How to spend 24 hours in Johannesburg

Here is a guide on how to spend 24 hours in Johannesburg. Jozi, as the locals call the city, has been the business capital of South Africa and also the connection city to Kruger National Park’s many airports. But the city has been evolving and there is plenty to see and explore.

Apartheid Museum

An important stop on a Jozi visit is the Apartheid Museum. It will give you the history behind the troubled past of the country. It is historically significant and you can expect an emotional experience. The building housing the museum is also architecturally interesting. Northern Park Way & Gold Reef Road
www.apartheidmuseum.org

Soweto

Any trip to Jozi should include a trip to the township of Soweto (stands for South West Townships). Especially coming from the Apartheid Museum, which is on the way there. You can visit the home of Nelson Mandela, which houses a small museum about his life. It is located on Vilakazi Street, which functions as a market with stalls and restaurants run by locals. All during the day, there will be street performers singing and dancing. Never a dull moment. One of the best ways to experience the township is to take a bike trip. Locals will guide you through important sites as well as the rough and nicer sides to the township. Supporting interesting local tourist initiatives like these is important, as it creates jobs in a neighbourhood with high unemployment, especially among the you. Local entrepreneurship in tourism has been on the rise and can help break the unemployment circle.
Mandela House: 8115 Vilakazi Street, www.mandelahouse.com
Bicycle Tour of Soweto: 10823A Pooe St, www.sowetobackpackers.com

Lunch at The Wine Bar

Finish the visit in Soweto with a walk up the street for a delicious lunch paired with a tasting of South African wines. I love South African wines.  07165 Vilakazi St
www.thewinebar.co.za

Maboneng

Maboneng used to be an area full of crime and decay, but with the urban transformation the area is now a centre for culture. Fox Street is full of cafés, galleries, restaurants and shops to explore. Arts on Main is a cultural melting pot in the heart of the area that now house galleries, cafés and shops. On the weekend, there is a market, where you will find the Jozi’s most stylish citizens. Living Room is a rooftop café, where you can enjoy yummy organic food, while taking in the skyline. At Bertrand Café, great coffee can be enjoyed while lounging in big sofas.
Arts on Main:264 Fox St &, Berea Rd
Living Room: 20 Kruger Street, www.livingroomjozi.co.za
Bertrand Café: 296 Fox St, www.bertrand-cafe.business.site

Dinner

Finish your visit in Maboneng at the Argentinian steakhouse Che Argentine. Industrial décor, juicy steaks, tasty sides and a festive night vibe complete a perfect day in Johannesburg. 303 Fox Street
www.cheargentinegrill.co.za

24 hours in Johannesburg