Johannesburg, or Jozi, as the locals call it, was the perfect start to our unforgettable South Africa adventure for my husband’s 40th birthday. From exploring the history of Soweto to indulging in amazing food and taking in the stunning cityscape, every moment was worth it.
If you’re planning a trip to Johannesburg with a group or for a milestone celebration, this guide will break down our itinerary, must-know tips, and things I wish we had more time for!
So, let’s get into it!
Here’s how we spent our amazing time in Joburg before heading to Cape Town!
Best Time to Visit Johannesburg
Johannesburg has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May). March was perfect for our trip: warm days, cool evenings, and no extreme weather. If you visit in winter (June-August), expect chilly mornings and evenings, but still plenty of sunshine.
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Day 1: Welcome to Jozi!
Arrival & Check-in at The Westcliff
We landed at O.R. Tambo International Airport and were greeted by our guide, who helped us navigate the city. Checking into the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff was a dream. The panoramic views of Johannesburg? Stunning! The breakfast/brunch at the hotel is a must, even if you don’t stay there.
Posted highlights of our stay here on Instagram, make sure to follow !
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Golfing At Glendower Golf Club
After a long flight, I took hubby to Glendower to squeeze in some rounds of golf before settling into our hotel. We played about 9 rounds before getting rained out. Afterwards, hubby took it easy and dined at a local restaurant (because let’s be honest, airplane food is never it!). While I ordered room service and got my hair braided in our suite! I tell you, being able to afford all types of services on the content of Africa is why I always can’t wait to visit home. In case you’re new here, I’m first generation Nigerian American and my love for the continent of Africa runs DEEP.
Day 2: Exploring Soweto & Apartheid History
Morning: Soweto Tour
We were up bright and early for this tour.
Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnship) is a must-see for its deep (and dark) history and along with it’s vibrant culture. We visited:
✅ Vilakazi Street – The only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners (Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu) lived.
✅ Hector Pieterson Memorial – A powerful tribute to the 1976 student uprisings.
✅ Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital – One of the largest hospitals in the world!
💡 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable men’s training shoes or kids running shoes if you’re bringing little ones. there’s a lot of walking!
Afternoon: Apartheid Museum
This museum isn’t just a tourist stop…it’s an emotional experience. The storytelling, visuals, and historical exhibits really give you insight into South Africa’s past. Set aside at least two hours to take it all in. This museum helped answer many questions I had as foreigner. Along with not making it easy to white wash the history (although our 1st tour guide did try).
Day 3: Safari at Pilanesberg National Park
Checking into Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge
We left Johannesburg for Pilanesberg National Park, just 2.5 hours away. Upon arrival, we had lunch at the lodge before gearing up for our first 4×4 game (or safari) drive that evening.
Afternoon: Game Drive
Seeing giraffes, elephants, and rhinos up close in their natural habitat? Unreal. The golden hour lighting made for perfect photos; so make sure your phone or camera is fully charged!
Day 4: Morning Safari & Flight to Cape Town
Sunrise Safari
Early morning game drives are next-level. We bundled up in our safari fits but you could also wear women’s workout clothes (because layering is key!) and enjoyed coffee and rusks before heading out.* The crisp air, the sound of nature, and the first light hitting the landscape—pure magic.
After breakfast, we headed to Johannesburg airport to catch our flight to Cape Town! And when I say our Cape Town stay was breathtaking? Whew! There is no gatekeeping so here is the Airbnb link.
Psst! Find all the best Cape Town
hotels on Booking.com.
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Dinner at GOLD Restaurant – A Must-Visit Experience!
After a long but incredible day of exploring Cape Town, we wrapped up Day 4 with an unforgettable dining experience at GOLD Restaurant—and let me tell you, this place is a must! From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the vibrant energy of African culture. The night started with a Djembe drumming session, where we learned traditional rhythms (and got a mini arm workout!).
Then came the 14-course African feast, featuring flavors from across the continent, each dish more delicious than the last. But the highlight? The live entertainment—think energetic dancers, mesmerizing Mali puppets, and powerful singers who brought the room to life. It was more than just dinner—it was a celebration of African heritage, music, and food, all in one. If you’re in Cape Town, do not miss this experience!
Day 5: Robben Island & Table Mountain
Morning: Robben Island Tour
A must-visit in Cape Town! The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes, and our guide (a former prisoner) gave us real-life insight into Nelson Mandela’s years of imprisonment.
Afternoon: Table Mountain Experience
We took the Table Mountain cable car to the top—luckily, the weather was perfect! If it’s too windy, the cable car may close, so plan to be flexible.
Psst! Find all the best Cape Town
half & full day tours on Viator.
Recent customer reviews and
flexible free cancellation.
Day 6: Atlantis Dunes Adventure
Morning: Sand Duning Like Pros
If you love adventure, sand duning in Atlantis Dunes is a must. The white rolling hills feel like something out of a desert dream. Bring a coat because it was a little chilly at times.
What to wear: Breathable clothes, sunglasses and sneakers. sand gets everywhere! I literally emptied more sand out of my shoe weeks later
Day 7: Cape Peninsula Tour & Sunset Cruise
Exploring Cape Point & Boulders Beach
Our full-day tour included:
✅ A boat ride to Seal Island
✅ Boulders Beach – Where African penguins chill all day
✅ Cape of Good Hope – The southwestern tip of Africa
Evening: Sunset Cruise
Our last night in Cape Town ended on a champagne sunset cruise along the Atlantic. With Table Mountain as the backdrop, it was the perfect way to wrap up the trip.
Day 8: Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch & Franschhoek
Before heading to the airport, we explored South Africa’s wine country. If you love wine, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek will be your happy place.
Pairings included:
Red wines with chocolate
White wines with seafood
Sparkling wines with fruit
Tip: The earlier you start, the more wineries you can visit!
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Final Thoughts: Would We Go Back?
1000% YES. Johannesburg and Cape Town were everything and more. We have to make it a family trip next time with the kids and maybe even the grand parents. Next time, we’d stay longer in Pilanesberg for extra safari time and Joburg to explore more of Johannesburg’s local food scene.
If you’re planning a group trip, anniversary, or milestone birthday celebration, South Africa is worth every penny.
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