johannesburg and surroundings

HOTEL, viLLas and spa

s O u T H a f r i c a

Museums, Culture and Science Maropeng – Cradle of Humankind Origins Centre Apartheid Museum Constitution Hill

Mining Tours Gold Reef City Cullinan Diamond Mine Jewel Africa at The Pivot at Montecasino

Natural History Maropeng – Cradle of Humankind Origins Centre

Nature and Wildlife Montecasino Bird Park Elephant Sanctuary Bushbabies Monkey Sanctuary Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre Lion Park Pilanesberg Game Reserve Johannesburg Zoo Pretoria Zoo

Outdoor and Adventure Hot Air Ballooning Gold Reef City Theme Park Orlando Towers

Golf Steyn City Golf Course

Johannesburg City, Soweto and Pretoria Tours Johannesburg City Tour Johannesburg and Soweto Tour Soweto Tour Nelson Mandela Museum and Desmond Tutu House Footsteps of Mandela Gold Reef City Apartheid Museum Pretoria City Tours Union Buildings and Pretoria Botanical Gardens Wonderboom Nature Reserve

Art and Craft Galleries Art Eye Gallery Everard Read Gallery and Circa Gallery Goodman Gallery Kim Sacks Gallery Stevenson Gallery tog’una African Artefacts Collection African Craft Market of Rosebank

Shopping Experiences Hyde Park, Melrose Arch, Rosebank Mall, Sandton City, Nelson Mandela Square, The Pivot at Montecasino

Dining Qunu Restaurant and Luke Dale Roberts X the Saxon

Theatre Auto & General Theatre On The Square Joburg Theatre Peter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre and Studio Victory Theatre Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Market Theatre in Newtown

Index

Welcome to Johannesburg, one of the world’s largest urban forests. The Gauteng region is an all-year-round destination that enjoys excellent weather throughout the seasons, with moderately cool, dry winters and hot summers with the cooling relief of sporadic thundershowers.

Johannesburg, the powerhouse of South Africa, is a city steeped in a rich cultural and political history, which attracts both business and leisure travellers. This vibrant city has a lot to offer visitors, from historic sights of political importance, traditional ties or cultural connections, to museums, art galleries and craft markets.

The charming and vibrant atmosphere makes the city of Johannesburg a sought-after destination for visitors from all around the world. Whether it’s strictly business, a well-needed getaway or a bit of both, the Saxon offers the ideal luxury retreat.

Johannesburg

Aside from the Hotel’s own excellent culinary offerings and

business facilities, there is a range of world class restaurants in

and around the city to play host to business lunches or dinners,

providing a palate range of culinary experiences. Johannesburg’s

flourishing arts and culture scenes provide wonderful gallery and

theatre outings, while a visit to one of the magnificently designed

museums offers an in-depth exploration of the city’s history, or you

could take one of our recommended citywide tours for a day of

sensory delights. Wherever you go in the city, the warm African

spirit will surely follow.

Whether you want to discover South Africa’s traditional

roots, diverse cultures or explore the lively spirit of the city and

surroundings, the Saxon Concierge is on hand to assist you with

planning your Johannesburg experience.

Johannesburg City, Soweto and Pretoria Tours

Johannesburg City TourThe extensive city tour includes a panoramic view of the city, a

drive through the central business district, a visit to traditional

healing markets and the bustling Hillbrow. You will cross the

Nelson Mandela Bridge into Newtown, the cultural district of

Johannesburg, where you will visit Museum Africa and step into a

typical shebeen of the 1950s.

The extended tour includes additional experiences such as a visit

to the historic Constitution Hill, as well as the SAB World of Beer,

where you can learn about the history of beer and take a walk

through the sample brewery before stopping in the Tap Room to

enjoy a glass or two.

Johannesburg and Soweto TourThe ultimate combination of inner city Johannesburg and vibrant

Soweto, the Johannesburg and Soweto Tour explores the rich

heritage and diverse cultures of South Africa. This tour includes scenic

views of the city and Newtown, as well as visits to traditional African

healing markets and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum.

Soweto TourSituated to the south-west of Johannesburg is Soweto, one of the

world’s most famous townships and an important monument to

Apartheid. A sprawling, self-sufficient home to millions, the spirit

of Soweto resonates in a plethora of shebeens.

The Soweto Tour explores the cultural melting pot of South Africa

and follows the road that led to the end of Apartheid and the

dawn of democracy. The tour includes a visit to the Nelson Mandela

Museum, the original Soweto home of Nelson Mandela in Vilakazi

Street. Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world to have housed

two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, namely the late former President

Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. Also on

the itinerary is the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, where

the state-of-the-art multi-media centre depicts scenes leading up to

the student uprising of 16 June 1976.

In addition, the tour offers a local craft experience at the Handiworx

project or the Soweto Green, as well as a visit to an informal

settlement, a day care centre and Baragwanath Hospital. There is

also an optional cycle tour from Phomolong.

Nelson Mandela Museum and Desmond Tutu HouseThe tour takes visitors to the Nelson Mandela Museum, the original

Soweto home of Nelson Mandela, as well as the former home of

Desmond Tutu in Vilakazi Street, Orlando West.

Footsteps of MandelaThis iconic tour takes you on an inspirational journey as you explore

the history of the late former President Nelson Mandela and the

places and people that he touched in his efforts to end Apartheid.

Starting at his home in Houghton, the tour includes visits to

Chinatown and crosses the Nelson Mandela Bridge into Newtown

and Museum Africa. The tour also includes a visit to the Nelson

Mandela Museum, the original Soweto home of Nelson Mandela

in Vilakazi Street.

Gold Reef CitySituated near the central business district of Johannesburg,

Gold Reef City has been built around a former gold mine as a

reconstruction of the early days of Johannesburg during the gold

rush era. Attractions include historic miners’ houses and a Victorian

fun fair, as well as the South African Mint Museum. You can watch

molten gold being poured and also experience a trip down the old

mine shaft. Traditional tribal dancing adds a touch of indigenous

cultural entertainment.

Apartheid MuseumThe Apartheid Museum tells the story of the triumph of the human

spirit over adversity. The museum is a superb example of design,

space and landscape, offering the international community an

insight into South Africa’s past. The exhibits have been assembled

and organised by a multi-disciplinary team of curators, film-makers,

historians and designers. They include film footage, photographs,

text panels and artefacts illustrating the events and human stories

from the Apartheid era.

Pretoria City ToursThe nearby city of Pretoria is known as the Jacaranda City because

of the abundance of jacaranda trees which are a feast of lilac

blue flowers in October. Pretoria, with its rich history, generates

a multicultural energy from a harmonious blend of traditions,

culture and architecture. The tour includes a choice of either the

Voortrekker Monument, a well known landmark in honour of

the early Voortrekker pioneers, or the Paul Kruger House, Church

Square, Freedom Square, the Mirramen Hindu Temple which was

built in 1905, and the Union Buildings designed by Sir Herbert

Baker, offering visitors a magnificent view of the city from the top

of Meintjieskop.

If you are interested in indigenous flora, you will enjoy visiting

the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens with its 50 hectares of

indigenous flowering plant species and trees. Another famous

national landmark is the Wonderboom, a unique 1 000 year old

Wild Fig Tree at the Wonderboom Nature Reserve.

Union Buildings and Pretoria Botanical GardensThe imposing Union Buildings were designed by Sir Herbert Baker.

Visitors to this historic site at the top of Meintjieskop can take in

the magnificent views of the city. The tour also includes a visit to

the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens with its 50 hectares of

indigenous flowering plant species and trees.

Wonderboom Nature ReserveWonderboom Nature Reserve is a small reserve in the Magaliesberg

mountains in the north of Pretoria. The best known attraction

within the reserve is the Wonderboom, which means ‘miracle

tree’, an immense Wild Fig tree that is estimated to be 1 000

years old and stands 25 metres tall, 55 metres wide and has 13

individual trunks.

Visitors can take a short hike up the mountain to view a cave and

man-made waterfall that cascades down the western side of the

mountain into the Apies River. The hiking trail offers spectacular

views of the surrounding areas. The reserve is also the site of the

historic Fort Wonderboom.

Art and Craft GalleriesJohannesburg offers an array of art galleries, some exhibiting the work of international artists, while others focus on developing local South African talent. The Saxon can arrange a tailor-made tour to a number of galleries and showrooms to suit the particular interests of our guests.

Art Eye GalleryArt Eye Gallery, situated in The Design Quarter in Fourways, is a vibrant, dynamic exhibition space that celebrates contemporary African art. They specialise in building up collections, sourcing rare artworks and gems that have been overlooked in the past, as well as encouraging the development of young artistic talent. The gallery exudes an atmosphere of sophistication, offering visitors an exceptional art experience.

Everard Read Gallery and Circa GalleryThe Everard Read Gallery, one of the most respected galleries in South Africa, houses noteworthy collections by highly acclaimed local and international artists. Circa, located next to the Everard Read Gallery, is a vibrant contemporary art gallery on Jellicoe Avenue, celebrating art and architecture in Johannesburg.

Goodman GalleryThe Goodman Gallery is well known for offering a frequently changing programme of thought-provoking exhibitions by various artists throughout the year.

Kim Sacks GalleryThe Kim Sacks Gallery showcases a contemporary mixture of rural creativity including fine craft, cutting-edge urban design and folk art. Kim Sacks works with and represents a multitude of southern African rural and urban craftspeople and acquires and houses a broad spectrum of pieces including ceramics, textiles and beads.

Stevenson GalleryThe Stevenson Gallery has an international exhibition programme with a particular focus on regions. In addition to exhibiting gallery artists, it has also brought in the work of celebrated artists and has in the past participated in international art events.

togu’na African Artefacts Collectiontogu’na offers a range of pieces meticulously sourced from across the African continent. Each item on display has a personal history developed through wear and use over time.

African Craft Market of RosebankThe African Craft market of Rosebank is a unique cultural shopping destination. What started as a social upliftment project to formalise the hawker trade in the area is now a bustling market known for its quality African artefacts and crafts.

Shopping ExperiencesThe areas surrounding the Saxon are recognised as world class

shopping destinations, offering a wide variety of shopping

experiences, from designer boutiques to local artefacts and curios.

The most exclusive shopping malls, including Hyde Park, Melrose

Arch, Rosebank Mall, Sandton City, and Nelson Mandela Square

are just a few minutes away and The Pivot at Montecasino are a

mere ten to fifteen minutes by car.

If you are interested in buying specialised products such as jewellery

or African artefacts, the Concierge can arrange for reputable

designers and agents to assist you in the comfort of the Saxon.

DiningJohannesburg offers an exciting culinary journey with renowned restaurants and eateries offering local delicacies and international cuisines. The Saxon is home to Qunu Restaurant and Luke Dale Roberts X the Saxon, our experiential dining restaurant.

The city offers visitors a wide choice of award-winning restaurants to suit any palate. Johannesburg’s local gourmet and craft markets have created exciting new platforms showcasing the best local artisan produce. These are popular meeting places where you can enjoy the finest local speciality foods in a vibrant atmosphere. Please consult the Saxon Concierge for the best advice and recommendations should you wish to visit some of the local Johannesburg restaurants, bistros or gourmet markets.

TheatreSouth Africa has a thriving visual and performing arts community and Johannesburg showcases many innovative homegrown productions. Theatregoers are spoilt for choice, with Johannesburg often hosting major international shows as well as a year-round programme of world class local theatre productions. Theatres include Auto & General Theatre On The Square, Joburg Theatre, Peter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre and Studio, Victory Theatre, Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City and the Market Theatre in Newtown.

Museums, Culture and ScienceFor visitors wanting to learn more about the history of South Africa and the events that have shaped it, there is an array of museums and heritage sites in and around Johannesburg covering countless topics.

The Maropeng Visitors Centre showcases the Cradle of Humankind and the development of our ancestors. The Origins Centre is a world class museum dedicated to exploring and celebrating the history of modern humankind, telling the story of the emergence of human beings and humanity.

There are also many sites showcasing South Africa’s unique democracy. The Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill illustrate the rise and fall of apartheid, through to the dawn of equality.

Mining ToursGold Reef CitySituated near the central business district of Johannesburg, Gold Reef City has been built around a former gold mine as a reconstruction of the early days of Johannesburg during the gold rush era.

Cullinan Diamond MineTo the east of Pretoria is the quaint historic mining town of Cullinan, which developed around the Premier Diamond Mine where the famous Star of Africa was found. One of the largest diamonds ever mined, the Star of Africa forms part of the Queen of England’s Crown Jewels. Diamonds can be purchased on site. Although surface tours are the norm, underground tours can be arranged on request. Tour times are specific and are not flexible.

Jewel Africa at The Pivot at Montecasino At Jewel Africa the ancient heritage of Africa meets the timeless

allure of diamonds. From authentic African curios and artefacts at

the Nguna showroom, to diamonds and the largest retail collection

of the continent’s very own tanzanite gemstone, guests can enjoy

a rich and comprehensive retail experience. You can also take an

interactive diamond educational tour.

Natural History Maropeng – Cradle of HumankindSituated an easy 1½ hour’s drive from Sandton, this internationally acclaimed tourist attraction highlights the universal relevance of the Cradle of Humankind as our ancestral home. The tour visits the Sterkfontein Caves, where the earliest hominid fossils dating back over 3 million years were discovered. At Maropeng you can experience fascinating, interactive representations of the origins of the earth and life on our planet. A boat ride takes you back 3 billion years through the elements that started life on the planet, and your journey continues through a 150 metre interactive ‘virtual cave’.

Origins CentreA visit to the Origins Centre explores the beginning of life on our planet. This museum celebrates the history of modern humankind, telling the story of the emergence of human beings and their evolution into humanity as we know it. The tour is of interest to both adults and children and is a ‘must see’ on the itinerary of anyone passing through Gauteng.

Nature and WildlifeMontecasino Bird ParkWith over 1 000 birds, small animals and reptiles, the Montecasino Bird Garden is the only sanctuary of its kind on the African continent. The venue presents entertainment and educational shows that are perfect for the whole family.

Elephant SanctuarySmall groups of visitors are guided on foot through the Elephant Sanctuary, situated to the north-west of the Hartbeespoort Dam, with guides providing in-depth information and an insight into the world of the African elephant. You are introduced to the elephants and you can touch and interact with them, followed by a short trunk-in-hand walk, which is an unforgettable experience. Guests also get the opportunity to feed the elephants and learn more about their anatomy, as well as their intricate ways of communicating with one another.

Bushbabies Monkey SanctuaryThe Bushbabies Monkey Sanctuary is a privately owned, non-subsidised sanctuary set on approximately 7 hectares and is one of only eight free-release primate sanctuaries in the world that provide for orphaned and abused animals. The sanctuary is situated west of Hartbeespoort Dam, alongside the Elephant Sanctuary, and provides a natural environment where primates can enjoy their freedom. The sanctuary, situated in one of the many gorges of the Magaliesberg mountain range, is a haven for many species of monkeys from around the world.

Ann van Dyk Cheetah CentreThe Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, situated north-east of the Hartbeespoort Dam, was previously known as the De Wildt

Cheetah Centre. The Centre was originally established in 1971

as a cheetah breeding project and has during the past 40 years

bred over 800 cheetah cubs. Various conservation projects include

a successful Cape hunting dog breeding programme (formerly known as African wild dogs). The tours coincide with feeding times and booking is essential.

Lion ParkThis tour to the Lion Park situated just north of Johannesburg offers you the opportunity of meeting the king of the wild. Admire the lion cubs, white lions and get to see the hyenas and wild dogs. You can even get your picture taken with an irresistible lion cub. Visits to the Lion Park are to be pre-booked.

Pilanesberg Game ReserveThe bushveld terrain of Pilanesberg Game Reserve is home to virtually every mammal of southern Africa as well as a variety of flora and fauna. This vast area promises thrilling big game viewing in a malaria-free environment. Visitors can join open vehicle game drives operated by experienced guides to enjoy the numerous wonders of the area.

Johannesburg ZooOriginally established in 1904, the progressive Johannesburg Zoo is set on 81 hectares and is home to over 2 000 animals. The zoo is dedicated to the accommodation, enrichment, husbandry and medical care of wild animals and is one of the few places in the world where you can see the white lion. Enjoy the views of Westcliff, one of the old exclusive baronial residential areas of early Johannesburg.

Pretoria ZooPretoria Zoo is the largest zoo in the country, situated on 85 hectares and home to more than 7 000 mammals, reptiles, fish and birds. The zoo was originally established in 1899 and received national status as South Africa’s National Zoological Gardens in 1916. Attractions include South African fur seals, the gorilla enclosure, the aquarium, a reptile park and the endangered Komodo dragon. Guests can enjoy the meandering paths and take a seven-minute cableway ride for an aerial view of the zoo.

Outdoor and AdventureFor the more adventurous at heart, the Johannesburg area offers scenic balloon safaris. The balloon safaris take you over the scenic landscape near the Hartbeespoort Dam for an unforgettable experience. Other exciting activities include cave adventures, abseiling, rock climbing and skydiving.

Hot Air BallooningEnjoy a unique experience that epitomises the spirit of Africa, from a spectacular sunrise to breathtaking scenery and exceptional views of wildlife from the air, with the added luxury of a champagne breakfast and superb cuisine.

Gold Reef City Theme ParkGold Reef City Theme Park is situated just outside the city centre on the site of an old gold mine and is themed around the Johannesburg gold rush in the late 1800s. Gold Reef City is an entertainment complex that comprises a theme park, museum and casino. Visitors can enjoy rollercoaster rides, go underground into a mine shaft, watch smelted gold being poured, try panning for gold and see traditional gumboot dancing.

Orlando TowersOriginally the site of a coal-fired power station, the Orlando Towers have become one of the most distinctive landmarks in Soweto and the site of the world’s first bungee jump between two cooling towers. There is an open-air viewing platform that offers spectacular views of Soweto and Johannesburg. The towers are used for extreme sports such as bungee jumping, abseiling, zipline, pendulum swinging and more.

GolfThe fantastic year-round weather and exceptional golf courses make Johannesburg a golfer’s paradise. The city has a number of golf courses that have hosted the European PGA Tour and South African golfing events.

Steyn City Golf CourseShould you wish to visit one of the local Johannesburg golf courses or play a round of golf at the Steyn City Golf Course, the Saxon Concierge is available at all times to help you make all the necessary arrangements to suit your preferences and time schedule.

Steyn City is a groundbreaking lifestyle residential estate which boasts an award-winning Jack Nicklaus designed golf course that is on par with the best in the world. Nineteen, the clubhouse restaurant and bar, is ideal for taking in the magnificent views over the golf course and enjoying a refreshing drink and a delicious meal.

36 Saxon Road Sandhurst Johannesburg 2196 PO Box 567 Saxonwold 2132 South AfricaTelephone +27 (0)11 292 6000 / +27 (0)87 375 7777 Email info@saxon.co.za Website www.saxon.co.za