Gauteng may be South Africa’s smallest province, but it packs a punch when it comes to culture, history, and unforgettable attractions. Known as the economic heart of the country, Gauteng is home to the bustling cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria, yet it also offers tranquil escapes, wildlife encounters, and deep dives into the country’s complex past. For travelers heading to South Africa in 2025, Gauteng is the perfect mix of urban energy and cultural discovery. Here are the five best places to visit in Gauteng this year.
1. Apartheid Museum – Johannesburg
No trip to Gauteng is complete without a visit to the Apartheid Museum, one of the most significant cultural institutions in South Africa. Opened in 2001, the museum documents the rise and fall of apartheid, taking visitors through an immersive journey of the country’s turbulent history.
Exhibits include personal stories, photographs, and powerful multimedia installations that highlight the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of South Africans during this era. Visitors enter through segregated doors, symbolically experiencing the reality of racial division. The museum also pays tribute to leaders like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, whose roles were central in shaping the new democratic South Africa.
As of 2025, the museum continues to draw both international tourists and locals who want to better understand South Africa’s past. Its thought-provoking displays ensure that the lessons of apartheid remain relevant for generations to come.
2. Union Buildings – Pretoria
The Union Buildings in Pretoria serve as the official seat of the South African government and are a landmark of national pride. Designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1913, the sandstone structure is an architectural masterpiece. Its sweeping terraces and gardens offer panoramic views of Pretoria, making it one of the most photographed spots in the province.
The Union Buildings have also been the backdrop for historic moments. Nelson Mandela was inaugurated here in 1994 as the country’s first democratic president, an event that remains etched in global history. Today, visitors can tour the gardens, admire the giant statue of Mandela, and enjoy the peaceful setting, which contrasts beautifully with the significance of the building itself.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply want to take in the views, the Union Buildings are an essential stop when exploring Gauteng.
3. Cradle of Humankind – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Just a short drive from Johannesburg lies the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating look into human origins. This site is one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological areas, with fossil discoveries dating back millions of years.
The Sterkfontein Caves, part of the Cradle, have yielded famous finds such as “Mrs. Ples” and “Little Foot,” fossils that have reshaped our understanding of early human history. Visitors can explore the caves with guided tours, learning about the excavation process and the scientific importance of these discoveries.
Nearby, the Maropeng Visitor Centre features interactive exhibits on evolution, climate change, and archaeology, making the experience educational as well as awe-inspiring. In 2025, the Cradle remains a must-visit destination for those intrigued by history, science, and the story of humankind.
4. Maboneng Precinct – Johannesburg
For a completely different vibe, head to the Maboneng Precinct, one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant urban neighborhoods. Once a rundown industrial district, Maboneng has been transformed into a hub of creativity, art, and nightlife.
The precinct is alive with energy, offering everything from boutique galleries and artisan markets to stylish restaurants and rooftop bars. Street art decorates nearly every corner, creating an open-air gallery that reflects the spirit of modern South Africa. On Sundays, the Market on Main is a popular gathering place, featuring food stalls, local crafts, and live performances.
In 2025, Maboneng continues to thrive as a symbol of Johannesburg’s resilience and reinvention. It’s the perfect place to experience the city’s contemporary culture, mingle with locals, and enjoy a lively night out.
5. Pilanesberg National Park
While Gauteng is often associated with city life, its proximity to Pilanesberg National Park makes it a dream destination for wildlife lovers. Located about two hours from Johannesburg, the park is one of South Africa’s most accessible safari locations and is home to the legendary Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.
Set within an extinct volcanic crater, Pilanesberg offers a unique landscape of rolling hills, open grasslands, and rocky outcrops. Game drives, both guided and self-drive, allow visitors to encounter a wide variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, hippos, and more than 300 bird species.
For those seeking a longer stay, lodges and camps within the park provide opportunities to experience the bush at sunrise and sunset, when wildlife is most active. In 2025, Pilanesberg remains a favorite for travelers wanting a taste of safari without the longer journey to Kruger National Park.
