Exploring SA: Four unusual things to do in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is a city full of unusual activities that allow you to experience its’ many layers. Here are four unusual things to do…
While the usual Johannesburg tourist spots like the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, and the sprawling malls are always worth visiting, there’s a lesser-known side to the city just waiting to be explored. Here are four cool and unusual things to do in Johannesburg…
1. Cycle through Soweto on a bicycle tour
Soweto is known for its historical significance, but experiencing it by bike offers a more immersive and personal experience. Join a bicycle tour that takes you through the township’s vibrant streets, stopping at historical sites like Vilakazi Street, where Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu once lived. You’ll also get to interact with locals, visit markets, and get a closer look at everyday life in Soweto.
2. Visit the Satyagraha House
Did you know that Mahatma Gandhi lived in Johannesburg? The Satyagraha House, where Gandhi resided during his time in South Africa, has been converted into a museum and guesthouse. It documents his early experiments with non-violence and the beginnings of his lifelong work in civil rights. The house has been restored to reflect the simplicity of Gandhi’s life and offers visitors a quiet, reflective space.
3. Go bungee jumping from Orlando Towers
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Orlando Towers in Soweto offer one of the most thrilling experiences in Johannesburg. The towers, once part of a decommissioned power station, now serve as a hub for extreme sports like bungee jumping, abseiling, and ziplining. Towering over Soweto with their colourful murals, the towers provide a dramatic backdrop for this heart-racing activity.
Not only does this activity give you a rush of adrenaline, but the location itself, with its bold urban art and industrial setting, makes for an unforgettable experience. The view of Soweto from the top of the towers is an added bonus!
4. Picnic at the Cradle of Humankind
Most people visit the Cradle of Humankind for its rich archaeological significance, as it’s one of the world’s most important fossil sites. But few take advantage of its peaceful outdoor spaces. Instead of sticking to the museum exhibits, bring a picnic and enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills where humanity’s ancestors once roamed.