Johannesburg South Africa 3 Day Itinerary
3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Johannesburg, South Africa
Day 1: History and Culture
- Morning: Start your day at the Apartheid Museum (R95 entrance fee), a must-visit attraction that provides insight into South Africa’s turbulent past.
- Lunch: Head to The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, a trendy neighborhood with a variety of food stalls and restaurants. Try some traditional South African dishes like bobotie or boerewors.
- Afternoon: Visit the Constitution Hill, a former prison that once held Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi. Take a guided tour (R65 entrance fee) to learn more about the significance of this historic site.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Orbit Jazz Club & Bistro in Bramfontein, which offers live jazz music performances.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
- Morning: Explore the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk or have a picnic on the grounds.
- Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at The Parkhurst, a popular restaurant and café in the trendy neighborhood of Parkhurst.
- Afternoon: Visit the Gold Reef City, an amusement park that offers thrilling rides, a zoo, and a casino. Take a tour of the old gold mine (R145 entrance fee) for a unique experience.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Maboneng Precinct’s Market on Main, which offers a variety of food stalls and restaurants serving international cuisine.
Day 3: Shopping and Leisure
- Morning: Shop till you drop at the Sandton City Mall, one of Johannesburg’s largest and most luxurious shopping centers.
- Lunch: Treat yourself to a meal at The Butcher Shop & Grill in Sandton, known for their high-quality meats and steaks.
- Afternoon: Visit the Zoo Lake, a popular spot for picnics, boat rides, and people-watching. You can also take a leisurely walk around the lake.
- Evening: End your trip with dinner at The Foundry in Parkhurst, which offers gourmet burgers and craft beer.
Accommodation
- Budget-friendly option: [Johannesburg Backpackers](https://www.jh backpackers.com/)
- Mid-range option: Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian
- Luxury option: The Michelangelo Hotel
Transportation
- OR Tambo International Airport: Approximately 20 km from Johannesburg city center. Take a taxi or shuttle service (R250-R350) to your accommodation.
- Uber: Available in Johannesburg, a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
- Gautrain: A high-speed train that connects OR Tambo International Airport to Sandton, Rosebank, and other areas of Johannesburg.
Tips and Essentials
- Safety first: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas and keep valuables secure.
- Sun protection: Johannesburg is known for its sunny weather, so don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Power adapter: South Africa uses Type D power sockets, which are different from those found in North America and Europe. Bring a universal power adapter to stay charged.
- Language: While many Johannesburg residents speak English, it’s always helpful to learn basic phrases in Afrikaans or Zulu, such as “hello” (hallo) and “thank you” (dankie).
Other Things of Interest
- Township tours: Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Soweto, Alexandra, or Kliptown with a guided tour.
- Street art: Johannesburg is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a self-guided walking tour to discover murals and graffiti in areas like Braamfontein and Maboneng.
- Markets: Visit the Rosebank Art & Craft Market or the Bryanston Organic Market for a taste of local crafts, food, and culture.
Remember to stay informed about local events, festivals, and travel advisories before your trip to make the most of your time in Johannesburg!