Stop trippin’ about making holiday plans. Going on vacation doesn’t mean you have to book resorts, pack duffel bags and spend thousands to enjoy your holiday.
Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or just not keen on travelling this holiday, Staycations in Joburg gives you the opportunity to enjoy your vacation at home, while enjoying the local beauty the City of Gold has to offer.
Day tripping is perfect for those who of you want explore your local city in all its glory. From sightseeing to theme parks to hopping on and off the red bus, Staycations in Joburg gives you a bit of everything.
Stand Tall
For an unforgettable view of Joburg be sure to visit the Roof of Africa, situated on the 50th floor of the Carlton Centre. The tower stands 223 m tall and offers incredible 360 degree views from its observation deck – well worth paying the R15 fee.
Pump Adrenalin
At Gold Reef City you can enjoy thrilling theme park rides (R165 for adults and scholars), a 4D movie experience (R165) or learn about Jozi’s Story of Gold and witness the pouring of gold. If you enjoy being immersed in gold, try the Mining District Walk, which reveals fascinating details about the industry which built the City of Gold. If you are a history buff then a trip to the James Hall Transport Museum – with over 2500 items (all pertaining to the history of transport) on display – or to the Apartheid Museum, is for you.
Indulge Your Senses
On Saturdays and Sundays, try the Good Food Market and the Grove Market in Braamfontein. For those who remember the area as being a bit less than desirable, think again. It has become a young and trendy neighbourhood that is well worth a visit.
Get Cultured
Newtown is another rejuvenated and vibrant area – known for being Joburg’s arts and culture precinct. In the heart of this area you’ll find the Mary Fitzgerald Square where concerts and festivals take place. Overlooking the square is Museum Africa – the only museum which tells the story of life in Southern Africa from the Stone Age to nuclear age and beyond. Apart from its historical displays, the museum also houses the South African Rock Art Museum, the Bensusan Museum of Photography and the Geological Museum. Next to this you’ll also find the famous Market Theatre.
Something for the kids: the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre. The centre is much like a magicians cave filled with 384 exciting and interactive science and technology exhibits that will keep them fascinated for hours. R10 per child | R20 for adults.
If you’re a beer lover, take a tour of the SAB World of Beer, where you can learn the art of brewing beer and sample the “wares”. Adults: R65 | Pensioners: R55 | Students (with a valid student card): R55 | Children (up to 17): R15.
Keep Sight
The best way to see Jozi without having to change a gear. Let the wind blow through your hair while you relax and soak up the best attractions in Jozi. From the Gandhi Square, Santarama Miniland, the Origins Centre at Wits to Constitution Hill, you’ll have a peak at everything.
The bus operates on a “hop-on, hop-off basis” which means that you can get off the bus at any of the stops and get back on to a later bus. Buses run every 40 minutes during the week and every 30 minutes over weekends and during the December school holiday. Children get a free fun activity pack on board the bus.
Commentary is available in English, Afrikaans, Zulu, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and includes a special Kids Channel. There is also free Wi-Fi on board all the buses for those that like to stay connected. For more info visit the site.
