Dive into South Africa’s history in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a dynamic city whose somewhat tumultuous past was marked by apartheid. Visiting South Africa's economic capital is an opportunity to better your understanding of the country's history and current state.

Notable sites around the city bear witness to this past, like the former Constitution Hill prison, which has been transformed into the famous Apartheid Museum. Visiting this museum can be a poignant experience: it conveys the history of racial segregation and a range of emotional and personal accounts remarkably well. Make sure also to stop by the Satyagraha House, the former home of Mohandas Gandhi. It's open to visitors, and you can even spend the night.

During your time in Johannesburg, you'll want to carve out at least half a day to explore the township of Soweto. Located in the Johannesburg metro area, it was the site of critical protests during apartheid. Today, the community is much quieter. You can visit it on foot or by bicycle, accompanied by a local guide that your Evaneos agent can hire for you. Together, you can discover its history with a visit to Nelson Mandela's former home and a stop at the Hector Pieterson Museum.

Back in Johannesburg, explore trendy and cultural hot spots like the neighborhood of Maboneng. Explore this neighborhood on your own or with a local guide, and dive deep into South African culture through its many art galleries, fashion stores, and the Market on Main, which happens every Sunday.