Johannesburg City Overview
Your comprehensive guide to Everything Johannesburg
Johannesburg is one of the world's most diverse, fast-paced and vibrant cities; in many ways it lives up to its reputation as the New York of Africa, despite its vast, sprawling developments.
Joburg (or Jozi, or Egoli) is the largest city in South Africa, and is the capital of Gauteng, the country's wealthiest province. The city is one of largest metropolitan areas in the world, and many consider it to be one Africa's most global cities, alongside Cairo and Cape Town.
Although the region was originally inhabited by San tribes, the city of Joburg has its routes in gold and diamond mining, and as such much of its infrastructure, development, business and tourism has developed around this. As such, English is widely spoken, and it is home to a wide range of people from around Africa, South Africa, and the world, as millions descended on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand hills.
Joburg is huge, and as a visitor it can be quite daunting. There are numerous residential and commercial zones, each with its own unique character and benefits, and it's often difficult deciding exactly where to stay, eat, visit and relax. While much of the commercial business and money has moved into the northern suburbs, the once run-down city centre is starting to see an exciting revival.
This video gives you some idea of how far Johannesburg has already come towards being the "New York" of Africa.
Many might frown when you tell them you're coming to Johannesburg, especially if you mention that you're coming here on holiday. You'll be confronted with concerns about crime and traffic, and the very common question Jo'burg? What's there to actually do in Jo'burg?. As with many large cities throughout the world, crime remains a problem, and tourists are encouraged to always be aware of their surroundings and belongings, as measures to safeguard residents and tourists are slowly being put into action. And yet despite it's undeniable issues, this fascinating city, which originally served as a starting point for travels to the rest of South Africa and Africa, has fast become one of the region's most popular, and well-run, tourism and business centres.
There are dozens of world-class museums, galleries, theatres, golf courses, sporting stadiums shopping centres, safaris, memorials and attractions dotted throughout the city, and it's our aim to show you exactly what's worth visiting during your time here. And, as the hub of the continent, there is always something on the go, be it a world class sporting event, an international musical event or production, or an international conference or function.
As a result, the city has developed comprehensive facilities, the majority with tourists in mind. It is serviced by the modern OR Tambo International Airport, which fields flights from across the globe, and there are also exciting plans in the pipeline for rapid bus and train services around the city. You can also easily rent your own vehicle, or make use of a range of cost-effective private taxi services and shuttles.
The arrivals hall in OR Tambo International Airport
On top of this all, Johannesburg is considered to be the world's largest man-made forest (just take a look at it as you fly in), and its cool winters, warm summers (with spectacular thunder showers and lightning storms), and plentiful sunshine makes it an ideal place to visit all year round.
So when you're planning your next trip to this spectacular country, be sure to allow a number of days in Johannesburg, which is truly living up to its reputation as a world-class African city.
- Useful links:
- To see the Regions covered by myJohannesburgInfo.com, please click on Regional Overview
- To hire a car for your journey, click on Hertz Car Hire
- To check on the weather before you go out click on Johannesburg-Weather
