Often called as the 'City of Gold' because of its lush gold-mining heritage, Johannesburg is an obvious city of considerable wealth and contrast. Though its origins date back to 120 years ago, it remains as one of the main cities of South African modern outlook. Johannesburg today is a financial capital of South Africa. It is a vast city in the country and a biggest in the whole of Africa, after Cairo and Lagos. In fact, this city is growing larger every year. It is soon expected to hit a mark where it will be one among the top ten cities in the world.

Currently Johannesburg being the world’s biggest inland city features a number of fortified conurbations. At the heart, the modern city center is teeming with immense skyscrapers, corporate buildings, and huge shopping complexes. There is much excitement, for the new high-rise projects taking place in the districts of Johannesburg Sandton and Midton, Remember, the Crime rates in the unsavory neighborhoods and black ghettos are quite high. So, sensible tourists will have to stick to safer tourist areas recommended by TIC. It is best to travel with a rented car to different places in the city.

Johannesburg Sandton is also a home to popular education center, Witwatersrand University where about 25,000 students study every year. Tourist information offices in Johannesburg are located at different parts of the city. One of the reputed sources includes Gauteng Tourism Authority.

When a tourist first arrives at Johannesburg, it is tough to find out a starting point of visit. A guided tour with a rented car becomes necessary for the tourists in the city. A trip to the Zoo in Johannesburg is also recommended, as here one can find the authentic reconstruction of the city after the gold rush in 19th century. For the very best views, climb up an Africa skyscraper and enjoy the meals at its roof top restaurant.

The city boasts on many sights to see. The Nelson Mandela Square and Gandhi Square are the main places of interest. Also take a look at the Constitution Hill, where the Constitutional Court of Johannesburg is located. The prison on the other side of this court held Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.

Tourists after spending some time at historic places at Johannesburg often tend to explore the surrounding areas of South Africa with their hired car, as they are extremely inviting. Notable destinations include Sun City, Magaliesburg, Pretoria and a casino resort at Rustenburg.