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’ll be honest, when we first landed in Johannesburg, we weren’t totally sure what to expect. The city has a reputation for being a little chaotic and overwhelming, but once we started exploring, we realised how fascinating and full of life Jo’burg really is. It’s a place with layers—powerful history, creative neighbourhoods, and a food scene that honestly blew us away.
This 3-day itinerary brings together all of our favorite experiences, including guided tours that make navigating the city feel easy and safe. From Soweto and Maboneng to a safari in Pilanesberg, it’s the perfect way to get to know the real Jo’burg!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day safari to Pilanesberg National Park. A Big Five reserve near Johannesburg, it delivered amazing wildlife, striking volcanic scenery, and an open-air game drive we’re still talking about.
Itinerary Overview
Johannesburg is a big, spread-out city, and part of enjoying your time here is knowing the easiest way to get around. For most visitors, rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are the simplest and safest options—they’re affordable, widely used by locals, and a stress-free way to travel between neighborhoods like Rosebank, Sandton, Maboneng, and Melrose Arch. Public buses do run regularly, but the routes can be tricky to figure out, so ride-hailing tends to make things a lot easier. Just make sure you give yourself a bit of extra time when using them, as traffic can really slow things down!
Johannesburg also has a reputation for being a bit intimidating to explore on your own, which is why we love taking guided tours here. They take the guesswork out of logistics, let you experience the city with a knowledgeable local, and allow you to explore areas you might not feel comfortable visiting alone.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here’s what to expect from this 3-day itinerary:
Day 1: Dive into South Africa’s history with a full-day tour that covers many of the city’s historical highlights, including the Apartheid Museum and a guided visit to Soweto, then unwind with dinner and an easy stroll around Keyes Art Mile.
Day 2: Explore the city centre on a guided walking tour, stop for lunch and browse the creative Maboneng area, and end the day tasting dishes from across the continent on a food tour.
Day 3: Spend your final day on an unforgettable Pilanesberg safari, then toast your trip with dinner at Truffles On The Park and sunset drinks at Alto234 (the highest bar in Africa!).
Day 1
Morning/Afternoon – Explore Johannesburg’s past and Soweto’s living history
To really understand Johannesburg, you need to start with its history—and there’s no better introduction than this full-day Soweto and Johannesburg tour. It begins at 9:30 am and runs for 8–9 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, so it’s a seamless way to dive straight into the city without worrying about logistics.
We actually did this exact tour on our first trip to Jo’burg, and it completely shaped how we understood the city. Johannesburg can feel big and complicated at first, but after spending the day with our knowledgeable guide, we walked away with a clearer picture of South Africa’s past and the vibrant, resilient communities that define it today.
You’ll visit places like Constitution Hill, the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Vilakazi Street, and Mandela House, but the moment that hit me hardest was the Apartheid Museum. Walking through the photographs, videos, and personal accounts was very emotional. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave.
Soweto was a highlight, too. It’s full of life, with music floating from doorways, kids playing in the street, and locals chatting on corners. Seeing it with a local guide really helped us to understand the community and stories behind it.
By the time you’re dropped back at your hotel in the evening, around 5:30 to 6:30 pm, you’ll feel like you’ve learned, felt, and experienced a lot—and you’ll be ready to see the rest of Johannesburg through a much deeper lens!
Reserve this award-winning tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Your choice!
After such a big day of exploring Johannesburg’s history, you’ll probably want a relaxed, comforting dinner—ideally somewhere close to your hotel. Luckily, Jo’burg has some fantastic restaurants, and you really can’t go wrong with a hearty South African meal to end the day.
If you’re staying near the downtown/Parktown area, Mikes Heritage House is a lovely pick. This charming historic restaurant feels a bit like stepping into an old Johannesburg manor, with cosy rooms, mismatched vintage décor, and a warm, homey atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind over classic South African dishes and a glass of wine.
Or, if you’re based in Rosebank (or don’t mind a short Uber ride), The Grillhouse Rosebank is a longtime favorite. It’s a classic Jo’burg steakhouse with excellent cuts of meat, polished service, and that relaxed but buzzy vibe that makes dinner feel like a treat. It’s exactly what you need after a full day of sightseeing!
Evening – Enjoy an evening stroll around Keyes Art Mile
If you’re staying in Rosebank or had dinner at the Grillhouse, then winding down with a gentle stroll along Keyes Art Mile is a lovely way to end your first day in Johannesburg. This stylish, pedestrian-friendly stretch is known for its galleries, boutique shops, and modern cafés, and it has a relaxed early-evening buzz that feels safe and easygoing.
The area is well lit and inviting, with people out for dinner, grabbing a drink, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. You can pop into one of the galleries, wander past the street art, or just enjoy the warm, creative vibe that Keyes Art Mile is known for. Most places stay open until around 11 pm, so there’s no rush. Just take your time, wander, and enjoy!
Day 2
Breakfast – Sadie’s Bistro
Kick off Day 2 with breakfast at Sadie’s Bistro, a calm and stylish neighbourhood spot that’s perfect for easing into your morning. It’s only open on weekdays, but if your visit lines up, it’s easily the best option near the next tour’s meeting point (only a 6-minute walk away). Otherwise, choices in the area are pretty limited (unless you’re happy with a quick McDonald’s run!).
Sadie’s has a relaxed local feel, big bright windows, and a comforting breakfast menu that won’t weigh you down before a busy day. It’s the kind of place where you can sip your coffee slowly, enjoy the morning light, and gather your energy for another full day of exploring Johannesburg.
They open early at 6:30 am, and we recommend arriving just before 8 am. That gives you plenty of time to enjoy breakfast without rushing, since your tour begins at 9 am. It’s the perfect low-stress way to start your second day in Jo’burg!
Morning – Step into Joburg’s history with a guided city center walk
Start your second day with this 3-hour guided walking tour of downtown Johannesburg. You may have passed through this area on yesterday’s tour, but today’s experience really focuses on it, giving you a much deeper understanding of the city’s vibrant centre.
We loved how this walk immersed us in Johannesburg’s history while still feeling completely safe and comfortable. Exploring the city centre independently can sometimes feel a little daunting, so having a knowledgeable local guide removes that stress and lets you focus entirely on the experience.
For this itinerary, we recommend booking the 9 am departure, which starts at Gandhi Square. This is where we met our guide, Clement, who led us down Main Street while explaining the historic architecture and sharing stories of Johannesburg’s early mining days.
One standout stop was Chancellor House, where Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo founded South Africa’s first Black-owned law firm in 1952. I also really enjoyed the Top of Africa observation deck, where we took in breathtaking views over Jo’burg.
If you’ve ever felt hesitant about exploring Johannesburg’s city centre alone, this guided walk offers a safe, rich, and genuinely fun way to discover the heart of the city! Just keep in mind this tour isn’t always available on Sundays, so make sure you plan ahead so you don’t miss out.
This tour books up early—secure your spot here so you don’t miss out!
Lunch – Bertrand Café
After your 3-hour walk through the CBD, head to Bertrand Café in Maboneng for a relaxed and atmospheric lunch. This is one of the most charming little cafés in the area, with French-inspired décor, cosy corners, and the kind of warm service that immediately makes you feel at home.
You’ll find toasted sandwiches, salads, shakshuka, and a tempting selection of pastries if you’re in the mood for something sweet. It’s exactly the kind of place where you can take a breather, refuel, and enjoy the creative energy that Maboneng is known for.
Plus, getting there from the end point of the morning tour is easy. You can take a quick 13-minute taxi ride, or, if you prefer public transport, hop on bus 32. It’s about a 25-minute journey, boarding at Doornfontein and getting off in Braamfontein.
Afternoon – Discover Maboneng’s art, cafés, and colorful streets
Since you’re already in Maboneng, we recommend taking some time after lunch to explore this colorful and creative neighborhood. It’s safe to explore during the day and offers plenty to fill 1.5–2 hours of your afternoon.
Here are a few ideas for how to make the most of your time in this creative little pocket of Joburg:
- Arts on Main– This vibrant complex is home to art galleries, pop-up studios, and independent shops showcasing everything from local fashion to handmade crafts. Plus, it’s only a 1 to 9-minute walk from Bertrand Café (depending on your route).
- Home of the Bean – If you’re craving a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, stop by this local favorite for a specialty coffee or iced drink.
- Shop for handmade crafts and fashion – Browse boutique-style shops for African textiles, jewellery, leather goods, ceramics, and home décor. It’s a great place to find meaningful, locally made souvenirs.
- Photography – Maboneng is full of vibrant murals and street art. Take a relaxed wander and see what you can discover — Fox Street is especially good for colorful photo ops!
Dinner/Evening – Taste your way through Johannesburg
This evening, dive into Johannesburg’s incredible food scene with this Taste of Africa food tour. We recommend booking the 5 pm departure, which lasts around 3 hours, so you’ll finish up at about 8 pm—the perfect amount of time to enjoy a leisurely dinner while learning about the city’s diverse culinary roots.
The tour meets in Maboneng, which is super convenient since you’re already in the area from your afternoon exploring. But if you’d prefer to freshen up first, no problem, the tour also includes hotel pickup, so you can head back to your accommodation and get collected from there.
This experience is all about tasting your way through Jo’burg’s multicultural identity. You’ll walk through one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods, stopping at local eateries to try dishes inspired by countries across the African continent. Think Congolese flavours, Ethiopian injera, Nigerian specialities, and more. The food was absolutely delicious, and there’s no way we would have found all these restaurants on our own!
Along the way, your guide shares stories about the communities behind the cuisine, giving the experience a deeper cultural insight that goes far beyond a standard restaurant meal. By the end of the night, you’ll have tried a whole range of new dishes (and even some African beer!) and gained a richer understanding of Johannesburg’s diverse food culture.
Book this food tour here and taste your way through Johannesburg!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
Morning/Afternoon – Go on a safari in Pilanesberg National Park
A safari is one of the most iconic South African experiences, so we had to dedicate your final day in Johannesburg to this incredible full-day tour of Pilanesberg National Park. It’s an early start—pickup is at 6 am, and the tour lasts around 10 hours, finishing up at about 4 pm, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it.
Pilanesberg is one of the best places near Johannesburg to spot wildlife, and what makes it especially enticing is that it’s a Big Five reserve. That means you’ll have the chance (if luck is on your side!) to see elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, along with loads of other animals like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The landscapes here are stunning, too, with rolling hills, ancient volcanic formations, and wide-open savannas that feel worlds away from the city.
Our guide was super knowledgeable and shared tons of interesting facts about animal behaviour while we explored the park in a thrilling open-air vehicle. We were lucky enough to spot four out of the Big Five—plus we even witnessed a lion hunt unfold right in front of us!
Lunch was another unexpected treat. It’s perfectly timed for a break from the midday heat, and we enjoyed our meal while watching giraffes and zebras drink from a nearby waterhole.
Trust me, this will be a memory you’ll never forget (there’s a reason it has so many 5-star reviews!). It’s the perfect grand finale to an epic three days in Johannesburg!
Book this unforgettable Pilanesberg National Park Safari here!
Dinner – Truffles On The Park
For your final dinner in Johannesburg, Truffles On The Park is a great pick—elegant but not overly formal, and the perfect place to unwind after a long safari day. It’s a popular spot, so making a reservation here is a smart idea.
The setting is surprisingly peaceful, with views over the greenery of Mushroom Park, and the warm, modern interiors make it feel instantly welcoming. The food is fantastic too, with a mix of comforting favourites and more refined dishes, so you can keep things simple or treat yourself a little.
Plus, it’s super convenient for your evening plans—just a 10-minute walk or quick 3-minute taxi to Alto234 for post-dinner drinks with a view.
Evening – Toast to your trip at Alto234
To wrap up your final night in Johannesburg, head up to the highest bar in all of Africa, Alto234 (closed Mondays). If you’re after a true “wow” moment to end your trip, this is the place to get it!
The vibe here is chic but still wonderfully relaxed. There’s comfortable seating, soft lighting, and a classy-but-approachable atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in with a drink and incredible views. You’ll have sweeping panoramas of Johannesburg in every direction, which makes it the ideal spot for a sunset cocktail after dinner.
It’s the perfect place to make a final toast to three amazing days in Jo’burg!
Related Read: Want even more inspiration? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Johannesburg here for top attractions, local experiences, and must-see highlights to add to your trip.
Where to Stay in Johannesburg, South Africa
Now that you have the perfect three days in Johannesburg planned, it’s time to find a great place to stay! Choosing the right accommodation is key in a city like Joburg, where staying in a safe and convenient area can make all the difference.
Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of great places to choose from. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up the best accommodations for every budget below:
Luxury – $$$
If you’re after a touch of luxury, The Houghton Hotel has you covered. This 5-star resort is an oasis right in the middle of the city. It combines sleek, modern design with plenty of perks, like an outdoor and indoor pool, a relaxing spa, 3 onsite restaurants, and a fitness center. Plus, golf fans will love having the Houghton Golf Club right on-site. It’s the ideal mix of comfort and style in Johannesburg!
Prices range from around $170 USD to a few thousand dollars per night, depending on the room category you select (did somebody say Rockstar Penthouse?!). Check all the options and book this hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a reliable mid-range stay, the @Sandton Hotel ticks all the boxes. Located right next to Nelson Mandela Square, this hotel puts you within easy reach of Sandton’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool and a hearty breakfast to start the day. With its great location and solid amenities, Garden Court Sandton City is an excellent choice for travelers looking for convenience and value!
Prices start around $98 USD, and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-conscious travelers, The Catalyst Apartment Hotel is a fantastic option. The hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, and some units even come with full kitchens! Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and fitness center during their stay, and its prime location near Sandton’s shops, restaurants, and attractions makes it both affordable and convenient!
Rooms start at around $66 USD per night, which is a spectacular value for such a nice hotel in a great location. Visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Johannesburg’s hotels listed here!
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powerful stories to Maboneng’s art-filled streets and a Big Five safari in Pilanesberg. This itinerary blends the city’s must-see highlights with guided experiences that make exploring feel easy and exciting.
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