Johannesburg also known as Jo’burg or Jozi is the provincial capital of Gauteng. It being the wealthiest province of South Africa is also one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world. Johannesburg has one of the busiest international airports in Africa. It has a rich mineral deposit around the Witwatersrand range of hills and hence the source of gold and diamond trade which is why it is also called Egoli meaning Place of Gold. Johannesburg is also the financial hub of South Africa with many top financial companies having their presence.
Johannesburg has developed well within the last couple of decades. The CBD of the city has been well maintained and has the tallest buildings in Africa. Most of the old buildings have been demolished to make way for the new skyscrapers. This place is also known as the ‘greenest city’ due to well-maintained parks with lots of greenery around the city. There is multitude of attractions for everyone whether you have come to Johannesburg on a business trip or vacation.
If you are a nature lover then you can head to the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens. You can find innumerable kinds of birds here including the endangered species of Black Eagle. If you want to go close to the wilderness, then a trip to the Lion Park is worth it where you can feed the lion cubs and touch them. You can also feed other animals there and also go on a self-drive through the lion enclosures. You can also visit Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, Montecasino Bird Gardens to name a few.
Gold Reef City is a unique experience as it is an amusement park with a casino. Johannesburg has a lot to offer for all ages. The night life here is lively with music, restaurants and bars. If you want to go on a shopping spree then head to Sandton city’s mall. Many people on vacation come here and spend most of the time in this mall.
Johannesburg is a very well connected city. This is the hub for travelers who are visiting this place for business or vacation and also a transit location for many heading to other locations. You have Metro Rail which is a commuter train to the suburbs. Gautrain is a high speed train with world class standards. Fares are reasonable with lot of security within the train and on the stations. There are many long distance buses available. There are city buses and mini buses if you want to get within the city limits. But this may not be the best option if you are looking for some sightseeing.
Johannesburg is a great place for accommodation whether you are tight on budget or can spend lavishly on the most luxurious hotels. There are many budget hotels for backpackers in this area that are extremely reasonable and hospitable. The cost of such accommodation can vary from R80 to R200. There are guest houses and bed and breakfast hotels also in this area. They have many options with air-conditioned rooms to having mini bar and cable TV and internet connection. The prices for such accommodation can range from R400 to R500. For the elite group of visitors who want to spend their stay in luxury there are many 5 star hotels in Sandton area. Whatever may be your budget, Johannesburg is a good city to visit and with so many options of good and decent hotels and so many attractions that the city offers you are bound to have a memorable trip.