What are the opening hours?

Monday 09:00 - 17:00 Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00 Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00 Thursday 09:00 - 17:00 Friday 09:00 - 17:00 Saturday 09:00 - 17:00 Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

TimeTraveller Adventures

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TimeTraveller Adventures

At TimeTraveller Adventures we only do 5-star rated historic adventures, in Jozi and Pretoria. There is safe parking available at the start of all our tours.

Our tours are safe. Our guides knows the city and will keep you out of harms way

03/09/2024

14 September
Street art, food &coffee!

This tour doesn't roll around often!

On a Saturday morning Braamfontein is THE vibe. Music emanating from every possible window and lots of people roaming around, is mostly thanks to the playground market with restaurants and coffee shops coming to the party!

The area has a rich history, and it was once a hub of commercial activity during the gold rush era. Today, it is a bustling urban center that is home to a diverse range of people, including university students, artists, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Braam is one the best examples of inner-city regeneration and Braam is beautiful.

Our amble, with a coffee in hand, aims to explore the street art that adds some colour to the neighbourhood. High on the agenda is the phenomenal home-grown talents of Hannelie Coetzee & faith47.

We march up the hill to the liberty building to visit the brand new Indwe park – home to an amazing mosaic by Spaza art gallery, depicting everything we love about Joziburg. This park only has indigenous plants.

On the Western side of Bertha Street there are some amazing murals with excellent and thought-provoking social commentary.

We end in front of the Playground, just before 12. They have amazing food stalls, from spring rolls to curly fries and anything from fruit juice to a well-stocked bar. A very popular activity is the “paint and sip” creative arts opportunity, there is also fashion and art on sale. Really something for everyone.

Our walk starts at 09:30 from in front Kitchener’s in De Beer Street and end at 12:00 in front of the playground market, Also in De Beer Street. The fee is R250pp

02/09/2024

7 September @09:00

We are traversing every inch of historic Pretoria on this adventure!

Starting at Kruger House we stroll via Loreto Convent and City Hall to Burgers Park. We take a look at hidden history of Pretoria:
Why were 2 presidents in trouble for minting a pound? Who said the devil doesn’t exist? Why was Loreto convent filled with Sandbags?

From the park we make our way through the arcades, with some amazing mosaics to Church square. We also pause to evaluate Winston’s great escape.

We are fortunate to be able to explore the Ou Raadsaal building in detail. From the president’s offices to the copper bars that pull out of the walls. Janet will tell tales of poverty and opulence as well as greed and corruption.

This is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you pondering history for a while.

The fee is R325 that includes a visit to Kruger house and the ou Raadsaal building.

#

29/08/2024

Lord kitchener in Johannesburg - in front of the Rissik street post office - after johannesburg was besieged in late May 1900

28/08/2024

Remember our Dynamite & Gin adventure this Saturday 31 August!

It will blow your mind

27/08/2024

7 September, 5 October

Join the TimeTraveller for the extraordinary journey through old Pretoria.

Not only have we gained access to the old “Raadsaal” building that dates from 1889, one of the first government buildings to be upgraded after the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand in 1886.

But also to the newly refurbished offices of oom Paul and his state secretary Leyds.

On this walking adventure we also stroll past Bosman street church, Loreto convent, Burgers Park and City Hall.

We conclude the tour with a visit to the last president's House Museum – that was once home to Kruger during a significant and tumultuous period in history.

As with any TimeTraveller Adventure, we focus on the hidden history and little known facts. Janet’s engaging storytelling and knowledge is second to none!

How did a few ox-wagons in fountains valley expand to the capital of the ZAR?

Was chief Tshwane an actual person or was it the original name of the Apies River?

Why was the 4th president of the ZAR labelled a heretic an ousted?

Why are there 2 copper poles, in the walls of the Raadsaal?

What is the mystery of theodolite calibrations on Church square.

Concessions and kickbacks: We look at: Liquor, transport to Delagoa Bay, Dynamite, Jam, National Mint, and bricks.

What happened to the Kruger Millions and did Smuts bag a few?

What happened to the Dopper church’s golden clock hands?

Winston'sgreat escape... Or was it great?

The fee of R325 includes Safe, off street parking, guided walk, entry into Kruger House Museum and entry to the Raadsaal.

https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/pretoria/

26/08/2024

This Saturday 31 Aug!

If you love GIN, food, and a little bit of HIDDEN history – this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Just east of the city center lies the quaint, quiet and green Modderfontein.

As gold fever gripped the Witwatersrand, dynamite was needed for blasting in the mines. In the early 1890s the world’s largest dynamite factory was built at Modderfontein.

Before tasting the awesome gin and food from Dynamite Distilling (they have won quite a few prizes) we take a short stroll to the dynamite museum where we trace the tales of concessions, deceptions, and ingenuity. We trace the story of Alois Nellmapius, Alfred Nobel, the Italian dynamite specialists, explosions, Rhodes, and many others.

It will blow your mind!

Dynamite distilling will have your 3 gins ready-to-taste when we sit down. This consists of 3 different gins as well as 2 mixers to enjoy (included in the tour fee)

They have an excellent Mexican food truck for a great Saturday afternoon lunch. Stay as long as you wish and listen to the live music on the veranda.

The tour fee is R350 inclusive of the gin-tasting.

https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/modderfontein/

26/08/2024

26 August 1952
700 Pupils from the Johannesburg Indian High school in Fordsburg marched to the Transvaal Indian congress in Market Street to protest against Apartheid laws.
From Market Street they Marched to the Magistrates Court chanting :
"We will resist"
"Down with Malan, Free Dadoo"

The school is on our Fordsburg tour route.

24/08/2024

Fresh green leaves in Ferreirasdorp this morning!

22/08/2024

25 August, 15 September

Fordsburg was one of the first suburbs to be surveyed to the immediate west of Town, also known as the “working class west”

It’s proximity to the mines made it the perfect suburb for the miners to live, it has been a diverse community from the outset and is one of the most diverse areas in the city today.

The area is now known for the amazing immigrant food culture The golden city’s history runs like a golden thread through the history of Fordsburg, it is a microcosm of the greater history of the Witwatersrand.

We set out on short history walk, exploring everything from Ghandi to Gundelfinger to Great Grandmother to the Great armed Revolt of 1922. Fordsburg has exceptional street art, that we marvel at, en route.

Around 12-Noon we hit the many shops and eateries in Mint Road! This street is a fantastic attack on the senses. In one block you will find Turkish, Pakistani, Greek, Syrian and South-Indian cuisine.

Our stops include: House of Schwarma, House of Baklava, Dosa hut, not only for Dosa’s but also South Indian food, brilliant to take home. Shalimar delights for all your sweetmeats requirements.

And little Istanbul for the best kebabs in Joburg.

We also explore the market for street food (think samosas, spring rolls, pies, roti, etc) as well as the most amazing freshly squeezed juices.

With full bellies and shopping bags we head back to the cars! Bring shopping bags – you will be buying plenty of food stuff

R250. Please allow 24h-48hrs after payment to receive confirmation and meet-up details.

Tour starts at 11:00 from Lillian road.

https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/fordsburg/

20/08/2024

24 August
We have created a fantastic new experience! Starting in Newtown, we gather on Mary Fitzgerald Square, taking a moment to reflect on the life of ‘Pick Handle Mary” one of Joburg’s first formidable woman. Also on the square are the amazing murals honouring jazz legends by the talented Dbongz.

Forgot breakfast? No problem! From Newtown we walk up Kerk street, through the fruit&Veg market. Up to Anstey’s in Joubert street – one of the city’s first Art Deco wonders.

This brings us up to the North Gauteng High Court and at the feet of Mining Commissioner Carl von Brandis we reflect on the early mining days and the establishment of the village “Randjieslaagte”, that soon become Johannesburg.

To add some greenery and a bit of basketball culture, we pass by Oppenheimer Park and trace the whereabouts of the now famous, Leaping Impala statue.

Gandhi Square is next on the agenda! Very significant erstwhile tram and now bus terminus. The Square is one of the best examples of regeneration in the inner city. At the statue of Gandhi, we reminisce about the shy lawyer from India and his “Satyagraha” movement in South Africa.

Heading straight down, the pedestrianized, Main Street we park off at Cramers, for the best coffee in the world. (Yes, really, it is).

The origins of the city of Gold lies in mining, we explore the old Ferreira’s mine stope under Standard Bank in Simmonds Street. What was the story about the meteorite and the gold? Who were the 2 men named George that discovered the reef? Why did it take nearly 8 months to proclaim gold fields?

Gold mining had humble beginnings but soon the wealthy Diamond (yes, diamond) magnates came and changed the scene on the Rand Forever, on commissioner street and the Anglo American Campus!

This tour is 4 hrs in duration

We start from the safe parking at Newtown Junction Mall.

Start time 09:00

Fee: R250 per person.
https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/jozi-gems/

15/08/2024

11/08/2024

On 19 September 1889 there was some good news for Johannesburgers!
A new coach services from the Natal government arrived and the travel time between the Rand and Biggarsberg (present day Dundee in KZN) was shortened to two days!
From there you could catch a train further East.

08/08/2024

Opera House Pretoria
1904 & 2023
It was opened on 29 February 1904 - the first leap day of the century!
Architects: Mcintosh & Moffat

07/08/2024

Hidden History - The original adventure.

11 August

8 September

What are the geological features that make the Witwatersrand unique? Why was it an Australian that found the first nugget payable Gold?

Our journey starts three stories below ground level in one of the oldest preserved mine tunnels in the city -Ferreira’s mine.

At each of our stops (and along the way) we will explore the places and the characters that shaped the expansion of Johannesburg.

Who is the Ignatius Ferreira, from Ferreirasdorp?

From Ferreiras’ mine stope we will head out to Main Street – also called the mining district – that serves as an outdoor museum.

The Struben brothers (from Stubensvalley fame) confidently named their mine “Confidence”. Why were they so confident and how did they contribute to the Discovery of the main reef by employing two men named George?

In addition to taking a look at how and why the mining activities evolved and why more expensive deeper level mining became necessary.

As the mining activities became more intense, the ZAR Government realised the need for a town. We visit the spot where Johannesburg was proclaimed – on a piece of “uitvalgrond”.

The Marshall from Marshalltown, Henry Marshall, was a very entrepreneurial man. How did his syndicate almost establish their own settlement before the government could proclaim a city?

We stroll up Diagonal street to experience the bustling shops and explore why this street is particularly important in the history of the city. The juxtaposition between new and old is nowhere more clear than here.

During the last part of our journey we explore some magnificent buildings Commissioner streets and surrounds – Commissioner street was known as the “Men’s street” and Pritchard street as the ‘Ladies’ street” – Just a funny way of speaking or was there a reason for the lingo?

Hollard, Commissioner, Simmonds, Sauer, Fox, Main, Joubert, Rissik – all prominent streets in the city – but who were the interesting characters they named after?
https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/hiddenhistory/

03/08/2024

Hidden History - The original adventure.

11 August

8 September

What are the geological features that make the Witwatersrand unique? Why was it an Australian that found the first nugget payable Gold?

Our journey starts three stories below ground level in one of the oldest preserved mine tunnels in the city -Ferreira’s mine.

At each of our stops (and along the way) we will explore the places and the characters that shaped the expansion of Johannesburg.

Who is the Ignatius Ferreira, from Ferreirasdorp?

From Ferreiras’ mine stope we will head out to Main Street – also called the mining district – that serves as an outdoor museum.

The Struben brothers (from Stubensvalley fame) confidently named their mine “Confidence”. Why were they so confident and how did they contribute to the Discovery of the main reef by employing two men named George?

In addition to taking a look at how and why the mining activities evolved and why more expensive deeper level mining became necessary.

As the mining activities became more intense, the ZAR Government realised the need for a town. We visit the spot where Johannesburg was proclaimed – on a piece of “uitvalgrond”.

The Marshall from Marshalltown, Henry Marshall, was a very entrepreneurial man. How did his syndicate almost establish their own settlement before the government could proclaim a city?

We stroll up Diagonal street to experience the bustling shops and explore why this street is particularly important in the history of the city. The juxtaposition between new and old is nowhere more clear than here.

During the last part of our journey we explore some magnificent buildings Commissioner streets and surrounds – Commissioner street was known as the “Men’s street” and Pritchard street as the ‘Ladies’ street” – Just a funny way of speaking or was there a reason for the lingo?

Hollard, Commissioner, Simmonds, Sauer, Fox, Main, Joubert, Rissik – all prominent streets in the city – but who were the interesting characters they named after?

https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/hiddenhistory/

01/08/2024

17 August :Street art, food &coffee!

This tour doesn't roll around often!

On a Saturday morning Braamfontein is THE vibe. Music emanating from every possible window and lots of people roaming around, is mostly thanks to the playground market with restaurants and coffee shops coming to the party!

The area has a rich history, and it was once a hub of commercial activity during the gold rush era. Today, it is a bustling urban center that is home to a diverse range of people, including university students, artists, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Braam is one the best examples of inner-city regeneration and Braam is beautiful.

Our amble, with a coffee in hand, aims to explore the street art that adds some colour to the neighbourhood. High on the agenda is the phenomenal home-grown talents of Hannelie Coetzee & faith47.

We march up the hill to the liberty building to visit the brand new Indwe park – home to an amazing mosaic by Spaza art gallery, depicting everything we love about Joziburg. This park only has indigenous plants.

On the Western side of Bertha Street there are some amazing murals with excellent and thought-provoking social commentary.

We end in front of the Playground, just before 12. They have amazing food stalls, from spring rolls to curly fries and anything from fruit juice to a well-stocked bar. A very popular activity is the “paint and sip” creative arts opportunity, there is also fashion and art on sale. Really something for everyone.

Our walk starts at 09:30 from in front Kitchener’s in De Beer Street and end at 12:00 in front of the playground market, Also in De Beer Street. The fee is R250pp

30/07/2024

8 September
We have created a fantastic new experience! Starting in Newtown, we gather on Mary Fitzgerald Square, taking a moment to reflect on the life of ‘Pick Handle Mary” one of Joburg’s first formidable woman. Also on the square are the amazing murals honouring jazz legends by the talented Dbongz.

Forgot breakfast? No problem! From Newtown we walk up Kerk street, through the fruit&Veg market. Up to Anstey’s in Joubert street – one of the city’s first Art Deco wonders.

This brings us up to the North Gauteng High Court and at the feet of Mining Commissioner Carl von Brandis we reflect on the early mining days and the establishment of the village “Randjieslaagte”, that soon become Johannesburg.

To add some greenery and a bit of basketball culture, we pass by Oppenheimer Park and trace the whereabouts of the now famous, Leaping Impala statue.

Gandhi Square is next on the agenda! Very significant erstwhile tram and now bus terminus. The Square is one of the best examples of regeneration in the inner city. At the statue of Gandhi, we reminisce about the shy lawyer from India and his “Satyagraha” movement in South Africa.

Heading straight down, the pedestrianized, Main Street we park off at Cramers, for the best coffee in the world. (Yes, really, it is).

The origins of the city of Gold lies in mining, we explore the old Ferreira’s mine stope under Standard Bank in Simmonds Street. What was the story about the meteorite and the gold? Who were the 2 men named George that discovered the reef? Why did it take nearly 8 months to proclaim gold fields?

The last stop is Mandela & Tambo’s law offices in Fox street. Discover how this trailblazing practice helped many citizens!

This tour is 4 hrs in duration

We start from the safe parking at Newtown Junction Mall.

Start time 09:00

29/07/2024

Street art, food &coffee! 17 August

This tour doesn't roll around often!

On a Saturday morning Braamfontein is THE vibe. Music emanating from every possible window and lots of people roaming around, is mostly thanks to the playground market with restaurants and coffee shops coming to the party!

The area has a rich history, and it was once a hub of commercial activity during the gold rush era. Today, it is a bustling urban center that is home to a diverse range of people, including university students, artists, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Braam is one the best examples of inner-city regeneration and Braam is beautiful.

Our amble, with a coffee in hand, aims to explore the street art that adds some colour to the neighbourhood. High on the agenda is the phenomenal home-grown talents of Hannelie Coetzee & faith47.

We march up the hill to the liberty building to visit the brand new Indwe park – home to an amazing mosaic by Spaza art gallery, depicting everything we love about Joziburg. This park only has indigenous plants.

On the Western side of Bertha Street there are some amazing murals with excellent and thought-provoking social commentary.

We end in front of the Playground, just before 12. They have amazing food stalls, from spring rolls to curly fries and anything from fruit juice to a well-stocked bar. A very popular activity is the “paint and sip” creative arts opportunity, there is also fashion and art on sale. Really something for everyone.

Our walk starts at 09:30 from in front Kitchener’s in De Beer Street and end at 12:00 in front of the playground market, Also in De Beer Street. The fee is R250pp

Book on the website or send a mail..

26/07/2024

Pretoria Fire Station circa 1954

The building was built in 1929

24/07/2024

In July of 1887 water became a real problem for the inhabitants of this landlocked, fledgling town.
A concession was granted to Mr James Sivewright who started the Johannesburg waterworks estate and exploration company.
They supplied water from fountains in (what is now) New Doornfontein to the town via pipes
In 1889 a certain Mr B Barnato form Johannesburg Consolidated Investment took over the water concession.

Pictured is the Yeoville water tower that was ordered from Germany and installed in 1913, one of the first water towers in the city.

22/07/2024

28 July- HALF PRICE SALE, 11 August

We explore the heart of old town Jozi the find the hidden history on this epic walking adventure!
Who were the two men named George who discovered the gold, and why didn’t the get rich?
What was the pyrite panic the swept across the Rand in 1890?
Who was the fearsome pick handle Mary?
Coffee and the first car in town – interesting connection.
How did two doctors save the gold mining industry?
Why was Braamfontein a very unlucky fontein?
Henry Marhsall’s legacy: beer or buildings?
If you are interested in more than the superficial history, this adventure is for you!
Starting in Newtown (Safe parking) we set out on a walk of 4km, the tour starts at 09:00 and concludes around 12:30. We stop for coffee at Gandi Square.

book on the website or send a mail to [email protected]

https://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/home/hiddenhistory/

21/07/2024

Lovely morning in Pretoria yesterday!

16/07/2024

Aeriel Pic of Pretoria station

Circa 1915

Address

128 Monument Road
Kempton Park
1620

Opening Hours

Monday	09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Thursday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00
Saturday	09:00 - 17:00
Sunday	09:00 - 17:00

Website

http://www.timetravellerjozi.co.za/

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Videos

Listening to the Dynamite tales of the curator of the Dynamite museum - Lodwik Mashasha #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #secretjoburg #modderfontein #dynamite #aeci #africantravel #africa #southafrica

The brilliant little Dynamite museum, we visit it on our #dynamite and gin adventure in Modderfontein #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #africantravel #africa #southafrica

20 July half a price sale!! Join the TimeTraveller for the extraordinary journey through old Pretoria. Not only have we gained access to the old “Raadsaal” building that dates from 1889, one of the first government buildings to be upgraded after the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand in 1886. But also to the newly refurbished offices of oom Paul and his state secretary Leyds. On this walking adventure we also stroll past Bosman street church, Loreto convent, Burgers Park and City Hall. We conclude the tour with a visit to the last president's House Museum – that was once home to Kruger during a significant and tumultuous period in history. As with any TimeTraveller Adventure, we focus on the hidden history and little known facts. Janet’s engaging storytelling and knowledge is second to none! How did a few ox-wagons in fountains valley expand to the capital of the ZAR? Was chief Tshwane an actual person or was it the original name of the Apies River? Why was the 4th president of the ZAR labelled a heretic an ousted? Why are there 2 copper poles, in the walls of the Raadsaal? What is the mystery of theodolite calibrations on Church square. Concessions and kickbacks: We look at: Liquor, transport to Delagoa Bay, Dynamite, Jam, National Mint, and bricks. What happened to the Kruger Millions and did Smuts bag a few? What happened to the Dopper church’s golden clock hands? Winston'sgreat escape... Or was it great? The fee of R200 includes Safe, off street parking, guided walk, entry into Kruger House Museum and entry to the Raadsaal. #HiddenHistory #pretoria #history #historyofpretoria #thingstodoinpretoria #churchsquare #paulkruger #train #ditsong #discovertshwane #cemetry #museum #walkingtour #walkingpretoria #ouraadsaal #palaceofjustice #tour #history #africa #africantravel #southafrica

We have 5 tickets to give away for the Pretoria adventure of 20 July! If you can be in Pretoria on 20 July @0900 please comment your email adress. The way winners will be chosen randomly on Friday 5 July!.. #HiddenHistory #pretoria #history #historyofpretoria #thingstodoinpretoria #churchsquare #paulkruger #train #ditsong #discovertshwane #cemetry #museum #walkingtour #walkingpretoria #ouraadsaal #palaceofjustice #tour #history #africa #africantravel #southafrica

No visit to the Rand Club will be complete without a visit to @jamesfindlaymaps collectable books & maps #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #jamesfindlaymaps #randclub

We have been given exclusive access for a full tour of the Rand Club – everything from basement to ballroom! Rand Club, of course, is the oldest members club in the City of Gold. The building is an icon the city and usually reserved for members only. We explore the life and times of the Randlords – a colloquial term used to describe the men who made a fortune on the Witwatersrand and in a few cases lost it all. Before we head inside the Rand Club, we take a stroll down Main Street and back up Commissioner Street to delve into the tales of many a Randlord and marvel at the buildings they built. Why were all these men from Kimberley? Who was the district surgeon who became a lawyer? Was Herman Eckstein the most brilliant Randlord? Why didn’t Rhodes achieve much on the Rand? Who was the gentlemen that wore a white helmet wherever he went? Who had the best concessions and became rich the fastest? After we walked in these men’s shoes for a couple of hours, we will return to the illustrious Rand Club for a full tour of the club – conducted by the general manager. Followed by scrumptious lunch in the iconic main bar, should you wish. This walk is shorter than our usual walk, to make time enjoy all that the Rand Club has to offer – including a walk up the main staircase. Tour fee is R350, including entry to the club. Numbers are limited to 20. *Lunch is not included in the fee *This is an Uber only tour!! (No parking available) *Tour starts 09:00 #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #africantravel #africa #southafrica #randclub

15 June We have been given exclusive access for a full tour of the Rand Club – everything from basement to ballroom! Rand Club, of course, is the oldest members club in the City of Gold. The building is an icon the city and usually reserved for members only. We explore the life and times of the Randlords – a colloquial term used to describe the men who made a fortune on the Witwatersrand and in a few cases lost it all. Before we head inside the Rand Club, we take a stroll down Main Street and back up Commissioner Street to delve into the tales of many a Randlord and marvel at the buildings they built. Why were all these men from Kimberley? Who was the district surgeon who became a lawyer? Was Herman Eckstein the most brilliant Randlord? Why didn’t Rhodes achieve much on the Rand? Who was the gentlemen that wore a white helmet wherever he went? Who had the best concessions and became rich the fastest? After we walked in these men’s shoes for a couple of hours, we will return to the illustrious Rand Club for a full tour of the club – conducted by the general manager. Followed by scrumptious lunch in the iconic main bar, should you wish. This walk is shorter than our usual walk, to make time enjoy all that the Rand Club has to offer – including a walk up the main staircase. Tour fee is R350, including entry to the club. Numbers are limited to 20. *Lunch is not included in the fee *This is an Uber only tour!! (No parking available) *Tour starts 09:00 #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #africa #africantravel #southafrica

Mr dynamite, Lodwik Mashasha!

"Itmein" street art in Braamfontein The most used Internet passwords! #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #braamfontein #streetart #graffiti #southafrica #africa #africantravel

Braamfontein! Mural by Reksa! #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #braamfontein #africantravel #africa #southafrica

2 March We are traversing every inch of historic Pretoria on this adventure! Starting at Kruger House we stroll via Loreto Convent and City Hall to Burgers Park. We take a look at hidden history of Pretoria: Why were 2 presidents in trouble for minting a pound? Who said the devil doesn’t exist? Why was Loreto convent filled with Sandbags? From the park we make our way through the arcades, with some amazing mosaics to Church square. We also pause to evaluate Winston’s great escape. We are fortunate to be able to explore the Ou Raadsaal building in detail. From the president’s offices to the copper bars that pull out of the walls. Janet will tell tales of poverty and opulence as well as greed and corruption. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you pondering history for a while. #HiddenHistory #pretoria #history #historyofpretoria #thingstodoinpretoria #churchsquare #paulkruger #train #ditsong #discovertshwane #cemetry #museum #walkingtour #walkingpretoria #ouraadsaal #palaceofjustice #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #africantravel #africa #southafrica

If you love GIN, food, and a little bit of HIDDEN history – this is an experience you won’t want to miss. Just east of the city center lies the quaint, quiet and green Modderfontein. As gold fever gripped the Witwatersrand, dynamite was needed for blasting in the mines. In the early 1890s the world’s largest dynamite factory was built at Modderfontein. Before tasting the awesome gin and food from Dynamite Distilling (they have won quite a few prizes) we take a short stroll to the dynamite museum where we trace the tales of concessions, deceptions, and ingenuity. We trace the story of Alois Nellmapius, Alfred Nobel, the Italian dynamite specialists, explosions, Rhodes, and many others. It will blow your mind! Dynamite distilling will have your 3 gins ready-to-taste when we sit down. This consists of 3 different gins as well as 2 mixers to enjoy (included in the tour fee) They have an excellent Mexican food truck for a great Saturday afternoon lunch. Stay as long as you wish and listen to the live music on the veranda. The tour fee is R350 inclusive of the gin-tasting. #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #modderfontein #dynamite #aeci #gin #food #mexicanfood

Fordsburg was one of the first suburbs to be surveyed to the immediate west of Town, also known as the “working class west” It’s proximity to the mines made it the perfect suburb for the miners to live, it has been a diverse community from the outset and is one of the most diverse areas in the city today. The area is now known for the amazing immigrant food culture The golden city’s history runs like a golden thread through the history of Fordsburg, it is a microcosm of the greater history of the Witwatersrand. We set out on short history walk, exploring everything from Ghandi to Gundelfinger to Great Grandmother to the Great armed Revolt of 1922. Fordsburg has exceptional street art, that we marvel at, en route. Around 12-Noon we hit the many shops and eateries in Mint Road! This street is a fantastic attack on the senses. In one block you will find Turkish, Pakistani, Greek, Syrian and South-Indian cuisine. Our stops include: House of Schwarma, House of Baklava, Dosa hut, not only for Dosa’s but also South Indian food, brilliant to take home. Shalimar delights for all your sweetmeats requirements. And little Istanbul for the best kebabs in Joburg. We also explore the market for street food (think samosas, spring rolls, pies, roti, etc) as well as the most amazing freshly squeezed juices. With full bellies and shopping bags we head back to the cars! Bring shopping bags – you will be buying plenty of food stuff R250. Please allow 24h-48hrs after payment to receive confirmation and meet-up details. Tour starts at 11:00 from Lillian road. #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #joburg #johannesburgSouthAfrica #thingstodoinjohannesburg #thingstodoinsoutafrica #southafrica #travel #africantravel #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafric

Newtown park this morning #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #africa #africantravel

What are the geological features that make the Witwatersrand unique? Why was it an Australian that found the first nugget payable Gold? Our journey starts three stories below ground level in one of the oldest preserved mine tunnels in the city -Ferreira’s mine. At each of our stops (and along the way) we will explore the places and the characters that shaped the expansion of Johannesburg. Who is the Ignatius Ferreira, from Ferreirasdorp? From Ferreiras’ mine stope we will head out to Main Street – also called the mining district – that serves as an outdoor museum. The Struben brothers (from Stubensvalley fame) confidently named their mine “Confidence”. Why were they so confident and how did they contribute to the Discovery of the main reef by employing two men named George? In addition to taking a look at how and why the mining activities evolved and why more expensive deeper level mining became necessary. As the mining activities became more intense, the ZAR Government realised the need for a town. We visit the spot where Johannesburg was proclaimed – on a piece of “uitvalgrond”. The Marshall from Marshalltown, Henry Marshall, was a very entrepreneurial man. How did his syndicate almost establish their own settlement before the government could proclaim a city? We stroll up Diagonal street to experience the bustling shops and explore why this street is particularly important in the history of the city. The juxtaposition between new and old is nowhere more clear than here. During the last part of our journey we explore some magnificent buildings Commissioner streets and surrounds – Commissioner street was known as the “Men’s street” and Pritchard street as the ‘Ladies’ street” – Just a funny way of speaking or was there a reason for the lingo? Hollard, Commissioner, Simmonds, Sauer, Fox, Main, Joubert, Rissik – all prominent streets in the city – but who were the interesting characters they named after? The tour is

Tour of the Rand Club! @randclub @jamesfindlaymaps #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism

10 December / 28 December We explore the heart of old town Jozi the find the hidden history on this epic walking adventure! Who were the two men named George who discovered the gold, and why didn’t the get rich? What was the pyrite panic the swept across the Rand in 1890? Who was the fearsome pick handle Mary? Coffee and the first car in town – interesting connection. How did two doctors save the gold mining industry? Why was Braamfontein a very unlucky fontein? Henry Marhsall’s legacy: beer or buildings? If you are interested in more than the superficial history, this adventure is for you! Starting in Newtown (Safe parking) we set out on a walk of 4km, the tour starts at 09:00 and concludes around 12:30. We stop for coffee at Gandi Square. #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #africantravel #southafrica #jozi #joburg

Only a fww spots left for the Randlords and Rand Club tour on the 9th of December! 9 December @ 09:00 We have been given exclusive access for a full tour of the Rand Club – everything from basement to ballroom! Rand Club, of course, is the oldest members club in the City of Gold. The building is an icon the city and usually reserved for members only. We explore the life and times of the Randlords – a colloquial term used to describe the men who made a fortune on the Witwatersrand and in a few cases lost it all. Before we head inside the Rand Club, we take a stroll down Main Street and back up Commissioner Street to delve into the tales of many a Randlord and marvel at the buildings they built. Why were all these men from Kimberley? Who was the district surgeon who became a lawyer? Was Herman Eckstein the most brilliant Randlord? Why didn’t Rhodes achieve much on the Rand? Who was the gentlemen that wore a white helmet wherever he went? Who had the best concessions and became rich the fastest? After the walk, we will return to the illustrious Rand Club for a full tour – conducted by the general manager. The tour concludes in James Findlay's incredible boom&map studio. Followed by scrumptious lunch in the iconic main bar, should you wish. This walk is shorter than our usual walk, 2km,to make time enjoy all that the Rand Club has to offer – including a walk up the main staircase. #HiddenHistory #johannesburg #johannesburginyourpocket #gautengtourism #thingstodoinjohannesburg #history #fun #secretjoburg #sharesouthafrica #iamtourism #wedotourism #iamjoburg #sharesouthafrica #fun #secretjoburg #iamtourism #southafrica #history #randclub @jamesfindlaymaps

Van Erkom arcade, 21 meter mosaic #HiddenHistory #pretoria #history #historyofpretoria #thingstodoinpretoria #churchsquare #paulkruger #train #ditsong #discovertshwane #cemetry #museum #walkingtour #walkingpretoria #ouraadsaal #palaceofjustice #thingstodoinsoutafrica #southafrica #travel #africantravel

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A Migrant to the city...

Johannesburg was from the outset a city of Migrants.

There really is no one who can truly claim to be a native Johannesburger.

Like many before me, and I am sure, like many after me, I came to Johannesburg after graduating in search of work.

I settled in the east of Joburg, but there has always been a mystical attraction to the inner city, the real Johannesburg, the melting pot of Edwardian architecture, derelict buildings from the 1950s, street vendors selling "vetkoek" and "skop" (a stew consisting mainly of beef trotters, and who knows what else...) washed down with a swig of home made ginger and pineapple beer.