Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a city literally built on gold. Established in 1886 when gold was struck, the city has been rebuilt four times in the past century.

Today, Johannesburg is a lively, affluent and cosmopolitan city, offering the visitor a tempting array of superb restaurants, elegant designer boutiques and bustling world-class shopping centres. Johannesburg also encompasses golf courses, botanical gardens and well-manicured parks dotted amongst its modern amenities.

With easy connections to the Blue Train and Rovos Rail, the city is the gateway to the whole of southern Africa.

Events calendar

Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival

Aug 2008 (annual), Johannesburg

The biggest annual jazz festival in Johannesburg, the Joy of Jazz Festival presents local and international stars at venues all over town, including Bassline and The Laboratory. more »

Arts Alive Festival

Sep 2008 (annual), Johannesburg

The month-long international Arts Alive Festival in Johannesburg marks the beginning of spring in the city with music, dance, theatre and more. Much of the programme is based in the inner-city Newtown Cultural Precinct. more »

Equestria

Nov - Dec 2008 (annual), Coca-Cola Dome

First held in 2005, Equestria is an equine extravaganza at the spectacular Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg. It features live shows, exhibitions and a huge market for anyone interested in horses. more »

See more events »

	The Westcliff Hotel
	A Tuscan-style luxury hillside retreat with magnificent views across Johannesburg. Most rooms have private balconies. more »

	La Belle Terrace Restaurant
	Now the destination restaurant for Johannesburg's executive and social set. The alfresco 'terrace' offers a superb dining experience. more »

	Jacaranda Hill Conf Centre
	This fully-equipped business facility offers highly trained personnel and innovative IT Butlers dedicated to fulfilling every need. more »

	Weddings
	With the addition of the magnificent Jacaranda Hill, The Westcliff has become one of the most desirable special event venues in Johannesburg. more »

	History & Heritage
	From the outset, The Westcliff has paid tribute to those who helped shape the character of the distinctive suburb from which it takes its name. more »

Language: Afrikaans, English

Currency: Rand

Climate: A very pleasant, Californian-style climate with clear skies, warm temperatures and light rainfall. Early summer (September–October) and autumn (March–April) offer the best weather for a visit.

Culture: Johannesburg is one of the youngest major cities in the world and a mélange of African cultures. As South Africa's largest city and economic hub it is home to 3,2 million people, including the residents of Soweto.

Places to visit: the Kruger National Park, the Gold Reef City, Soweto, Sterkfontein Caves, the Apartheid Museum.

	The Best of Botswana with Orient-Express Safaris

	Librisa Spa in the heart of Cape Town

	Three for Two Offer at The Westcliff, Johannesburg