An erstwhile gold mining settlement, Johannesburg is today South Africa’s largest city. This bustling city is steeped in history and was the home of stalwarts such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Nicknamed Jo’burg, this rapidly changing city also encompasses Soweto which was a separate city during the days of apartheid. Urban renewal is ongoing at a fast pace and the city is home to several of the tallest structures in Africa. Despite this, Johannesburg continues to be among one of the greenest cities in the world given the number of parks and cities it has. With one international airport and three domestic airports, the city offers good connectivity within South Africa and major cities across the world. Minibus taxis and metered taxis are popular ways of getting around the city while a commuter rail system connects the metropolis to Pretoria, Soweto, and other satellite towns. Here are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Johannesburg.
1. Exhilarating scuba diving adventure from Johannesburg
Join this thrilling five-day scuba diving adventure that sets off from Johannesburg. Head over to Sodwana, a World Heritage site and marine sanctuary. The pristine reef is the ideal place to spot a range of marine species big and small, including sharks and dolphins. Only certified divers can participate in this tour.
SCUBA Diving tour from Johannesburg
Duration: 5 days
2. Make the perfect cup of coffee (from USD 93.0)
Turn into a barista with this fascinating course that introduces you to the art of making a cup of coffee just the right way. Spend the day learning about the precise way of boiling milk for a latte and how to pour an espresso. Learn the basics of brewing a cappuccino and other types of coffee, irrespective of whether you want to pursue a career in this field or simply want to master a new skill.
Professional Barista Course - Johannesburg
Duration: 1 day
3. Check out an interesting arts exhibition at Wits Art Museum
Posted by Wits Art Museum on Monday, 26 February 2018
Situated in Braamfontein, this museum is home to more than 12,500 artifacts that have been collected over eight decades. It is home to some fine examples of native African art such as beadwork, wood sculptures and other handicrafts as well as displays of traditional musical instruments and masks. The museum frequently conducts workshops and seminars for children and adults as well as hosting art exhibitions by famous and upcoming artists alike.
Wits Art Museum
Address: University Corner, Corner of Bertha and Jorissen Streets, Braamfontein 2050
Website: Wits Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: Free
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4. Catch a riveting performance at the Market Theater
This March 'ONE SPIRIT a dance festival that will featuring a seamless synergy of cultures, will perform on Thursday,...
Posted by The Market Theatre on Thursday, 7 March 2019
Founded in 1976, this iconic center for the performing arts continues to enthrall locals and visitors to Johannesburg alike. It is the ideal spot to see some of the country’s best performers in action and to pursue courses in dance, performance art, and photography. International artists are also regularly featured at the Market Theater.
The Market Theater
Address: 56 Margaret Mcingana Str Newtown Johannesburg 2001
Website: The Market Theater
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 8am - 10pm; Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm; Mon: 8am - 4pm
Price: Varies
Johannesburg Tour Guide
Thabang Molefe
My name is Thabang Molefe, Director/ Owner of Tsalanang Travel & Tours. I’m a qualified National Tourist Guide in South Africa, born and breast fed in Johannesburg. I have worked in the sports & events industry where I discovered my passion for traveling, and later worked with some of the TOP destination management/operators in South Africa. I love meeting people, and exchanging knowledge, I’m an outgoing person who loves discovering and learning about history, culture and nature. As part of my value standard, I always try to change the way “the world” perceive certain parts of South Africa and Africa as a hole. I have traveled the southern African region extensively and speak various South African languages. Looking forward to meet you on one of my tours.
Tours by Thabang
5. Hop aboard a Red Bus for a city tour
Posted by City Sightseeing South Africa on Thursday, 28 February 2019
Hop on, hop off buses are a great way to get across some of the big cities across the world and Johannesburg is no exception. The red-colored buses are a common sight on the city roads and stop at most of the popular attractions. The open-top seats are a favorite with everyone, and it might not be possible to sit up all the time.
City Sightseeing South Africa
Address: Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Website: City Sightseeing South Africa
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
6. Sample the wares offered on food trucks at Locrate Market
Good morning family ☀️ Hope to see you on 5 May! #letsbuildbrands
Posted by The Locrate Market on Thursday, 18 April 2019
Termed a “lifestyle” market, this is a place where young entrepreneurs get to market and showcase their products and network to expand their businesses. Besides getting to sample delicious snacks at the food stalls and food trucks, you can also find plenty of fashion products, local artwork, and accessories to stock up on. Entertainment options include kids'’ activities and live band performances.
Locrate Market
Address: Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers, 10823A Pooe Street, Orlando West, Johannesburg 1804
Website: Locrate Market
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (First Sunday of every month Feb-Nov)
Price: Free entry
7. Go slam dunk with Bounce
Hi BOUNCE Family! Please note that our Fourways venue will be closed until 16:00 today due to a private function. We...
Posted by BOUNCEinc on Friday, 30 November 2018
This sprawling indoor trampoline park is perfect for when you want an adrenaline rush without the extreme sports! Kids and adults alike will have tons of fun at this place where you simply can’t seem to stop. Indulge in wall running, free jumping, dodge ball, and slam dunking to your heart’s content at Bounce, where you can book a slot in advance so you do not end up disappointed when in the mood for some fun.
Bounce
Address: Cnr Waterfall Drive & Country Drive, Midrand, Johannesburg, 1682
Website: Bounce
Opening hours: Sun: 9am - 6pm; Mon - Fri: 12pm - 7pm; Sat: 9am - 7pm; Mon - Fri: 9am - 7pm; (School and public holidays)
Price: 6 USD
8. Enjoy a fun game at Momentum World of Golf
Posted by World of Golf on Tuesday, 1 November 2016
This leisure park that has golf as its theme, sprawls over 18 hectares (44 acres) at the heart of the city. You can seek help from the professionals to fine-tune game here while advanced golfers can enjoy a few rounds with or without assistance. There is a café and a spa on the property to help you make a day of it with the family along.
Momentum World of Golf
Address: Corner Woodmead Drive and Maxwell Drive, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2148
Website: Momentum World of Golf
Opening hours: 6am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 71 USD
9. Feed the ducks at Zoo Lake
Located opposite Johannesburg, this is a popular public park and lake in the city. perfect for a leisurely picnic, you can also go for a boat ride on the lake when you are done feeding the birds. A restaurant serving authentic local cuisines and live events such as concerts make it a great place to hang out all day, for the entire family.
Zoo Lake
Address: Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and Westwold Way, Parktown
Website: Zoo Lake
Opening hours: All day (daily)
Price: Free entry
10. Have a hearty laugh at Kitchener’s Comedy Night
COMEDY TUESDAYS is back, hosted by Lazola Gola, Mo Mothebe, Mojakisane Lehoko, Robby Collins + friends! Starts at 8pm...
Posted by Kitcheners on Monday, 12 November 2018
One of the oldest bars in Johannesburg and with a dance floor thrown in, there’s no better place to while away the night. Tuesdays are comedy night at this happening place and you are sure to laugh till your sides split at the excellent artists. The DJ stays around before and after the comedy show in case you want to hang out some more!
Kitchener's
Address: Corner Juta and De Beer St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg 2001
Website: Kitchener’s
Opening hours: Tuesdays: 8pm - 10pm
Price: 3 USD
Experience the non-touristy side of Johannesburg
Visiting a city is what most tourists end up doing. However, experiencing a city should be the true purpose of traveling. Pursuing non-touristy things to do in Johannesburg is one way of going about this. With our list above, you have lots of activities to keep you busy while in Johannesburg.
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