Johannesburg is an extraordinary city, born just over 120 years ago with the discovery of gold and since then, has been a city of commerce and opportunity. Even today Johannesburg continues to attract those looking for opportunity – it is a city populated by people who have come to realise their dreams. The area of Johannesburg began on a vast undulating grassy plain, interspersed with ridges and 'koppies' (small hills) in an area known as the Witwatersrand, named after the white water springs that coursed through the area. Beneath that rough, but serene area, was gold. Until George Harrison's arrival, an Australian prospector who came in search of mineral wealth, the Witwatersrand lay undiscovered. In 1886, after George had sold his gold claim for just £10, Johannesburg was born. He could not have envisaged the significant world history that would unfold here in the province of Gauteng, place of gold.johannesburg-airport Since then, the city has grown and became the largest and most populous city in South Africa. It is also the largest city in the world not built on or near a major water source. It is home to Africa’s tallest building, with a large CBD and many smaller urban centres. Today, the road infrastructure, telecommunications, health care, shopping, visitor attractions, dining and nightlife are world class. Johannesburg is fortunate to have one of the world’s most pleasant climates, called a 'subtropical highland' climate. The city enjoys a dry, sunny climate in the summer months of October to April, with the exception of short late-afternoon downpours, often accompanied by magnificent electric storms. Temperatures are 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 winter maximum of 16 °C (61 °F) in June. Winter and spring are the sunniest times of the year, with mild days but chilly nights. Magnificent trees have grown on what was previously grassland, creating the world’s largest urban forest with more than six million trees, and abundant birdlife. Like most of South Africa, Johannesburg is malaria-free - no precautions are necessary when visiting. The tap water is safe to drink, but should you be concerned or wish to, bottled water is readily available throughout the city and country.
