Neighbourhood Overview
Illovo
Illovo is a popular neighbourhood among creatives and young professionals who live in Johannesburg. After your flights to Johannesburg, you can visit Illovo to take advantage of its great dining scene. The neighbourhood is also well-known for its trendy cafes and exciting nightlife.
Braamfontein
Braamfontein is a central neighbourhood that you are likely to come across when you book return flights to Johannesburg. In addition to office buildings, visitors with flights to Johannesburg can come to Braamfontein for stylish restaurants and cafes. The neighbourhood is part of an Urban Regeneration scheme within Johannesburg, which has led to an influx of young professionals and a neighbourhood rejuvenation.
Maboneng
Similar to Braamfontein, Maboneng is quickly transforming into one of the most exciting neighbourhoods in Johannesburg. After arriving on your cheap flights to Johannesburg, visit this neighbourhood to try authentic South African cuisine, view street art, and listen to live music.
Soweto
Although it’s not your typical city neighbourhood, Soweto is a must-visit for anyone with return flights to Johannesburg. The neighbourhood is famous for its history connected to apartheid. Soweto was the home of Nelson Mandela for many years. His impact on the neighbourhood can still be seen today, most notably through the Apartheid Museum and the Nelson Mandela house.
Travelling with Children on Cheap Flights to Johannesburg
Museum Africa
Families with flights to Johannesburg can visit the Museum Africa to learn all about the history and culture of South Africa. The museum is located within a heritage building that was once the city’s produce market. Within the museum, visitors with return flights to Johannesburg can view artefacts that tell the story of the many cultures and ethnic groups in South Africa. Throughout the museum, there are activities for kids so they can have fun while also learning.
The Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind is located about 50 kilometres (31 miles) outside of the city, making it a great day trip for families who are heading to Africa on an airfare to Johannesburg. It is an archaeological site that is one of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa. A large amount of fossils have been found at the Cradle of Humankind, including 40% of the world’s fossils from prehistoric humans. Families who visit after their flights to Johannesburg can learn about the site’s archaeological digs, as well as spot a diverse range of animals and take a canopy tour through the forest.
Kloofendal Nature Reserve
The Kloofendal Nature Reserve became well-known after being built as the first gold mine in Johannesburg. Today, visitors with cheap flights to Johannesburg can take a trip to the reserve to enjoy nature walks and spot native animals. Children can have fun at the reserve by trying their hand at panning for gold.
Major Events and Festivals
Ultra South Africa
Visitors with plane tickets to Johannesburg at the beginning of March can enjoy Africa’s largest electronic music festival. Ultra takes place over the course of a weekend with performances in both Johannesburg and Cape Town. In the past, major musicians and DJs have performed sets at Ultra, including the Chainsmokers, Martin Garrix, and Zedd.
Whiskey and Spirits Live
If whiskey is your drink of choice, don’t miss the opportunity to book cheap flights to Johannesburg for the Whiskey and Spirits Live festival in May. This event is the largest whiskey tasting festival in the world, with a wide range of whiskey and spirit distillers from around the world. Tickets to Johannesburg Whiskey and Spirits Live include a tasting glass, 16 vouchers to sample different drinks, and access to a whiskey master class.
Afropunk Joburg
Afropunk is held at the end of December each year. The festival celebrates some of South Africa’s top musical talents, as well as emerging artists from other parts of the world. In addition to music, Afropunk features art, film, fashion, and photography around a central theme, which changes each year. Booking flights to Johannesburg during Afropunk is a great way to experience the culture of the city.
How Much Time to Spend in Johannesburg
After landing on cheap flights to Johannesburg, plan to spend at least three days exploring the city. Before returning to Johannesburg International Airport (JNB), head out of the city to explore rural South Africa as well. From Johannesburg, you’ll have access to some of the country’s top safari locations, including Kruger National Park.