South Africa

Johannesburg

Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is located in the province of Gauteng. It is a vibrant and bustling city that is often…

Best for you if…

  • A week-long stay
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Safari travelers
  • City tour travelers
  • Visiting in September to April
Recommended stay
5-7 days days
Best time
September to April
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Johannesburg is a strong pick for safari & city tour — plan about 5-7 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: September to April.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 95/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈85.4 km span)

50 Places to explore
5-7 days Recommended days
September to April Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: September to April

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: May · June · July · August

Weather

Autumn

March to May (15-25°C)

Spring

September to November (15-25°C)

Summer

December to February (18-28°C)

Winter

June to August (10-20°C)

How to get there

How to Reach Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg, also known as the City of Gold, is the largest city in South Africa and a major economic hub in the region. If you are planning to visit this vibrant city, there are several ways to reach Johannesburg from different parts of the world.

By Air:

Johannesburg is well-connected to various international destinations through its main airport, O.R. Tambo International Airport. This airport serves as a major gateway to South Africa and is located approximately 25 kilometers east of the city center. Many airlines operate direct flights to Johannesburg from major cities around the world. Upon arrival, you can easily reach the city center by taking a taxi, shuttle service, or a rental car.

By Road:

If you are already in South Africa or neighboring countries, you can reach Johannesburg by road. The city is connected to other major cities in South Africa through a well-maintained network of highways. The N1, N3, and N12 are the primary routes that lead to Johannesburg. It is advisable to check the road conditions and plan your journey accordingly. There are also long-distance bus services available that connect Johannesburg to various cities within South Africa and neighboring countries.

By Train:

Traveling to Johannesburg by train is another option, although it may not be the most common choice for international visitors. The Shosholoza Meyl is the national passenger rail service in South Africa, and it offers train connections to Johannesburg from major cities within the country. The journey by train can be a scenic and leisurely way to reach the city, allowing you to admire the diverse landscapes of South Africa along the way.

By Sea:

While Johannesburg is not a coastal city, if you are on a cruise or cargo ship, you may have the opportunity to visit the nearby port city of Durban or Cape Town. From there, you can easily connect to Johannesburg by air, road, or train.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, reaching Johannesburg is relatively straightforward. Make sure to plan your journey in advance, check for any travel restrictions or requirements, and enjoy exploring the vibrant city and its rich cultural heritage.

Getting to know Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and is located in the province of Gauteng. It is a vibrant and bustling city that is often referred to as the "City of Gold" due to its rich history of gold mining. The city boasts a diverse population and a thriving business sector, making it a hub for commerce and culture in the region.

Johannesburg is home to several popular tourist attractions, such as the Apartheid Museum, which provides a glimpse into South Africa's turbulent past, and the Nelson Mandela Square, a premier shopping and dining destination named after the country's first democratically elected president. Additionally, visitors can explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting the Museum of African Design or attending a concert or play at one of the many theaters in the area.

Despite its urban sprawl, Johannesburg also boasts several beautiful natural landmarks, such as the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, where visitors can take in the stunning flora and fauna of the region. Overall, Johannesburg is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, culture, or natural beauty.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Carry sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
  • Stay hydrated and drink bottled water.
  • Keep a copy of important documents like passport and travel insurance.
  • Take necessary precautions against petty theft and pickpocketing.
  • Try local delicacies like biltong and boerewors.

Places worth exploring

50 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Johannesburg?

Most travelers spend about 5-7 days days in Johannesburg, South Africa.

When is the best time to visit Johannesburg?

High season is typically September to April.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Johannesburg?

Travelers often find better value in May, June, July, August.

What kind of trip is Johannesburg good for?

Johannesburg suits Safari, City tour, Historical sites visit, Cultural experience.

Is Johannesburg walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Johannesburg?

Carry sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.

Build your trip

Add Johannesburg and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Johannesburg → Rosebank → Alexandra in South Africa: A Brief Overview of the Township · ≈18 km
  • Johannesburg → Mankoeng, South Africa → Roodepoort · ≈21 km
  • Johannesburg → Rosebank → Rivonia · ≈22 km

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