Johannesburg

From a thriving art scene to a sprawling shanty town, this city represents the economic engine of South Africa.

As your private charter jet touches down in OR Tambo airport, your private hire car will be ready to take you straight into the city, just over half an hour away.

You’ll be struck by the modern architecture and wealth of high rises that dot the skyline, demonstrating just how far Johannesburg has come since its inception in the 19th century as a gold mining town. In fact the Zulu word for the city, Egloi, means ‘place of gold’.

This ambitious metropolis is keen to welcome tourists, providing high-end luxury accommodation such as The Residence Boutique Hotel in the affluent suburb of Houghton, or 54 On Bath in the metropolitan area of Rosebank. Both spa hotels offer attentive service and all the facilities you’d expect from a 5-star rating.

If you choose to eat outside your hotel, you’ll find you’re spoilt for choice. One to tick off the list is Marble. Chef David Higgs embodies the South African love of outdoor cooking, roasting succulent meats over flame, providing an authentic dining experience in exquisite surroundings.

For fine dining with a view, head to The Rooftop overlooking the breathtaking Johannesburg skyline. On the menu are plenty of meat and seafood options and impressive dessert choices.

Heading out for the evening, you’ll find a decent cocktail or two at the Mix bar in the heart of the art and music scene in Rosebank or American bar, Sir James van der Merwe, a spacious, lively venue.
But after a hearty breakfast the following morning, you need to know where to go for the day. Fortunately, Johannesburg has plenty on its itinerary for you.

Start with a wander around Rosebank, stopping at the pavement cafes for refreshment and taking in the art galleries, designer boutiques and movie houses.

If you’re looking to dig a little deeper into the history and culture of this vast city then take a visit to The Apartheid Museum, a one-of-its-kind attraction telling the story of 20th century South Africa, with apartheid at the heart.

Or maybe you want to get out of the city for a day or two spent on safari. Book a day, or several, with your private tour guide at the Pilanesburg Nature Reserve Tour, spotting one, if not all, of the Big 5.

Just outside the city you’ll find the famous Cradle of Humankind UNESCO site. Explore caves rich with stalactites and learn about Mrs Ples, the 2million-year-old skeleton indicating the presence of early man in the area.
And the best time to visit? Between March and May, and between September and November, you’ll notice far fewer tourists while still getting the benefit of warm, dry weather. Peak months start at the beginning of summer in December, but right up until February you’ll experience a hike in prices and the crowds.

A rich, diverse culture awaits. Dive into Jo’burg, a city with a foot in the past and an eye on the future.