Johannesburg, affectionately known as Joburg or Jozi, is South Africa’s largest city with a vibrant heart to match. After 20 years of hardship, the rapidly changing city is on the rise and becoming a real hit on the avid adventurers’ list. As the focal point for much of the country’s complicated history, it’s a perfect access point to the wildlife and nature that lie just beyond the city.

Explorers are spoilt for choice from the wealth of manmade and natural sights that provide a rich insight into South Africa’s abundant wildlife and world-famous history. We make car rental easy, because we know you can’t wait to feel the freedom of the road and get the very most out of your stay. Wherever your travels take you, the keys are waiting for you to unlock the world.

Nature, history and wildlife are all within easy reach from Johannesburg. Within an hour or less, incredible destinations await following unforgettable journeys.

Magaliesberg

Drive just an hour north from Johannesburg along the R512 to discover the towering Magaliesberg mountain range. Here you’ll find a refreshing mix of recreation, nature conservation and urban development. Admire the mighty Hartbeespoort Dam, stroll around the curio markets and spot wild giraffes, zebras, antelopes and wildebeests.

Pretoria

Reach Pretoria from Johannesburg via the M1 and N1 in about 45 minutes. Nicknamed the ‘Jacaranda City’, for its gorgeous purple jacaranda blooms, it’s home to the Palace of Justice where Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life in prison. Afterwards, visit the Union Buildings, where he became president many years later. Don’t miss Kruger House – the former home of Boer leader Paul Kruger.

Pilanesberg National Park, Bojanal

Pilanesberg National Park is a two-hour drive from Johannesburg via the R242. Here you’ll have another opportunity to see the ‘Big Five’ – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Head to Sun City, just outside of the park, to enjoy swimming pools and golf courses.

An Avis hire car will take you wherever you want to go. Collect the keys to your rental from OR Tambo International Airport and let the adventure begin.

 

Cruise along the R512 and R556 for just over two hours and you’ll reach Johannesburg. This sprawling city is often overlooked by its Cape Town neighbour, but don’t be so quick to pass up an opportunity to explore South Africa’s cultural heart.

Visit the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre to see humankind’s evolutionary path, complete with fossils and paleontological marvels. This makes a great excursion for the whole family to learn about the historic Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. Next, visit the Constitutional Court built on the site of a prison where both Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were once held. The Apartheid Museum is another sight not to be missed, taking you on a fascinating journey through South Africa’s route to democracy.

Then there’s Soweto, the site of many anti-apartheid struggles. Here the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu can be found, while the area itself provides a deep insight into the country’s past.

As for genuine African arts and crafts, there’s no better place than the Sandton Craft Market just off the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, showcasing stunning ornaments, masks, and fabrics from all over Africa.

Johannesburg is a cultured city just waiting to be explored. Pick up the keys and start your journey.

Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.