Also known as the ‘Place of Gold’, and is literally built on gold harboring the fields of South Africa. With its distinctive character, Johannesburg is a great stop over while traveling in South Africa. The temperate climate is welcoming; outdoor and cultural activities are abundant.

Jo’burg’s sprawling nature and mild climate coupled with a first rate developed world infrastructure make it look and feel much like Phoenix, Arizona. Located on a high plateau with an altitude of over 1753m above sea level, dry heat make the summers bearable and cold nights in winter are normal.

There are many tourist attractions in Johannesburg from the Johannesburg Art Gallery, one of the most progressive galleries in the country, Museum Africa, Rembrandt van Rijn Gallery, and Newton’s cultural precinct to casinos, nightclubs and weekly flea markets held every Saturday. It is also the best place in South Africa to find arts and crafts. Other areas of interests include Soweto, an urban residential area just outside of Johannesburg and South Africa’s largest township.

Jo’burg is set out like a grid and is easy to navigate. If you are planning on visiting only a few places within the city, use taxis or a car service. Keep in mind that public transport is almost nonexistent and you will need a car if moving beyond the city.

Even though crime has receded, it remains a problem in the central business district at any time of the day. You should take precautions when walking in most areas of the city after dark.