Choose from 633 Fun Things to Do in Middle East And Africa
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Sir Lowry's Pass
This mountain pass in Helderberg was named after Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole, who was governor of the Cape in 1828. Today's four-lane highway is a far cry from the original pass, when travelers would have had a far more challenging time negotiating this formidable mountain range. Now Sir Lowry’s Pass allows easy passage across this daunting natural barrier with the chance to enjoy some spectacular views along the way.
The striking beauty of the area, which is often mysteriously shrouded in mist and rain, more than makes up for the traffic that inevitably builds up through Somerset West and around Gordons Bay. The summit provides one of the most dramatic backdrops in the Western Cape, and on a clear day it’s even possible to see the range from the southern suburbs of Cape Town some 37 miles (60 km) away.
Practical Info
Sir Lowry's Pass can be reached by following the N2 highway from Cape Town. The car park on the approach to the top of the pass on the western side is a good spot for stopping and exploring the area.
Address: Sir Lowry's Pass, Helderberg 7135, South Africa
From $ 85
Stoney Point Penguin Colony
In the small town of Betty's Bay near Cape Town sits a colony of African penguins at a promontory called Stony Point. The colony is not as well-known as the one at Boulders Beach, but there are thousands of the little penguins in Betty's Bay – and, usually, fewer tourists. The colony is fenced in to protect it from predators, and there are raised walkways that allow visitors to watch the birds without disturbing them.
African penguins – also called Jackass penguins for their donkey-like braying – typically nest on islands, and the Stony Point colony is one of only three mainland colonies in South Africa. The penguins have also been known to make themselves at home in Betty's Bay residents' backyards.
Practical Info
Betty's Bay is just under 60 miles from Cape Town. Admission to the Stony Point penguin colony is SAR10 per person.
Address: Betty's Bay, South Africa
Admission: SAR10
From $ 82
South African Jewish Museum
The South African Jewish Museum, opened in 2000 in Cape Town, features exhibits highlighting the Jewish history of South Africa – with its roots largely in Eastern Europe. Visitors can see part of Cape Town's Old Synagogue, built in 1863 and situated on the same grounds as the museum, as well as the richly decorated 1905 Great Synagogue while exploring the interactive displays.
In addition to the pieces of Judaica, the museum also plays a documentary about Nelson Mandela and includes a remarkable collection of Japanese netsuke art.
Practical Info
The South African Jewish Museum is located near the National Gallery and Company Gardens. The site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 5pm and on Friday from 10am to 2pm. The museum is closed on Jewish holidays. Tickets cost SAR50 for adults, SAR30 for seniors and are free for children under 12. Photo ID is required to enter the museum.
Address: 88 Bouquet Street, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
Admission: SAR50
From $ 4
Solar Boat Museum
Built in 1985, the Solar Boat Museum is home to one of the world's most unique finds—an ancient Egyptian solar barge that was buried near Khufu's tomb at the Great Pyramid of Giza as early as 2500 BC to help transport the pharaoh to the afterlife. It is one of the world's oldest and most remarkably preserved ships from antiquity.
After being exhumed in 1954 and painstakingly reconstructed from 1,224 pieces—a process that took over 13 years—the mighty ship is now on display for the public to see. The museum offers fascinating insight into the ancient ship's discovery and reconstruction, but the boat itself is, of course, the highlight. Constructed from cedar wood and measuring 143 feet (43.6 meters) long and 19 feet (5.9 meters) wide, the ship is an impressive sight. Three floors of walkways allow visitors to view it from all angles.
Practical Info
The Solar Boat museum is located next to the Great Pyramid of Giza (Khufu), and is open daily (summer 8:30am–5pm; winter 8:30am–4pm). Adult admission costs E£50.
Address: Pyramids Zone, El Haram, Giza, Egypt
Hours: Summer 8:30am–5pm; winter 8:30am–4pm
Admission: Adult: E£50; Student: E£25
From $ 20
St Catherine's Monastery
This legendary Greek Orthodox St. Catherine Monastery is one of the oldest places of worship in the world.
Founded in the 4th century, the monastery stands on the site where Moses saw the burning bush. When you visit, it’s possible to see a living descendant of that very bush.
The walled monastery complex includes a fortress, chapel, the 6th century Church of the Transfiguration and monastic buildings. The monastery was never attacked, so its famous library of rare manuscripts, priceless icons, reliquaries and artworks is complete.
Towering 2,285 meters (7,495 feet) above the monastery is Mount Sinai. For many, the trek to the summit is a highlight of a visit to the monastery, either by following the camel trail or climbing the Steps of Repentance. At the top you’ll be rewarded by spectacular views, plus the knowledge that you are standing on the spot where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
Practical Info
World Heritage-listed St. Catherine’s Monastery is at the foot of Mount Sinai, on the Sinai Peninsula. The best way to get here is on an organized tour.
You could also take a bus from Sharm el Sheikh, then pick up a local taxi from the nearby village of Al Milga.
Address: Mount Sinai, Sinai Peninsula, Mt Sinai 4828513, Egypt
Hours: Open 9am - 12pm. Closed Fri, Sun, and all Greek Orthodox holidays
Admission: Free
From $ 50
Stone Town
Often referred to as Mji Mkongwe—the Swahili word for old town—Stone Town is the oldest part of the Zanzibar and a popular destination for visitors to this incredible island. Pastel-colored mosques and ancient Persian, Indian and European-style stone buildings line the cobbled streets of lively place that was once a hub for spice and slave trade, but today, has become a hub for tourism and travel. Trans-continental influences can be seen in the culture and community of crowded city street corners and are also evident in the richly-spiced food available throughout Stone Town.
Visitors can navigate the maze of narrow passes that connect major city streets to the rest of this lively destination on foot or aboard bikes or motos. It’s the perfect way to explore the island’s unique architecture, which includes former palaces, churches and mosques that date back as far as the early 1800s.
In addition to the traditional Mwanakwerekwe Market, travelers should explore the Forodhani Gardens, the Darajani Market bazaar and the Peace Memorial Museum. And no trip to the Spice Island is complete without one of Zanzibar’s famous spice tours, which takes visitors straight to the forests and plantations where some of the nation’s most precious items are harvested and sold to the rest of the world.
Practical Info
Stone Town is located on the western coast of Zanzibar. It has a tiny airport where time-crunched travelers can get flights to the mainland without much hassle. Local ferries, which depart about every hour, provide the most popular access to Stone Town from Tanzania.
Address: Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
From $ 41
St Simeon Monastery
The fortress-like 7th century Monastery of St. Simeon was first dedicated to the 4th century local saint Abba Hedra, who renounced the world on his wedding day. It was rebuilt in the 10th century and dedicated to St. Simeon. From here the monks traveled into Nubia, in the hope of converting the Nubians to Christianity, until Salah ad-Din destroyed the monastery in 1173.
Surrounded by desert sands, the monastery was built on two levels, the lower level of stone and the upper level of mud brick, surrounded by 10 meter (3 foot) high walls. The basilica has traces of frescoes, and nearby is the chamber where St. Simeon prayed with his beard tied to the ceiling in case he fell asleep. The cells with their mastaba (bench) beds, once provided accommodation for about 300 resident monks and some 100 pilgrims. The last room on the right still has graffiti from Muslim pilgrims who stayed here en route to Mecca.
Practical Info
To get to the monastery from the boat landing, negotiate with the camel drivers, agreeing in advance how much time you want to spend and a price, or scramble up the desert track (about 25 minutes). Alternatively, you can take the ferry to the Tombs of the Nobles and ride a camel or donkey from there, but remember to bring water.
Address: Deir Amba Samaan, Aswan, Egypt
Hours: Open daily 7am - 5pm
Admission: 15 L.E.
From $ 35
Sphinx
One of the largest and oldest monumental statues in the world, the 66-foot-tall (20-meter-tall) Sphinx of Giza is an iconic symbol of Ancient Egypt. This sculpture, dating back to the reign of Khafre, is still the subject of debate over its meaning, age, and original builder, but with the head of a human and the body of a lion, the Sphinx is said to symbolize strength, power, and wisdom. The mystery surrounding its long-forgotten purpose is almost as intriguing as its appearance.
Today, the Sphinx is a star attraction in the nightly Pyramid Sound and Light Show, which recounts the history of Egypt through colored lights with the Sphinx as narrator.
Seeing the Sphinx is a must-do on any trip to Cairo, and there are a number of ways to make the most of your visit. Full-day tours often combine a visit to the Pyramids of Giza with a trip to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the Egyptian Museum. Other options include a camel ride or a cruise on the River Nile.
Practical Info
The Sphinx is located to the northeast of the site of the Pyramid of Khafre, surprisingly close to the edge of Cairo's suburbs and on the Giza Plateau. The best way to visit is by guided tour. A taxi can also be taken from the center of Cairo to the Pyramids of Giza complex. Once there, it is possible to walk or take a camel ride around the site.
Did You Know? It was only in 1905 when sand was cleared away from the statue that the full magnitude of the body of the Sphinx was revealed.
Address: Al Haram, Giza, Egypt
Hours: Daily 8am–5pm
Admission: E£80
From $ 6
South African National Gallery
Hundreds of works that tell some of South Africa’s stories populate the lofty walls and airy exhibit spaces of single-story Cape Dutch-style South African National Gallery. The art here starts before you enter – intricately-carved scenes on the Burmese teak courtyard doors were crafted by an early 20th century artist and British colonial administrator. Inside, similarly carved panels by the same artist, line entryways that lead to thousands of paintings, photographs, unusual sculptures, architectural elements, dyed and woven fabrics and written and sketched paper works –collections that span colonial history through the present day.
In addition to African, South African and apartheid art, the museum also has a large collection of British, French, Dutch and Flemish pieces. Perhaps the gallery’s most famous modern piece is the three alien-esque seated Butcher Boys crafted of plaster and animal horns by South African artist Jane Alexander.
In addition to its permanent collections, the space regularly hosts popular temporary exhibits by emerging and eminent local artists. Still, it’s possible to take in everything in about two hours. Afterward, the National Gallery’s setting affords a continuation for your pensive mood – many opt for a post-visit stroll in the adjacent (and free) Company’s Gardens with views of Table Mountain, a rose pond, 8,000 species of plants, fish pond and aviary.
Practical Info
The South African National Gallery is located in the middle of Government Avenue in the City Center; it is behind the South African Museum & Planetarium and accessible via taxi or the
Annandale bus. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. except major holidays. Admission is R 30 for adults, R 15 for kids ages 6-18 and children under 5 are free. A family ticket, which includes admission for two adults and two children, can be purchased for the discounted rate of R 75.
Address: Government Avenue, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. except major holidays
Admission: Admission is R 30 for adults, R 15 for kids ages 6-18 and children under 5 are free
From $ 43
Swartberg Pass
One of the best-known drives in South Africa is the Swartberg Pass, known for its dramatic scenery. The pass was cut into the Swartberg Mountains in the 1880s. It's part of the R328 road, and it isn't paved, it has some tight hairpins, and is quite steep through the mountains – it climbs nearly 3,300 feet in just under 7.5 miles.
This scenic route is particularly known for the geologic formations of the mountains into which the road was cut. There's a cliff known as the “Wall of Fire” along the route, and quite a bit of colorful quartzite is visible at the northern end of the pass.
Practical Info
The Swartberg Pass is a little less than 17 miles long, connecting the towns of Prince Albert and Oudtshoorn. A 4x4 isn't required for the gravel and sand road, but it can be relatively dangerous to drive in inclement weather.
Address: South Africa
From $ 94
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Muscat’s most magnificent religious building and the only mosque in Oman to open its doors to tourists, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Built in the Ghubrah suburb back in 2001, the landmark building is an impressive feat of contemporary Islamic architecture and one of the largest mosques in the Gulf, with the 40,000-square-meter grounds able to accommodate an incredible 20,000 worshippers at one time.
Set within a vast walled compound, overlooked by 5 towering minarets, the Grand Mosque encompasses two prayer halls encircled by a courtyard, gardens and a series of water features. Incorporating elements of Omani, Persian and Egyptian design, the complex is sculpted entirely from pristine white Indian sandstone and includes a Ladies’ Prayer Hall, library and meeting rooms. The crowning glory of the mosque is the lavish central prayer hall, a gleaming mass of white and grey marble adorned with elaborate tile work and featuring a 14-meter tall Swarovski crystal chandelier and the second largest carpet in the world – a 70-meter-long, hand-woven Iranian rug. Beneath the dramatic 50-meter high gold, latticed dome, there is space for up to 6,600 prayer mats.
While the mosque welcomes visitors, non-Muslims may only enter the main prayer hall during designated times and both men and women entering the mosque are required to follow the dress code – arms, legs and hair (women only) must be covered.
Address: Muscat, Oman
From $ 32
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Part of Dubai’s luxe Madinat Jumeirah resort, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a modern re-creation of a traditional Arabian souk, with an upscale touch. In place of higgledy-piggledy stalls, a web of alleyways echoes a classic bazaar filled with boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafés.
The Basics
The Souk Madinat Jumeirah replicates classic Arabian market architecture, with earth-toned wind towers, and carved timber ceilings and arches. Inside, about 75 outlets await, from gift emporiums to boutiques, jewelers, and international chains. Dozens of restaurants and bars serve an array of different cuisines, and their tables spill out beside the palm-lined waterways that lend the souk its “Little Venice” nickname. The final touch is the Madinat Theatre, which offers evening shows.
The souk appears on many Dubai city tours that include time to roam the shops and enjoy the Burj Al Arab views from the waterside terraces. Evening tours let you enjoy the complex at its prettiest, when its waterways and wind towers are illuminated and music adds to the ambience. The souk is also featured on many Dubai shopping tours as a contrast to glitzier malls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a must for shoppers, foodies, and night owls.
- Take sunscreen if you’re planning to visit the courtyard cafés or terrace bars.
- Cabs are plentiful at the souk.
- If you’re driving, underground parking is available and is free for an initial period.
- The souk is wheelchair-friendly, with access via elevators at the entrance.
How to Get There
The Souk Madinat Jumeirah lies south of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai’s Jumeirah district, where Jumeirah Street meets Umm Suqeim Street. Ride the metro to the Mall of the Emirates station—the nearest metro stop—and catch a cab or one of the regular buses that run to the souk.
When to Get There
The Souk is open all week, year-round, with its shops open 10am-11pm and its restaurants 8am–2am. Tourists flock here during Dubai’s winter (Dec. to March), so expect crowds at peak times. Things quiet down come summer, although the air conditioning makes the souk an ideal refuge from the heat.
Sail the Souk Waterways
Be sure to ride a wooden abra boat along the souk waterways while you’re here. Follow the signs to the abra station and hire a boat to cruise the turquoise channels, admiring the palms, wind towers, and views of the Burj Al Arab en route.
Address: Umm Suqeim Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 17
Sultan Hassan Mosque
Egypt is home to some of the world’s grandest mosques, with some of the most detailed and dazzling located in Cairo. The Sultan Hassan Mosque, situated near the city's famous and majestic Citadel, is one of Cairo's most impressive Islamic structures.
Sultan Hassan bin Mohammed bin Qala'oun was only 13 years old when he first ascended to the throne. After being deposed and imprisoned for three years, he reclaimed power and built his eponymous mosque in 1256 A.D. The massive Sultan Hassan Mosque complex measures 26,000 square feet and is also home to a madrasa, or religious school, containing educational facilities for each of the four main Sunni sects of Islam. An estimated 30,000 Dirhams was spent each day to build the Sultan Hassan, a substantial amount of money that provided the structure’s impressive stony exterior and bold, extravagant interior.
Practical Info
The Sultan Hassan Mosque is open to the public daily from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., although it does close for prayers. It is located in the vicinity of the Citadel. Visitors can take the metro to the Mohammed Farid stop and then take a taxi to the Citadel at a cost of about 10 Egyptian pounds. Upon arrival, travelers should ask their drive to point them toward Sultan Hassan. Men, women and children must dress modestly; women must cover their heads and everyone must take off their shoes before entering the mosque.
Address: Cairo Governorate, Cairo, Egypt
Hours: Daily from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
From $ 22
Table Mountain and Cableway
Table Mountain is a must-see for all Cape Town visitors. The panoramic views from the top of its 3,563-foot (1,086-meter) peak are well worth the climb—though you won’t have to break a sweat thanks to the mountain’s two cableways, each with a revolving car ferrying passengers to the summit. Once at the top, a series of hiking trails show off Table Mountain National Park’s geographic features, while daredevils can test their mettle by rappelling from the upper cable station.
The Basics
Gazing down at Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain is an iconic experience. Just about every Cape Town city tour includes a trip to the top of Table Mountain, and the aerial cableway is included in the Cape Town City Pass. If you’re pressed for time, opt for a private tour with skip-the-line access to the Table Mountain cableway, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can challenge yourself with a guided hike up the mountain (and a sweat-free cable car ride back down).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Table Mountain is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Cape Town.
- Without skip-the-line access, in peak season (December to April) be prepared to wait in line for as long as an hour for a cableway ticket.
- Note that the cableway doesn’t operate in strong wind.
- Take something warm to wear, as it’s significantly chillier on the mountain than in Cape Town.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to use the trail network at the top of the mountain.
- The cableway is accessible to wheelchair users, as are some areas atop the mountain.
How to Get There
The lower Table Mountain cable station, near the western edge of Cape Town, is best accessed by car or local taxi. The MyCiTi bus and the hop-on hop-off bus stop here as well.
When to Get There
Visibility from the top of Table Mountain tends to be best in the early morning or in the evening. Visit in May through November to avoid lines and crowds.
Amenities at the Top
Once you’re at the top of Table Mountain, you’ll find plenty of amenities to help you enjoy your time (and the spectacular views), including a café and a gift shop. A Wi-Fi lounge offers free connectivity and charging ports to keep mobile devices juiced up. Speaking of mobile devices, you can download two free audio tours with insights into the legends of Table Mountain.
Address: Lower Cable Station, Tafelberg Road, Cape Town 8001, South Africa
Hours: Vary by month
Admission: Varies by season and time of day
From $ 3
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with five slopes of varying difficulties, lengths, and gradients, including the world's first indoor black run and largest indoor snow park. Aside from the sporting opportunities, the park offers plenty of snow-centric fun for non-skiers as well.
The Basics
The idea of skiing on real snow in the desert is so very Dubai, and when it's over 100°F (38°C) outside, stepping into this indoor winter wonderland can be a hugely surreal relief. Skiers can choose between five runs and a freestyle zone outfitted with rails and jumps, and while the vertical drop is only 196 feet (60 meters), even advanced skiers will appreciate the novelty of the site's lift-accessed "mountain." Non-skiers can ride toboggans or the giant ball run, take a spin on the ski lift, observe Ski Dubai's resident colony of gentoo penguins and king penguins, or soar above the faux mountain on the Snow Bullet zip line. Two cafes offer areas to relax and sip hot chocolate in the 25°F (-4°C) weather.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must for families and active travelers.
- Choose between a single attraction ticket and an unlimited park pass.
- All equipment and winter gear is included, but remember to bring a hat and gloves.
- New skiers can sign up for a lesson from ski instructors at the Ski Dubai ski school.
- Lockers are available for a small fee.
How to Get There
Ski Dubai is inside the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest malls in the world. The easiest way to get there is by riding the metro red line to the Mall of the Emirates station.
When to Get There
Ski Dubai is open and snow-covered throughout the year, so there isn't really a bad time to visit. As one of Dubai's most popular attractions, especially when outdoor temperatures start to soar, it's a good idea to book in advance. Guests interested in the penguin encounter should plan to book at least 24 hours in advance.
Skiing Up an Appetite
Skiers and non-skiers alike should set aside some time to visit the site's Avalanche Cafe. Located mid-slope and accessible via the chairlift or a short uphill climb, this alpine-themed eatery is the perfect setting for people watching and sipping hot chocolate. The St Moritz Café, located at the Ski Dubai entrance, serves heartier fare, including burgers and French onion soup.
Address: Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Thurs-Sat 10am-midnight;
Sun-Wed 10am-11pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 57
Souk El Had d'Agadir
With around 6,000 shops and stalls crammed into a walled compound in the old medina, Agadir’s rambling market is one of the biggest in all of northern Africa. Visiting Souk El Had is an experience in itself, with a maze of colorful goods on sale, from Moroccan lamps to handcarved bowls.
Join the crowds of locals and tourists to haggle over handicrafts and authentic souvenirs; watch local craftsmen at work; or browse the rows of bargain clothing, cosmetics and household goods. The market is also the best place to shop for fresh foods, with huge piles of vegetables, flowers and exotic fruits, plus a rainbow of pungent spices, dried fruits and candies. Don’t forget to sample the argan oil!
Practical Info
The Souk El Had d'Agadir is located on Boulevard Abderrahim Bouabid in central Agadir and is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8am to 6pm.
Address: Rue 2 Mars, Agadir 80090, Morocco
Hours: Tue-Sun 8am-6pm
From $ 13
Siq
The signature sight of Petra, Jordan’s signature sight, the Siq is a geological wonder: a stark rift in the land, smoothed by time into a scenic swirl of sandstone. The walls reach more than 500 feet (150 meters), while the path narrows to just 7 feet (2 meters), and the view of the Treasury at the end is one of the world’s great reveals.
The Basics
The Siq is the most common approach to rose-red Petra, the lost city created by the mysterious Nabateans over 2,300 years ago. To enter the Siq, you’ll need a Petra admission ticket; the 2-day and 3-day tickets are excellent value compared to the single-day version. Besides, the site requires lengthy exploration.
Almost all Petra tours start by walking—or occasionally riding—down the Siq toward the Treasury. One particularly notable Siq tour is the Petra night tour, when flickering candles illuminate the canyon, creating a sense of mystery and drama. It’s worth visiting by day first to savor the Treasury reveal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Even if you’re not hugely into history, the beauty of Petra makes it an absolute must-visit on any trip to Jordan.
- Bring your camera: As the sunlit pink stone of the Treasury comes into view between the towering walls of the Siq, it’s an incredible sight to behold.
- As you stroll the Siq, keep an eye out for the drainage systems and the niches where guards may have stayed.
How to Get There
You can reach Wadi Musa, the support town for Petra, by minibus from both Aqaba and Amman; the visitor center for Petra is a bit over a mile (2 kilometers) from the station. If you’d like to visit Petra as a day trip, an organized tour with door-to-door round-trip transfers is the most practical option. Note that the site is at least three hours away from Amman.
When to Get There
Beat the crowds by arriving as early as you can bear during Jordan’s tourist peaks: spring (mid-March to mid-May) and fall (mid-September to mid-November). The site opens at 6am year-round, and the best way to arrive early is to stay at one of the many hotels in Wadi Musa.
The Siq at Petra: Not Just a Canyon
While the Siq looks like a canyon—or an Arabic wadi—shaped by water carving a course through the landscape, it’s actually a geological fissure. The Siq was formed when tectonic forces split the land in two, and it’s been smoothed as water followed the line of the fault over the course of centuries.
Address: Wadi Musa, Jordon, Jordan
Admission: Varies
From $ 62
Soweto
Formally known as the South West Township, Soweto has historically been synonymous with resistance to apartheid, South Africa’s former policy of racial segregation. In the 1970s and '80s, the sprawling district on the edge of Johannesburg was frequently in the news, especially as the Soweto Uprising of 1976, a series of protests led by black schoolchildren, produced one of the world’s most iconic news images: that of child Hector Pieterson, shot by police, dying in another protester’s arms. This complex history has shaped the township, where its cultural richness and important political significance now shine through in its moving museums, historical monuments, and strong traditions held by its some 3 million residents. Read on to learn how to visit Soweto, one of the largest black urban settlements in South Africa.
Best Ways to Visit Soweto
Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history, culture, food, and modern life in the township. For any Soweto tour, your tour guide will most likely meet you in central Johannesburg or Pretoria and provide roundtrip transportation by car; both full-day and half-day tours are available. A visit to the community can also be combined with a general Johannesburg city tour or a short Pretoria tour. Otherwise, it’s a 15-mile (25-km) drive along N17 to reach the South Western Township from downtown Johannesburg. While it’s possible to drive yourself, the township’s layout can be confusing.
What To See in Soweto
Johannesburg’s most famous district features a number of well-known tourist attractions, including the history-rich Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Museum, where Soweto Uprising victims are honored. The emotional Nelson Mandela House (Nelson Mandela National Museum), set on Vilakazi Street, is dedicated to the history and mission of the famous South African leader, while the former home of another Nobel Prize winner and social rights activist, Desmond Tutu, can be found just down the street. Visitors can learn about other local leaders through stops at buildings that honor their memories: the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Diepkloof and the Regina Mundi Church, one of South Africa’s largest Roman Catholic churches.
Kliptown, the oldest settlement in Soweto and home to Walter Sisulu Square, is visited for the role it played as the site of the 1955 Congress of the People. This unprecedented meeting produced the Freedom Charter, one of the first documents of resistance during the apartheid era. Also of note is the FNB Soccer Stadium on the border of Soweto, where many South Africans spend their leisure time watching games; and the Orlando Towers, prominent Soweto landmarks that were once cooling towers for a coal-powered plant but are now popular bungee-jumping sites covered in murals by local artists.
Address: Johannesburg, South Africa
From $ 30
Souq Waqif
Centuries ago the Bedouin came to Souq Waqif to trade their sheep, goats and wool for other essentials. Today, the souq—one of the oldest in Doha—has been rejuvenated to look like it did in the 19th century, complete with several painstakingly restored Qatari buildings.
While Souq Waqif has enjoyed a bit of a renaissance in recent years, it remains one of Doha’s most traditional marketplaces, making it a great place to buy traditional Qatari clothing, incense, perfumes and spices. Hamali, porters equipped with wheelbarrows, still transport shoppers’ purchases through the alleys, and officers at the local police station still dress in 1940s era uniforms. Shops are interspersed with restaurants and shisha lounges where hungry shoppers can find refreshment.
Practical Info
If you plan to shop, keep in mind that most of the shops in Souq Waqif close between 1pm and 4pm, though many of the restaurants remain open.
Address: Between Al Asmakh street and Al Ahmed Street, Doha, Qatar
Hours: Varies by business
From $ 45
Sun City
Sun City is a resort and entertainment complex located north-west of Johannesburg. One of South Africa's top leisure destinations, the resort complex is conveniently located on the South African Garden Route and next to Pilanesberg National Park. Highlights of Sun City include a casino, spa, water park, and golf courses.
The Basics
The casino is the heart of Sun City, and offers everything you would expect of a world-class gaming facility. Among the multitude of other attractions are a health spa, the Valley of Waves water park, and two 18-hole golf courses—one in the crater of an extinct casino, the other featuring live crocodiles in its water feature. Families with kids can stop by the Boardwalk, which hosts a slate of activities for children of all ages.
Day tours from Sun City to the adjacent (and malaria-free) Pilanesberg National Park offer a chance to spot Africa’s coveted Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. It’s also possible to visit Sun City and the Pilanesberg Game Reserve on a day trip from Johannesburg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Guests must be 18 years or older to gamble in Sun City's casinos.
- The resort has six different options for accommodations, with a variety of handicap-accessible rooms available.
How to Get There
Most day trips from Johannesburg to Sun City include round-trip transportation, as the resort lies roughly three hours away by road. Flight transfers from the Johannesburg airport are also available. Sun City is a popular stop for travelers who rent a car to drive the Garden Route, and Port Elizabeth is the closest town.
When to Get There
The resort's temperate, malaria-free climate makes it suitable for visits year-round. Sun City is typically most crowded during summer (December through January) and the Easter school holidays. The dry winter season (May through September) is a good time to visit if you want to spot wildlife at Pilanesberg, when animals tend to congregate around water sources.
Pilanesberg National Park
Just three hours from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is one of South Africa's most easily accessible game reserves. Featuring the coveted Big Five, the game reserve is also attractive for the fact that it is malaria-free.
Address: Sun City Resort, 0316, South Africa
From $ 66