25 Best Things to do in Cape Town
A sailor aboard the 16th-century ship Golden Hind saw Cape Town and said, “It’s the most beautiful cape I’ve ever seen.” Almost 450 years later, I can’t help but agree. This is a city that promises a lot and keeps it. Therefore, as a South African expert, I would recommend it straight away without any problems. Cape Town has it all. The beauty of its natural location cannot be overemphasized. You can see Table Mountain rising on one side and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the other. As South Africa’s first city, it is deeply connected to South Africa’s history and is home to major attractions and some of the country’s best museums. Then there is the weather. It’s clever enough to ensure you find an excuse to get out most of the time, whether it’s for a day at the beach or a hike. So my pick of the 25 best things to do in Cape Town is not only diverse but unforgettable. If you miss it, please do so at your own risk. 1. Bree Street Praised by Vogue and others, Bully Street has certainly come a long way from its humble beginnings. The name of perhaps Cape Town’s trendiest address comes from the Dutch word for ‘wide’. The oxcart was intentionally widened to allow it to turn. These days, his street art is getting more attention than animal droppings. For example, it also includes amazing building murals. A place to stay after a lazy afternoon. There is no shortage of cafes and bars. All of them are very small, so you won’t get lost in the crowd. Add to that a selection of chic homemade crafts, from fabrics to pottery, to enhance your leisure time. 2. Signal Hill Signal Hill is on one side of Table Mountain and is the site of the Noon Cannon, which fires at noon most days. The history of the weapon itself dates back to 1794, making it the oldest weapon in the world in everyday use. The 18-pounder is serviced by the South African Navy and fires every day except Sundays and public holidays. The hill is also a great alternative to hiking Table Mountain. There is also a parking lot near the summit for those who don’t want to walk. There are a few street vendors at the top and a place where you can rent mats to watch the sunset. 3. Saint George’s Cathedral The first St. George’s Cathedral was opened to the congregation in 1834. But St George’s Cathedral is more than just a historic place of worship for Cape Town’s Anglican community. It also played an interesting role in the anti-apartheid movement. The replacement building was designed by the noted British architect Herbert Baker in the early 20th century. Construction is not finished yet. Nevertheless, the ceremony has already entered the history books as cathedral authorities defied apartheid’s segregation laws and welcomed all to worship. Led by 1984 Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Damond Tutu, in 1989 he led 30,000 people to protest against apartheid in the cathedral, which ended just five years after him. 4. District Six Museum Another link to South Africa’s past racism, the District Six Museum tells the story of one district of Cape Town. Apartheid authorities forced the resettlement of 60,000 non-white residents in the once multi-ethnic city. Most of the central room is occupied by a map showing the homes of specific residents. Many of these houses were demolished in the course of redevelopment policies, leaving much of the area in disrepair to this day. What makes this museum unique is its focus on the individual. This makes it a must-do tour of Cape Town, even for those who already know about Cape Town’s apartheid past. 5. Chapman’s Peak Drive Chapman’s Peak Drive is a short but spectacular coastal drive popular with cyclists. Linking Nordhoek and Hout Bay, the road promises sheer cliffs, captivating views of the Atlantic Ocean, and an impressive series of engineering structures that protect the road from falling rocks. If you count carefully, Chapman’s Peak Drive has 114 turns. This means that you never look at the same view for more than a few seconds. Additionally, a drive south leads to Cape Point Nature Reserve, making for the perfect day trip. 6. Llandudno Beach It’s not as famous as Clifton Beach, but that’s exactly why we chose Llandudno Beach for those looking for peace and quiet. The beach is nestled within a small arched cove and offers a magnificent stretch of rich golden sand. Due to Cape Town’s Atlantic coast, the sea can be cold. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit, from sunbathing to building sandcastles. Llandudno Beach also has a reputation as a romantic spot and is popular with couples at sunset. The rock on the left side of the beach is known as Sunset Rock. 7. Old Biscuit Mill Built-in the late 19th century, the Old Biscuit Mill has been transformed from a factory building into a cool Woodstock hangout. Many craftsmen are based in old buildings. There are also plenty of offices and restaurants for designers. The farm shop sells the best local produce from Cape Town’s farmlands, as well as sweet and savory treats that require no cooking time. The Old Biscuit Mill hosts a market day and night. One of the most popular markets for locals is the Navergoods Market. This family-friendly event is a gourmet lover’s paradise. 8. Mitchell’s Plain Township The term “township” refers to a settlement established by the apartheid regime to house the non-white population of South Africa. Although the country has been a democracy since 1994, most of Cape Town’s non-white residents still live in townships. This also includes Mitchell’s Plain. In fact, many residents of District 6 were forced to relocate here. Located in False Bay, about 20 kilometers from downtown Cape Town, tourism is used as a means of community improvement. Join an official guided tour
15 Best Things to Do in Durban
As for location, Durban was perfect. Located on South Africa’s east coast, this port city has developed around a long and attractive sandy beach, lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The area around Durban has been inhabited for at least 100,000 years. The stone only came to the attention of Europeans when he discovered it in 1497 when the Golden Age Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama was en route to India. It went through several hands until it was annexed by Britain in 1844. Durban is currently the third largest city in South Africa. More than just beaches, it’s a mix of natural and man-made attractions, from exquisite cuisine to fascinating museums. Come enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. But stay for the culture. To help you out a little, we’ve picked out the top 15 things to do in Durban here. 1. Dick King Statue The Dick King statue on Victoria Embankment is another reminder of Durban’s past. This is a bronze equestrian statue commemorating the actions of Richard Philip his king who raised the alarm about a possible attack on the city by the Boers in the 1840s. King drove between Durban and Grahamstown for 10 days, covering about 125 kilometers a day, and some days he was too sick to even drive. Nonetheless, when he reached Grahamstown, he was able to mobilize the British forces, saving the town from attack and King would become a part of Durban’s history. 2. Durban Natural Science Museum The majestic columned façade of the Durban Museum of Nature and Science should be enough to lure most visitors to its doors (part of Durban City Hall). Entering the museum via wide stone steps lined with thick red carpets, the exhibits are equally impressive. Focusing on the living planet, the museum is a treasure trove of animals from yesteryear, from birds and mammals to insects and reptiles. Exhibits date back to ancient Egypt and include Peter’s mummy named Amen, as well as one of the most complete dodo skeletons in existence. 3. Sports If you know even a little bit about South Africa, you know people love sports. The City of Durban is no exception, and attending a major sporting event is a great way to get a glimpse of what the city is like. Kings Park Stadium is the home of the rugby union team His Sharks. Most of the domestic league matches are held during the country’s winter season (June to September). At other times of the year, Kingsmead also has the opportunity to play cricket at his grounds and football at Moses Madiba Stadium. 4. Old Court House Museum Housed in one of the oldest surviving buildings in central Durban, the museum’s wrought-iron verandas and cream-yellow stone window frames add interesting accents to the surrounding office buildings. Inside the museum, built in the 1860s, you can see a collection of about 10,000 individual works in total. Together they help tell the story of the region and its people, in good times and bad. Even more interesting is the fact that Mahatma was a regular visitor to this building when Gandhi was a lawyer in the city. 5. Phoenix Settlement Durban’s connection to one of the great figures of the 20th century extends beyond the Old Courthouse Museum. A few miles north of the CBD, Phoenix Settlement was purchased by Gandhi in 1904. This marked the beginning of his transition from lawyer to freedom fighter. The settlement served as a testing ground for ideas ranging from communal living to non-violent politics, and Gandhi was nominated (unsuccessfully) for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times. The house where Gandhi lived at the time has been fully restored and can be visited as part of the Inanda His Heritage Trail. 6. Durban Botanic Gardens Established in 1849, Durban Botanical Gardens is South Africa’s oldest formal botanical garden. It contains a mix of plants native to South Africa and exotic plants from around the world and holds specimens from various flower kingdoms. These include orchids, palm trees, and cycads (ferns). But the 15-hectare grounds also include an English-style sunken garden filled with colorful flowers, a butterfly garden, and a natural lake perfect for a picnic on a sunny Durban day. 7. Mini Town A knee-high version of the city beyond the city walls, Mini Town is a retro tourist attraction (with a touch of kitsch, but in a good way) near the beach at Snell Parade. Mini Town is a miniature recreation of Durban, containing versions of all the city’s major buildings. What makes the mini-town special is the attention paid to the working railroad and its port. It has its own mobile tug and vessel and holds over 200,000 liters of water. 8. KwaMuhle Museum The Kwamühle Museum is in my opinion the most important and interesting exhibition venue in Durban. This museum about apartheid and its predecessor, the ‘Durban System’, is housed in the Office of Indigenous Affairs, once hated by non-white South Africans. This is where passports were issued, which must be carried by everyone entering the city. The museum illustrates all this with its collection of documents, photographs, videos, and objects owned by ordinary South Africans. Refusing to hide from the horrors of the apartheid system, the Kwamühle Museum plays an important role in educating the generation born after Nelson Mandela was released and elected South Africa’s first black president. 9. Food Durban is one of South Africa’s most ethnically diverse cities. The population is made up of Zulu and a significant number of British and Indian descent. A fusion of both cultures over the decades, Durban has a food scene, unlike any other city in South Africa. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy it. The city’s seaside location means fish is always a delicious option, whether it’s fried English-style or slathered in the aromatic spices of the Indian subcontinent. For something unique to the city,
15 Best Things to Do in Pretoria
South Africa is known for its wildlife. But a city like Pretoria has so much to offer that fascinates and entertains me every time I visit. As a lover of all things South Africa, who can share his thoughts on the best things to do in Pretoria? Celebrating this wonderful country has become my full-time job. South Africa’s ‘Jacaranda City’ is just a 40-minute Gautrain ride from Johannesburg, but it’s a completely different place. This view is certainly more conservative than Joji’s, but perhaps more appealing to explore. Not only are there many impressive buildings, but there are also some 50,000 jacaranda trees with purple flowers. Even when the flowers aren’t blooming (October and November), there’s still plenty to do. From parks to museums. Here are the top 15 things to do in Pretoria. 1. Kruger House Surrounded by modern skyscrapers, the Kruger House was the municipal residence of the most famous Transvaal President, Paul Kruger. One of his first powered buildings in Pretoria, the house was designed with a mix of original and antique furnishings to show how the president lived. In particular, long, partially covered porches (or porches) were known to be Kruger’s favorite places to sit. The exhibition hall showcases his struggle for liberation from the British in the Cape Colony, and the president’s railcar is on display on the grounds. 2. Groenkloof Nature Reserve Grunkloof is open every day of the day and protects the region’s endangered Bankenfeld flora. Just 15 minutes south of central Pretoria, between Fountains Valley Resort and Waterkloof Golf Club. Groenkloof is home to many typical South African animals, including kudus, blesbok, giraffes, and jackals. The reserve is popular with both cyclists and hikers due to the lack of big cats. There are 20 kilometers of off-road cycling routes and 3 hiking trails ranging in length from 3.5 to 10.5 kilometers. However, short driving routes are best for wildlife viewing. 3. African Window The “Africa Window” is the name of the building that houses the Ditson National Museum of Cultural History (DNMCH). Pretoria’s museum’s most comprehensive mission-studded exhibit encompasses everything from a Stone Age ax head to his early Apple Mac. The exhibition includes permanent and special exhibitions and houses an estimated 3 million artifacts belonging to South Africa’s diverse cultural groups. If you’re short on time, head straight to San’s Gallery of Rock Paintings, which dates back thousands of years. 4. Burgers Park “Would you like some onions with it?” is unlikely to be heard. at Burgers Park. Established in the 1870s, this historic park is named after the 4th president of the Transvaal Republic, Thomas-François Burgers. Pretoria’s oldest public park. Wide lawns and wide paths meander between various attractions, including cast-iron field stands, fishing ponds, and the Thomas the Burgers statue. Directly opposite is Melrose House, an interior museum detailing the evolution of Victorian and Edwardian tastes. It also served as the headquarters of the British forces when Pretoria was occupied for 18 months from June 1900. 5. Van Tilburg Collection Housed in the University of Pretoria’s Old Fine Arts Building, the Van Tilburg Collection is a treasure trove of decorative arts. In addition to paintings, the collection also includes his 17th- to 18th-century furniture and South Africa’s largest collection of oriental ceramics. The latter includes vases from the personal collection of Emperor Kangxi, who ruled from 1661 until 1722, and 550 pieces of Ming porcelain. Unfortunately, a small self-portrait by Rembrandt van Rijn recently turned out to be a fake. 6. Fort Klapperkop Fort Clapperkop is one of four fortifications built to protect Pretoria from British forces during the Boer War in the late 19th century. Built-in 1898, this fortress is one of Pretoria’s best-preserved historic forts. In addition to long buildings and defensive fortifications, Fort Clapperkop features a dry moat and one of the great French cannons known as the Long Tom. Despite being aware of its importance, the fort had hitherto been manned by only 30 men and had never fired outside of practice. If you love music as I do, Fort Schanskop might be the place for you, with an outdoor music festival at the end of most months. 7. Hartbeespoort Dam Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeesport Dam Elephant Sanctuary is about an hour’s drive from central Pretoria. It is home to elephants that cannot survive in the wild in any of South Africa’s famous national parks. Instead, the reserve’s elephants are cared for by a team of caretakers. The guide also takes visitors through the sanctuary on foot three times a day. This activity is only possible in a few national parks in Africa and allows visitors to get really close to these fascinating creatures. My Tip: Arrive at Hartby’s Port in time for the 8 am tour. Not only are the elephants most active in the cool of the early morning hours, but you can also pet them with a keeper. 8. Ditsong National Museum of Natural History This natural history museum has stuffed animal exhibits and insect boxes as you’ve probably already expected. What makes the Ditsong National Museum of Natural History stand out among similar attractions is its extensive fossil exhibits. These include highly significant hominid fossils unearthed from several sites such as Sterkfontein, Kromdraai, and Swartkrans in the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Cradle of Humankind. The centerpiece of the entire museum is the most complete Australopithecus africanus skull ever found, a fossil called Mrs. Pruz. Mrs. Pulles is estimated to be around 3.4 million years old and is also on the list of great South Africans. 9. South African State Theater Impressive in both size and scope, the South African State Theater is Africa’s largest theater complex of its kind. Built-in raw concrete brutalist architecture, it has six performance rooms and a capacity of 2,700 people. The theater’s long list of monthly shows and events features the names of South African and international talent. The program is packed with everything from new works to entertainment. We
15 Best Things to do in Port Elizabeth
Today, although officially known as Guquebera, many still know this Indian Ocean city as Port Elizabeth or PE. Facing the wide Algoa Bay, it offers a beach holiday alternative to Durban. But, as we’ll see, there’s also plenty of culture and history for those who take the time to get to know this noble lady from the Eastern Cape. 1. South African Air Force Museum One of Port Elizabeth’s smaller museum spaces, the South African Air Force Museum is located around Port Elizabeth’s airport. The collection now includes nine aircraft, including South Africa’s oldest jet, a supersonic fighter, and two helicopters. With access to a restored WWII-era hangar, visitors can watch the restoration work live. The walls of the main museum are also filled with cabinets and photographs related to the theater company founded in 1920. But the highlight is the onsite presence of his simulator in flight. 2. Whale watching Port Elizabeth’s coastal waters are not only of interest to beach vacationers. Algoa Bay also attracts whales to such an extent that it has been designated as its 5th Natural Whale Site by the World Cetacean Alliance. Opt for the antics of southern right and humpback whales on a licensed whale-watching tour from Port Elizabeth. Both are known to break through water. Other whale species you can encounter include minke and Bryde’s whales. A trip to the waters of Algoa Bay, known as the “Bottlenose Dolphin Capital of the World,” promises plenty of action by these clever creatures as an added perk. 3. The Campanile This free-standing clock and bell tower resembles the more famous one on Piazza San Marco in Venice, Italy. It is mostly made of red brick and reaches a height of 50 meters. The structure was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first settlers in what is now Port Elizabeth. From 1920 he remained on the site until 1922. Her efforts included completing her 204 steps leading to an observation room at the top of the Campanile. But now there is an elevator, giving easy access to her 23 bells that make up South Africa’s largest carillon (bells played like a piano). 4. South End Museum The museum is one of Port Elizabeth’s few attractions that deals directly with the Apartheid era. The South End was a multi-ethnic neighborhood known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, excellent schools, and thriving range of local businesses. But it all ended with the forced relocation of non-white tenants between 1965 and 1975. It is this story that the Southend Museum wants to share. This is done through a combination of exhibits, historical photographs, and walkthrough maps of the area. 5. Amakhala Game Reserve Amagara is a private game reserve about 1.5 hours’ drive from Port Elizabeth and covers 18,000 hectares. By joining a morning or evening hunting drive to explore, visitors to Amacara have a better chance of seeing all five big species: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. Amagara extends from scrubland to savannah and covers five of his seven biomes in South Africa. This means that day trips from Port Elizabeth should also keep an eye out for other wildlife such as giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeests, antelopes, and monkeys. 6. Horse Memorial Head back to the center of Port Elizabeth to find the Horse Memorial. Almost life-size, it depicts an English soldier kneeling in front of a horse and offering a bucket of water. The horse was designed by British sculptor Joseph Whitehead and he was unveiled in 1905 to honor the estimated 300,000 horses brought to South Africa during the Boer War of 1899-1902. Most washed ashore in Port Elizabeth. It cost £800, about £120,000 (about $150,000 in today’s currency), paid by the public, and transported all the way from London, where the bronze was minted. 7. Cape Recife Lighthouse Cape Recife is the name of the southeasternmost point of Port Elizabeth. Used as a navigational aid, the lighthouse was built in 1849 to guide ships to Thunderbolt Her Reef and takes its name from the ill-fated British frigate. The Cape Recife Lighthouse is 24 meters high and lined with black and white stripes. Located within a nature reserve, it offers hiking opportunities for all fitness levels. Trails wind through subtropical vegetation and over rocky outcrops to rock pools that are home to impressive marine life. 8. Bayworld Opened for the new millennium, Bayworld is part natural history museum, part oceanarium, and part vivarium. The museum exhibits are thoroughly modern and interesting for all ages. Meanwhile, the outdoor area includes a dinosaur exhibit and an oceanarium with rescued turtles, seals, penguins, and other live animals. Last but not least, Bayworld is home to South Africa’s oldest snake park. Here, visitors can learn about alligators and turtles, as well as a variety of native snake species. 9. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum Located on the grounds of St George’s Park, this gallery specializes in art from the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The works are divided into his three main rooms and are hung regularly to allow for as many exhibitions as possible of his extensive collection. These works are complemented by special exhibits ranging from sculptures to quilts. In addition to works by colonial artists such as Thomas Baines and Frederick Timpson His Aeons, there is also a fascinating collection of southern Guni beadwork and some contemporary works. 10. Addo Elephant National Park Addo Elephant National Park is about 100 kilometers (1.5 hours) north of Port Elizabeth and makes a great day trip from the city. He is one of South Africa’s largest national parks, so we know what to expect. The park is home to approximately 600 elephants, as well as hundreds of buffalo, reintroduced lions, hyenas, Burchell’s zebras, kudus, elands, and bushbucks. Game drives, with 120 km of track to choose from, are therefore the most popular pastime. Lions and hyenas are best sighted in the early morning or evening. My suggestion is to visit on
15 Best things to do in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein, affectionately known as Broome (pronounced “Blossom”), is one of South Africa’s three capital cities, along with Cape Town and Pretoria. Occupying mostly flat grassland to the north and west of Lesotho, the largest city in the free state may not be the obvious first tourist destination. But this sprawling and sophisticated ‘City of Roses‘ has enough charm to last most visitors for several days. Here are the 15 best things to do in Bloemfontein. 1. Johannes Stegmann Art Gallery Part of the Free State University, the Johannes Stegman Art Gallery houses a small permanent collection of South African masters, including works by the so-called Bloemfontein Group and works by the town of Tavernchu, totaling about 150 works. It is on display. At the end of the school year, the gallery also hosts a temporary exhibition of 4th-grade work. You may find the next Monet or Picasso among them. 2. Long Tom Long Tom is the common name for four large cannon-like cannons purchased from France by the Boer Republic to defend against British forces. It was originally used to protect the Boer capital of Pretoria. But it became so famous that replicas were built, including one that can be seen outside Bloemfontein. Follow the same path and you will reach the Anglo-Boer War blockhouse. Another renovation was a stone-and-steel building that was probably used to protect the Bloemfontein North railway line that continued to connect Johannesburg and Cape Town. 3. Twin-Spired Church Tweet “Qelk” in Afrikaans and the exterior of the Twin Spiered Church will remind you of a Disney princess’ little castle. The slightly swaying shape of the towers is produced by the height being reduced by the collapse of one tower and the fear of the other. Completed in 1880, it is the only religious building of its kind in southern Africa. It is owned by the Dutch Reformed Church, to which most Africans belong. The church is now a national monument and was the site of the swearing-in ceremonies of his three Free State presidents who lived in the former presidential building. 4. War Museum of the Boer Republics Known better in many guidebooks as the Anglo-Boer War Museum, it is the only museum in the world dedicated to two wars between Great Britain and the Boer Republic: the Orange Free State and the Transvaal War. Located next to the National Women’s Monument, the museum explains the major battles and consequences of the two wars before explaining their causes. The dark wood display case looks a little dated, but it’s still an important place for anyone wanting to learn more about South African manufacturing. 5. Sand du Plessis Theatre A work of art in itself, Sand du Plessis Theater is one of South Africa’s premier performance venues. A mid-century-style foyer decorated with marble and flooded with natural light from large windows leads to his 1,000-seat auditorium, which has hosted many of the world’s most famous celebrities. Skateboarders are an integral part of the community and spend weekends practicing tricks with kata. Fascinating interior tours can be arranged for those not in town during the performance. 6. Rose Festival The Rose Festival, held each October, is one of Bloemfontein’s biggest events of the year. Held primarily on the Lake Logan waterfront next to Kings Park Rose Garden, the event draws garden enthusiasts from all over South Africa to the ‘City of Roses’. The festival has expanded to include high tea, 26-, 55- and 106-kilometer road bike races, and a sustainability exhibition, in addition to displaying hundreds of roses, many of which are grown by amateurs. rice field. 7. National Women’s Memorial The National Women’s Monument is similar in size to the Washington Monument in D.C. It consists mainly of obelisks made of stone blocks. This memorial was built to commemorate the estimated 27,000 Orange Free State civilian Boer women and children who died in concentration camps set up by the British during the Second Boer War of 1899 to 1902. was built. The memorial, funded in part by public offering, includes the final resting place of an Englishwoman named Emily Hobhouse. She spoke out against the treatment of Boer women and for their human rights to be respected. 8. The Old Presidency The magnificent former presidential palace is located on President Brand Street in the heart of Bloemfontein. Also known as Ou Presidential Mansion in Afrikaans, the mansion was built in the 1880s as the official residence of the then-independent Orange Free State. At a cost of £12,200, it served as the official residence of three presidents before it was taken over by the British. Over time, it will become a museum chronicling the lives of Presidents Brand, Rights, and Stein. It’s worth exploring to find out what life was like in South Africa during this period in the country’s history. 9. Happy Valley Located on the eastern edge of West Dean on the outskirts of Broome, Happy Valley is an area of pristine natural scenery for hikers and off-road cyclists. The trail is a mix of hillside grasslands and wooded sections, generally in the difficult category, but still easy enough for children and experienced hikers. At 2.7 miles long, you don’t need to plan a day to enjoy Happy Valley. Most people can complete the main hike in about an hour. There are no facilities, but the Olwen House Museum is not far away, so in the morning or afternoon he makes 2 great sights. 10. Waaihoek Wesleyan Church ANC Birthplace Museum The humble red-brick church behind the concrete cooling towers of the city’s power plants isn’t usually a tourist attraction. Inscribed on the South African National Heritage List in 2018, the church is believed to be the birthplace of the Indigenous National Congress, which later became the ANC. Nelson Mandela’s political party, the ANC, which still rules South Africa today, was founded in this church in 1912 by a meeting of representatives, leaders, and influential black scholars. In
THE 15 Best Things to Do in Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, Joburg, Joji, Egori. Whatever you call it, it cannot escape its reputation as South Africa’s largest city. But while the high crime rate has thankfully changed now, the city’s story isn’t over. And with the country’s main international airport, you’re likely to arrive in Johannesburg at least in the evening. It would be a real shame to waste this time locked up in a suburban hotel. Born from the discovery of gold in 1896, Johannesburg declined 100 years later due to the “white flight” of the transition between apartheid and multi-party democracy. As families moved to the suburbs, unwanted people moved in. But now, communities are reclaiming roads, as seen in the redevelopment of Newtown and Mabonen. As elsewhere, I caution you but don’t let headlines stop you from seeing the current hype surrounding Johannesburg’s top tourist attractions. 1. Wits Art Museum With its stylish architecture, the Witz Museum opened in 2012 and is one of Johannesburg’s newest attractions. His 5,000-square-meter exhibition space in the gallery houses 10,000 individual works of art, with a curated selection of both traditional and contemporary works of art such as sculpture. A glowing white interior illuminates each piece on display, including contemporary South African photography, textiles, watercolors and sculptures. 2. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Johannesburg hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses are common in cities around the world and should not be ignored. Especially if you only have a few hours, given the size of the city. Usually, they travel by two different routes. One to the attractions in the city center and one to further afield. The commentary provides a little background on what you’re looking at. On a nice day, aim for a seat on his open-top deck. Last but not least, these buses are a great way to get to the Apartheid Museum without using your own transportation. 3. The Wilds The Wilds is an inner-city park and nature reserve in Johannesburg’s Houghton District. It covers 16 hectares and includes two hills or crags with attractive views toward central Johannesburg. But The Wilds’ biggest attraction is the artwork, which consists mostly of colorful laser-cut animals created by local artist James Delaney. They set out from an owl forest with about 70 birds. Various works of art can be admired along eight kilometers of trails that are mostly covered with native plants. 4. Braamfontein With two major universities nearby, you’ll always find something interesting happening in Braamfontein. The fashion and music capital of Johannesburg, the best time to visit is usually on weekends when students are free from lectures. Activities include Naver Goods His Market, which begins in Cape Town and spreads to Johannesburg. Here, visitors and locals alike can browse clothing, food, and drink across two floors. A rooftop bar that makes the most of its location. Not far away are traditional shops and rooftop farms selling the latest cool stuff. 5. National Museum of Military History This is a large museum with indoor and outdoor exhibits detailing the role of the South African Army in South Africa’s tumultuous history. Extensive exhibits include several tanks and aircraft, including historic aircraft such as the Spitfire and Messerschmitt 109 during World War II. Along with smaller items, this collection chronicles the involvement of the South African military from the Boer War in the early 1900s to his 1994 free election. Also on site is the impressive Anglo-Boer War Memorial designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. 6. Gandhi Square Gandhi Square in Marshalltown, lined with gleaming bank office buildings, is a large square named after an Indian activist who began his career as a lawyer in Johannesburg. Once completely abandoned, the square has been redeveloped to bring shops and cafés back to this important location. It was here, then known as Government Square, that the Boer armies of Africa surrendered to the British in 1900, ending the siege of the city. At the edge of the region, many beautifully designed historic buildings have survived the onslaught of modern skyscrapers. 7. Museum Africa The African Museum occupies an entire side of Mary Fitzgerald Square and is housed in the 1913 Green Market building. Its mission is to cover the cultures of the entire continent. This is done through displays of musical instruments, masks, traditional costumes, and other items. But the African Museum also has image-based exhibits that shed light on the changing face of Johannesburg over time. Other exhibits cover the Livonia Trail, where Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years and the history of South African photography. 8. Maboneng Recognized as one of the most successful recovery programs in the world, the present-day Maboneng district has a lot to see, do and taste. A prime destination for lovers of all things artistic, Art on His Main is home to a variety of studios, while street art enlivens the area’s main streets. In addition to Main Street, Fox Street forms the heart of the district. There are many fashionable cafes and cafes here. Nightclubs tend to fill up late in the evening and especially on Saturday nights Mabonen is definitely the best place to have a good time. If you’re staying up late enough, you can also keep an eye on Art on Main’s Sunday Maine Market. 9. Origins Center South Africa’s history is not limited to apartheid and European colonization since the 1650s. The Origins Center allows you to travel more than two million years into the past. Dedicated to the journey of human evolution, the museum helps decipher not only biological evolution but also the development of art and culture. The Origins Center focuses on the people of Southern Africa, preserving an impressive variety of rock art for future generations. Many belong to the San people who lived in much of South Africa before the arrival of Europeans. Other exhibits, such as stone tools, are displayed in an impressive state-of-the-art museum space. 10. Soweto Soweto, formerly short for Southwest Township, was established to house non-white residents outside the Johannesburg city center. It was the
10 Best Places to Visit in South Africa
South Africa has all of the features that travelers long for in a vacation destination: fine weather, gorgeous scenery, great beaches,modern accommodations and superb cuisine. The southern tip of Africa also offers an exotic array of once-in-a-lifetime adventures, from off-roading on a safari to driving with great white sharks. It’s hard to name another holiday destination that offers as much variety. Here’s a look ash the best places to visit in South Africa. Blyde River Canyon Blyde River Canyon is the second largest canyon in Africa, after the Fish River Canyon, although it is much greener due to its lush subtropical foliage. Walking treks through the rich diversity of flora and fauna filled canyon offer views of magnificent escarpments, waterfalls and ancient geological phenomenon. Visitors have the opportunity to encounter all five of South Africa’s primates here, as well as hippos and crocodiles near the wetlands of Swadini Dam. Cape Wine lands The fertile valleys of the Cape Winelands are surrounded by majestic mountains, sleepy villages, fruitful orchards and some of thelushest scenery in South Africa. Visitors can follow the Wine Routes of the Cape to visit the vineyards of the country’s finest winemakers, whose sherries, ports, brandies and intriguing whites and reds are world famous for their delicate flavors and savory adaptability. Addo Elephant National Park Located in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa, the Addo Elephant National Park is one of the country’s larger parks. The Park is famous for its elephant population that has a special, brownish skin color due to the red soil. Among-st the elephants other animals, like ostriches, antelopes and warthogs can be seen. As part of the park’s expansion, a group of lions and a group of spotted hyenas have been introduced to the park in 2004. Hermanus Located on the southern coast of Africa near the Garden Route, Hermanus is famous for its shore-based whale-watching. The sheltered, shallow waters attract southern right whales that migrate to the region each year to mate and breed. A 6 mile long cliff-side walk with built-in telescopes and benches offers visitors plenty of opportunities to view these social animals as they raise their flukes in the sea breezes. Whale-watching boat tours are available as well. Durban South Africa’s second-largest city, Durban is located on the eastern coast. Durban’s subtropical climate, scenic beaches and close proximity to Johannesburg have made the coastal city a popular vacation destination for South Africans. The English Colonial architecture that once dominated the city has been enlivened by a mix of Zulu murals, Islamic mosques, Hindu temples and Christian churches. Hluhluwe Game Reserve As the only park under a formal conservation effort in KwaZulu Natal where you can see the Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo and rhinoceros – the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve offers visitors wildlife viewing opportunities second to none. Wildlife enthusiasts may enjoy the vast expanses of native plants and native animals during guided walks, self-guided drives, or opt fora thrilling viewing experience by boat along the Hluhluwe dam. Garden Route The Garden Route is a scenic stretch of the south-eastern coast of South Africa. It extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape. The name comes from the diverse vegetation encountered here and the numerous lagoons and lakes dotted along the coast. It includes some of the best places to visit in South Africa including Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley. Drakensberg The Drakensberg is a mountainous region that forms the boundary between South Africa and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, and offers some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. The name ‘Drakensberg’ is derived from the Dutch, meaning “mountains of the dragon”, which truly captures something of the mountain’s otherworldly atmosphere. Kruger National Park Covering a wide stretch of bush and Savannah in the northern reaches of South Africa, Kruger National Park borders the countries of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. For its dense animal population and the variety of its flora and fauna, the park is considered the jewel of South Africa’s extensive park system. Numerous well-kept tarred and gravel roads have made the park a favorite choice for self-driving expeditions. Cape Town Located on the southwest tip of South Africa’s Western Cape Province, Cape Town is the most popular tourist destination in all of Africa. The metropolis enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate, a well-developed infrastructure and a spectacular natural setting. Cape Town’s center is located in a relatively small area between Table Mountain and Table Bay. The city also serves as a home base for exploring nearby attractions, including the region’s many diverse beaches as well as the rolling hills and valleys of the Wine lands. ___________________________________________________________________