Johannesburg, South Africa 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Johannesburg, South Africa

Day 1: Arrival & City Center

  • Arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport. You can book a taxi or use the Gautrain (a rapid rail service linking the airport with the city and surrounding areas) to reach your accommodation.

  • Check-in at The Michelangelo Hotel, centrally located in Sandton, offering luxury accommodations, excellent dining options, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city.

  • Visit Maboneng Precinct for shopping, street art, and the Arts On Main Market where you can enjoy local cuisine for lunch.

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Maboneng or grab a drink at the popular Café Neo rooftop bar.

Day 2: Soweto & Apartheid Museum

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of Soweto, South Africa’s largest township. Visit Mandela House, the Orlando Towers, and learn about its rich history.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Apartheid Museum to gain insight into the country’s tumultuous past.

  • Dinner: Try out Nguni Grill in Maboneng or The Wine Bar at 27 in Soweto for an authentic South African dining experience.

Day 3: Cradle of Humankind & Lion Park

  • Morning: Visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre within the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where some of the world’s oldest hominid fossils were discovered.

  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at the nearby Lion Park, where you can get up close and personal with lions, cheetahs, rhinos, and other wildlife.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal at The Grub & Vine in Melville or The Good Luck Bar for more casual options.

Day 4: Joburg Zoo & Constitution Hill

  • Morning: Spend your morning exploring the Johannesburg Zoo, home to over 900 species of animals.

  • Afternoon: Visit Constitution Hill, a historical site that houses the Constitutional Court and several former prison complexes from apartheid times.

  • Evening: Relax at the Montecasino or Gold Reef City for entertainment, dining, and a peek into the city’s gold mining past.

Day 5: Lesedi Cultural Village & Departure

  • Morning: Travel to Lesedi Cultural Village to learn about the five major tribes of South Africa through their music, dance, food, and storytelling.

  • Afternoon: Return to your hotel, pack up, and head to O.R. Tambo International Airport for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Johannesburg is a large city with high crime rates, so it’s essential to be vigilant and avoid walking in isolated areas at night.
  • The official language is English, but many locals speak Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and other languages.
  • South Africa uses the Rand as its currency (ZAR).
  • Tipping is customary, with 10% of the bill being a common amount.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are readily available, but using the Gautrain and Uber can be more cost-effective for longer journeys.
  • Renting a car is an option if you prefer self-drive travel, but be aware of road safety and potential carjacking risks.

Tips:

  • Take time to engage with locals – they are friendly and eager to share their culture and stories.
  • Don’t forget to try South African wines, biltong (dried meat), and boerewors (South African sausage).
  • Visit during spring or autumn for milder weather and fewer crowds.

Enjoy your 5-day adventure in Johannesburg!