Despite its colourful reputation, Johannesburg, in the Gauteng Province (pronounced "How-Teng"), has a wealth of attractions from museums to amusement parks, and some of the best accommodation, restaurants and shops on the continent.

Whilst it is impossible to ignore the problems that the city has had with civil unrest during the struggle against apartheid and high crime rates since the elections in 1994, much has been done to improve the situation in recent years.

The vast majority of overseas visitors leave pleasantly surprised, especially if it is their first time to this city and they have had the time to explore it for a couple of days.  Click here to ask us to plan an itinerary for you including Johannesburg as part of your trip to South Africa.

Where to Stay

The majority of visitors to Johannesburg who are visiting the city for 2 or more nights stay in one of the many wealthy and exclusive northern suburbs of the city, as some of the best accommodation options are found here. 

Sandton is the main hub of this area, and is easily accessible from Johannesburg International Airport - especially since the opening of the Gautrain, which is South Africa's first world-class, modern rapid rail service - it takes just 15 minutes from the airport direct to Sandton.

Sandton also boasts excellent shopping malls and restaurants.

Soweto

Soweto is to the south-west of the city centre, and is best known for the part that it played in the anti-apartheid movement. Today, it is a growing city in its own right, with affluent middle-class areas as well as poorer districts, and is home to over 3 million people - 1 million of whom commute daily into Jo'burg city centre to work.

As with any township in South Africa, we strongly advise against going into Soweto without a local guide to show you around.

However, an organised trip to Soweto is one of the highlights of a trip to Jo'burg, and includes the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and a visit to Nelson Mandela's former home.

Enjoying Jo'burg for What It Is

Johannesburg will not be the overwhelming highlight of your trip to South Africa - that honour will go to the National Parks, the wildlife viewing, the  beautiful coastline, or the historical areas around KwaZulu-Natal or Cape Town.

Johannesburg is a logical start or end point for trips that include Kruger National Park and the Lowveld, Sun City and Pilanesberg, or the many attractions of KwaZulu-Natal.

If you find it makes sense to include Johannesburg on your itinerary - relax, take sensible precautions against crime, and enjoy the vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is at the forefront of the new South Africa.

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Peermont Metcourt Suites, Johannesburg Airport

Hotel

Guests are accommodated in 80 elegantly appointed rooms and suites. All rooms are spacious and well equipped, with satellite television and air-conditioning as standard.

From ZAR480 ( approx US$ 63 ) per person.

The Airport Grand Hotel, Johannesburg Airport

Hotel

   Average guest rating:4.0

All of the 151 luxury rooms have en-suite bathrooms with bath and separate shower, hairdryers, colour television with Mnet, hairdryers, direct-dialling telephones, digital safes and tea / coffee making facilities. Rooms are fully air-conditioned for cooling comfort in the summer heat.

From ZAR515 ( approx US$ 68 ) per person.

Maritime Bushveld Estate, Fourways

Lodge / Inn

   Average guest rating:4.0

The 8 thatched African style en-suite chalets are equipped for self-catering, with mini kitchens, microwave, refrigerator, mini ovens and basic catering equipment. There are sleeper couches in the rooms which could also accommodate a child or teenager.

From R500 ( approx US$ 68 ) per person.

Garden Court O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg Airport

Hotel

   Average guest rating:3.0

Feel at home in the spacious 253 en-suite hotel rooms, which offer you all the modern comforts of your own home and more, including individually air-conditioned rooms, tea / coffee making facilities, satellite TV and wireless internet connectivity. There is also a swimming pool for guests enjoyment.

From ZAR550 ( approx US$ 72 ) per person.

Peermont Mondior, Kempton Park

Hotel

   Average guest rating:4.0

Furnished with contemporary elegance, the Peermont Mondior sets a new standard in world-class accommodation. Each room has tea and coffee making facilities as well as a mini fridge (stocked on request).

From ZAR555 ( approx US$ 73 ) per person.

Properties 1 to 5 of 31