Gauteng

Gauteng may be South Africa’s smallest province but it’s the country’s economic powerhouse. Gauteng boasts a wealth of experience including cultural and struggle routes, fantastic entertainment options and a host of ecotourism opportunities. Gauteng is also home to South Africa’s largest airport, OR Tambo International. As you are likely to either fly to or from there, why not stay in the area for a few days to explore.

Urban Vibes

A highlight on any trip to Gauteng is the ‘Urban Buzz’ of Johannesburg. One must get out and about to truly experience this cosmopolitan city.

There are plenty of malls, sophisticated eateries, ‘chi chi’ hotels, arts & crafts markets, trendy boutiques and live music venues on offer.

Soweto Township Tour

Struggle tourism plays an important role for local and international visitors to the province and Soweto is one of the highlights of any trip to Johannesburg. Soweto was formally name in 1960 – the name stands for South Western Townships. Visit the Hector Peterson Memorial, the Mandela House in Vilakazi Street and the Regina Mundi church. Don’t forget to stop and enjoy local hospitality at the many restaurants or shebeens, alternatively stay over at a Soweto Bed & Breakfast.

The Cradle of Humankind

Heading out of town, consider a tour to the Cradle of Humankind at Sterkfontein, Gauteng’s famous World Heritage Site. The limestone caves in this vicinity have produced nearly half of the world’s hominid fossil discoveries. In 1947, an almost complete skull of an adult female was found. It is thought to date back between 2.6 and 2.8 million years and has been given the nickname “Mrs Ples” which is much easier to remember than the name it was originally given, Plesianthropus transvaalensis.

Cullinan

Cullinan is a small mining town 30km east of Pretoria and in 1902 a rich diamond pipe was discovered here. Just 3 years later, the Cullinan Diamond was found here by Fredrick Wells. The Cullinan Diamond remains the largest rough cut gem-quality diamond ever found at an impressive 3,106.75 carats (weighing 621.35g). The largest polished gem from the stone is the Cullinan I or Great Star of Africa. At 530 carats, it is mounted in the head of the Sceptre with the Cross which is part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. It is valued at £200m and can be seen on display at the Tower of London.

Magaliesburg

The Magaliesburg area offers a wide range of accommodation in a gorgeous country setting. There are excellent restaurants and arts & crafts shopping options. The Crocodile River Ramble and the Magalies Meander are two well-known tourist routes here. The region is excellent for hiking and horse riding.

Vaal Meander

Just outside Johannesburg, you will find the Vaal Meander which is an art and craft route offering a wide range of activities including craft factories, outdoor adventure centres, country inns, picnic sites, art galleries, tea & coffee shops, sporting facilities and much more. The Vaal Meander was created by a group of people who wanted to offer the people of Johannesburg somewhere to get away from it all but it is also popular with international tourists.

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg captures the key political events that took place in South Africa in the 20th century, using dramatic techniques such as film and television footage. The museum is usually open 7 days a week and you should allow around 2.5 hours to go the whole way round. Before visiting, please confirm opening times and prices.

Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill is the new home of the Constitutional Court, the protector of the basic rights and freedoms of the South African people. Constitution Hill was formerly the site of the Old Fort Prison Complex, commonly none as Number Four. The original prison dates back to 1892 and former inmates include Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi

FIFA World Cup 2010

In 2010, the FIFA World Cup will come to South Africa for the first time and Gauteng province will boast 3 of the stadia; Loftus Versfled in Pretoria, Ellis Park and Soccer City in Johannesburg. South Africa will play in the opening match at Soccer City on Friday 11 June 2010 and the World Cup Final will take place in the same stadium on Sunday 11 July 2010.

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