Johannesburg South Africa 6 Day Itinerary

Johannesburg, South Africa: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning

  • Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Check-in at The Reef Hotel (or similar) and freshen up.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Apartheid Museum, a must-visit attraction that provides insight into South Africa’s complex history. (~ R95 per person)
  • Take a stroll through Constitution Hill, a historic site that offers great views of the city.

Evening

  • Head to Braamfontein neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife.
  • Enjoy dinner at The Orbit Jazz Club and Restaurant, which serves delicious food and features live jazz performances.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit Soweto, a township that played a significant role in the fight against apartheid. Take a guided tour to learn more about its history and culture.
  • Stop by Nelson Mandela National Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the former president.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Neighbourgoods Market at the Juta Street complex, which offers a variety of local goods, food, and drinks.
  • Visit the Johannesburg Art Gallery, featuring a collection of South African art.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Griffin, a restaurant serving contemporary South African cuisine.
  • Take a walk around the trendy Maboneng Precinct, known for its street art, boutiques, and lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Morning

  • Visit the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. (~ R50 per person)
  • Take a guided tour at the Lonehill Animal Sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for rescued animals.

Afternoon

  • Head to Pilanesberg Game Reserve (optional), located about 2 hours from Johannesburg, for a safari experience.
  • Alternatively, visit the Johannesburg Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals. (~ R130 per person)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The River Cafe, situated in the beautiful Botanical Gardens.

Day 4: Shopping and Entertainment

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping at Sandton City, one of Johannesburg’s premier shopping centers.
  • Visit the Nelson Mandela Square, featuring a large statue of the former president and offering great views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Catch a show or concert at the Teatro at Montecasino, a popular entertainment venue.
  • Explore the Montecasino Bird Gardens, which features over 1,600 birds from around the world. (~ R85 per person)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner and drinks at Theatre on the Square, a lively spot with live music and performances.

Day 5: Township Experience

Morning

  • Take a guided tour of Alexandra Township, one of Johannesburg’s oldest townships, to learn about its history and culture.
  • Visit the Alexandra Heritage Centre, which showcases the township’s rich heritage. (~ R50 per person)

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant, serving traditional South African dishes in a lively atmosphere.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of Alexandra Township, interacting with locals and taking in the sights and sounds.

Evening

  • Return to Braamfontein for dinner and drinks at The Bannister Hotel’s rooftop bar, offering great city views.

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Check-out of your accommodation and head back to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Johannesburg is a vibrant city with a rich history, but it’s also known for its high crime rate. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Tipping is customary in South Africa, with 10-15% being the norm.
  • The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, it’s recommended to use private transportation or book with a reputable company.

Transportation

  • Book a private transfer or shuttle service from the airport to your accommodation ( approx. R500-R700 per person)
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for convenient transportation around the city.
  • The Gautrain is a reliable and efficient way to travel between Johannesburg and Pretoria (approx. R150-R300 per person)

Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F-77°F).
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting townships or cultural attractions.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hour (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.

Accommodation

  • The Reef Hotel: A stylish hotel located in the heart of Johannesburg, with comfortable rooms and excellent service. (~ R1,500 per night)
  • Airbnb options: Consider staying in a trendy neighborhood like Braamfontein or Maboneng for a more local experience. (~ R800-R1,200 per night)

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: ~ R9,000 - R12,000 ( approx. $600-$800 USD) for 6 nights
  • Transportation: ~ R2,000 - R3,000 (approx. $130-$200 USD) for transfers and local transportation
  • Food and drink: ~ R3,000 - R5,000 (approx. $200-$350 USD) for meals and snacks
  • Attractions and activities: ~ R2,500 - R4,000 (approx. $170-$270 USD) for entrance fees and guided tours

Total estimated cost for 6-day trip: ~ R16,500 - R24,000 (approx. $1,100-$1,600 USD)

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of year, accommodation options, and personal spending habits.