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Lia’s Insider Guide to Johannesburg

Lia Marus, founder of Memoirs of a South African Freelancer, is an editor and writer. Her blog showcases her travels and experiences in life, as well as her thoughts on copywriting and editing – which is what she does for a living. She runs her own content creation agency and spends her days creating articles for clients.  She loves creating new things, and believes this is what defines her.

5 things I love most about Johannesburg

  1. Number one on the list would definitely have to be the people. Johannesburg definitely has the most welcoming and vibrant community of anywhere that I’ve been.
  2. The late afternoon thunderstorms.
  3. The Gautrain – this is the only way that I travel to OR Tambo Airport and Pretoria! I am very excited that it’s being extended!
  4. The African arts and crafts that you can find at the Rosebank Craft Market. I’m in love with African jewellery.
  5. The coffee shop culture. As a freelancer, my office is wherever I want it to be. Very often, I set up my office at one of the stunning coffee shops in my area.

A few quirky/cool/fun things only locals know about

Johannesburg has a great deal of factory shops that many don’t know about – big brand clothing comes to mind. You will find a lot of fantastic deals at these places.

Another great thing to do is to go on walking art tours in Maboneng. On these tours you will be able to interact with the artists in their studios.

Before they start each production, the Joburg City Ballet organises an open day where the choreographers, ballet teachers and company give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into what was involved in putting the production on.

The least touristy thing to do in Johannesburg

Definitely hanging out in coffee shops!

Best place in Johannesburg to enjoy…

The water: Emmarentia Dam

The mountains/countryside: Magaliesburg

The outdoors: Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens

The food:  So many options! It really depends on what you’re in the mood for:

  • Great sushi that won’t break the bank: Hokkaido in Norwood
  • Italian food: Dolci Café in Craighall Park
  • Mexican: La Rosa in Weltevreden
  • Indian: Red Chilli Spice in Craighall
  • Chinese: It’s a takeaway but the best, by far: Yung Chen

The general vibe or nightlife: Anywhere on Nelson Mandela Square that offers seating on the square. Moyo at Zoo Lake – especially in the evening – has a stunning vibe.

Good coffee/tea/wine: Dolci Café is always on my list!

Meet locals: Dolci Café is always on my list!

What makes a city/town special for me

It must have a heart and soul. The people must be welcoming and it must make me feel at home.

My favourite small town in South Africa and why

I love Bela Bela. The big attraction for me are the hot pools. Going there allows me to melt my stress away.

If I were to do a 10 day road trip through South Africa, these are the stops I’d make:

I would love to explore KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. I’m not sure what stops I would make as I don’t know these provinces that well.

The ultimate bush experience anyone can have in SA

Phinda Game Reserve

The ultimate bush experience anyone can have in Southern Africa ( Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia)

I’m not that familiar with bush experiences in Southern Africa. Something that I need to investigate!

My best beach/island experience in Southern Africa

St Lucia, KZN

The most magical place in South Africa and why

The Drakensburg. The mountains have a story to tell and it’s different every time I go there. I love seeing the effect that the change of seasons have on them.

The best places to visit in South Africa for…

  1. Solo travellers: Cape Town – specifically Greenpoint and Sea Point
  2. Couples: Clarens
  3. Families: Sun City, Durban or Cape Town
  4. Luxury travellers: Cape Town has some stunning luxury accommodation as does Magaliesburg.
  5. Those seeking off-the-grid spots: The Karoo and the KZN coast near the Mozambique border.

Lia, founder of Memoirs of a South African Freelancer, is passionate about communicating others’ stories and messages through the written word. She loves creating new things, and this is what defines her. Her creativity can be seen in everything that she does – from her work to her ‘play time’: she loves beading, sewing and coming up with new creations in the kitchen.

 

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The Art of Travel on the Blue Train

While you may very well take a flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town, you also have an alternative: travel with class and elegance and treat yourself to a unique experience. Today, our daily life very often resembles a race against the clock: Imagine finally being able to take the time and relive the golden age of luxury train travel. Find the very essence of travel where the art of journeying is as important as the final destination. Plunge into the old-world charm of the legendary Blue Train which is to Southern Africa what the Orient Express is to Europe.

So this is a surprise; your man still doesn’t know anything about this trip. A couple of days’ vacation for the two of you, as the last time was so long ago. It is true that lately, because of your respective workloads, you feel as though you have been living apart from one another.

That day at dawn, a taxi will come to the hotel to pick you up and take you to the station. You enter the beautiful waiting room and only there, he understands. You area about to board the famous Blue Train, to experience this historic train as many heads of state and celebrities have before you. Butlers with white gloves whisk your luggage away before offering you coffee and canapés and impatience is now at its height. Seeing the look of disbelief on his face, you cannot help but smile out of satisfaction: you hit home.

8:30 am – On board

The stationmaster whistles for the train to leave the station. You settle in your private quarters, a suite with all the modern comforts and even a private bathroom with a bathtub. Your butler comes to you and brings you your first drink. You begin to relax and look at the changing landscape behind the panoramic windows, while sinking in your cozy seat.

10:30 am – Breakfast time

It is time for breakfast. You are dazzled by the lifestyle aboard this palace on rails: fresh flowers, refined tableware made of delicate china, silverware and crystal glasses. Fine dining at its best, featuring South African cuisine and wines. Really, it is the perfect place to reconnect, to finally take the time to relax, without obligations… at last. You already consider the 27 hours it will take for the train to cover the 1,600 km journey as a legitimately stolen break from the plain daily life where you have been caught for too long.

The afternoon runs just as perfectly. After a well-deserved nap, high tea is served, and you settle in the lounge car to enjoy a Margarita.

7:30pm – Dinner time

This exclusive trip takes an extra romantic turn at dinner time when, according to tradition, the guests dress up: jacket and tie for men and evening gowns for women. You struggle to remember the last time you two had dinner in such an environment. Your conversation has regained its natural state. Time stands still. The soft music in the dining car mixes with the clear sound of champagne flutes clinking against each other.

When you retreat to your suite, the butler converted what had been a comfortable lounge during the day into an opulent bedroom. You close the door behind him and notice that his suit has kept a bit of the aroma of the Cuban cigar he smoked after dinner. The soft lighting let the intense starlight flood the room. Tomorrow you will cross the mountains and arrive in Cape Town, the mother-city. Tomorrow. Meanwhile you are the only two people in the world.

The Blue Train runs between Cape Town and Pretoria (one way in both directions) and will open a new route to the Kruger National Park this year via Hoedspruit.

 

By Angeline Jaquin

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Joburg: an Urban Stroll Through City Markets

This month, I’m writing you from Johannesburg where I discovered some markets that are definitely worth a visit.
Joburg is full of surprising places, original and offbeat concepts. Follow me on my urban ​​stroll…

BRYANSTON ORGANIC MARKET

On Thursday, I asked the receptionist of my hotel to recommend a nice and pleasant place for brunch. His answer was clear-cut: The Bryanston Organic Market. If you are looking for a green setting in the city center, this market is for you. The organic food was delicious and we found so many things: jewellery, flowers, sculptures, vintage clothes, souvenirs, crafts, and toys. We even found activities for kids! This change of scene is enjoyable, especially when we know we are in downtown Johannesburg.

JOZI FOOD MARKET

Are you a nature lover? Then do not hesitate to make a stop at the Jozi Food Market if you are passing through the Pirates Sports Clubs. This market supports the local craftspeople; you can buy many wonderful souvenirs here. This allows you to discover typical products from the region while also supporting local businesses. So you enjoy fresh local produce, original recipes and the outdoors, this is the spot for you. Enjoy the sun and savour a cup of Rooibos comfortably seated on the lawn and a band will be there for some live entertainment.

ROSEBANK ROOFTOP MARKET

If you are looking for a key and trendy market, you have to go to the Rosebank Rooftop Market. When I arrived, a band was there to liven things up while the locals and tourists talked together and savoured African specialties. There were lots of stalls with handmade souvenirs (here they call it a Craft Market) this is a must see in Johannesburg. Therefore, it is not surprising that this Joburg treasure won its 11th award as the First market in Johannesburg.

MARKET ON MAIN

Now, if you’re seeking the trendiest spot in town, the place that brings artists of all kinds and the best in terms of design together, head on over to the Market on Main. It is the place to be. Every Sunday morning this market, located in the Maboneng Precinct (the artists’ area), makes it possible to dive into vibrant Joburg. Offering second hand clothes, designers, organic food, and music makes Market on Main the complete creative urban cocktail.

Obviously, Gauteng is full of attractive small markets, whether it be food markets, craft markets, flea markets and even markets dedicated to traditional healing, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for in Johannesburg. If you come to this beautiful part of the country you will never forget it.

 

By Aurélie Jammes

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Top 10 Free Things to do in Joburg

If you’re in town and are looking for some things to do in Johannesburg (affectionately known as Joburg to locals), here are a few ideas that will inspire you. The best part is that they are all free of charge! Take your family, your partner and some friends over to these places to have a good time.

Visit the Goodman Gallery

If you are a fan of contemporary art, or just art in general, then take a drive out to the Goodman Gallery in Parkwood. Housing artworks from artists such as David Goldblatt and William Kentridge, you can spend the day viewing some exquisite artwork, and maybe even learn a thing or two about art.

Details: Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday – 09:30 to 17:30; Saturday – 09:30 to 16:00 | 163 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkwood, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 788 1113

Visit the Circa on Jellicoe

With exhibitions such as Anthea Pokroy’s “I collect Gingers” (17 January to 2 March 2013) and the upcoming “Beautiful Boats” exhibition (9 February to 30 March), view and enjoy some South African contemporary art and marvel in the exquisite architecture of the Circa on Jellicoe, which represents a celebration of art within our beloved city.

Details: Opening times: Monday to Friday – 09:00 to 18:00; Saturday – 09:00 to 13:00 | 2 Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 788 4805

Hop on down to the Bunny Park

Enjoy a day out in the sunshine with family and friends at the Bunny Park in Benoni. Bring along some veggies, or buy some at the kiosk available, and hand-feed the tame bunnies and other animals like goats, cows and donkeys. And to make the day even more relaxing, pack a lovely picnic filled with snacks and enjoy the great outdoors while the little ones track down bunnies, see peacocks show off their flamboyant feathers or—when available—go on camel rides.

Details: Opening times: Daily from 07:00 to 17:00 | Pretoria Road, Benoni, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 422 3651

Nan Hua Buddhist Temple

Take a drive to the scenic temple of Nan Hua Buddhist Temple (the South African branch for the Humanistic Buddhist Order) to marvel at the divine architecture. Take the time to walk through the museum and view their large collection of Chinese artefacts. Visit the white Temple Lions (not real ones, obviously) that protect the temple, or admire a set of impressive antique Han Dynasty Chinese Palace gongs that date back 2000 years, which are the exact replica of the originals.

Details: Opening times: 09:00 to 17:00 daily except Monday | 27 Nan Hua Road, Cultura Park, Bronkhorstspruit, Johannesburg | Tel: (013) 931 0009

Photo credit: Nicole Castanheira

Adler Museum of Medicine

If, like me, you are a fan of anything medical, take some time to browse through the history of medicine and developments in the medical world. Visit the Adler Museum of Medicine where you can see interesting collections representing the medical, dental, and pharmaceutical history through the ages. With hundreds of historical medical items, documents, philatelic and medallion collections and a library housing rare books, you can enjoy a day of browsing and learning. Regular public lectures, tours, film shows and exhibitions are on show at the Museum.

Details: Opening times: Monday to Friday – 09:30 to 16:00; Saturdays on request | Wits Medical School, Corner York and Carse O’ Gowrie Roads, Parktown, Johannesburg| Tel: (011) 717 2081

James Hall Museum of Transport

The James Hall Museum of Transport is the largest and the most comprehensive museum of land transport in South Africa. You can view transport collections which include animal-drawn vehicles (1870-1910), bicycles and motorcycles (1786 – 1960), buses and coaches, motor cars (1900 – 1980) and trams and trolley buses (1896 – 1986). There are also interesting memorabilia, artefacts and an extremely rare steam vehicle collection. This is definitely the place for car or transport enthusiasts!

Details: Opening times: Tuesday to Friday – 09:00 to 17:00; closed every third weekend of the month | Pioneer’s Park, Rosettenville Road, La Rochelle | Tel: (011) 435 9718 or (011) 435 9485/6/7

The Peacemakers Museum

The Peacemakers Museum in Nelson Mandela Square gives you an opportunity to know more about the Nobel laureates who devoted their lives to making the world a better place for everyone. This exhibition celebrates Nobel Peace Prize winners, but mainly focuses on the South African laureates such as Albert Luthuli, FW de Klerk, Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela.

Details: Opening times: Monday to Friday – 11:00 to 19:00; Saturday and Sunday – 11:00 to 18:00 | Nelson Mandela Square, 8 Maude Street, Sandton, Johannesburg | Cell: 079 545 2703

Browse around the Rosebank Rooftop Fleamarket

Browse through more than 600 stalls that offer numerous items such as handcrafts, antiquities, collectibles, clothing and stock for hobby enthusiasts. It’s free to browse, but if you wish, you can do a little bit of shopping. And if you get a bit peckish in between shopping, there is a selection of foods available at the International Food court and Deli.

Details: Opening times: Sundays – 09:00 to 17:00 | Corner of Cradock Avenue and Baker Street, Rosebank, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 442 3387

Absa Money Museum

Take a trip down to the only money and banking museum to see the most complete collection of South African numismatic items in the world. The museum’s history stretches as far back as to the beginnings of trading in Johannesburg and shows many displays of ‘early money’, from Cowrie Shells to Venetian glass beads. Remember to bring along your ID for entry into the building!

Details: Opening times: Monday to Friday – 08:30 to 16:00 | 15 Troye Street, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 350 4167

Take a walk through a Park

With large, open gardens and the popular dam, enjoy a day at the park with family, friends, and your four-legged companions at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens at Emmarentia Dam. Pack yourself a picnic basket filled with delicious delights, a blanket and enjoy the fresh air while people watching. This is the perfect spot to have a relaxing day out in the sun, give your four-legged friend some exercise and fun, and spend some quality time with family.

Details: Olifants Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg | Tel: (011) 782 7064

By Sébastien Charrieras

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Sun City: Where Yellow Meets Gold

Yellow. Yellow is the colour of the sun of course, but also as gold or sand. Yellow is the colour of coins but also a façade tanned by the sun. It is a colour that makes you think of the holidays. How about you take a journey inspired by the colour yellow? In South Africa, there is only one place that reminds me of yellow: Sun City. Sun City reflects the sun, the sand, the coins and tanned façades.

Sun City is a huge leisure resort that is only a two-hour drive from Johannesburg. There are four hotels where you could stay. Each one is suited to different budgets, from the affordable family holidays to luxury ones. Likewise, the hundred activities offered will satisfy everyone: just enjoy the sun around the swimming pools or on the golf course. If you prefer gambling, bet at the Sun City Casino.

You could also go shopping, attend to a concert as well as discover the stunning nature that surrounds you. Sun City is located on the edge of the Pilanesberg National Park. This is a park where you can enjoy a safari 55 000 hectares big. If you are lucky enough, you may see the famous Big Five (buffalo, leopard, lion, rhino and elephant). The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of the Pilanesberg National Park. Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature.

There are nearly 200 kilometres of excellent quality roads for either self-drives or guided drives. Professional guides operate within the park. Numerous hides and scenic picnic sites enable tourists to experience “out-of-car” experiences as well. Sun City and the Pilanesberg will suit everyone’s needs and desires. Whether you’re looking for a romantic trip or a wildlife experience, Sun City will fulfil your needs.

By Sébastien Charrieras

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10 Reasons to visit Southern Africa this Summer

When is the last time you had a white Christmas? A white sand one that is?! Even better, summer in the southern hemisphere continues until March. Think waves lapping on a Cape Town beach, sailing to a tropical island in Mozambique coupled with game viewing in one of the world’s richest ecosystems of Botswana, sunrise atop a Namibian dune or an evening in the vibrant city of Johannesburg. Now that autumn has come to Europe and spring has sprung in the southern hemisphere, isn’t it time you started planning your summer holidays here? Here’s 10 very good reasons to get planning now…

1. Cape Town, South Africa

From the sweeping city and coastal views from atop Table Mountain to the romantic wine country of Stellenbosch and jaw-dropping peninsula views stopping to see African penguins and endless beaches, Cape Town is a city that can’t be missed when visiting the top of Africa. From artisan markets, gourmet restaurants and sunsets atop Signal Hill to outdoor family adventures and kid-friendly activities at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town’s allure has a way of making you fall for her city instantly.

2. Sossusvlei, Namibia

When’s the last time you watched the sunrise over cascading burnt-orange in a desert? Pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there’s a reason Sossuvlei is one of the most popular places to visit in Namibia. White salt plans, deadvlei and red dunes in the middle of the Namib-Nakluft National Park. Find your way to the top of a dune, sand-board down or make you way around in a thrilling 4×4 trail.

3. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

Also known as the ‘Smoke that Thunders’, one of the world’s most majestic waterfalls can be experienced from the air on a helicopter flip, with a daring dip in Devil’s pool, or even a luxury cruise along the Zambezi. Bordering both Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls beckons visitors from across the globe.

4. Bazaruto, Mozambique

Think powder-white islands on the edge of underwater reef bubbling over with marine life of every kind. Go snorkelling or out for a dive. Enjoy a seafood BBQ on a dune, feel the wind in your hair on a dhow boat cruise at sunset or don’t leave your luxury lodge at all. This is one tropical escape you’d like to make and it’s only a short flight away from the big city of Johannesburg.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Get lost (with the guidance of incredible rangers) in one of the world’s richest ecosystems of Botswana’s Okavango Delta where annual flooding leaves lots of the delta only accessible to guest via small planes and the wildlife has learnt to adapt to both dry and wet seasons. Sundowners beside a watering hole, makoro rides through the swamps, game drives just before the sun dips in the savannah and some of the most spectacular game viewing in the wilderness all await.

6. Johannesburg, South Africa.

Otherwise known as the city of Gold, Jozi can only be described as vibrant and bursting with life, colour and people. Explore the trendy hub of Maboneng on foot, savoury local cuisine at one of the many markets day or night and enjoy street art in many corners of the city. Take to the township of Soweto on a bike tour and assist in some of the local initiatives to make a difference.

7. Sani Pass, Lesotho

Whether you’re visiting for the snow and ice scattered on the mountain tops of Lesotho or the green hills to be enjoyed when it’s warm, the Sani Pass is a mountain pass located in the West of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa on the road between Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal and Mokhotlong, Lesotho. Undulating mountain tops are a sight to behold and bring visitors from across the globe.

Photo Credit: Michael Denne-Flickr

Photo Credit: Timo-Flickr

8. Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana

What an experience to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve lies within the largest sand basin in the world and has only recently been opened to the public and is best for those seeking to savour a wild, remote wilderness.  While it’s a desert, you will be surprised by the high density of game and various habitats of grasslands, riverbeds, bush veld and acacia tree forests.

9. Etosha National Park, Namibia

For the most part, you don’t even need to leave your camp to view game within Etosha. Go on game drives during the day and wait for game to come in search of water.  Often the waterholes in or close to camps are lit for guests to sit down and enjoy nature unfold and go about its business. And what a magical business it is.

10. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Whether you’re taking to bush on a foot with a ranger or in a game vehicle, witnessing but a corner of nearly 2 million hectares of diverse bushveld that makes up the Kruger National Park will leave you forever changed. Spot the Big Five, little Five ( hopefully) and everything else in between. Set out in the early morning cool to see who is already awake or try a night drive to watch as the nocturnal animals start to awaken.

Call us now to book your luxury tailor-made trip to Southern Africa: +27 (0)21 486 2700

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South Africa beyond a Safari

If when someone speaks about South Africa, you immediately think about wild animals in the middle of the African savannah or if every time someone says to you, “I’m going to South Africa for the holidays” you answer back, “Oh nice, you’re going to go on a safari!” Take a few minutes to read this article and you will understand that it’s a shame to reduce such a beautiful country to only one activity, no matter how incredible it is!

In this country, there is something to satisfy everyone’s tastes. Adults, young and old, couples, families, retirees, athletes, nature lovers, musicians, foodies, everyone—yes I do mean everyone—can find something in South Africa to their taste! It would be tedious to list every place, landscape or activity in the country. However, let’s try to highlight the peculiarities of South Africa to introduce you to something other than a safari!

First of all, you should know that South Africa is a really BIG country, which deserves to be captured differently depending on where you are. Indeed, if you travel in Western Cape, Kruger Park or KwaZulu-Natal, you will see very different landscapes, animals, climates and cultures! It’s certainly relevant to speak of bush but we shouldn’t forget that South Africa also has amazing beaches, mountains, lagoons, dry deserts, and vineyards as far as your eyes can see.

Yes really, you’ll never get tired of this country! If there are landscapes to suit every taste, imagine how many activities there would be for you to do! Let’s start with what seems more obvious: the beaches in South Africa. South Africa is home to two oceans and thousands of beaches. Below the mountains, hidden between cliffs, spreading as far as your eyes can see, it’s up to you to find your small corner of paradise! For those who can’t stand lying on the beach, you have the chance to do many water activities such as surfing or windsurfing, swimming with seals, watching the whales and even shark-cage diving… the list goes on.

For those who love nature, the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal is the place where you belong. Choose a path and explore this huge nature reserve for several days. You will enjoy a very unique experience in harmony with nature. Or maybe you’re more attracted to Table Mountain? You will definitely enjoy a breathtaking view of Cape Town from the top!

Don’t worry! If you prefer the excitement of the city and cultural visits, the major cities of South Africa—Cape Town and Johannesburg—are perfect for you. Through visiting many museums (the Slave Lodge in Cape Town and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, amongst others), or wandering in the different districts (townships, sea side, CBD, etc.), you will feel the strong influence of history that is still very present in this country.

There is nothing better than interacting with locals, discovering their habits, their ways of life and state of mind to have a truly accurate overview of these cities. Eventually, it’s crucial for you to know that South Africa takes food very seriously! Once again, there is something for everybody: whether you’re at a South African specialties or indulging in some international food (Asian, European and more) in a themed restaurant (jazz, hipster, pub) or in a casual market, you will be completely overwhelmed! This culinary diversity can be coupled with a huge range of excellent wine produced in the Winelands of Cape Town. If you have the chance to visit these vineyards, you will discover wonderful properties that have absolutely nothing to envy from all these castles in Bordeaux (in France)!

There you are. You now have a modest preview of what is waiting for you in South Africa. Go ahead; come discover a country that will blow your mind!

And never forget, going on safari is an excellent reason to visit South Africa – but hardly the only one!

By Capucine Motte

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8 Walks to Experience Johannesburg like a local

Nicknamed the ‘The City of Gold’ and also referred to as ‘Jozi’ by locals, Johannesburg s a place where people know how to work hard… and play equally as hard! What’s more, its cultural fusion and rich history means that it is full of amazing food, friendly locals and some great nightlife.

There’s so much to explore in Jozi – but here are some top local walking tour picks:

Maboneng Precinct Tour

Main Street Walks runs this fantastic walking tour, which explores the hot, urban neighbourhood of Maboneng. Maboneng, which means ‘Place of Light’, is an artistic and cultural hub on the east side of the Johannesburg CBD.

Filled to the brim with young creatives, visitors can expect to see lots of independent retail stores, restaurants and entertainment venues – as well as loft apartments, offices, film and sound studios, a hotel, hostel, museum and creative factory spaces too.

Mr Bheki Dube, playfully named the ‘Minister of Tourism for Maboneng’, will be your guide, and tours depart at 3pm from Curiocity Backpackers, and runs Tuesdays to Sundays, though private tours can also be arranged.

For all bookings and additional information, please contact Main Street Walks on (011) 614 0163.

The taste of Yeoville

Yeoville is the center of Pan-African culture in Joburg. In this vibrant, little suburb of Johannesburg, Congolese, Ghanian, Mozambican, Ivorian, and Cameroonian immigrants co-exist.

And this mish-mash of culture has resulted in quite an interesting food scene, which offers deletable Central African cuisine… Dlala Nje has found the perfect way to offer this experience to all!

The taste of Yeoville is a three–hour tour (with food and drinks included), which allows guests to take an evening stroll through the heart of Yeoville, Rockey Street, where one can soak up Victorian architecture, rich political heritage and local street life.

Meals are broken up by exploring the vibrant African market exploration, and the night ends at Cameroonian eatery, which boasts some of the best carapau (that is, grilled Portuguese Mackerel) and chips in town.

The tour includes food (vegetarian-friendly, as needed) and a drink, and will take up three hours of your time, with some 3km walked, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

For more information on prices and available tour dates/times, please email info@dlalanje.org.

Photo credit: dlalanje.org

Naming Jozi Tour

Dig deeper into the history of Johannesburg with this inner-city walking tour run by Past Experiences. On the tour – led by tour guide, Jo Buitendach – you will learn about the names allotted to the streets, buildings and places found here.

As you journey through the city, investigating new and old elements alike, reflect on the mark that a rich and diverse history has left on the city streets.

For more information and tour dates and times, please contact Past Experiences on (083) 701 3046.

Joburg Places

Joburg Places – a brilliant initiative courtesy of Gerald Garner (author of Spaces & Places – Johannesburg) – offers visitors the chance to explore Johannesburg, with experienced guides provided to enhance your experience.

Having already taken some 17 000 people on walking tours (and other tour types too!) in the inner city, there’s no question that these tours are a huge hit with both travellers and locals.

Expect to take in the mesmerising inner city, as you enjoy any of Joburg Places’ excellent tours. The monthly Pubs, Bars & Rooftops bus tour is probably the most popular and famous of all the Joburg Places tour, but fortunately, they also offer many great walking tours too, so you won’t miss out whatever you decide to do!

Charlie Moyo leads the daily public walking tours, which may include Marshalltown, City Centre, Maboneng, Fashion District & Little Addis Walking Tours and Constitution Hill Walking Tour options. What’s more, Gerald himself is available for private tour bookings.

For more information on tour availability, dates and pricing, please contact Joburg Places on (082) 894 5216 or email gerald@joburgplaces.com.

Joburg Heritage Foundation Tours

No other organisation offers quite as many tours as Johannesburg Heritage Foundation does. Through them, you can enjoy everything from house tours to walking tours and so much more!

This year, for the second quarter, their programme includes the following walking tours/hikes: Three New Blue Plaques for Troyeville’ (26 May), Hidden Parktown (9 June) and even a Heritage Hike – Forgotten Temples, Monuments and Bridges of Klipfontein and Syferfontein (23 June).

All tour guides have incredible access to the city’s most fascinating sites, and are sure to provide all the insight, excitement and learning you may require!

Tour prices, dates and times vary and while tours are generally open to anyone, members receive substantial discounts and are able to attend select, otherwise private tours.

For more information on dates, tours and pricing, please email mail@joburgheritage.co.za – or book through Computicket.

Photo credit: joburgheritage.org.za

Sophiatown The Mix

With Sophiatown The Mix (formerly known as Sophiatown Heritage and Culture Centre), visitors can both experience the magic and vibrancy of Sophiatown’s historically key, former heyday, while simultaneously enjoying a taste of Sophiatown as it is today.

Led by expert guides, this amazing interactive experience will combine a visit to the 1930s home of Dr Xuma, along with a fascinating walking tour, taking one through this historic, multicultural suburb. 

Visit local points of interest; dance to the beat of Sof’town; or listen to stories from the past, told by one of the resident’s (as you tuck into tea and vetkoek)… There’s so much to enjoy and even more to learn on this wonderful walking tour!

The tour runs Monday – Saturday, between 9am and 4.30pm. (Other times can be arranged privately beforehand.) Guests can head to 71 Toby Street, Sophiatown, corner of Edward Road, off Main Road/Ontdekkers to join up with the guide(s).

For more information on the tour, pricing and availability, please contact (083) 550 7130 (bookings) or email ekse@sophiatownthemix.com.

City Skate Tours

With City Skate Tours – the brainchild of Joburg-born Ayanda Mnyandu and Daniel Monegiake – keen skaters can now take to the streets… and tear them up!

The tour begins outside Curiocity African Design Hostel, Maboneng with a short beginner’s course on how to skateboard. From there, you will be shuttled to Harrison Street, where you can practice your newfound skating skills to your heart’s content.

Enjoy travelling down flat, quiet streets, past Beyers Naude Squre, the Library Gardens (a popular skaters’ hangout in the city), with other stops at Rand Club or Johannesburg Central Magistrate Court.

Another highlight is the halfway stop, Main Street Mining District, where you can get the chance to skateboard on the rooftop, while enjoying stunning city views from up high.

Mnyandu, your self-taught guide, is also conveniently a notable history buff, so the tour is filled with fascinating history and stories from early Joburg.

The tour begins at Curiocity African Design Hostel and ends at Henry Nxumalo Street, Newtown, where a shuttle bus will take you back to Maboneng. The tour runs for some three hours, with skateboards provided, and is strictly permitted for over 18s only. (It’s advisable to bring a backpack and a handy bottle of water.) Tours run on Saturday and Sunday, starting at 10am and 14pm respectively.

For additional information, pricing and availability, please contact Mnyandu on (079) 839 8833, email cityskatetours@gmail.com or book at Curiocity African Design Hostels.

Photo credit: www.inyourpocket.com

Roving Bantu Kitchen & Treks

Divided into two parts: the kitchen and the tours, Sifiso Ntuli’s Roving Bantu Kitchen & Treks offers something for every kind of traveller and foodie to enjoy.

The kitchen side of things serves up a limited menu of wholesome afro-soul eats, and is great for all kinds of special occasions (they can host up to 30-40 people).

While the unique tours offer a different type taster: serving up Joburg stories, anecdotes and off-the-beaten-track experiences to boot!

These tours (with a difference) cover Johannesburg and surrounds, with the recommended tour time set at four hours. (Transport is only provided for the tour itself, so transport to and from the tour’s place of departure falls on the attendee.)

Please be advised that prices vary depending on the amount of people booking and package selected.

For additional tour information, dates and times and pricing, please contact The Roving Bantu via their website.

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How to Keep Cool in South Africa’s Big Cities

Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban, you may need a place to cool down, a body of water to dive into and a way to refresh in between your city sightseeing. Here’s a few hotels, pools and dams to dip into within South Africa’s big cities:

Johannesburg

Saxon Hotel

Find solace at the luxurious, leafy retreat of the Saxon Hotel in the heart of Sandhurst, Johannesburg. Some luxury villas and suites have their very own pools else you can dip into their heated pool. Or even better, book yourself into their spa with cascading water features and Himalayan salt and copper influences.

Public Swimming Spots

With no coastline, lots of nearby dams and a few public swimming pools; your best option would be at your hotel or there’s the Linden indoor heated swimming pool or the biggest public swimming pool ( Olympic-size) at Ellis Park.

Durban

The Canelands Hotel

Whether you’re on deck on walk or sipping cocktails on the terrace of The Canelands Hotel; you’ll be surrounded by views of the ocean and the pool blue beside you. Wake up to hear crashing waves, dive into the ocean, dip in the pool, go horse-riding on the coast or micro-light along the coast.

Public Swimming Spots

Durban’s golden mile of coastline is a wonderful place to enjoy the beach.  With safe-swimming beacons, lifeguards on duty at most beaches, warmer water, shark nets and public amenities, there is so much on and around the beach to enjoy.

Cape Town

Mandela Rhodes Place Hotel

Catch a city break here in the heart of Cape Town’s cultural quarter at Mandela Rhodes Place and when the days get hot and you’re not keen on finding your way to the seaside, laze on lofty heights and dive into the rooftop swimming pool.

Public Swimming Spots

Being a peninsula, Cape Town has a plethora of options where everyone can cool down. Dams and little streams running down from the mountain and beaches galore. Choose between the Atlantic Seaboard beaches tucked between giant boulders with white sand beaches and cooler Atlantic ocean water or the False Bay peninsula with warmer water and family-friendly tidal and rock pools and beaches. Here’s more ideas in our Mini-guide to Cape Town’s Coastline.

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