The Big Five of Gauteng
You’ve probably heard of Africa’s Big Five, but what about Gauteng’s Big Five? Tours to Gauteng offer a diverse mix of attractions and experiences, from wildlife to culture and even history. Just as the lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo, and leopard (also known as the Big Five) have come to represent Africa and its rich wildlife, the Big Five of Gauteng represent all that is amazing about the province of Gauteng.
5 things you can’t miss on your Gauteng vacation
You wouldn’t come to Africa without seeing the Big Five, right? You shouldn’t be allowed to miss out on the Big 5 of Gauteng vacations either. These are the places that best showcase the abundance of cultural, historical, scenic and simply amazing highlights of one of the most interesting provinces in South Africa. Even if it’s just to say you’ve been there and done it, the Gauteng Big Five are a must-see for any visitor to this province.
Without further fanfare, we present the Big Five of Gauteng!
1. Sandton
Dazzling, glamorous and blatantly flamboyant, Sandton is located in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg. This area is one of the most prestigious destinations in South Africa and is also the main business center of Johannesburg. Stroll through Nelson Mandela Square and gaze at Madiba himself (or at least a larger-than-life bronze statue of him), before hitting the shops of Sandton City for the most memorable shopping trip to date . Then enjoy a cocktail as you watch the suburb come to life as the city’s elite come to dine at 5-star establishments.
2. Soweto
Soweto is a popular stop at any Gauteng party, and for good reason. This sprawling municipality is the most developed municipality in the world and was the focal point of many struggles during the apartheid era. Explore the Hector Pieterson Museum for a moving tribute to wrestling, watch traditional dances as you sample locally brewed beer, visit local entrepreneurs who create a number of fascinating items, and take a tour to see many of the homes of the former ANC leaders.
3. Cradle of Humankind
Home to some of the oldest humanoid fossils in the world, the Cradle of Humankind is located in Magaliesberg. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains a dozen or more separate sites that house fossils dating back to man’s first existence. Start at the Visitor Center, then be sure to visit the Sterkfontein Caves – this is where a nearly complete skull of an adult female Australopithecus africanus was found, nicknamed Ms. Ples (short for Plesianthropustransvaalensisor “close man” from the Transvaal).
4. Gautrain
While it is not a place in itself, a trip down the Gautrain is the best way to explore Gauteng. This 80-kilometer high-speed train runs from Johannesburg to Pretoria, traversing the landscapes. On February 3, 2009, 150 people made the first public passenger trip in the Gautrain on a 3-kilometer test run. Today, locals use the train between Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport, as well as visitors to Gauteng who want a fun way to travel between cities.
5. Pretoria National Zoological Gardens
Once you arrive in Pretoria, a trip to the Pretoria National Zoological Gardens concludes your tour of the Big Five of Gauteng. This zoo and botanical gardens is the highlight of any business trip or vacation in Pretoria, with thousands of animals, picnic areas and beautiful gardens. Ideal for the whole family, a romantic day out, or even as a much-needed break after a conference day, the Pretoria Zoo has become an important and treasured icon of the Purple City.
Along with these five hot spots, Gauteng also offers many other things to see and do. There are many small game reserves, dams, lakes, restaurants, theaters, small towns, and other highlights, making exploring the province even more exciting. But to make sure your Gauteng travel experience is complete, don’t miss out on seeing the Big Five of Gauteng!
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