Johannesburg

Johannesburg, known as Joburg, Jozi and the City of Gold, is one of the world’s youngest major cities and home to the its largest man-made forest, with over 10-million planted trees sheltering Johannesburg’s suburbs, as well as over 4.9 million people.
The city enjoys a sublime climate – neither humid nor too hot, the days are warm and wind free in summer (November to February) and crisp and clear in winter (June-August). O R Tambo International Airport is the regional hub for flights from around the globe, making it the biggest and busiest airport in Africa.

After almost 20 years of decline and decay, Johannesburg is now looking optimistically towards the future. Its center is smartening up and new loft apartments and office developments are being constructed at a rapid pace. The hipster-friendly neighborhood of Maboneng is considered one of the most successful urban-renewal projects in the world. However, the wealth divide remains stark, and crime and poverty haven’t been eliminated.

Still, Jo’burg is an incredibly friendly, unstuffy city and there’s a lot to see and do here. The city is awash with superb museums, mostly offering deep insight into South Africa’s troubled past such as the Apartheid Museum. Delve in and experience the buzz of a city undergoing an incredible rebirth.

There is so much to see and do it’s worth spending 48-hours here. With privately guided excursions to cultural attractions like the art and design district, as well as walking and cycling tours that allow you to acclimatize in the city’s pleasant year-round sunshine there truly is something for everyone. Expect superb restaurants, ultra-lux shopping malls, award-winning spas and a wide range of hotels, all set against the backdrop of a truly African city.
Johannesburg is an ideal stopover to catch your breath and knock out jetlag before starting your safari adventure. There are also several Big 5 reserves nearby, including Madikwe Private Game Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park.