Gauteng

Gauteng is the smallest province in South Africa, but with the second largest population of all the provinces in the country, it is one of the most important. Located in the Highveld, and historically the site of the gold rush in 1886, the province has many attractions that any visitor to South Africa should aim to explore. Of special note are the cities and towns with large and excellent shopping centres.

Johannesburg is the main city in the region, and the largest city in the country. The source of the gold and diamond trade in Africa, it is hugely varied and extremely exciting, and as a result one of the liveliest places it is possible to visit.

Pretoria is a beautiful town that is located one hour away from Johannesburg, and with historical buildings, museums and botanical and zoological gardens, there is something for everyone here.

Sandton City is the fashion capital of the province, and has 300 shops that are bursting to the seams with all the latest fashions and innovations, anybody looking for a leisurely shopping experience with the best quality goods must be sure not to miss this vibrant place. Other cities and towns with large shopping centres include Eastgate, Rosebank and Menlyn Park.

For a historical experience, as well as genuine Africa with something a little more than safari, beach and sun, Soweto city was one of the centres of the gold rush. With plenty of heritage sites, restaurants and bars, it is a lively place, and a few nights here will be fun and enjoyable. Other historical and cultural safari options in South Africa include the Cape Winelands (some of the best wine tasting on the planet!) and the Isandlwana Battlefields - the site of much of the country's colourful past.

Wild Africa is brought to you by the rhino and lion park that works to protect endangered and specialised species of mammals, including white rhino, wild dog, lion and two types of tiger. The reserve is privately owned, and offers abseiling as a side attraction. This is a good way to see some of the species that you are unlikely to see when in the wilder regions of Africa.

Lesedi Culture Village gives a taste of genuine African culture; set within untouched bushveld in rocky hills, it has a hugely multicultural society, giving an experience that is a mixture of Basotho, Ndebele, Xhosa and Zulu cultures. This is less than an hour away from Johannesburg, and is the perfect place to go to see traditional Africa.

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