Johannesburg is a city full of culture and life, with a history that spans centuries. From the iconic skyline of Hillbrow to the bustling downtown life in Soweto, there are plenty of attractions to explore and experiences to have.
This article reveals a few unique places that offer something special. These are places locals often recommend to visitors looking for something different.
Lesedi Cultural Village
Lesedi Cultural Village is a living museum dedicated to preserving five traditional cultures found in : Ndebele, Sotho, Pedi Shangaan, Xhosa, and Zulu brothers. Visitors can enjoy guided tours around the village’s replica homesteads while being entertained by traditional dance performances. There are also craft shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs like jewellery made out of colourful beads or hand-woven baskets, as well as restaurants serving delicious local cuisine for those looking for a special meal experience.
Constitution Hill
Constitution Hill is home to both old prison buildings as well as two museums. These are the Constitutional Court Museum, which chronicles some key moments in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, and the Women’s Jail Museum, which focuses on personal accounts from female prisoners incarcerated there during colonial rule—making it an important site for learning about not only South African history but also current human rights issues affecting people worldwide today.
Visitors can take self-guided audio tours throughout the complex or join interactive group tours led by professional guides who are knowledgeable about current political issues as well as past events that have shaped both South Africans’ lives today and the world more broadly.
Lion & Safari Park
Lion & Safari Park is located just outside of central Johannesburg near Pilanesberg National Park and is more cost effective to the Kruger National Park, providing guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe animals of native African wildlife up close, such as lions, cheetahs, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, ostriches, antelopes, warthogs, hyenas, and baboons.
Lindfield Victorian House Museum
The Lindfield Victorian House Museum is a beautiful example of late 19th-century architecture, containing a collection of furniture and artefacts from the period. It is housed in a former gold mining magnate’s home, and visitors can tour the entire building, learning about the history of Johannesburg. Car rental services near Lindfield make getting there easy and convenient.
Maboneng Precinct
Once a no-go area for tourists due to crime levels, Maboneng has seen a resurgence as an artistic space for locals and visitors alike. There is plenty to explore at this place including bars, restaurants, and galleries that reflect South African culture. Car rental services offer excellent suggestions for routes throughout Maboneng to ensure an enjoyable visit.
Wake Up, This Is Joburg
Wake Up, This Is Joburg is a must-see experience for those looking to gain insight into what it means to live in South Africa’s largest city. Visitors are taken on a journey through Soweto, Alexandra, and Hillbrow via guided tours such as bus or bike rides that show off every part of Johannesburg life both good and bad parts. Car rental services are available nearby, so you can get around quickly and safely while on your adventure through this vibrant cityscape.
The Wilds
A picturesque nature reserve located within Johannesburg serves as an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. At this location, visitors can explore some of South Africa’s most unique animals, including bison, elephants, and cheetahs, in their natural environment with knowledgeable guides who will keep them safe during their visit. Car rentals in Johannesburg make it easy to access The Wilds without relying on public transport.
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a quiet place to relax that sits on top of one of Johannesburg’s few hills. From its peak, you can see all over the sprawling city. With car rental services close by, you can easily explore this tranquil garden full of native plants for which it has become known for due to their endangered status or medicinal uses, which were passed down by traditional healers over centuries. So, whether you are looking to learn about some of Joburg’s history at the Lindfield Victorian House Museum or escape urban life at The Wilds, these five hidden gems provide something unique on any kind of trip through South Africa’s largest city. All destinations have convenient car rentals nearby, so start exploring today!
From an educational lesson at Constitution Hill to an adventurous journey through Wake Up, This Is Joburg, Johannesburg has something to offer everyone. Whether you want to explore its history, sample its cuisine, or experience African wildlife up close and personal, Johannesburg will certainly not disappoint. So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge into vibrant Joburg today! Rent a car and make your way around this exciting city that offers endless possibilities for exploration.
