Sightseeing in Johannesburg - what to see. Complete travel guide

Up to 1886 Johannesburg was a small town without anything outstanding or popular. The destiny of this settlement was changed by the European named George Harrison who found a rich gold mine on the territory of the town. Starting from that time Johannesburg began developing rapidly and just 10 years later already 50 thousand of Europeans lived there. Today this is the largest megalopolis on the territory of South Africa, a famous industrial center and a popular resort. Johannesburg is surrounded by several satellites with each of them having its sights and places of interest, but you should start your exploration of the city from its unique buildings and cultural centers.

Exhibitions to mines and old towns built during the times of Gold Rush still remain the most popular attraction among tourists. Loose pit refuse heaps and mines are turned into museums that feature collections of equipment, historical items and documents. Old towns make up a huge museum under the open sky, where you can see houses of miners. Gold Reef City is considered the most popular miner settlement.

We simply cannot fail to mention Sun City town that has been created by skillful architects and is located in the center of an ancient volcano. All tourists interested in active rest and night entertainments should definitely visit this place. You will not find so many aqua parks, entertainment centers and discos in any other city of Republic of South Africa. Near Sun City is located another attraction – Pilanesberg National Park that is a home to over 6 thousands of wild animals including the representatives from the so called “big quintuple” – leopards, rhinoceroses, buffalos, elephants and lions. One more unique nature sight is 40 meters deep Sterkfontein Caves. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The city has many interesting architectural monuments. Near the famous restaurant Blue Elephant is the Baan Chinpracha, built in the early 20th century. Beautiful European furniture and works of art, which were specially delivered from various European countries and China, were used for its decoration. Now the ancient mansion is accessible to tourists for visiting. They can admire the hidden collection of antiques within its walls.

In the vicinity of Johannesburg is the ethnic village of Lesedi. It will be a great place to explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous population. On the territory of this village are the dwellings of the five main tribes of South Africa. Travelers in this open-air museum will have a lot of entertainment. They will be able to try on the national costumes of the leaders, learn how to play amazing musical instruments and take part in incredibly interesting rituals. Every day, there are interesting shows with music and dances for visitors of the village. Here you can also buy many interesting souvenirs.

Fans of theatrical art in Johannesburg should definitely visit the theater with the unusual name Market. It was built on a square where a large Indian market had previously been located. The opening of the theater took place at the end of the 20th century. In 1974 local theaters started raising funds for its construction. Now the original theater is the owner of a number of prestigious awards. It regularly hosts interesting productions, music concerts and other cultural events.

The perfect place for a family excursion will be the Observatory Ridge. It is located in the highest point of the city, on the top of the mountain range. The opening of this observatory took place back in 1903. Near the observatory is equipped with several wonderful observation platforms. So, after a cognitive excursion you can admire the panorama of the city.

An attraction known only to tourist units is the University of Witwatersrand. Its opening took place in 1896 and is one of the most majestic architectural monuments in the city. The building of the university is surrounded by a picturesque garden. Everyone can walk along it, and in the courtyard, admire the original landscape decorations.