Sights and Sounds of Vibrant South Africa
This post has been sent in by Travel Writer Bradley Fink
While Cape Town is South Africa’s premier travel destination, Johannesburg sometimes struggles to create the same allure. Yet Johannesburg is brimming with culture and incredible things to see. In this vibrant capital city you will find theatres, museums, tours of local townships, and great food!
Background
To learn a bit of history, visit Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum, where you’ll get a first-hand glimpse of the country’s past. The museum aims to educate through interactive exhibitions, teaching themes of Democracy, Equality, Diversity, and Tolerance. Walking through the numerous halls and photo galleries, you will see the many faces of Nelson Mandela as a lawyer, rebel, leader, prisoner, negotiator and statesman.
One of the most popular things to do in Johannesburg is the Soweto Township Tour. The township of Soweto was pivotal in the 1976 Uprising, when black people began to protest against the South African apartheid government. Today, Soweto is a township of more than 1.3 million people, most of whom are who have come from other regions. This area can be dangerous, however, so if you plan to visit Soweto, only go with an official guide.
Places To Visit And Things To See
For a taste of local colour, hit The Market Theatre Precinct, which is home to some of the country’s best performing and visual arts. Also known as Newtown, this area boasts a Saturday flea market, live jazz, and dozens of shops that sell fabrics, snacks, accessories, electronics, and lots of leather goods. The theatres here have seasonal productions that feature comedy, drama, ethnic dance, and musical ensembles.
When it’s time to dine, most visitors to Johannesburg head to trendy Melville. In this neighbourhood you’ll find restaurants, bars, chic cafes and coffee shops. Or, to avoid the tourist scene, you might rather dine in Greenside, which also has a number of delicious restaurants. One of the better digs in Greenside is Karma Restaurant, which offers an authentic taste of Indian cuisine. At Karma you can enjoy haloumi samosas, vindaloo and a variety of tandoori dishes.
Out On The Town
If you’re in the mood for nightlife, then dress up for “Taboo”, a multi-level nightclub in the neighbourhood of Sandton. This stylish venue spins the city’s most entrancing beats, and often hosts the best events west of Capetown’s La Med. Other popular clubs include LiquidChefs, ZAR Lounge, and the renowned Clapham Gold.
Big Game
To get in some adventure, make your way to Kruger Park, which is a 3 – 4 hour drive from central Johannesburg. Kruger is one of the biggest game reserves in all of Africa, offering game drives, rest camps, private lodges, and full-on African safaris. Here you can catch a glimpse of the Big Five wildlife, which includes lions, leopards, African elephants, buffalos and rhinoceros.