26 Ultimate Things to Do in Johannesburg: Your Guide to the Best!

Are you looking for a unique and exciting experience during your visit to Johannesburg? Then Gold Reef City Theme Park is the place for you! This park offers an exciting combination of rides and attractions, from roller coasters to interactive exhibits about the history and culture of South Africa. And don't miss the chance to explore a real gold mine on the premises!

Are you ready to embark on a fascinating journey into human history and evolution? Then be sure to visit Maropeng, the official visitor center for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site in Johannesburg! Not only is this attraction a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it also offers an incredible underground boat ride that takes you on a journey through the different stages of Earth's formation. In addition, the nearby Sterkfontein Caves offer the opportunity to explore the mysterious world of ancient fossils and human life. Do not miss this unique experience!

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a must-see for any nature lover visiting Johannesburg! This botanical garden is located at the foothills of the magnificent Witpoortjie Waterfall and is home to over 600 native plant species on 70 hectares of land. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden and follow one of the many trails, or experience the birdlife that calls the garden home.

For all animal lovers and families visiting Johannesburg, the Johannesburg Zoo is a must. With over 320 species of animals, including lions, elephants and gorillas, you can experience South Africa's wildlife up close. The zoo also offers unique animal encounters where visitors can interact with the animals and learn about them from dedicated staff.

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is a must-see for anyone interested in the complex and turbulent history of South Africa. As soon as you enter it, you immediately feel transported to another time. The museum's powerful narrative takes you on a journey through the history of apartheid, the system of institutionalized racial segregation that defined South Africa for decades. The museum's exhibits are extensive and informative, providing a detailed overview of the human impact of apartheid.

Discover the heart of South African democracy and witness the country's journey to freedom at Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct in Johannesburg. This historic site once served as a prison for political activists like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. Today, it is an impressive museum and cultural venue dedicated to the promotion of human rights. Walk through the galleries and learn about South Africa's struggle against apartheid and the building of the new democratic state. Don't forget to take a look at the artwork of local artists while enjoying the magnificent views of the city. Just a stone's throw away is the lively Braamfontein neighborhood with its trendy cafes and interesting street art.

The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a true gem in the heart of the city! The 81-hectare garden is home to nearly 30 different gardens, including a medicinal plant garden, a succulent garden and a rose garden. Take a stroll along the many walking paths and admire the many birds that call the gardens home. Don't miss the opportunity to picnic on the lush lawns by the lake and visit nearby Emmarentia Dam for boating and fishing. A must for all nature lovers!

The Lion & Safari Park in Johannesburg is a must for all animal lovers and adventure seekers. This park offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Africa's most famous wildlife, including lions, cheetahs and giraffes. You can embark on an exciting safari tour where you can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Visit nearby Wonder Cave, one of the largest caves in the country, and take a guided tour to view the stunning stalactites and stalagmites up close. Don't forget to buy a souvenir at the gift store before you leave!

One of Johannesburg's most important historical landmarks is Mandela's house. This modest red brick house in Soweto was Mandela's home from 1946 until his imprisonment in 1962, and has since been transformed into a museum where visitors can learn about the daily life of one of the world's greatest leaders. One of the most interesting things about this house is that it is preserved exactly as it was when Mandela lived there, showing the simple life he led before he changed the course of history. When in Soweto, be sure to also visit the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the Regina Mundi Church.

The Montecasino Bird Gardens are a must-see for all nature and bird lovers in Johannesburg. Located in the heart of Fourways, the attraction is home to a variety of bird species from around the world. Visitors can experience flight demonstrations of eagles, owls and macaws and even have the opportunity to hold and photograph some of these amazing creatures. In addition to the fascinating bird shows, the Bird Gardens also has a reptile park that is equally impressive. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience in Johannesburg. Nearby is the famous Montecasino complex, which offers a range of restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

A visit to Zoo Lake in Johannesburg is an absolute must for any traveler to this stunning city. It is located in the heart of the city and is the perfect place for a relaxing walk, picnic or kayak tour. The lake itself is surrounded by a beautiful park and is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon.

Get ready to experience the heart of South African sports culture at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg! This historic stadium has been a proud landmark for over 100 years and is a testament to the unity and perseverance of the local community. Home to the legendary Springboks rugby team, there is no better place to experience the passion and excitement of South African sport.

If you are looking for the ultimate adventure, then you should definitely visit the "Cradle of Humankind" in Johannesburg. This fascinating place has a wealth of ancient fossils, numerous caves and underground lakes that will surely take your breath away.

Delta Park is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Johannesburg. It is a quiet and peaceful retreat in Pretoria, just a short drive from Johannesburg. The park has a beautiful lake for picnicking, fishing and boating. If you're up for a bit of adventure, you can also hike, horseback ride or mountain bike on the numerous trails.

The Hector Pieterson Memorial is a must-see for anyone interested in South Africa's troubled past and the struggle against apartheid. The memorial is named after Hector Pieterson, a 12-year-old boy who was shot by police during the Soweto Uprising in 1976. The memorial is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by the South African people in their struggle for freedom and equality. It includes a museum and exhibitions depicting the history of the Soweto Uprising and the subsequent struggle against apartheid.

Immerse yourself in South Africa's rich and fascinating history at the South African National Museum of Military History in Johannesburg. This world-renowned museum offers visitors a fascinating look at the country's military history, from pre-colonial times to the present. Here you'll find an extensive collection of weapons, artillery and military memorabilia, including tanks, fighter planes and more. The museum also has an impressive library of books and archives for those who want to delve deeper into South African military history. Just minutes from the famous Nelson Mandela Bridge, be sure to include this fascinating museum in your itinerary when visiting Johannesburg.

Looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown Johannesburg? Then The Wilds Nature Reserve is the place for you. This hidden gem in the heart of the city offers lush greenery, numerous hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views of the city. One of the most interesting things about The Wilds is its history, as it was established back in 1926. The reserve is popular with Johannesburg locals, but often overlooked by tourists - so a visit to The Wilds is a truly exclusive experience. And the best part? The reserve is just a stone's throw from other popular Johannesburg attractions like the Johannesburg Art Gallery and Mandela House. So make a day of it and enjoy Johannesburg's culture and history.

If you love nature and want to experience the tranquil beauty of Johannesburg, be sure to visit the Kloofendal Municipal Nature Reserve. Located in the west of Johannesburg, this reserve offers hiking trails surrounded by scenic views of wildlife and plants. On your hike, you will be able to see large birds of prey, small antelope, and even snakes. The reserve also has a small animal farm, a bird hide, and an impressive waterfall.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Northcliff Ridge Eco Park is the perfect place for nature lovers. Located in the heart of Johannesburg, the park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can hike, bird watch, and picnic here while taking in the breathtaking views.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg, the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is a must. The 13,333-hectare reserve is home to stunning landscapes and wildlife, including zebra, blesbok and blue wildebeest. You can explore the reserve on foot or by bike, and there are plenty of picnic spots for a relaxing lunch. And if you want a real insider's experience, ask one of the park rangers about the ancient stone ruins scattered throughout the reserve. The nearby town of Heidelberg is also worth a visit for its charming small-town atmosphere and historic architecture.

When in Johannesburg, be sure to visit the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, the largest science center in Africa. More than 350 interactive exhibits that are educational and entertaining will stimulate your mind. The center's mission is to make science accessible to everyone and offers a variety of programs, including school tours and evening lectures by scientists. Take a trip through the galaxy and learn more about the night sky. Be sure to visit the Energy House and learn how energy is generated, stored and used. Nearby is also the Historic Workers Museum, where you can learn about the history of the town's miners.

Are you looking for an eclectic and lively experience in Johannesburg? Then Maboneng Precinct is the place for you! This revamped urban space offers the perfect mix of art, culture, food and entertainment that you won't want to miss. Explore the galleries and street art that bring this neighborhood to life, visit the open-air markets and food stalls, and enjoy the music and nightlife that make Maboneng a must-see destination.

Get ready to discover the hidden gem of Johannesburg - Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve! This stunning reserve offers breathtaking hiking trails, picnic areas, bird watching and wildlife excursions. Experience nature at its best as you explore the rugged terrain. Be sure to pack some snacks and plenty of water, as there are numerous picnic areas scattered throughout.

Gandhi Square in the heart of Johannesburg's vibrant city center is a must-see for anyone interested in South Africa's fascinating history. This landmark was named after the legendary Indian statesman Mahatma Gandhi, who spent time in the city during his early years as a lawyer. Explore the beautifully restored buildings and architecture that line the square, some of which date back to the early 1900s. Don't forget to take a photo with the larger-than-life statue of Mahatma Gandhi himself!

If you're looking for an authentic South African experience, look no further than the Rosebank Sunday Market in Johannesburg. This lively market offers a variety of stalls selling everything from handicrafts to delicious street food. You can browse through the colorful displays, sample local delicacies, and even take home a few souvenirs.

If you're looking for a breathtaking view of Johannesburg, the Carlton Centre is a must-see. This skyscraper rises 732 feet in the air and offers a bird's eye view of the city. Take the elevator to the 50th floor, where the observation deck is located, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view that stretches for miles.