Johannesburg is the most visited city in South Africa, yet it is not the most favored destination among travelers on holidays. This is because of the popular belief that there is not much to see in South Africa’s biggest city except plush hotels, trendy bars and swanky restaurants. Travelers generally use Johannesburg, also called Joburg or Jozi, as an ideal transit point to visit their final destination, be it Durban, Cape Town or Kruger National Park.
The general perception about the city should now change as it has come to host some really amazing landmarks. While some of these are located right within the periphery of the city, others are located at places not very far from the center of the city. So, the next time you enquire about cheap flights to Johannesburg from UK, you must plan a few days’ stay in the city, availing the facilities of world-class hotels and enjoying the several attractions that have come up in recent years.
Here are the four things that can change your views about Johannesburg. These do not refer to individual landmark, but rather a collection of similar landmarks grouped under one category.
1. Historical Museums: While Cape Town is for nature enthusiasts, Johannesburg is for history lovers. There is indeed a lot to enrich your knowledge about the disturbing history of South Africa. Talking about the museums in the city, Apartheid Museum can easily top the list because of its exceptional collections and innovative presentation styles. People who have been to the museum have experienced a change in their perception about South African people and culture. Nelson Mandela Museum, housed at the first residence of the country’s greatest leader, is another important museum to learn more about South Africa.
2. Wildlife Attractions: A safari tour is a dream for adventure seekers. So, how about a safari tour in Africa? You will immediately grab the offer. Well, you need to take a trip out of the city for a day or two to visit the nearby Kruger National Park. Go camping and take safari tour at this world-famous park. Moreover, if you are passionate about wildlife, then you can enjoy the same in the city itself as it has, at least, two highly acclaimed wildlife destinations – Johannesburg Zoo and Lion Park. While the former is a great place to visit with family, the latter offers a more personal interaction with the carnivores.
3. Theme Parks: This category is almost exclusively dominated by South Africa’s unique Gold Reef City, which is a recreation of a gold mining village. The park is built on an actual gold mine, offering you a rare opportunity to watch the process of making a gold bar from solid gold. Another notable attraction of the park is a casino, which is popular with solo travelers. Families with kids, on the other hand, can enjoy pleasant moments together with activities like shopping, dining and fun rides.
4. Townships and Villages: A tour of Soweto will be an eye-opening experience. It is the largest settlement of native Africans in the city. The vibrant town of Soweto can offer a deep cultural insight and also allow you to enjoy nightlife that way locals do. Another exciting place to take a tour is Lesedi Cultural Village where you can enjoy traditional dances and relish authentic Zulu food. Sophiatown is yet another historical village worth a tour.
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