46]. Houses many upmarket restaurants and nightclubs, including Moyo (an African-themed restaurant) and several other casual eating establishments.
The Butcher Shop & Grill, Shop 30, Nelson Mandela Square, ☎ +27 (0)11 784-8676(thebutchershop@mweb.co.za, fax: +27 (0)11 784-8674), [47]. 12AM to 10:45PM Monday to Saturday and 12AM to 9:45PM on Sundays.
Rodizio, ☎ +27 (0)11 888-7633, [48]. Located in Victory Park and has great Brazilian dishes and a lively party atmosphere. Live music and dancing.
Undoubtedly the best steak in town (and a great burger, too!) is at Rosebank's Grillhouse (+27 (0)11 880 3945). Don't miss out, and be sure to book. The restaurant has an attached bar, "Katzy's", which is a great place for a pre- or post-dinner drink.

The Saxon Hotel has one of the best restaurants in Johannesburg. It is the hotel where Nelson Mandela stayed shortly after being released from prison and where he wrote his book ´Long Walk to Freedom´. This is where you will have one of the best gourmet meals in the city, but you need to have deep pockets.

In Sandton City shopping mall, there are many restaurants including Italian,Indian, Chinese, Japanese restaurants. There is also a Korean restaurant in Johannesburg (where?!? someone please tell us!) - [Arirang in Rivonia; very good authentic Korean food, but very expensive; http://www.megaplex.co.za/restaurant-rivonia.htm] . A relaxing meal can be had on Mandela Square.

Melville is another neighborhood where you can find many good restaurants. It is close to the national broadcaster (SABC) headquarters and many artists live in this community. An especially good restaurant is Mezzaluna, 9a, 7th Street, ph:+27 (0)11 482 2477, who serve amazing Mediterranean food. Dishes include springbok carpaccio, ostrich fillet, and Frangelica chocolate mousse.

Fordsburg has many Indian restaurants with authentic cuisine as well as conventional franchise stores (Wimpy, Nandos, Fishmonger, Nescafe,etc). Dawaat restaurant is considered to be one of the best restaurants and the priciest by Fordsburg standards - A meal at Dawaat will cost about R100 per person and much lesser at the neighbouring restaurants of which there are over 50 to choose from. Another much frequented restaurant is Bismillahs. A favourite take-away amongst the locals is Akhalwayas Fast Foods on Central Road which specialises in fish and chips and various tasty sandwiches. However they are better known for the quality of their food then the speed of service and its not unheard of to wait for 45 minutes(or more!) for your meal at peak lunch times. Unfortunately they close at 5pm daily. Furthermore none of the restaurants serve alcohol and are all halaal. Fordsburg is in close proximity to the Oriental Plaza and can be combined with your shopping expedition. Fordsburg is one of the few (if any) areas of Johannesburg that has a thriving outdoor street market and pedestrian traffic at night - This is mainly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights when all the restaurants are filled to capacity with hundreds of night shoppers milling about the flea market.

The Markade Mall and its wide technology services with Dream Global Technologies, 84 Cnr President and Kruis Streets, Johannesburg Central, Gauteng Province, South Africa

Drink

Good pubs and clubs are available in the Melville student district, Newtown cultural precinct. Posh and upmarket clubbing happens in the Rivonia and Sandton area. Rivonia also contains Liliesleaf Farm, where Mandela and top ANC leaders once plotted to overthrow the apartheid government.

Back2Basix, 167 Perth Rd, Westdene(Opposite the University of Johannesburg (RAU)), ☎ +27 (0)11 726-6857(info@back2basix.co.za), [49].
Back o' the Moon Nightclub, Located in Gold Reef City Casino, ☎ +27 (0)11 496-1423, [50].
Carfax, ☎ +27 (0)11 834-9187, [51]. One of the City's main venues for night time entertainment is in the suburb of Newtown - which is being developed as the city's cultural precinct.
Monsoon Lagoon, ☎ +27 (0)11 928-1280, [52]. Good nightclub with DJ Sebastian.
Roxy Rhythm Bar, 20 Main Rd, Melville, ☎ +27 (0)11 726-6019, [53]. R50 cover charge.
SAB World of Beer, 15 President Street, Newtown, ☎ +27(0)11 836-4900(events.co-ordinator@za.sabmiller.com, fax: +27 (0)11 836-4900), [54]. The SAB-Miller Beer museum.R25 for the tour, including 2 free drinks in the pub at the end of the tour..
(grant@tanzcafe.co.za).
The Manhattan Club, 19 Wessels Road, Rivonia(From the N1 take exit 100 (Sandton/M9 Rivonia Rd), follow Rivonia Rd south and turn left into 12th Ave at the second traffic light, turn left into River Rd and follow that until it becomes Wessels Rd.), ☎ +27 (0)11 803-7085(guyb@manhattanclub.co.za), [55]. Thur to Sat, 8PM to after 4AM. Tues and Wed, 9PM to 3AM. Closed Sun, Mon, Thurs. R50 to R70 covercharge depending on day and time. Discounts for students and ladies..
The Radium Beer Hall, Louis Botha Ave, Orange Grove, ☎ +27 (0)11 728-3866, [56]. Serving beer since 1929.
House of Nsako, 101 High Street, Brixton, ☎ 072 2232 648, [57]. live music venue, museum and institute of Afrikan popular culture

Sleep

Joburg is full of accommodation to suit any type of budget, from the ultimate in luxury & expense, to backpacker lodges. For those on a budget and without a hire car Emmarentia probably offers the best place to stay - there is one backpackers and you'll save a lot in taxi fares.

Budget

Johannesburg Backpackers, Umgwezi Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg, (info@joburgbackpackers.com), [58]. Located in the very safe area of Emmarentia this is the new place from the people at Cape Town Backpackers,( the winners of Best hostel in Africa for the past 2 years!) Its fun, friendly (and clean, they have regular theme nights in the funky bar and have various options for sleeping from dorms to ensuites. From R110 pp.

The Backpacker's Ritz, 1A North Road, Dunkeld West, ☎ +27 +(0)11 325-7125(ritz@iafrica.com), [59]. Excellent views of the city, reasonable prices and an extremely helpful travel desk with information about all aspects of travel in South Africa. Also have airport transfers.From R90 for a dorm bed to R287 for a double room.
ThePurple Fig Guest House, 10 Wargrave Rd, Auckland Park(near SABC), ☎ 073 2485480, [60]. Self catering apartments for the discerning artist and cultural fundi in and around the Melville area which enables the traveller to feel inspired and relaxed. Fully equipped kitchens, eating area, divine lounge, sunny pation and television, bathroom/s, bedroom/s
Diamond Diggers Backpackers, 6 Doris Street, Kensington, ☎ +27 (0)11 624-1676(mail@placetostay.info), [61]. From R60 to R160 per person.
Zoo Lodge, 233a Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, ☎ +27 (0)11 788-5182(zoolodge@backpackafrica.com), [62]. The right address, close to Joburg Zoo and Rosebank Mall. On a bus route. Airport and Train Station pickups available.From R80 to R200 depending on room.
Melville Arch, 113 St Swithins Ave, Melville, [63]. Nice affordable bed and breakfast a short walk from Melville's bars and restaurants.From R250 depending on room.
90 George Ave, 90 George Ave, Sandringham, ☎ +27 (0) 11 6401856, [64]. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Very hospitalble guesthouse, on lovely property, near to film studios and 6 km from Melrose Arch.From R250 depending on room.

Mid range

Blue Chip Accommodation, [65]. Provides various self catering apartments around the Sandton/Johannesburg area which enables the traveler to feel more at home. The apartments have fully equipped kitchens as well as a lounge with a television/prepaid telephone, bathroom/s, bedroom/s and either private balconies or gardens. All located in secure complexes with 24 hr guard and swimming pool.
The Lion Park, ☎ +27 (0)11 460-1814(lionpark@cknet.co.za), [66]. In Fourways and offers semi-luxurious self catering tents.
Protea Hotel Wanderers, Cnr. Corlett Drive & Rudd Road, Illovo, ☎ +27 (0)11 770-5500(apple@phwanderers.co.za), [67]. checkin: 23/10/08; checkout: 01/11/08. Close to Rosebank and SandtonFrom R210 per person sharing.
Kwa Dukuza Egoli Hotel. In downtown Johannesburg. This hotel is the ex Johannesburg Sun and ex Holiday Inn Garden Court.
Ekala Guest Farm and Eco Tours, Plot 81 Alewynspoort, ☎ 0726041879, [68]. checkin: 00; checkout: 00. Ekala is a Johannesburg Guest House for those discerning travelers or business executives who prefer the luxuries of home to hotel regimentation. Set in the Alewynspoort, Johannesburg countryside, creating a relaxed casual ambience with tranquility and secure Johannesburg accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg. Ekala offers everything you can expect in a Johannesburg hotel and much more. Relax in comfort, enjoy Johannesburg tours or conduct business in tranquility.
Johannesburg Accommodation, [69]. self catering villas and apartments around the Sandton/Midrand area. Fully equipped located in secure complexes with 24 hr security.

Splurge

Joburg also caters for the traveller looking for a luxurious stay, with five-star hotels. Many of these are located in Sandton and others are

The Grace In Rosebank, 54 Bath Avenue, Rosebank, ☎ +27 (0)11 442 0488, [70]. The Grace is an ideal choice for guests seeking a sophisticated city hotel with the highest levels of service and luxury, as well as that personal charm found only in small establishments.
The Westcliff, ☎ +27 (0)11 481-6000(reservations@westcliff.co.za), [71].
D´oreale Grande, in Emperors Palace Johannesburg located near Tambo airport, Gauteng.
The Melrose Arch hotel, 1 Melrose Square Melrose Arch, ☎ +27 (0)21 430-5302, [72]. Locked away in the Melrose Arch complex this is a great hotel, with all the facilities you would expect from a 5 star delux hotel.
Lesedi Cultural Village, ☎ +27 (0)12 205-1394, [73]. Offers traditionally themed accommodation with modern conveniences.
Execulet, ☎ =27 (0)11 326-4532(rentals@execulet.co.za), [74]. Fully furnished apartments for short-term and long-term rental. A full range of more than 100 privately managed apartments ranging from budget studios to luxury executive suits. All apartments are located in South Africa’s new and perpetually growing centre, Sandton, Johannesburg.
Park Hyatt Johannesburg, 191 Oxford Road, Rosebank, ☎ +27 11 280 1234(Reservations.JOHPH@hyattintl.com), [75]. 5 star business hotel.
Highland View Executive Guesthouse, 164 Highland Road, Kensington, Johannesburg, ☎ +27 11 615 9001(reservations@highlandview.co.za), [76]. .

Contact

WiFi

Always-On [77] , +27 (0)11 575-2505, provides prepaid WiFi access in a number of locations in and around Johannesburg. Simply connect to the access point and you will be given the opportunity to pay for access by credit card. Pricing starts at around R15 for 10 minutes or R60 for 100MB.

Coverage areas include:

City Lodge. Most of them.
The Baron. Bryanston and Woodmead
Mugg&Bean. Just about all of them.
Nando's. Benmore, Chilli Lane, Douglasdale, Rivonia
OR Tambo Airport. Most of the airport is covered as well as the City Lodge and Airport Sun InterContinental
Protea Balalaika Hotel.
Wimpy. Midrand, Randburg, Centurion, Aero Centre

Stay healthy

HIV infection rate is high, DO NOT HAVE UNPROTECTED SEX.

Municipal water is safe to drink.

There is a Travel Clinic at OR Tambo International Airport

Kloof Road Travel Clinic, 17 Kloof Road, Corner Arterial Road West Bedfordview, Dr DM Smith / Sr C Standford, Tel: +27 (0)11 616 4400, Fax: +27 (0)11 616 3757

Airport Clinic & Travel Vaccination Centre, Ground Floor, New Domestic Arrivals Terminal, ☎ +27 (0)11 921-6609. GP, dentist, vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis

Hospitals

It is best to avoid public hospitals as standards have declined recently, but private hospitals are of world class standard.

The following hospitals cater for 24 hour accident and emergency treatment:

Sunninghill Hospital, Cnr Witkoppen & Nanyuki Rds, Sunninghill, ☎ +27 (0)11 806-1500.
Millpark Hospital, 9 Guild Road, Parktown West, ☎ +27 (0)11 480-5600.

Stay safe

Be aware that Johannesburg has very high crime levels day and night. However, like many cities with a crime problem some places are quite safe while others can be quite dangerous, and with some places this may depend on whether it's day or night.

You should keep security constantly in mind and tourists must remain alert at all times around the CBD. The recent installation of surveillance cameras in the CBD has decreased daytime robbery and theft, so it can generally be visited during the day on business days without incident. However, it is largely deserted at night, during weekends and on holidays so it is best to avoid visiting during those times.

Avoid travelling to areas such as Hillbrow or Berea at any time unless in a large group or with local guides. If travelling to townships make sure you go with an organised tour as crime is generally much higher in township areas, including Soweto. It is also prudent to avoid walking at night in the city centre. If you do travel at night make sure to remain in populated, well lit areas.

Carjacking is a common phenomenon in Johannesburg with one of the highest rates in the world. When you enter your car ensure that your doors are locked and windows are rolled up before starting your journey, night and day. Be particularly careful when going to and from your car as thieves often wait for victims to exit/enter their vehicle. Do not leave any valuables on the seats as it is likely that your window will be smashed and your belongings grabbed. At night, do not stop at red traffic lights if you see people lingering there, as they may be hijackers. Slow down and go through the red traffic lights, if necessary pay the fine.

Public transport use is discouraged as frequent attacks occur on the crowded services. Depending on the area, the city's Metrobus service can be safe to ride, although it is often late.

Rape and sexual assault levels are exceptionally high and care should be taken due to the high HIV levels in Johannesburg. Females should avoid walking alone at all times and should try if possible to remain in large groups.

General advice is to try your best to look like a local and avoid at all costs displaying any form of wealth, including ear rings as these have been ripped from unsuspecting tourist ears.

Cope

Get out

Pretoria is only a short while away from Johannesburg and has a lot to offer a tourist. It is the nation's capital and is almost completely joined to the Johannesburg metro area!
Sun City is a two hour drive away and offers world class golf courses and entertainment. The Pilansberg Game Reserve is adjacent to Sun City and offers visitors to get the taste of an African Game Reserve. However it is no comparison to the world famous Kruger Park which is about 500km from Johannesburg.
Mpumalanga Escarpment in a weekend
Rietvlei Nature Reserve next to the R21 in Tshwane gives one the opportunity to get forget about the city for a while.
Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, ☎ +27 (0)11 957-0106(hippo@global.co.za), [78]. Open 8AM to 4:45PM. Located in Kromdraai north of Krugersdorp, this park offers self drive, game drive, horse trails, an observatory, abseiling, swimming pool and braai and picnic areas with restaurant (open daily), conference facilities, team building, functions etc. Wide range of animals including lion, white lion, tiger (Bengal & Siberian), white tiger, wild dog, cheetah, baffalo, white rhino, hippo, zebra, ostrich, etc. Don't forget to visit the animal crèche with baby lion, cheetah & tiger cubs as well as the reptile park with most of the indigenous snakes including black & green mamba.R70.
Cradle of Humankind is a World Heritage Site comprising a number of attractions including the Sterkfontein Caves, the Wonder Caves and Maropeng [79] visitor education centre. Explore fossil-filled caves where important palaeoanthropologist discoveries such as Mrs Ples and Little Foot were found. +27 (0) 14 577-9000

This page was last edited at 22:17, on 24 March 2009 by Wikitravel user AHeneen. Based on work by Babbelas, David, Malcolm Davis and Nick Roux, Wikitravel user(s) Morph, Anonymous user(s) of Wikitravel and others.