Top Things to Do in Johannesburg

About the City

Johannesburg, affectionately dubbed 'Jozi' by its vibrant locals, is a pulsating powerhouse in South Africa that never seems to sleep. It's the playground of power suits and pulsing beats, where towering skyscrapers reach for the skies amid the chirp of crickets from the lush suburbs. From the historic, gold-rush heritage of the city, evidenced in sites like the Apartheid Museum, to the bustling markets, such as the colorful Rosebank Sunday Market, Johannesburg's cultural kaleidoscope is ever-spinning. Foodies feast in Maboneng, with its street-side cafes offering a smorgasbord of international cuisines, while adventurers can go wild in the Lion Park, getting up close with Africa's majestic beasts. But, like any major city, Jozi has its shadows amidst the sunshine. Traffic can mimic a stationary parade of cars, stretching the patience of drivers, and it's important to be conscious of personal safety. You'll also need to navigate the inequality, a reminder of the city's complex past, which contrasts with the shiny facades of Sandton's opulent malls. Despite these challenges, Johannesburg’s heartbeat is infectious, its resilience palpable, and its ability to embrace change and renewal makes it an African metropolis like no other. A city of contrasts—Johannesburg is a destination that will etch vivid memories in the minds and hearts of those who walk its energetic and eventful streets.

Things to Do in Johannesburg

Vetkoek Vigilante

Food & Drink

Prowl the streets of Jozi in search of the ultimate vetkoek, a golden, crispy fried dough ball that heroes any filling you fancy – from curried mince to cheese and jam. It's the comforting carb cloak ...

Picnic in Purple

Outdoors

Bask in the purple glow of Jacaranda City! Unroll your picnic blanket in one of the tranquil parks under the blooming Jacaranda trees. Share snacks and lazy laughs with friends or just chill with a bo...

Hidden Gem Food Joints

The Unexpected

Unleash your inner foodie on a quest to discover Jozi's best-kept secret eateries. From family-run spots to hidden culinary delights, it's time to chow down where the locals do!

Jazz Club Hopping

The Unexpected

Get into the Jozi groove with a night of jazz club hopping. Each joint has its own rhythm and blues. Sip on some smooth cocktails and let the finger-snapping beats tell stories of the city's rich musi...

Urban Farming Unearthed

The Unexpected

Dig into the agrarian side of Jozi with a visit to an urban farm. It's a green oasis where you can get your hands dirty, learn about sustainable farming, and maybe even harvest your own lunch!

Inner City Cycling Tour

The Unexpected

Hop on a bike and explore the concrete jungle! You'll buzz past markets, art murals, and historical sights with a breeze in your hair and a guide leading the pack. It’s the wheel deal if you wanna cat...

Urban Hiking in Melville Koppies

Outdoors

Hit the trails of Melville Koppies for an epic outdoor trek that's smack dab in the middle of the city. It's a slice of wilderness where you can breathe in crisp air, enjoy a nature fix, and work thos...

Rockin' Climbing

Outdoors

Climb up, up, up and conquer those rock walls like a city slick spider-person! Whether indoors or hitting the natural crags, it's all about that vertical challenge. Flex those muscles, find your groov...

Urban Safari Bike Ride

Outdoors

Peddle past the concrete jungle on a bike and say 'Howzit' to a real-life urban safari. You'll find some spots in Johannesburg where cycling is the best way to sneak peeks at wild residents without le...

Hiking the History

Outdoors

Get your boots dirty on the history-laden trails of the Cradle of Humankind. Just a short drive from Jozi, this World Heritage Site is where you'll literally walk in the footsteps of our earliest ance...

Amagwinya & Atchar Amble

Food & Drink

Stroll the vibrant streets for amagwinya, a lip-smacking deep-fried dough ball with a fluffy heart. Pair it with atchar for that tangy kick, and you've got yourself a street snack that's the talk of t...

Panoramic Views at Northcliff Hill

Sights

Catch a breathtaking panoramic view of Jozi from the top of Northcliff Hill. It’s like a visual buffet of the city's skyline, and at sunset, it's simply the best spot to watch the sky put on a show wi...

Braamfontein Beat

Sights

Get your groove on in Braamfontein, the heartthrob of Jozi's creative scene! Packed with street art, cool cafes, and the hippest folks, it's where the city's pulse is at its thumping best!

Wild Ride at Johannesburg Zoo

Sights

Sure, it's a zoo, but Jozi's zoo is a real wild card! From antelopes to zebras, it's a who's who of African wildlife without the safari expense. Pack a picnic, and say hello to your animal neighbours!

Historic Stroll at Satyagraha House

Sights

Step back in time at Satyagraha House, once home to Mahatma Gandhi. It's brimming with history and peaceful vibes, and you’ll walk out feeling like you've had a chat with Gandhi himself!

Panoramic Peaks at Northcliff Hill

Sights

Catch your breath and the best views in the city atop Northcliff Hill, mate! It's the perfect spot for sundowners and skyline gazing—just you, the horizon, and Jozi's concrete jungle laid out below.

Kota Quest in the Quirky Quarters

Food & Drink

Embark on a taste spree with Kota – the ultimate street food sandwich. It's basically a quarter loaf of white bread stuffed with everything but the kitchen sink. Expect spiced up fries, cheese, egg, a...

Pap en Vleis Parade

Food & Drink

March to the beat of the ultimate comfort food combo: Pap en Vleis! Get ready to load your plate with a hearty serving of pap, the smooth maize porridge that hugs your insides, paired with succulent m...

Kota Quest

Food & Drink

Bite into the heart of Jozi with a Kota sandwich, a local street-food staple. Picture a quarter loaf of fluffy white bread stuffed with slap chips (French fries), spicy atchar, a slice of baloney, che...

Discover Hidden Bars

The Unexpected

You'll need your detective hat for this one – navigate the nooks and crannies of the city to uncover hidden bars. These secret spots are perfect for a clandestine sip 'n chill away from the hustle and...