Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and the provincial capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa. The city is one of the 40 largest metropolitan areas in the world. Johannesburg is the source of a large-scale gold and diamond trade, due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. Johannesburg is served by O.R. Tambo International Airport, the largest and busiest airport in Africa and a gateway for international air travel to and from the rest of Southern Africa.
Climate
Johannesburg features a subtropical highland climate. The city enjoys a dry, sunny climate, with the exception of occasional late afternoon downpours in the summer months of October to April. Temperatures in Johannesburg are usually fairly mild due to the city’s high altitude, with the average maximum daytime temperature in January of 26 °C (79 °F), dropping to an average maximum of around 16 °C (61 °F) in June. Winter is the sunniest time of the year, with cool days and cold nights. The temperature occasionally drops to below freezing at night, causing frost. The annual average rainfall is 713 millimeters (28.1 in), which is mostly concentrated in the summer months. Infrequent showers occur through the course of the winter months.
Tourism
Johannesburg has not traditionally been known as a tourist destination, but the city is a transit point for connecting flights to Cape Town, Durban, and the Kruger National Park. Consequently, most international visitors to South Africa pass through Johannesburg at least once, which has led to the development of more attractions for tourists. Recent additions have centered around history museums, such as the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Museum. Gold Reef City, a large amusement park to the south of the Central Business District, is also a large draw for tourists in the city. The Johannesburg Zoo is also one of the largest in South Africa.
World Cup 2010
Johannesburg will have two stadiums in the World Cup 2010 and also host the opening match, one semi final and the final match of the tournament. The two stadiums used are Soccer City and Ellis Park Stadium. More about Johannesburg World Cup 2010 Stadiums.
Suggested Reading:
Johannesburg: The Bradt City Guide (Bradt Mini Guide)The main gateway for tourists to southern Africa, Johannesburg is seldom explored fully by visitors, principally because of a misinformed view of the ... Read More >
