Top Reasons to Go

Top Reasons to Go

Cradle of Humankind. Visit the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng visitor centers at this World Heritage Site, about an hour from Johannesburg, to view the ancient history of humanity, fossils, and paleontology.

History In Your Lifetime. Do a tour of the Constitutional Court, South Africa's highest court, built on the site of an infamous Johannesburg prison. Famous inmates have included Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. The award-winning architecture includes elements of the past such as bricks from the old jail and art marking South Africa's transition to democracy. Also check out the Apartheid Museum for a harrowing look at South Africa's apartheid history and road to democracy.

Mall Fancy. Enjoy a few hours in Sandton City, a glitzy mall where you can buy everything from gold jewelry to camping gear. Eat outside at one of the upmarket restaurants in the adjacent Nelson Mandela Square, ironically presided over by a giant statue of the champion of the poor and oppressed.