by Claudia Smargiasso, 7 January 2010

Most often, visitors to South Africa whoosh through Johannesburg, merely stopping long enough to board a connecting flight. But for the traveller who chooses to linger a little longer, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do in and around the 'City of Gold'.

'H' is for History

Explore the tumultuous history of South Africa with a visit to the very moving and powerful Apartheid Museum. Admittedly, it's rather hard-hitting, but a reminder of how far we have come as a nation, and pretty inspiring all the same.

A tour of Constitution Hill is informative and interactive. Originally the site of the Old Fort Prison Complex where many a prisoner, including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Ghandi, suffered injustice and indignity, the hill now also holds the new Constitutional Court overlooking the sad remains of this dreadful prison which now serves as a monument to the fighting spirit of a nation. You even have the opportunity to be a member of the public gallery and see the law in action.

A guided Soweto day-tour is also highly recommended. The tours are incredibly informative and take you to some of the more influential sites, including Kliptown - the place where the Freedom Charter was drawn up, and the Mandela Museum, among others. You'll also get a taste of local cultures when you visit the many merchants as well as a popular shebeen (tavern).

What a Thrill

Deep in the city centre of Johannesburg you'll find the Carlton Centre. For a small fee you can ride the elevator all the way to the viewing platform at the very top. The view from here, 50 floors above the bustling streets below, is quite something.

Gold Reef City is always a popular destination. Not only can you enjoy a bit of the city's gold mining history, but you can visit the theme park and get your heart racing on some hair-raising rides. You can even slip into a hard-hat complete with head light and take a trip down an old mineshaft, and while the kids hit the games arcade, the adults can try their luck in the casino.

If you get your thrills by swiping your credit card, best you head to Sandton City where world-class shopping, great eateries on the Square and excellent entertainment await you. It's a hive of activity and trendy shopping and when you're all shopped out, relax with a refreshing drink at one of the popular outdoor cafes and restaurants on Nelson Mandela Square which is dominated by a massive bronze sculpture of Madiba himself.

Originally known as the Orlando Power Station in Soweto, these 2 cooling towers have been decorated with colourful murals which makes them really stand out. They don't only serve as eye-candy though - you can ride the elevator or climb to the top on the floating stairs along the outside of the tower and enjoy the astounding view. Coming down, however, involves a bit of decision making. Do you climb down the way you climbed up, or do you step into a harness and bungee? Perhaps you'd prefer to take a power swing between the towers? There isn't a more exhilarating way to see Soweto!

It's all About Culture

A little way outside Johannesburg, you can visit the Lesedi Cultural Village. Discover the way of life of 5 of South Africa's cultural groupings - Pedi, Xhosa, Zulu, Basotho and Ndebele - when you take a look at the different homesteads that have been set up. You'll also get to sample traditional dishes at the restaurants.

The Newtown Cultural District is a node of arty venues, theatres, galleries and museums. It's been recently spruced up and is now taking its place as one of the trendiest places to see and be seen. From Museum Africa to the Oriental Plaza, Newtown is a colourful blend of cosmopolitan chic and eclectic cool.

Back to Nature

Visit over 2000 animals at the Johannesburg Zoo. This sprawling 54-hectares of land is situated surprisingly close to the city centre - it's hard to believe this as you amble along the leafy pathways. Stop at the beautiful war memorial too or cross the road to Zoo Lake where you can hire a rowing boat , or simply laze beneath the trees and listen to the birds.

Another great animal attraction is the Lion Park situated a short drive outside the city. The park is home to over 80 lions, including the rare white lion, cheetah, wild dog, hyena and jackal, as well as a variety of antelope. There's also a giraffe feeding platform and fluffy cubs for you to touch.

The Melville Koppies Nature Reserve is situated about 15min from the CBD - picture rolling hills and indigenous flora. It's also a National Heritage Site with evidence of inhabitants dating back 250 000 years. Strap on your walking shoes and head out for a long, leisurely walk.

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