Johannesburg, often called Joburg or Jozi, is South Africa's largest city and the economic heart of the country. It lies in the province of Gauteng, and it is known as the City of Gold because of its gold mining history, a past that shaped its growth and still gives the city its character. Many visitors also know it by the older name eGoli, a reminder of that same story.
The city is widely regarded as the financial centre of Africa, so it has a busy, business-minded energy alongside its cultural life. Visitors come for work, for family, and for the chance to see a city that is constantly changing, with a mix of modern towers, older districts and a wide range of attractions and cultural sites.
What a visit offers
- A window into South Africa's mining heritage, which is central to the city's identity.
- A range of museums, cultural sites and attractions spread across the city.
- A base for exploring Gauteng, the province at the centre of the country's economic life.
- A lively urban setting for those interested in business, history and contemporary city life.
Planning your trip
Johannesburg is a large city, so it helps to plan your route around the areas you most want to see rather than trying to cover everything at once. Think about how you will get between sites, and check opening times and current conditions before you set out. The city rewards visitors who come with curiosity about its history and its people.
