Johannesburg

One of the world's most cosmopolitan cities, Johannesburg is an interesting melting-pot of race and culture. Its lively streets reflect the diversity of people populating the city - Europeans, Americans and Australians flocked here to seek their fortunes during the gold rush of the late 19th century. As the city expanded from a fledgling town to a beating heart of prosperity, traders and entrepreneurs from India, China, lapan and Eastern Europe also laid down their roots, in recent years, West, East and Central Africans have m^de their home here, adding their own distinct
stamp tc the city's profile. The result is a city that mirrors i.e. fantastic cultural mix of its inhabitants, who have managed to retain their personal identities as well as merge into a unified and unique whole - AFROPOLITAN

Easily laying claim to the title of cultural capital of South Africa, the city that truly has it all boasts a variety of impressive options for the visitor - exciting nightclubs for ever taste, theatres - including the world- famous Market Theatre in Newtown; and music venues such as the legendary Kippies, where one can jive to the rhythms of jazz maestros. Brimming with quaint and delightful flea and craft martkets from Rosebank Rooftop to vast Bruma Lake, the array of uniquely  South African creations on offer in the city is endless.

Possessing its own symphony orchestra; Joburg is also fertile ground for a diversity of other musical groups. These include the highly popular Buskaid Soweto String Project, which
ensures that many underprivileged musicians become annual world players in the international arena. Arts Alive keeps it global with a September music festival that sees local and international acts performing under African skies.

SHOPPING
Keep your wallets ready and chequebooks poised in this shopper's paradise. Whether it is large malls a la Sandton City, more intimate shopping zones like Melville Village, or a truly cultural shopping experience at The Oriental Plaza Johannesburg has it all. From exquisite
jewellery and high-fashion designer clothes to cutting- edge local style, your every wish can be fulfilled.

Famed for quality antiques, Parkhurst is a collector's dream while Hyde Park Corner abounds with exclusive boutiques, A key focus for traders from all around the continent, Joburg gives the opportunity, at authentic stores such as Art Africa, to browse through an array of
fascinating African artefacts and wonderful souvenirs. Shop to your heart's content in relaxed environments offering original as well as world-class consumer goods

THE STRUGGLE ROUTE
It is natural that Johannesburg, a city radiating the spirit of Africa, which drew to itself such a diversity of peoples, became the centre and focal point of South Africa's political activity. Soweto - the city's satellite township -was the focus of global attention during the student protests of the 1970s.

However, long before that, the streets of Joburg were alive with the sounds of
marching feet, as those from various walks of life and races stood up against
the unjust laws of the apartheid state bringing with it the living museum for
the struggle for democracy. From the Hector Pieterson Museum, a shrine of
reflection dedicated to one of the first student victims of police bullets, to
Nelson Mandela's place of residence, Lilliesleaf Farm, Kliptown, Freedom Square, the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, home to Mandela, Tutu and in earlier years Gandhi, as well as many other struggle leaders, there is so much to share in the historical and political memories of a country reborn. Come and experience the many legacies of a time in South Africa's history that can never be forgotten.

TOWNSHIPS
Abuzz with vivd social culture, Soweto simply must be visited, as it represents and reflects joy and freedom, human rights, justice and reconcilliation.

Another township must is Alexandra. Visit the Alexandra Cultural Village.

Activities
Living in a busy metropolis, 'Joburgers' escape the rat race by embracing the city's year-round temperate weather. Outdoor life is an essential part of living in Joburg. The city and its surrounds offer a wealth of invigorating leisure activities from nature trails, sparkling lakes and boating on the Vaal Dam to exploring the beautiful botanical gardens in Emmarentia and Roodepoort. Well-kept parks are filled with a lush variety of indigenous and imported plant life. Relax by jogging, strolling or walking the dog through expanses of grassland in Delta Park or exploring the rugged, unspoilt terrain of Melville Koppies and Klipriviersburg Nature Reserve, and a newly rehabilitated dam and park in Soweto, Moroka Dam. The Johannesburg Zoo is renowned for being one of the best and most informative in the world.

Daredevils may be thrilled with skydiving, while some may opt to float far above the city, getting a bird's-eye view from a hot-air balloon. Choose to get out, get active and discover Joburg's delightful natural treasures.

CRAFT MARKETS
Experience authentic Africa by browsing through the array of flea markets and craft markets dotted around the city. Well-organised and bursting with goods from all over the world, African artefacts brought in by traders from North, East and Central Africa feature strongly. Especially sought-after are the imaginative handmade goods created by craftsmen and women from the rural areas of the country. Rosebank African Market and Bruma Lake offer an assortment of these ethnic arts as well as elegant wrought-iron furniture, hand-painted ceramics, fine jewellery, bed linen and a diversity of foods to fill hungry stomachs. Michael Mount Organic Market provides a selection of natural foods, vegetables and homemade cakes. For hours of shopping and fun-filled relaxation, stroll through Joburgs atmospheric markets.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
Fascinating museums, both public and private, to suit every interest are spread throughout Johannesburg. From the Military Museum to the powerfully evocative Apartheid Museum, cultural interests will be more than satisfied with the wide variety of museums. The intriguing Museum Africa in the Newtown Cultural Precinct showcases a series of reconstructions of the city's history. Across the way is the Worker's Museum - a must-see that revisits the history of
labourers who came from all comers of the world to help build the thriving metropolis that Joburg is today. Home to some of the best art galleries in the world, a visit to Joburg would not be complete without a visit to the many private galleries with world class pieces on display and for sale, showing the multitude of African talent in our midst.

ENTERTAINMENT
When it comes to relaxing and enjoying time out, Joburg has something for everyone. A city that loves to laugh. Joburg Comedy nights provide chuckles courtesy of our best performers - experience the talents of some of South Africa's stars, or choose to chill to the beat of Africa at the distinctly different Drum Cafe. Laid-back evenings can be spent at the Cinema Nouveau, which screens art films from around the globe. There is theatre galore for those who love the thrill of the stage - catch a play at the legendary Market Theatre or watch a thrilling extravaganza
of dance and cabaret at one of the city's bigger venues. If gaming gets you going, pick from a dazzling array of luxury casinos from the Roman-themed Caesars Palace to the awesome Montecasino. Kick back in an exhilarating city that works hard and plays harder. With nightlife to rival the best international cities, Joburg has a party vibe all of its own with options to fit every budget and all tastes. Dance, trance. Drum 'n Bass, R&B or classical - whatever melodies move you, Joburg has them all. Listen to the soothing sounds of live Jazz at the famed Bassline in Melville, or get your groove on to the rhythms of house and township Kwaito at one of the many nightclubs around town. Dress up, see and be seen at trendy hotspots, with DJs playing cutting-edge tunes. Take in a cocktail at an upmarket bar or down a draught at a gritty watering hole like The Jolly Roger. If rock is your thing, boogie down at Roxy's to our thriving music industry's best bands. Party until the early hours in a city vigorously alive with distinct sights and sounds.

THINGS TO DO
A myriad of things to do awaits the Johannesburg visitor or resident. The Lion Park offers the chance to pet cubs while Gold Reef City is a trip back in time, reconstructing The City of Gold at the turn of the Century. A tour to Sun City with its impressive jungle-themed Lost City is not to be missed, as is a game drive into the Pilansberg Nature Reserve, which offers the exciting chance to spot game in their natural habitat. Sterkfontein Heritage site, or the Cradle of Humankind, where civilisation is thought to have begun, are unusual adventures. Stare into starry skies at The
Planetarium. Add go-karting for speed freaks, rowing on Zoo Lake and historic walking tours to the lengthy list of what to do when out and about in Joburg.

ATTRACTIONS

Cradle of Humankind
A set of caves west of Johannesburg, where many experts believe mankind's hominid ancestors first appeared. Meet the famous "Mrs Ples" and the amazing "Little Foot".

Alexandra
Established in 1912, Alexandra is one of the earliest urban black settlements in Jo'burg, predating even Soweto. It is the site of a multi-million rand presidential development initiative. See also Alexandra Renewal Project

Botanic Gardens
One of South Africa's finest succulent collections, in addition to wide open green spaces, sparkling dams, roses, herbs, birds and trees galore.

Monte Casino Bird Gardens
A new attraction with some 200 species of birds and over 1 500 species of small animals. A feature being is the walk-in aviary containing 100 species of birds.

Touring Soweto
The township whose name became synonymous with anti-apartheid resistance. On one street, the Mandelas and the Tutus once lived

Moroka Dam, Thokoza Park and Klipspruit River
The upgrading of this water system, once a prime attraction of Rockville, Soweto, is a R20-million mayoral showcase project. The project has rekindled community spirit among local residents.

Brixton cemetery: host to history
Randlords, strike leaders, politicians, editors and more lie shoulder-to-shoulder (almost) in this early cemetery

Kippies: Legendary jazz venue
A Victorian loo becomes a Newtown jazz club, host to some of South Africa's great musicians

Old Fort & Constitutional Hill
The jail that held leading activists from Nelson Mandela to Mahatma Gandhi is reborn as the constitutional court, and as a musuem

Kliptown
The township where the famous Freedom Charter was signed half a century ago, is to have a huge heritage site at its centre

Liliesleaf Farm
The farm where the ANC's underground leaders, including Nelson Mandela, operated until their capture

Enoch Sontonga memorial
Resting place of the simple man who wrote what became the national anthem

Avalon's thousands of graveside cots
There aren't many places in the world where you end up in a cot when you're dead and buried. But in Avalon Cemetery in Soweto there are thousands of cots demarcating graves.

Museum of apartheid
A visit to Johannesburg's new Apartheid Museum is a moving experience -- you almost feel you were there among the toyi-toying demonstrators facing down the police

Mai-Mai: visit a genuine African bazaar
The city's oldest market, Mai-Mai, transports the visitor into a fascinating world of indigenous African clothing and curios. But the stars are the traditonal healers with their "muti" or herbs

Gandhi's Johannesburg
Mahatma Gandhi evolved his "satyagara" philosophy of non-violent protest during a long and colourful period when he lived in Johannesburg

Ghostbuster tour
A bus tour takes visitors to sites of intriguing murders in the city

Hector Pieterson memorial
The new Hector Pieterson Museum in Orlando West, Soweto, is being built in memory of the 566 people who died on June 16, 1976

A trip down a mine shaft
Take a trip down an old Johannesburg gold mine -- which even boasts the world's deepest pub

Melville Koppies
Step into unspoilt Melville Koppies, and you'll forget that you're in the middle of a bustling metropolis

Joburg, 250 000 years ago
In the hills of Klipriviersberg, in Jo'burg's south, archeologists find evidence of human activities 250 000 years back

ACTIVITIES
Adventure Golf
Fourways Mall, William Nicol Dr
Tel: 465-8452
Open Mon - Sun, 9am - 11pm
R12 - R20 for three games

Spare yourself the frustration of searching for your golf ball in the rough of one of Johannesburg's world-famous golf courses. Adventure Golf offers a challenge, but won't punish you so harshly for wayward shots. Three different nine-hole courses present a series of interesting and fun-filled tests.

Antiques and Collectors Fair
Sunnyside Park Hotel, Parktown
Cell: 083 311-4768
Open last Sunday of every month

If you enjoy browsing for a bargain or picking up truly unusual gifts, make a note to keep the last Sunday of the month open. The Antiques and Collectors Fair at the Sunnyside Park Hotel features books, carpets, silver, jewellery, porcelain and other collectibles.

Bass Lake 4x4 Adventures
Tel: (016) 366-1127
R500 for the day in your 4x4 or R650 to hire

4x4s are all the rage in Johannesburg, where the greatest challenge the vehicles are likely to face is negotiating the rush hour traffic. At Bass Lake you get to put your vehicle to the test - or hire a 4x4 for the day and put in some practice. Learn how to climb steep slopes, master descents and negotiate rock beds and mud slides. It's adrenaline-pumping action - once you've finished the course you'll have learnt as much about yourself as your vehicle.

Bill Harrop's Balloon Safaris
Tel: 705-3201
Flights daily at sunrise, weather permitting
Minimum of three passengers at R1 150 per person

Imagine looking down on the world while sipping champagne and drifting with the wind. Bill Harrop's Balloon Safaris offer a unique perspective on Johannesburg, floating through the sky above the spectacular Magalies River Valley and Hartebeespoort Dam. The ride ends with a champagne breakfast at Riverside Country Base.

Blue Train
PO Box 2671, Joubert Park 2044
Tel: 773-7631
Fax: 773-7643
E-mail: bluetrain@transnet.co.za
Web site: www.bluetrain.co.za

A trip through the beautiful South African countryside on one of the world's most luxurious trains is a truly unforgettable experience. The Blue Train travels five routes: from Pretoria to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Pretoria to Cape Town, Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, Pretoria to the Kruger National Park, and Pretoria to Cape Town. - repeat - what's the fifth route?

Buggy Park Racing
DF Malan Dr, Muldersdrift
Tel: 957-3475
Open Tues - Sun and public holidays
10 laps from R30, junior track from R20

Driving in Johannesburg can be truly taxing, but rather than stressed behind the wheel in rush hour traffic, why not save your energy for Buggy Park racing? Here you get to race around a muddy track with wild abandon and no nasty consequences. Alternatively you can watch your friends from the bar, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. For even bigger thrills, racing can also be arranged at night.

Crocodile River Arts and Crafts Ramble
Plot 72, Rietvallei
Tel: 662-2786
Open Mon - Sun, 9am - 3pm

The Crocodile River Arts and Crafts Ramble offers the perfect opportunity for a family outing. More than 100 gifted artists and craftspeople show off their wares, often in their studios, and original paintings, sculptures and art objects can be picked up for a bargain. Various demonstrations take place, and visitors can watch the Swazi glassblowers of Ngwenya Glass at work. A tea garden provides a welcome spot to sit down and discuss the arts and crafts, all in the beautiful rustic surrounds of the Crocodile River.

Danielsrust Horse Trails
Off DF Malan Dr or the N14
Tel: 957-0034
E-mail: infotour@fast.co.za
Web site: www.valleyofancestors.co.za
Rides daily, booking essential, from R75 to R285

Danielsrust Horse Trails offer the chance to visit a world heritage site, the Cradle of Mankind, on horseback. The Lion and Rhino Nature Reserve as well as beautiful farmland can also be taken in on rides of varying length - from an hour or two to half a day or even an overnight stay in a hikers' hut. Facilities are available for a good old South African braai.

Footloose Trout Farm
Tel: 464-2201
E-mail: footloose@jhbmail.co.za
Open Tues - Sun
Adults R23, children R12, rod hire R25, bait R2,50

Fly-fishing is a time-honoured art and a marvellous means of relaxation. Footloose Trout Farm features 13 dams well stocked with trout, carp, barbel and bass. Bring your own rod or hire one for the day for R20; professional help is on hand for the novice at a daily rate. You get to buy all the fish that you catch for R38 a kilogram (you'd better hope you don't land a monster barbel!). After a hard day's fishing, stop in at the bar and restaurant to sample the catch of the day.

Galaxy World Tenpin Bowling
The Zone @ Rosebank, Oxford Rd
Tel: 447-9142
Open Sun - Thurs, 9am - 1am; Fri - Sat, 9am - 2am
Entrance R14,50 - R22

Galaxy world is the ideal place for a fun outing with a group of friends. Twelve lanes wait to test your skills, plus a bar, snack menu, plenty of other games and a lively atmosphere.

Johannesburg Botanical Garden
Web site: http://www.jobot.co.za/

The beautifully maintained Johannesburg Botanical Garden features various themed areas: the rose garden (home to around 4 500 roses), the herb garden (said to be the best in South Africa), the romantic Shakespeare garden, the hedge display and the valuable succulent collection. Take a stroll and unwind in the presence of Mother Nature.
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Johannesburg Zoo
Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview
Tel: 646-2000
Web site: www.johannesburgzoo.co.za
Open daily 8.30am - 5.30pm
Adults R15, children and seniors R10, groups R7, disadvantaged children R4

Among the creatures to be found at Johannesburg Zoo are cheetahs, polar bears, lions, bat-eared foxes, chimpanzees, gorillas, red pandas, vultures, black eagles, elephants, camels, and sable antelope. Give yourself enough time to take it all in - the zoo is BIG! Also on offer are night-time and behind-the-scenes tours and holiday programmes for children.

Kloofendal Reserve Trails
Cnr Galena and Veronica St, Kloofendal
Tel: 470-3600
Closed in winter

Two trails, neither too taxing, allow hikers to take in the special beauty of this nature reserve. The more energetic can take on the seven kilometre trail, while the two kilometre trail can be managed by younger children. At the end, having worked up a good appetite, there are braai facilities available.

Kromdraai Hiking Trails
Tel: 957-0034
E-mail: infotour@fast.co.za
Web site: www.valleyofancestors.co.za
Minimum eight hikers required

One or two-day trails can be taken through the stunning Kromdraai Conservancy, which lies in the Cradle of Mankind world heritage site - a wonderful outing for friends and family. Along the way stop off at the Wondercave, the site of some spectacular discoveries about early man, as well as a crystal-clear underground lake. In addition to enjoying the beautiful surroundings, you can take a tour of a gold mine and visit the Rainbow Trout Farm.

Lion Safari Park
Cnr Hans Strydom and Old Pretoria Rd
Tel: 460-1814
Open Mon - Sun, 8.30am - 5pm
R75 per car with four passengers or R20 per person

Do some big game viewing without leaving Johannesburg. The Lion Safari Park is home to more than 50 lions, as well as various antelope, ostriches and zebra. Take along a picnic or visit the restaurant and curio shop.

The Lipizzaners
Lipizzaner Equestrian Centre, 1 Dahlia Rd, Kyalami
Sundays at 11am

The Kyalami Lipizzaner centre offers the rare opportunity to see the world-famous white Lipizzaner stallions in action. This is one of only two Lipizzaner schools in the world to be given the stamp of approval of the Spanish Riding School. Tradition and standards are rigorously upheld, and the grace and dignity of the horses is truly impressive. The show is a study in beauty, from the young stallions that start proceedings, through the pas de deux, side-saddle riding and carriage driving, to the solo performances and school quadrille.

Lory Park
180 Kruger Rd, President Park, Midrand
Tel: 315-7307 or 083 679-0584
E-mail: zoo@skybiz.com
Open weekends and public holidays, 10am - 4pm
Adults R15, children under 12 R10

More than 2 000 indigenous, endangered and exotic birds can be viewed in the tranquil setting of Lory Park in Midrand. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch stretched out on a blanket while colourful macaws and parakeets fly overhead. Braai facilities are available.

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve
Judith Rd, Melville
Web site: www.veld.org.za
Open first and third Sunday of the month in the afternoon and every second Sunday in the morning; guided tours every 15 minutes; parking at Marks Park; no dogs allowed

Featuring open grasslands and gently shaded wooded areas, the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve is the perfect place for a Sunday outing. It is home to a variety of birds and has an interesting history. Guided tours explore themes relating to Stone Age and Iron Age man, Johannesburg's early mining history, and the indigenous flora.
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Michael Mount Organic Market
Culross Rd, Bryanston
Tel: 706-3671
Open Thurs and Sat mornings

Only 100% organic products are for sale at the Michael Mount Organic Market. If you prefer your food without artificial preservatives, you'll be delighted with the range of food products, from fruit and vegetables to pies, quiches, cheeses and herbs. Other stalls offer arts and crafts hand made from natural materials. In contrast to the neon lights and plastic products of mall shopping, a walk around the market is a rejuvenating experience.

Newtown Cultural Precinct
Cnr Bree and Wolhuter St, Newtown
Tel: 833-5624/5

It's at the Newtown Cultural Precinct that the melting pot of Johannesburg's cosmopolitan lifestyle can truly be experienced. There's cutting-edge art and drama at the Market Theatre Complex, traditional South African food at Gramadoelas restaurant, smooth sounds at Kippie's jazz bar and upbeat musical entertainment at the Horror Cafe and Electric Workshop. Also to be found on the precinct is MuseuMAfrika, incorporating the Bensusan Museum of Photography.
Read more about MuseuMAfrika

Northgate ice-arena
Northgate Shopping Centre, , Honeydew Road, Northwold
Tel: 011 - 794 8706
Johannesburg has one public ice skating rink. Whether you're graceful and skilled or provide a bag of laughs for your friends with your fall-down ways, the Northgate ice-arena provides a fun ice experience. It is a full-sized Canadian rink and situated next to The Dome, part of a complex jam-packed with entertainment and shopping.

Oriental Plaza
Cnr Bree and High St, Fordsburg
Tel: 838-6752
Open Mon - Fri, 9.30am - 5pm (closed Fri noon - 2pm); Sat 9.30am - 2pm

The Oriental Plaza is a great spot to pick up a bargain, featuring a massive variety of colourful fabrics for sale, as well as clothing, shoes, incense and spicy food outlets. Be brave and try the hot samoosas.

Paddle Power
Tel: 794-3098
Booking essential

Paddle Power provides the opportunity to take full advantage of South Africa's natural beauty. You get to raft the Crocodile River in an inflatable two-man canoe, and enjoy horse riding, mountain biking and hiking along the river and mountain trails. Trips vary from half a day to overnight stays - accommodation can be arranged. Summon all your energy and get out there and do it.

Parkhurst Esoteric and Holistic Health Fair
Parkhurst Recreation Centre, 5th Ave, Parkhurst
Tel: 442-6717

You'll no doubt have noticed that more and more people are embracing a holistic approach to life and health. To get in on the act, head for the Parkhurst Esoteric and Holistic Health Fair, where you can try out reiki and Indian head massage, find out more about traditional Chinese medicine and feng shui, and have your tarot cards read. Well worth a visit.

Piston Ring Vintage and Classic Car Club
Founders Hill, Modderfontein
Tel: 082 416-9584
Web site: www.pistonring.org.za
Meetings third Sunday of the month

This club, catering to those over 25 years of age, is a car lover's dream. Take a trip back in time and marvel at the cars on show. There's a club canteen, so if you're hungry or thirsty you'll be well looked after.

River Tours and Safaris
Tel: 803 9775
Web site: www.rafting.co.za
Booking essential

Join River Tours and Safaris for an idyllic trip down the Vaal River in a two-man inflatable, featuring beautiful scenery, gurgling waters and the spectacular South African countryside.

Scenic DC3 Historic Flights
Tel: 678-8221 or 082 414-5275 (Samantha)
E-mail: airroute@freemail.co.za
Sundays 8.30am
Adults R395, children under 12 R295

Experience the thrill of flying in an historic DC3 aircraft during an hour-long, scenic flight over the Hartebeespoort Dam, Pretoria, Johannesburg and surrounds, while sipping champagne and orange juice. When the flight is over, tuck into a traditional English breakfast at Wings at Lanseria restaurant, while listening to some live music.

Suikerbosrand Reserve
N3 Kliprivier off ramp
Tel: 904-3933
Open daily

This sizeable nature reserve features three family hiking trails of four, 10 and 17 kilometres in length. There's no need to rush to complete the longer hikes as there are huts where you can stay the night. If you'd rather experience nature without expending much energy, you can entertain yourself at the museum and auditorium. Take in superb wildlife and nature conservation videos or, if you're feeling more adventurous, join a game drive.

Witwatersrand Botanical Gardens
Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
Tel: 958-1750

Pay the Witwatersrand Botanical Garden a visit to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of South Africa. It's a wonderful place to stroll around while breathing in fresh air. Find a nice spot for a picnic or eat at the restaurant. Wonderful bird life can be viewed from the hide - if you're lucky you might see the Black Eagles that have made the gardens their home. Local flowers and plants are for sale at the indigenous nursery.
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Zoo Lake
Jan Smuts Ave, Saxonwold
Tel: 646-2400
Open all year

If you owe yourself some relaxation time, Zoo Lake is a good place to head. Take the family, dogs included, and stroll around the lake and spacious grounds. If you're feeling energetic, bicycles and roller blades are options. For a romantic touch, take your partner rowing on the lake at dusk - there are few more stunning sights than a Highveld sunset.