Johannesburg, South Africa

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Johannesburg, South Africa – City of Gold

Johannesburg, affectionately called Jo'burg orJozi, is the financial and industrial metropolis of South Africa, Built on a rich history of gold mining dating back to the 19th century, it's also known as E'Goli, or the ‘city of gold'. The city's sprawling Soweto township was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Soweto museums, including the sombre Apartheid Museum, recount the struggle to end segregation. Jo'burg is now a vibrant hub for arts, music and culture, seen clearly in areas like Maboneng Precinct with its cutting-edge galleries. Surrounded by inspiring natural beauty, many of Johannesburg's top attractions are outdoors. Commune with wildlife at a popular lion park or stroll among the beautiful gardens and parks in Pretoria, the country's administrative capital. Those with an interest in ancient history won't want to miss the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind, one of the richest paleoanthropological sites in the world.

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Top Attractions in Johannesburg

Escape to Gold Reef City

This bustling theme park, built over an abandoned gold mine, gives visitors a variety of exciting entertainment options in one complex. There is a 24-hour casino well-stocked with games of chance, alongside live shows and dining in glitzy surroundings. The trampoline park, bowling alley and cinema please kids of all ages, while adrenaline-seekers will love thrill rides like the Golden Loop and Tower of Terror. Experience the thrill of being 75 metres underground on the Reef City Mine Tour, and try your hand at panning for gold to bring home a sparkly souvenir.
Cradle of Humankind

Covering over 47,000 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to more pre-human fossils than anywhere else in the world. Start your day at Maropeng Visitor Centre with its unique grass-meets-metal architecture and interactive exhibits. Discover how humanity's ancestors lived with a guided tour of the eerily beautiful Sterkfontein Caves, followed by dinner overlooking the surrounding Highveld grasslands. Stretch your legs and spot native wildlife on the walking trails. An onsite rhino and lion nature reserve gives visitors the chance to understand and safely enjoy these extraordinary animals.
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Escape the city's bustle in Johannesburg's tranquil botanical gardens. The Emmarentia Dam sits to one side, providing a sparkling backdrop with canoeing and rowing club facilities on hand. Broad walkways crisscross the park's sprawling 125 hectares of lush greenery and abundantly blooming roses. Don't miss the Herb Garden with its fascinating selection of African aromatic plants used for medicinal, cosmetic and culinary purposes. The Arboretum's 30,000 trees feature everything from mighty Californian redwoods to flutter-leafed silver birches. Take a break in the airy onsite café or find a sunny spot on the lawn to enjoy a takeaway picnic.
Historic Apartheid Museum

This museum opened in 2001 and has swiftly become the preeminent institution dedicated to the history of apartheid. Its modern brick-clad construction houses a complex story within. The multimedia galleries illustrate the rise and reconciliation of South Africa's troubled past during this segregated era. Curators bring this history to life through engaging, interactive exhibits using provocative film footage, photographs and artefacts. Tour guides are on hand to shed additional light. Embark on a moving journey through the struggle to overcome systemic discrimination and become an integrated society.

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