GAUTENG DESTINATIONS

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.

Jo'burg (or Jozi, or Egoli) is the largest city in South Africa, and is the capital of Gauteng, the country's wealthiest province. In fact, the city is one of largest metropolitan areas in the world, and many consider it to be Africa's most global city, alongside Cairo and Cape Town. Although the region was originally inhabited by San tribes, the city of Johannesburg has its routes in gold and diamond mining, and as such much of its infrastructure, development, business and tourism have 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.

Johannesburg is a huge city, 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 its often difficult deciding where exactly 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, and most outlying suburbs have something special to offer visitors. And with constant improvements and developments, each area is fiercely competing to be the best.

Many might frown when you tell them you're going to Johannesburg, especially if you mention that you're going there 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? But 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, sports stadiums shopping centres, safaris, memorials and attractions dotted throughout the city. And, as the hub of the continent, there is always something on the go, be it a world class sporting event, an international musical or production, or a ground-breaking 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. On top of this, you can easily rent your own vehicle, or make use of a range of cost-effective private taxi services and shuttles.

On top of this all, Johannesburg is considered to be the world's largest man-made forest (just take a look at it from above!), and its cool winters, warm summers (with spectacular thunder showers), and plentiful sunshine makes it an ideal place to visit all year round.

Visit the spectacular Gauteng - book a vacation package in South Africa with Forty-Two Travel online now.

View Larger Map