Bright lights, big city; Johannesburg is fast emerging as the hipster capital of the South; and for honeymooners looking for adventure, culture and great food, it’s a must-do.
In order to immerse yourself into a city, you first have to get a sense of its history and for Johannesburg, it’s an epic story of the fight for human rights, led by a man who is as famous as any Hollywood celebrity (and for better reason), Nelson Mandela.
Start the trip with a visit to Nelson Mandela Square and make sure you get a local driver. These drivers can you give a brief history lesson while carting you around the CBD, saving you money on hiring your own guide!
Before you stop by any of the experiences that Jo-burg has to offer, drop you luggage at your luxury hotel (because every girl needs somewhere cosy to come home to). The Four Seasons Johannesburg is a maze of 5-star suites among hidden gardens and passageways. If you can, make time to visit the spa, head to the gym and work on your tan by the pool.
First on the list is The Neighbourgoods Market, an organic-loving, designer-bag toting, hipsters dream. Packed to the brim with cupcakes, mason jars, gluten-free sourdough, cured meats and smoothies, you’ll find all the city’s socialites and Instagrammers snapping away.
Next, it’s a trip to The Lion Park to get up close and personal with the country’s most famous native animal. After cruising through the lion’s pens, a visit to the baby lion nursery will give you the opportunity to cuddle these furry beasts.
The adrenaline junkies will be sated by Orlando Towers, a 100-m tall power plant that has been turned into a hub for the thrill seekers with bungee jumping, giant swings, free falls and abseiling. Make sure you pack your big girl panties and consider sculling a champers before embarking on this one.
Johannesburg is just a stone’s throw from the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site which is home to 40% of all human ancestor fossils. Pack a picnic and go on a half-day hike, or dine at one of the cultural restaurants and experience traditional tribal dancing, costume and cuisine.
To finish the trip, take a detour and head to Johannesburg’s best loved casino Gold Reef City for some poke (al la Ocean’s Eleven) and a dining experience at the lavish Back O’ The Moon – don’t forget your heels and LBD for this one, ladies!
To book your own honeymoon to Johannesburg, visit and Joburg Tourism’s website, while you’re at it, check out #MeetSouthAfrica on Instagram!
Main image from judithbelle.com
