Sandton Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Sandton, Johannesburg with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sandton

Sandton is a wealthy area of Johannesburg, which is the largest city in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Sandton is an affluent suburb that has become the country’s economic hub, offering luxury shopping, high-end restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.

Because of the economic growth that Sandton has achieved over the past few years, it has transformed into a must-visit destination for tourists. With a perfect blend of nature, culture, and modernity, Sandton has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Sandton

Sandton offers a wide range of cultural and natural attractions to its visitors, and there is no shortage of things to do in the area. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in Sandton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Apartheid Museum: A powerful museum that takes you on a journey through South Africa’s turbulent past, showcasing how apartheid affected the country’s political and social landscape.
  • Liliesleaf Farm: A historic landmark that was used as a secret hideout by Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists in the 1960s. It now serves as a museum and heritage site.
  • Cradle of Humankind: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the world’s oldest fossils and human discoveries. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of humanity.

Natural Attractions of Sandton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden with diverse flora and fauna, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
  • Bryanston Organic & Natural Market: A vibrant market where you can find fresh local produce, handmade crafts and organic skincare products.
  • Johannesburg Zoo: A family-friendly attraction with a wide range of animal species, including big cats, primates, and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sandton

  • The Braamfontein Spruit: A popular route that runs from Sandton to Randburg, where you can enjoy hiking, cycling or trail running.
  • Delta Park: A stunning park that has a wide range of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails to explore.
  • Melville Koppies Nature Reserve: A nature reserve with several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of Johannesburg.

Best Things to Do in Sandton: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Safari: Enjoy a scenic hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscapes of Sandton and the Magaliesberg Mountains.
  • Soweto Township Tour: Take a guided tour to Soweto, which is home to a vibrant culture, rich history, and interesting landmarks.
  • Gold Reef City: A popular family attraction with thrilling rollercoasters, a casino, and a historical mining museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sandton

DAY 1: Visit the Apartheid Museum, followed by a shopping spree at Sandton City Mall.

DAY 2: Enjoy a hot air balloon Safari in the morning, followed by a visit to the Johannesburg Zoo in the afternoon.

DAY 3-5: Take a guided tour to Soweto, explore Liliesleaf Farm, and learn about the country’s history. Take a hike on one of the scenic routes like Delta Park or Melville Koppies.

DAY 6-7: Visit the Cradle of Humankind, followed by a day trip to the Magaliesberg Mountains, which is a great place to go kayaking, or go on a scenic drive.

Food and Drink Scene of Sandton

Sandton has a diverse food and drink scene, featuring local and international cuisine. Here is a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pap and Chakalaka: It is a delicious stew that is made with beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices served with maize porridge (pap).
  • Bunny Chow: A popular street food that is made with hollowed-out bread and filled with curry.
  • Boerewors: It is a South African sausage made with beef, pork, and spices. It is often served on a braai (barbeque) with pap and chakalaka.

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos Tea: It is a herbal tea that is grown in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa. It is known for its health benefits and is often served with milk and sugar.
  • Amarula: A popular cream liqueur that is made from the fruit of the marula tree, which is native to South Africa.
  • Castle Lager Beer: An iconic beer that is brewed in South Africa and is enjoyed across the country.

Where to Stay in Sandton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sandton offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the popular places to stay in Sandton include:

  • The Michelangelo: A luxurious hotel situated at the heart of Sandton. It features elegant rooms, spa, and a rooftop pool.
  • Holiday Inn Sandton: A family-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa.
  • Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton: A 5-star hotel with first-class amenities, such as an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and sauna.

What to Buy in Sandton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, Sandton has plenty of options to choose from. Magnificent handmade crafts, unique jewelry, and designer clothing are easy to find in Sandton’s shopping centers. Some of the popular shopping destinations include Sandton City Mall, Nelson Mandela Square, and Bryanston Organic & Natural Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Sandton

Sandton is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. South Africa is known for the spirit of Ubuntu, which means human kindness and generosity, so do not hesitate to ask locals for help.

Best Time to Visit Sandton

The best time to visit Sandton is from March to May or September to November, which is the winter and spring season. The weather is mild and dry, and the tourists are fewer, and there are generally good hotel deals available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sandton

Do:

  • Do dress appropriately, especially when visiting places of worship, including mosques, temples, and churches.
  • Do carry bottled water and sunscreen during your visits to natural attractions.
  • Do be polite and respectful towards locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t carry too much cash, use your credit card or debit card in stores and restaurants.
  • Don’t walk alone at night in unfamiliar or less traveled areas.
  • Don’t drink tap water, drink bottled water to stay safe from water-borne diseases.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sandton

Sandton is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of crime in the area. Always be aware of your surroundings and don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuable items. Avoid walking alone at night and do not leave your bags unattended.

Health in Sandton

Sandton is a developed city with modern medical facilities, and medical services are accessible on both private and public hospitals. It is important to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Sandton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Sandton is easy, and there are several transportation options to choose from. Here are some of the ways to get to Sandton:

  • O.R Tambo International Airport: The airport is 35 km from Sandton, and you can take a taxi or rent a car to get to the city center.
  • Gautrain: It is a rapid transport system that connects Johannesburg and Pretoria with Sandton. You can take the Gautrain from O.R. Tambo International Airport to Sandton in around 15 minutes.
  • Bus: Several bus services operate in and around Johannesburg, offering an affordable way to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Sandton

Sandton is a thriving metropolis that is easily navigable using public transport or private taxis. The Gautrain is a reliable option that connects Sandton with other major cities in South Africa, including Johannesburg and Pretoria. You can also rent cars, bikes or scooters to explore the city at your own pace and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Sandton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sandton is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding regions in Gauteng province. Here are some of the places that you can visit on a day trip from Sandton:

  • Pilanesberg National Park: A game reserve that is located 150 km from Sandton. Here, you can see Africa’s most magnificent wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and more.
  • Cullinan Diamond Mine: A historic diamond mine near Pretoria, where you can go on a guided tour and learn about the mining industry in South Africa.
  • Spectacular Drakensberg Mountains: A mountain range that offers scenic drives, hiking and biking trails, and breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Sandton is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers something for everyone. From natural attractions and outdoor adventures to luxurious shopping destinations and rich cultural experiences, Sandton is a must-visit destination in South Africa. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to Sandton with ease and enjoy a memorable holiday in this beautiful city.

Sandton rising above the urban forest Sandton rising above the urban forest Nelson Mandela Square at night Nelson Mandela Square at night Sandton skyline from the Village Walk Center looking over the Balalaika Hotel towards Sandton City and the Michelangelo hotel Sandton skyline from the Village Walk Center looking over the Balalaika Hotel towards Sandton City and the Michelangelo hotel