South Africa's largest city is also one of the busiest and most vibrant locations in Africa. It offers a glimpse into a sobering past, while setting new benchmarks for a cosmopolitan future. With so much on offer, it only makes sense to take a tour if you want to uncover the numerous pulsating places to explore. From the museums and clubs to the Cradle of Humankind, discover this fascinating city in a way only a local knows how.

Don't miss these Johannesburg attractions

  • Hop-on hop-off city tours
  • Apartheid Museum
  • Multi-day trip to Kruger National Park
  • Cycling tours of Soweto
  • The views from the Carlton Centre

Johannesburg of new and old

A sightseeing tour is a great way to get the feel for fascinating Johannesburg. Tours are offered by private car, minibus or double-decker hop-on hop-off bus that will take you to a range of exciting destinations. This includes the historic Constitution Hill, observation deck at the Carlton Centre, art filled Ghandi Square and memorable Apartheid Museum.

History buffs will love paying tribute to Nelson Mandela when visiting the Nelson Mandela Bridge and the Old Fort Prison Complex – a place where Nelson Mandela was famously the only black prisoner. Alternatively, if architecture and design are more your style, get your fix at the Hillbrow Tower and iconic Post Office Tower.

Soweto and beyond

Those wanting a glimpse into modern African life can't miss taking a tour to Soweto. The biggest and most vibrant township in South Africa, Soweto played a pivotal role in the apartheid era. Tours are available by bus or bike, and will take you to many of the area's landmarks including Nelson Mandela's first house, the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the colourful Orlando Towers.

Further from the city's core, one experience you'll never forget is a visit to a game park. Reason alone for many to visit South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of Africa's premier safari destinations and, along with the nearby Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, is just a day tour away from Johannesburg.