HistoryApartheid Museum
A powerful journey through South Africa's past.
Cheap flights to Johannesburg
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Johannesburg at a glance
- Country
- South Africa
- Airports
- O. R. Tambo International (JNB)
- Search code
JNB- Money
- South African rand (ZAR)
Discover Johannesburg
South Africa's biggest city was built on gold. Today it's a hub of history, art and nightlife, and the gateway to safaris.
What it's called
- Jozithe locals' nickname
- eGoli"place of gold" in isiZulu
- Joburgthe everyday short name
Things to do in Johannesburg
History
HistorySoweto
Visit Mandela House and Vilakazi Street, home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners.
HistoryConstitution Hill
An old prison turned home of the Constitutional Court.
NaturePilanesberg safari
A game reserve about 2.5 hours away, home to the Big Five.
About South Africa
South Africa sits at the tip of the continent where two oceans meet. It has 12 official languages, three capital cities and landscapes that run from savanna and safari parks to mountains, wine valleys and wild coastline.
- CapitalPretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein (three capitals)
- MoneySouth African rand (ZAR)
- Language12 official languages, including English, isiZulu, isiXhosa and Afrikaans
Economy
Africa's most industrialized economy. It is the world's biggest platinum producer and mines gold, coal and diamonds; Johannesburg is the continent's financial center, and wine, fruit, cars and tourism are big industries.
Culture
Called the 'Rainbow Nation' for its mix of peoples. Nelson Mandela's story is everywhere, the braai (barbecue) is a national pastime, music runs from jazz to amapiano, and rugby and cricket are passions.
Places to visit
- Kruger National Parklions, elephants and the Big Five
- Garden Routea coastal road trip of forests and lagoons
- Drakensbergdramatic peaks and rock art
- Stellenbosch and Franschhoekwine farms in the mountains
- Boulders Beacha colony of African penguins
Why South Africa is worth it for you
- Safari you can affordDrive yourself through Kruger and stay in park camps.
- Wine at low pricesExcellent local wine at a fraction of European prices.
- Little or no jet lag from EuropeSouth Africa is in a time zone close to Europe's.
- Two oceans, one tripMountains, beaches and the bush in one country.
Travel more of South Africa
Places worth adding to your trip, from Johannesburg or on another visit.
NatureKruger National Park
One of Africa's great safari parks for the Big Five.
NatureGarden Route
A coastal road trip of forests, lagoons and beaches.
NatureDrakensberg
Dramatic mountains with ancient San rock art.
BeachDurban
Warm Indian Ocean beaches and a famous curry scene.
NatureCape Town
Table Mountain, penguins and the winelands.
See the guide →Eat like a local
- BraaiA South African barbecue.
- Bunny chowCurry in a hollowed-out loaf of bread.
- Pap and chakalakaMaize porridge with spicy relish.
The story of Johannesburg
The 1886 gold rush on the Witwatersrand created Johannesburg almost overnight. It was central to the struggle against apartheid, and Nelson Mandela lived in Soweto.
South Africa through history
- Millions of years ago
Early human ancestors live in the Cradle of Humankind.
- 1652
The Dutch set up a station at the Cape.
- 1886
Gold is found; Johannesburg is founded.
- 1948
Apartheid laws begin.
- 1994
The first democratic elections; Nelson Mandela becomes president.
- 2010
South Africa hosts the FIFA World Cup.
Good to know
- Best time to go
- April to May and September to October. Winter days are sunny and dry.
- Getting around
- Gautrain links the airport, Sandton and Pretoria; use rideshare at night.
- Language
- 12 official languages, including English, isiZulu, isiXhosa and Afrikaans
Ready to see Johannesburg for yourself?
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Flights from Johannesburg
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When you land in Johannesburg
Places to stay, things to do and getting around, from trusted travel brands.
Questions about Johannesburg
Which airports serve Johannesburg?
O. R. Tambo International (JNB). Search code: JNB.
What currency is used in Johannesburg?
South African rand (ZAR).
How do I find cheap flights to Johannesburg?
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