Destination Guide: Johannesburg
Gold-rush history, hearty meat dishes and open-air art
Trace the gold-rush era from a mineshaft or catch open-air shows at Nelson Mandela Square. Africa is laid out before you from the towering Carlton Centre's observation deck.
Food and Drink
A world of cuisine, tender meat and rich local wines.Order artfully presented fusion food from the award-winning restaurants lining leafy Greenside. Or combine al fresco dining with art performances at Nelson Mandela Square. Stewed, barbecued or grilled, meat is superior anywhere. Couple it with full-bodied South African wines.
Sightseeing and relaxation
Underground museums and 50th-floor vistas.Explore the gold-rush era at Gold Reef Cityand the beginnings of humankind at the Origins Centre. The Apartheid Museumprovides a captivating journey into South Africa's recent history, while Sandton's Nelson Mandela Squarevibrates with multi-ethnic art performances. Look down on Johannesburg's skyscrapers from the towering Carlton Centre.
Shopping
International designer items and local tribal artefacts.Browse Sandton's shopping malls to find top international designer tags or browse Rosebank's market for African artefacts. Tribal paintings from all over Africa and beadwork from South Africa make for wonderful gifts; try Parkwoodfor a good quality selection.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Lively art performances and careless casino nights. Newtown Precinctand Nelson Mandela Squarecome alive with theatre, dance and music performances, while in Rosebankthe crowd sinks into comfortable sofas to enjoy whisky and cigars. Roulette, poker and sleek modern nightclubs make Montecasinothe Las Vegas of South Africa.
12 Apr - 29 Aug 2010
Based at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre, the SA Ballet Theatre presents an annual season that encompasses classical ballets and new works by South African choreographers. Public open days and collaborations across international boundaries make for a rich and varied programme.
Old Mutual Encounters Concert Series
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Located on the shore of Johannesburg's Emmarentia Dam, the Botanic Gardens are the venue for the annual Old Mutual Encounters Concert Series, which brings a cool line-up to the city's hot summer afternoons for one afternoon a month.