Are you planning to visit South Africa, the land of the springboks? Here’s where to stay in Johannesburg, the country’s economic capital!
Johannesburg (affectionately nicknamed Jo’burg by its inhabitants) is the current capital of Gauteng province,South Africa‘s wealthiest. With over 12 million inhabitants, the Johannesburg-Pretoria conurbation is one of the world’s thirty largest metropolitan areas. The richest city in the country, sitting on top of a gigantic gold deposit, it owes its prodigious economic development precisely to gold mining: this megalopolis, situated at an altitude of over 1,500 m, has the distinction of having no endogenous water source, and has therefore had to set up a colossal drinking water supply system.
This city, marked by its troubled past and by Apartheid – the infamous township of Soweto is located to the southwest of the city – presents a striking contrast between the northern districts (safe and with a wealthy white majority) and the rest of the urban area, neglected and abandoned to the black and poor populations. However, a real effort is being made by the authorities to clean up these areas and attract a more affluent population: tourism is developing and Johannesburg, more than just an economic center, is renewing itself and starting to become a major African tourist hub. It has to be said that the city is not lacking in character, and it knows how to amaze those who would seek to appropriate the treasures of Southern Africa!
Would you like to learn more and immerse yourself in this very special country? Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your stay and find the perfect accommodation in Johannesburg!
Downtown
Photo credit: Flickr – Paul Saad
Recently renovated, the downtown area features buildings that bear witness to the colonial past, contrasting with the brand-new skyscrapers that are springing up like mushrooms: it’s easy to see why this area aims to attract businesses and shops!
Stroll along the perpendicular avenues, feast on grilled meat in the buzzing center of the megalopolis, go shopping in one of the countless stores in the area, get cultured in the Hazard Gallery or Museum Africa, stroll throughEnd Street North Park, go for a drink on Albertina Sisulu Road… in short, the city is yours to enjoy!
When it comes to accommodation in Johannesburg, you can rely on the city’s solid range of hotels to suit all budgets, or opt for rental accommodation: there’s a plethora to choose from here!
Find a hotel downtown
Find an Airbnb in the city center
Orange Grove
Photo credit: Flickr – Paul Saad
Orange Grove is a neighborhood in the northern suburbs, and a really posh place.
Dream villas are available for rent for travelers looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Johannesburg, and of course, all the amenities required by a high-end clientele are present: security is reinforced, the Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club offers the chance to hit a few balls for relaxation, and many top-class restaurants offer varied and delicious food.
Our little plus? Head to Sylvia’s Outdoor Market, a farmer’s market with plenty of places to cool off: an ideal family stop-off that’s sure to please young and old alike!
Jeppestown
Photo credit: Flickr – Pascal Parent
Jeppestown is a more popular and cosmopolitan area, but not one that suffers from insecurity. It’s the perfect compromise for those looking for accommodation in Johannesburg, taking advantage of the many hotels in the area. What’s more, it’s the ideal place to enjoy chakalaka or biltong, two emblematic dishes of South African cuisine: traditional restaurants abound, each more delicious than the last!
Map of hotels and accommodation – Johannesburg,za