Johannesburg is the economic powerhouse of Africa, existing as the capital of Gauteng, South Africa's smallest province. Its ever-growing suburban sprawl creeps outwards from the central city skyscrapers and ring-road motorways. Its nearly 10,000,000 inhabitants live fast-paced lives and have a restless spirit, which they have imparted into the fabric of the city.<br /><br /> The development of the city, which is over a century old, has followed the fortunes of the Witwatersrand (White Water Reef), the rich gold-bearing rock reef that stretches across this area of central South Africa. The initial gold rush started in the 1880s, and barely ten years later, Johannesburg had become South Africa's largest town and the site of continuous development.<br /><br /> Johannesburg today is a city of contrasts, with luxury high-rises towering beside a few remaining dilapidated Victorian buildings. Large private homes behind high fences sit in the northern suburbs while the massive Soweto township in the south has its own unique flavour and charm. The chasm between rich and poor in the city has given rise to a high crime rate, evidenced by the fortress-like security that pervades the wealthier suburbs.<br /><br /> Most visitors to South Africa, particularly those intent on exploring the game reserves of Mpumalanga, arrive at Johannesburg's busy OR Tambo International Airport. The airport is the main point of entry for the country. Johannesburg itself is not traditionally seen as a tourist destination but the fast-paced metropolis is increasing in popularity with foreign visitors. A few days can be pleasantly filled taking in some entertaining attractions before heading off to the game parks of the northeast or the coastal regions. Possibly the most interesting diversion in Johannesburg is a 'Heritage Route' or 'Shebeen Crawl' tour of Soweto, but take care only to venture into the maze of the township with an organised tour or professional guide.<br /><br />

Kruger National Park

Address: Johannesburg

The Kruger National Park is South Africa's oldest, largest and best-known wildlife conservation area, home to a huge variety of wildlife and most famous for its 'Big Five' viewing opportunities. Visitors have an excellent chance of seeing lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino among the enormous variety of wildlife, including over 140 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, reptiles and amphibians. Situated on South Africa's northeastern border, Kruger is a primary destination for international tourists, and is visited by more than half a million local and international visitors every year who are attracted by the different safari options as well as the park's excellent range of visitor facilities and choice of accommodation, from luxurious game lodges to cottages and camping. Because of the park's popularity, it is advisable to book far ahead for both day visits and extended stays. Bookings can be made through the park's website.<br /><br /> Kruger is a year-round destination, but the game viewing is at its best in the winter months, between June and August. The park is more lush and the landscapes more beautiful in summer but it gets very hot and the animals are more difficult to spot. The Kruger Park is generally very safe and tourists should be in no danger if they abide by the rules and treat the animals with respect; these are, after all, wild animals in their natural environment and some of them can be dangerous if they feel threatened.<br /><br />

Gold Reef City

Address: Johannesburg

This huge entertainment complex is essentially a theme park full of thrill rides, but was designed to be a recreation of Victorian Johannesburg during the gold-rush era. The park, four miles (6km) south of the city centre via the M1 motorway, was built around the No.14 Crown mineshaft that began operations in 1887 and closed in 1975.<br /><br /> During its production years, 1,400 tons of gold came out of the shaft. Visitors can now descend into the old mine shaft to experience life at the rock face, and watch gold being poured and minted. Gold Reef City also houses a number of museums, and offers performances by traditional gumboot dancers and the like.<br /><br /> Youngsters particularly enjoy the rides like the Anaconda roller coaster and Thunder Mountain River Rapids. There are so many rides that it is difficult to take it all in! The range of rides ensures that there is plenty for all age groups and a good mixture of the mellow and adrenalin-pumping.<br /><br /> There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, a massive casino, and a Victorian hotel for those wanting to stay the night. Gold Reef City is a must for families spending a bit of time in Johannesburg and is also located conveniently close to the Apartheid Museum, creating the ultimate touristic marriage of hard-hitting history and theme park fun.<br /><br />

Newtown Cultural Precinct

Address: Johannesburg

This complex of buildings in the city centre has been upgraded and restored as part of the city fathers' urban renewal policy and includes several attractions. The Market Theatre and Museum Africa, for instance, are housed in a Victorian building in Bree Street that was originally Johannesburg's fresh produce market.<br /><br /> The Museum of Africa is particularly worth a visit with its exhibits that tell the story of the city from its beginnings to the present day, including an interesting section about the Treason Trial of the 1950s in which Nelson Mandela and other activists were accused of plotting against the state.<br /><br /> The same building houses a photography museum and the Museum of South African Rock Art. At its eastern end is the Market Theatre, famed for being the venue for many protest theatre productions in the apartheid era.<br /><br /> Also in the area is the South African Breweries Centre, which offers a tour detailing brewing history through some reconstructed gold-rush pubs and shebeens (township bars). Along Jeppe Street is the Oriental Plaza, the commercial centre for the Indian community. Newtown is also renowned for its nightlife, with wonderful restaurants, jazz joints, and clubs that stay open until the early hours.<br /><br />

Johannesburg Zoo

Address: Jan Smuts Avenue, main public entrance on Upper Park Drive, Parkview Johannesburg

The Johannesburg Zoo is a favourite place for locals to take a stroll among the numerous enclosures that house more than 320 species of animal, including polar bears, that can be viewed underwater in their pool.<br /><br /> Of course, the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo) are all in residence, and other highlights include lemurs, gorillas, caracals, Siberian tigers, hippos, orangutans, brown bears, and cheetahs.<br /><br /> The various monkeys are also always very entertaining. There is a large collection of birdlife and a farmyard section with lots of activities for kids. A tractor tram does circuits of the zoo for those who don't fancy walking.<br /><br /> Check the official website below for details on the feeding times of the various animals. The penguins and seals are particularly active during feeds. The Johannesburg Zoo makes for a great day for travellers with kids and there are many restaurants and food stalls for refreshments.<br /><br /> The zoo is dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation and conducts some breeding programmes. Tt also hosts some interesting exhibits and events. On the eastern edge of the zoo is the Museum of Military History, which has some interesting exhibits like tanks, fighter aircraft, and submarines.<br /><br />

Warmbaths

Address: Johannesburg

On the national road north from Johannesburg, towards Zimbabwe, is the flat area known as the Springbok Flats, part of the Great Rift Valley. About 80 miles (125km) north of Johannesburg on the edge of the Flats lies the town of Bela-Bela, still commonly called Warmbaths. The name officially changed in 2002.<br /><br /> It is famous for the hot mineral springs that rise to the surface there. The springs yield about 20,000 litres of water, enriched with sodium chloride, calcium carbonate, and other minerals every hour. The town is a popular spa and holiday resort, considered to be one of the most modern of its kind in the world.<br /><br /> The main resort, called Warmbaths, has a large indoor pool with underwater jets, outdoor hot and cold swimming pools, jacuzzis, a wave pool, and several water slides. The resort also includes facilities for waterskiing, go-karting, quad biking, pedal boating, miniature golf, archery, tennis, squash, and volleyball, as well as several shops and restaurants.<br /><br /> Accommodation is varied but the resort is also open to day visitors, who can gain entry anytime between 7am and 5pm daily. A fun family excursion from Johannesburg, everybody should find something to entertain them at Warmbaths.<br /><br />

Lost City

Address: Johannesburg

Situated in the Bojanala region of the North West Province, the 'Las Vegas of South Africa' is one of the largest entertainment centres for adults in the world, with casinos, golf courses, live shows, and the architectural wonder of the Lost City.<br /><br /> The vast resort complex is one of South Africa's top attractions for gambling, entertainment, and opulence, a luxury theme park for adults that was the multimillion dollar dream of South African entrepreneur Sol Kerzner.<br /><br /> The Lost City, with its African theme of life-size animals, has at its centre a luxurious palace decorated with mosaics, frescoes, palm fronds, and elephant tusks. Surrounding it are lakes, forests, and a tropical beach.<br /><br /> There are a variety of water sports and The Valley of the Waves, the most advanced waterpark in the country, has among other things a wave machine capable of generating almost seven-foot (2m) waves.<br /><br /> The waterpark is fabulous fun for the whole family with numerous slides and a wonderful Lazy River. Buying a day pass for the Lost City waterpark allows visitors to explore the extensive grounds and access the casino.<br /><br /> There are a number of Sun International hotels on the property and the resort complex also borders on the Pilanesberg National Park, home to the Big Five and a popular game-viewing destination.<br /><br />

SAB World of Beer

Address: Corner of President and Miriam Makeba Roads, Newtown Johannesburg

SABMiller started in South Africa and has expanded to become one of the world's largest and most popular brewers of beer. The World of Beer offers a fun, short tour, which summarises the history of the company, beer in general, and details the brewing process.<br /><br /> The tour begins with a televised talk from Charles Glass, the brew master of the famous Castle Lager and the man responsible for laying the foundations of South African Breweries (SAB). The tour also covers ancient beer brewing in Mesopotamia and how it spread through Europe and Africa.<br /><br /> Visitors get to learn about and sample traditional South African sorghum beer, and explore the evolution of brewing in South African culture. They will then visit the green houses where the raw ingredients are grown.<br /><br /> The price includes one beer during the tour, a souvenir glass, two drink vouchers redeemable in the Tap Room, and bar snacks after the tour. Only those over 18 (the legal drinking age in South Africa) will be allowed to partake in the beer drinking.<br /><br /> However, all ages are welcome on tours and the visit should prove interesting even for non-beer drinkers. Visitors are welcome to stay in the pub and have a few drinks for as long as they desire after their tour.<br /><br />

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Address: End of Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort Johannesburg

Johannesburg is one of the most densely treed cities in the world and has a number of pleasant parks and gardens. But the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, in the west of Johannesburg, is the city's most superb green lung.<br /><br /> This urban oasis covers 741 acres (300ha), offering lush gardens and scenic hiking trails. The botanical garden was founded in 1982, with the area used consistently for hiking and outdoor excursions since the 1800s, and it is consistently rated as the best place to get out into nature in Gauteng by voting locals.<br /><br /> The gardens are a terrific place for birdwatchers and garden-enthusiasts interested in seeing a variety of fauna and flora. There are over 200 bird species as well as over 600 plant species in the gardens.<br /><br /> The landscapes are a mixture of grassland and savanna with some rocky outcrops and lots of little streams and kloofs. Parts of the garden are beautifully landscaped but swathes have been left as unspoilt wilderness.<br /><br /> After a walk or hike, it is common practice to enjoy a picnic on the lawns at the foot of the breath-taking Witpoortjie waterfall. One of the garden's greatest attractions is the pair of Verreaux's Eagles that nest on the cliffs beside the waterfall, frequently sighted by visitors on the lookout.<br /><br />

Melville

Address: West of the city centre Johannesburg

Melville is an old suburb known for its quirky, artistic atmosphere, eclectic little shops, pavement cafés, fun bars, restaurants, and clubs. This trendy suburb is a hive of activity on any given night of the week.<br /><br /> It is the place to go out and carouse in Johannesburg if you prefer a bohemian vibe to the preppy, upmarket nightlife that generally characterises the city. Seventh Street is the central zone from which all the character emanates and is a great place to start with its collection of book and antique shops, cafés, and other interesting storefronts.<br /><br /> Partygoers barhop into the small hours, but tourists should refrain from walking around too much at night, and be aware of pickpockets, as crime has risen in the area in the last few years. Sadly, Melville, once so in demand, has been hit somewhat by the recession and some of the unique shops that made it so special have closed down.<br /><br /> The area is still appealing but is now more grungy and rundown, mainly booming at night. It has a reputation as one of the drug centres of the city and there are many beggars in the streets. Having said that, the funky personality of Melville is resilient and the nearby student residences keep it popular and energised.<br /><br />

The Apartheid Museum

Address: Northern Parkway and Gold Reef Road, Ormonde, Johannesburg Johannesburg

Situated near Gold Reef City, the Apartheid Museum chronicles South Africa's tragic and shameful history of black oppression. On display are relics of the apartheid system, an abhorrent regime which denied non-whites basic freedoms and an equal life in the country.<br /><br /> Visitors often describe the experience of the Apartheid Museum as harrowing. At the same time, the story of the struggle over adversity is inspirational and serves as an integral and important part of the new South African narrative and its reflections on history.<br /><br /> To give some idea of the everyday realities of racial classification, visitors arbitrarily are classified as either 'white' or 'non-white' upon arrival and can only enter through their designated entrance. Due to graphic content, the museum does not allow children under the age of 11.<br /><br /> Probably South Africa's most impressive and hard-hitting museum, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is a must for visitors to Johannesburg interested in the country's history. The museum often ranks as the number one tourist attraction in the city. Allow at least three hours if you want to explore thoroughly.<br /><br />

Constitution Hill

Address: Constitutional Court, Johannesburg Johannesburg

A guided tour of the National Heritage Site of Constitution Hill takes visitors on a journey through South Africa's turbulent past, but also illustrates its incredible transition into democracy. There a number of tours of Constitutional Hill.<br /><br /> Tourists can visit the Number Four prison, a dark and terrible place where Mahatma Ghandi, Robert Sobukwe, and Nelson Mandela were all incarcerated, along with many other victims of the racial hierarchy.<br /><br /> The Old Fort, built in 1893 and one of the city's oldest buildings, which was a prison for white men including British prisoners of war during the South African War, is also open to the public.<br /><br /> Visitors also may be interested in checking out the Women's Prison, a pretty Victorian building where political activists like Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Albertina Sisulu endured terrible suffering, and infamous murderess Daisy de Melker was incarcerated.<br /><br /> Lastly, one might want to visit the Constitutional Court. It is the institution responsible for ensuring that the human rights horrors that once characterised Constitution Hill will never occur again. Tours must be booked in advance via the official website listed below.<br /><br /> Tours take about an hour and a half and are very informative. The Constitutional Court is open to the public. Exploring Constitution Hill provides an interesting overview of the prison system during apartheid and it is one of Johannesburg's most fascinating historical attractions.<br /><br />

Hector Pieterson Memorial Site and Museum

Address: Hector Pieterson Sq., corner of Khumalo and Pela Sts., Orlando West, Soweto Johannesburg

Hector Pieterson became the iconic image of the 1976 Soweto Uprising in Apartheid South Africa, when a news photograph of the dying Hector being carried by a fellow student was published across the globe.<br /><br /> He was just 12 years old when the police opened fire on school children who had gathered to protest the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in township schools. The protest was intended to be peaceful but became a violent confrontation when police demanded that the students disperse; students threw stones and police fired bullets.<br /><br /> News of the bloodshed ignited uprisings across the country in which 550 people were killed. Hector was one of the first to die on that tragic day. The museum fuses memorabilia with modern technology and cultural history and is located two blocks away from where Hector was killed.<br /><br /> Hector's sister Antoinette, who is seen in the famous photograph holding her hands out in panic, worked for many years at the museum as a tour guide. The 16 June is a public holiday named National Youth Day in South Africa, to honour the courage of the youth that stood up to the apartheid regime, and young people in general.<br /><br />

Cradle of Humankind and Maropeng Visitor Centre

Address: Johannesburg

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains a complex of dolimitic limestone caves, including the well-known Sterkfontein Caves, where the fossil (nicknamed Mrs. Ples) was found in 1947 by Dr Robert Broom and John Robinson.<br /><br /> 'Mrs Ples' is estimated to be between 2.6 and 2.8 million years old and ranks high on the long list of australopithecine discoveries for which Sterkfontein is now famous.<br /><br /> At present, only the Sterkfontein Caves and the Wonder Cave are open to the public. The Maropeng Visitor Centre is a stirring, world-class exhibition space, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors and evolution over the past few million years.<br /><br /> The museum has fun interactive exhibits which the whole family will enjoy. Visitors should note that the best option for fully appreciating the visit is buying the combination ticket for the caves and the museum, but this ticket is only available before 1pm as the tour takes some time.<br /><br /> There are a number of restaurants at the centre, both upmarket and casual, and some picturesque picnic sites for those who prefer to bring their own food. There is a range of accommodation at the centre for those who want to spend a night or two.<br /><br />

Soweto

Address: Johannesburg

Soweto's history goes back to 1903, when Kliptown was established as the first black settlement on the outskirts of Johannesburg. An abbreviation for South-Western Township, Soweto has had a turbulent history and was at the centre of the Apartheid struggle in South Africa.<br /><br /> The ANC and other organisations adopted the Freedom Charter in Kliptown in 1955, and the Soweto Uprising of 1976 was one of the pivotal events in the struggle. Soweto is home to several famous landmarks, including Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Diepkloof, Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown, Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Rockville, and the Freedom Towers.<br /><br /> In Orlando, tourists can visit Vilikazi Street, which is the only street in the world to have been the home of two Nobel Peace Prize winners (Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu). On the streetm, Mandela House has been restored to the state it was in when the former president lived there.<br /><br /> A number of historic museums are also popular attractions in Soweto, including the Hector Pieterson Museum, the Kliptown Open-Air Museum, and the Apartheid Museum. A fun and popular Soweto Attraction is the Orlando Cooling Towers. Part of a decommissioned coal-fired power station, the towers have been brightly painted and offer rap jumping opportunities.<br /><br /> Tours of Soweto are a must for any first-time visitor to Johannesburg and South Africa, and a number of tour operators offer trips into Soweto. The most popular are the historical tours, stopping at museums and famous sites, and the nightlife tours, which include stops at local shebeens (township bars).<br /><br /> Soweto is also home to some excellent restaurants, ranging from five-star establishments to holes-in-the-wall, which serve local African cuisine. Although many tourists have concerns about whether it's safe to visit Soweto, most visits are completely trouble-free when organised by a reputable tour operator.<br /><br />

Rand Show

Where: The Nasrec Expo Centre at the corner of Randshow and Nasrec Roads.,Johannesburg

When: 30 March - 08 April 2018

For more than a century, the renowned Rand Easter Show has drawn the Johannesburg crowds every year during the Easter break. It started as an agricultural show, but has grown in popularity, size and scope, to become South Africa's largest consumer exhibition, along with an entertainment extravaganza that is eagerly awaited each year.<br /><br /> Exhibitors covering a range of categories, offering entertaining stalls and shopping specials, while a varied live entertainment programme keeps show-goers buzzing until late each night. Exhibition categories include a Kids Expo, Sports Expo, Showcase SA, Lifestyle Expo, and Into the Future.<br /><br /> The vast entertainment programme includes a diverse array of attractions, including things like show-jumping, working dog displays, and livestock judging, in keeping with its agricultural origins, and things like live music concerts, circus performances, snake shows, fireworks displays, parades, and stunt shows. To see the full programme check the official website.<br /><br />

Joy of Jazz Festival

Where: various venues in Newtown,Johannesburg

When: 28 - 30 September 2018

Every year the best of South African and some international jazz performers come to Johannesburg's vibrant Newtown complex to revel in the joys of jazz music. The festival features concerts and collaborations among the artists, often spontaneous and experimental, in the true spirit of jazz. More experienced artists give workshops and classes to budding artists and work closely with them, offering a rare platform to showcase their talents at the festival. The festival now attracts about 20,000 people to seven pumping venues in Newtown. The growing popularity of Newtown as a centre for creativity, culture and nightlife has played an integral role in the regeneration of the inner city of Johannesburg, and the jazz festival has played a big part in this exciting revitalisation process. There is a five month build up to the main festival, which sees various live jazz concerts piquing the excitement of audiences across Johannesburg in preparation for the main event. The festival also organises community concerts to bring jazz to audiences that don't usually get the chance to enjoy it, like hospices, orphanages and retirement homes. For a full programme check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />

Vaal River Meander Wine Route

Where: Various estates along the Vaal River. Inventory available online,Johannesburg

When: 23 June - 5 August 2018

As the name suggests, this route is a casual, relaxed experience. Like a fine wine, it is meant to be enjoyed at leisure and taken in stride. 20 venues along the banks of the picturesque Vaal River are selected each year to showcase South Africa's most elegant wines, over a designated period of time. The route can be travelled by car, taxi or river cruiser. Game drives at the neighbouring reserves, golf on the nearby courses or a visit to the Emerald Casino (which has an indoor water world, bowling and miniature golf facilities) are optional side meanders for an enjoyable family outing. The Vaal is South Africa's second longest river and the Upper Vaal is the main recreational hub, centred on the towns of Vereeniging and Vanderbijlpark where guesthouses and lodges line the riverfront and various watersports are popular. Power-boating, jet-skiing, canoeing, fishing and even white water rafting are enjoyed on the river, making it a fun excursion from Johannesburg even when the wine route is not active. The wine route gives the area a festive atmosphere and the event is eagerly awaited by locals. Check out the official website listed below for details on the venues and wine.<br /><br />

Moyo

Address: 5 Melrose Square, Melrose Arch Johannesburg

Food Type: African

This restaurant takes up five floors, decorated with a combination of modern African designs. Traditionally-attired staff serve locally-inspired dishes and live African music adds a funky vibe. The menu is varied with dishes from around the continent, such as fragrant North African stews, East African fish curries, and huge Mozambique prawns. The unusual African desserts, like sweet potato and chocolate pudding, are not to be missed! Booking is essential, open daily for lunch and dinner.<br /><br />

Wombles

Address: 88 Hobart Road, Bryanston Johannesburg

Food Type: Steakhouse

The menu at Wombles Steakhouse consists steak to suit all appetites and tastes, served with fresh vegetables and a choice of potato dishes. Reminiscent of its 1980s predecessor in Harare, Zimbabwe, it is furnished with ornate, high-backed chairs and luxurious sofas set amongst a candle-lit décor. The efficient staff are incredibly attentive, working to make your dining experience a memorable one. Open Monday to Friday, for lunch and dinner, with dinner also served on Saturdays. Reservations recommended.<br /><br />

Browns of Rivonia

Address: 21 Wessels Road, Rivonia Johannesburg

Food Type: International

Found in one of Johannesburg's most affluent suburbs, Browns of Rivonia offers a truly upmarket, fine dining experience. This establishment is set amongst vineyards in an old farmhouse, adding to its charm and intimate atmosphere. Outside seating is available on the veranda for those balmy summer evenings, and inside the restaurant there is a large, neat dining area. The food is of the highest quality, especially the roast duck with a Drambuie and orange glaze. The restaurant offers a separate menu for functions and for Sunday lunches. Closed on Saturday for lunch and reservations recommended.<br /><br />

South Africa's biggest and richest city has got the nightlife to match, from world-class theatre and live music to mega-hip lounge bars and epic nightclubs. The locals are known to be keen socialites and tend to be very friendly and happy to meet new people.<br /><br /> Jazz fans should make their way to legendary Kippies in Newtown, and to the nearby Bassline. In fact, the young, hip and multicultural Newtown is a great place to begin night-time explorations of the city for anybody. The Civic Theatre hosts major live productions, while plenty of smaller venues have minor plays, cabaret shows, and reviews.<br /><br /> Nightclubs tend to open around 11pm and will charge an entrance fee. They stay open into the early hours and drinks can be expensive. Many top clubs are positioned in the lively city center of Johannesburg, or areas such as Orange Grove and Melville.<br /><br /> The affluent suburbs of Sandton, Hyde Park, and Melrose Arch are home to the more plush and modern clubs frequented by an unlikely collection of models, stock brokers, and bikers.<br /><br /> If you live for thrills, head for the many casinos on the outskirts of the city. Montecasino, near Fourways, and The Emperors Palace, near the OR Tambo Airport, are considered the best. Apart from the various gaming tables and slot machines, there are live shows aplenty.<br /><br /> For local listings see the Friday editions of the Mail &amp; Guardian and The Star, or the Johannesburg edition of Timeout.<br /><br />

As the financial hub of Africa and home to its highest proportion of wealthy individuals, it is no surprise that Johannesburg is a true shopper's paradise. From designer boutiques and world-class specialist shops in the prestigious Sandton City to curios and bargain buys at local markets, Johannesburg has something for just about every kind of shopper.<br /><br /> The northern suburbs are the place to start a day of shopping in this bustling city, and Mandela Square provides a wonderful location at Sandton City for shoppers to take a load off and eat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the square.<br /><br /> The Bruma Flea Market specialises in African souvenirs and crafts such as wooden sculptures, paintings, beaded masks, and jewellery, and is highly recommended for those looking for something authentically African.<br /><br /> The Rosebank Rooftop Market, which is held on Sundays and public holidays on the roof of the Rosebank Mall, is an absolute must for bargain-hunters. There are also wonderful food stalls where shoppers can rest their legs and brace themselves for round two. Other popular shopping malls include Eastgate Mall, Northgate Mall and Fourways Mall.<br /><br /> Shopping hours in Johannesburg are generally from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Smaller stores usually close on Sunday afternoons. VAT is 14 percent and is levied on all goods sold, excluding flea market purchases, and visitors can reclaim this when departing at airports or land borders, provided they produce the goods and all necessary receipts.<br /><br />