For many Kiwis, Johannesburg marks the beginning of their South African adventure.
Yet, despite its role as the country’s main gateway, South Africa Tourism says while being one of Africa’s most dynamic cities, it is often overlooked in favour of the next destination.
“With travellers considering alternate flight paths to Europe outside traditional transit hubs, Johannesburg presents an opportunity to turn a standard transit into a core holiday memory,” it adds .
. . . JNB in 72 Hours
The NTO has designed a 72-hour itinerary for agents selling a JNB stopover. South Africa Tourism says the city’s culinary scene is one of Africa’s most exciting, blending local flavours with world-class dining, rooftop bars and vibrant neighbourhoods.
. . . Day One
Have clients arrive and settle into a hotel in Sandton, Rosebank or Melrose. For lunch suggest they take in the dining scene at Melrose Arch or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Johannesburg’s top restaurants.
In the afternoon direct them to Discover 44 Stanley, a lifestyle precinct with independent boutiques, local designers, artisan cafés and some of the city’s best dining. Clients can finish off the day with dinner at one of JNB’s top restaurants before trying the city’s nightlife.
. . . Day Two
South Africa Tourism says no visit to the Rainbow Nation is complete without understanding the stories that shaped modern South Africa. In the morning clients can visit Nelson Mandela Square and the iconic Nelson Mandela Statue.
Then after lunch suggest they head to the township of Soweto and explore by bike or tuk-tuk with Lebo’s Backpackers, or by quad bike with Soweto Outdoor Adventures.
They can also visit Nelson Mandela’s former home on Vilakazi Street—the only street in the world to have been home to two Nobel Peace Prize laureates. For those wanting a deeper understanding of South Africa’s journey, the Apartheid Museum is
conveniently located en route to or from Soweto, it adds. Clients can finish the day with dinner at Sanctuary Mandela, the former residence of Nelson Mandela.
. . . Day Three
One the last day, South Africa Tourism has compiled a more artsy itinerary. “Johannesburg’s creative scene is one of the most exciting on the continent, blending contemporary African art, fashion, design and culture,” it says
Have clients explore Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank, home to galleries, design studios and creative spaces showcasing some of South Africa’s leading artists. Then suggest they brunch or lunch at Proud Mary in Rosebank, before checking out local boutiques and designer stores.
Clients can then head to Maboneng Precinct, known for its street art, independent galleries, creative entrepreneurs and lively atmosphere.
And finally, for their last evening suggest they have dinner at Marble before taking in JNB’s skyline from one of the city’s rooftop bars.
