Johannesburg holidays

How to reach Johannesburg

Flight time: Flights to Johannesburg from the UK take approximately 11 hours. Direct flights are available from London. From other UK airports, and as a cheaper alternative from London, you'll usually connect through hubs in Europe or the Middle East.

Transfer time:

• From OR Tambo International Airport you can take the Gautrain into the city centre in about 30 minutes, changing at Sandton.

• Alternatively, shuttle buses, taxis, Uber and Bolt rides take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on exact destination and traffic.

Price:

• The Gautrain fare to Sandton is R219 (£9.50), plus connection into the city.

• Taxis or other ride-hailing services typically cost R300–R500 (£13–£22), depending on your destination and the time of day.

Best time to visit Johannesburg

Located inland and high up on the Highveld plateau, Johannesburg enjoys a great climate, but with different weather in each of the seasons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect.

• December to February has hot, sunny weather, with temperatures around 25°C to 30°C. However, this period also marks the rainy season, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is a fantastic time for holidays to Johannesburg, as the city is green and vibrant.

• March to May sees the arrival of autumn, with pleasant temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Rainfall starts to decrease and the sunny days are perfect for visiting tourist spots or outdoor activities.

• June to August is winter, and while it’s cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 17°C, the days are generally dry and sunny. Nights are colder, though. This is an excellent time for sightseeing, as the weather is crisp but manageable, and there are fewer tourists around.

• September to November is spring, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is a great time to visit for mild weather, blooming flowers and outdoor events. Rainfall is minimal and you can enjoy plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the city’s parks, gardens and outdoor attractions.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: South Africa has 11 official languages, with English being one, and it's widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: South Africans are generally friendly and welcoming, but respect for local customs is appreciated. Tipping around 10 percent in restaurants is standard, and it’s polite to leave a small tip for petrol station attendants and car guards.

• Currency: The local currency is the South African Rand (R). ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit or debit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash if you’re heading to more remote areas or for smaller transactions.

• Getting around: Johannesburg has several useful public transport options, including the Gautrain, Metrobus and BRT, but the Metrorail is best avoided. Taxis can be expensive, but ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are more affordable and widely used. Hiring a car is a good option if you plan on exploring outside the city.

• Electricity and plug types: South Africa's electricity is 220/230V and uses Type M plugs, so you’ll need an adaptor if you’re coming from the UK.

• Time zone: South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Johannesburg

One of the richest and most cosmopolitan cities on the African continent, Johannesburg blends history, culture and nature with a vibrant urban atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for the country’s history, the art scene or green spaces, there’s plenty to explore. Here are the best things to do on Johannesburg holidays.

Historic monuments

• Constitution Hill: This former prison complex is now home to a living museum and also the country’s Constitutional Court. A visit here offers a powerful insight into the country’s turbulent past, with exhibitions focusing on apartheid, human rights and justice.

• Apartheid Museum: One of the most significant cultural institutions in Johannesburg, this museum provides a moving and detailed account of South Africa’s history under apartheid. The exhibitions use film, photos and artefacts to guide you through the country’s journey towards democracy.

• Hector Pieterson Museum: Located in Soweto, this museum honours Hector Pieterson and other students who lost their lives during the Soweto Uprising in 1976. It’s a poignant reminder of the role youth played in South Africa’s struggle for freedom.

Activities for families in Johannesburg

Johannesburg has plenty to offer families. With a wide range of activities from interactive museums to theme parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Johannesburg Botanical Gardens: Located in Emmarentia Park in the suburbs, these beautiful gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city. With sprawling lawns, rose and herb gardens, and a popular lake for boating, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. The main field is often used for concerts and festivals.

• Gold Reef City: Disneyland meets old-style Johannesburg at this family-friendly theme park, built around a former gold mine. There are thrilling rides and attractions for all ages, a 4D theatre and an underground mine tour to learn about Joburg’s gold-mining history.

• Sci-Bono Discovery Centre: Perfect for curious minds, the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown is an interactive science museum where children can engage in hands-on exhibits that teach them about everything from robotics to the solar system.

Free things to do in Johannesburg

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Johannesburg, as there are plenty of free activities that allow you to explore the city’s rich culture and history.

• Market on Main: On Sundays, head to Maboneng for the local market where artisans and food vendors gather. You can wander through the stalls, admire the art and crafts and soak up the vibrant atmosphere at no cost.

• Braamfontein street art: Braamfontein’s streets are filled with colourful murals and graffiti by local and international artists. It’s free to wander around the neighbourhood and enjoy the creative energy.

Day trips in the area

• Soweto: A visit to Soweto offers a glimpse into South Africa’s political history and township culture, and the country’s captivating history. The most convenient way to visit is with a tour operator by bus, bike or tuk-tuk, but going there independently is now viable too.

• Cradle of Humankind: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 50km from Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is one of the most significant paleoanthropological sites in the world, with many hominid fossil discoveries. You can explore the Sterkfontein Caves and learn about the origins of humanity at the Maropeng Visitor Centre.

• Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve: More a safari park than the wilderness game reserves found elsewhere in South Africa, this is Gauteng’s best place to spot large mammals. Rhino, wildebeest and zebra roam free, while some large enclosures contain lions, cheetahs and hippos.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Melville Koppies: This hilltop collection of parks and a nature reserve offers walking trails along ancient ridges with panoramic views over the city. As well as being home to indigenous plants and a peaceful escape from the busy city, it is also an important archaeological site.

• Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: A short drive from Johannesburg, this botanical garden is home to over 600 plant species and a variety of birds, including the endangered Verreaux’s eagle. Ideal for a leisurely walk or a family picnic among the lush greenery and its impressive waterfall.

Local dishes in Johannesburg

South Africa’s rich and varied cuisine incorporates traditional African dishes along with Malay, Portuguese, Dutch and Indian cooking, including plenty of meat, seafood and local fruit and vegetables. Here's what you should check out on holidays to Johannesburg.

Some typical dishes

• Braai: More than just a barbecue, a South African braai is a social event that's very much part of the national identity. Traditionally seen on the grill are huge steaks, lamb and sausages, with ostrich and venison also becoming popular. Side dishes include vegetables cooked in the embers or chakalaka.

• Pap and Chakalaka: A classic South African dish, pap is a maize porridge often served with chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish. This hearty combination is a staple at a braai.

• Bunny Chow: Originating in nearby Durban, Bunny Chow is popular in Johannesburg too. A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, it’s a must-try street food with Indian influences.

Meat dishes

• Boerewors: A spiced “farmer’s sausage” grilled on the braai, Boerewors is a favourite at South African barbecues. It’s usually served with pap and gravy or a simple tomato relish.

• Biltong: A popular snack, Biltong is dried, cured meat (usually beef or game), spiced and sun-dried. It’s similar to beef jerky but with a distinctly South African flavour.

Sweets and desserts

• Koeksisters: These plaited doughnuts are deep-fried then soaked in sticky syrup, offering a sweet and indulgent end to any meal.

• Malva Pudding: A rich, sponge dessert made with apricot jam and cream, usually served with warm custard.

Local drinks

• Wine: South Africa is one of the world's great winemakers, with some world-class wines such as Chenin and Sauvignon Blancs, several reds using the unique Pinotage grapes, and port.

• Rooibos tea: This caffeine-free herbal tea is native to South Africa and has a naturally sweet, earthy flavour. Rooibos is a staple in most South African households and is often enjoyed with honey or milk.