Gauteng :: overview

Gauteng- Discover South Africa’s wealthiest province

 

Gauteng, meaning “place of gold” when translated from Sotho, was created just after South Africa’s first democratic election in 1994. While Gauteng is officially the smallest province in South Africa, it is an exciting holiday destination for both international travellers and local visitors.

 

Including two of the country’s most prominent cities, Johannesburg and Pretoria, within its borders, Gauteng offers a wide selection of sights and activities that can complement any African holiday. Many of the province’s primary attractions can be found in its urban centres, which are home to an eclectic mix of cultures.

 

Although Gauteng is known for its urban environments, it also offers a host of nature and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors may be able to get a glimpse of mammals such as lion, elephant and rhinoceros.

 

Gauteng is considered by many to be an ideal gateway to Southern Africa. Many tourists begin or end their journeys here because the province offers convenient access to South Africa and its neighbouring countries Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

 

Namibia Travel Connection specialises in tailor-made holidays to all of South Africa’s nine provinces, including Gauteng. Contact us  now to plan an African holiday that incorporates a visit to Gauteng and its exciting locations.

 

Johannesburg: experience vibrant African city life

 

As South Africa’s most densely populated city, Johannesburg offers a vivacious and cosmopolitan atmosphere. In this Gauteng city, many of South Africa’s numerous cultures converge into a melting pot of cuisine, historical buildings and entertainment options.

 

While Johannesburg is a bustling urban destination, its northern suburbs are popular tourist destinations as many of the streets are lined with top-class restaurants and cafés. Towards the city centre one will find several upmarket shopping centres that cater to both locals and international visitors seeking souvenirs and mementos, as well as groceries, clothing and luxury items.

 

Johannesburg nightlife is something to behold and the city truly seems to come alive with businesspeople socialising after a hard day at work.

 

Surrounding Johannesburg are several interesting sites, including the cave in which the remains of Australopithecus africanus (thought to be a distant ancestor of humans) were found.

 

Pretoria: South Africa’s jacaranda city

 

While Pretoria is South Africa’s administrative capital, it is better known amongst tourists for its jacaranda-lined streets. In October, the jacaranda trees are in full bloom and a simple walk down the street is an almost incomparable experience.

 

Those visiting both Pretoria and Johannesburg will likely notice the stark difference between these two cities: Pretoria’s atmosphere is characterised by a slow pace of life and a peaceful ambience.

 

Likely of particular interest to history and architecture aficionados are Pretoria’s many old buildings and museums displaying interesting artefacts. The Transvaal natural history museum contains the remains or Mrs Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at the Cradle of Humankind, which is also located in Gauteng.

 

Situated in a sheltered valley with a backdrop of the Magaliesburg Mountains, Pretoria’s lazy atmosphere is accented by remarkably good weather and spectacular views.

 

Add Gauteng to your South African holiday itinerary

 

South Africa is a diverse country with many interesting locations, a number of which are located in Gauteng. Namibia Travel Connection offers a variety of tour options to South Africa, including self drive, fly in and guided tours. Contact us to speak to one of our experienced travel consultants for more information on incorporating Gauteng into your itinerary.