Less in more? Certainly not in Sandton. When people refer to Johannesburg as the country’s business capital, they are actually talking about this affluent area in the city centre. Here, bigger is always better – and nowhere is this more visible than Sandton’s high-rise buildings that extend skywards, creating a Manhattan-style atmosphere.

The game is business and pleasure, and it’s the traveller’s choice in which to indulge. Not only is Sandton the seat of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and several top companies, but it’s also home to one of the largest shopping centres in Africa: Sandton City. Covering about 215,000m², this shopping centre is home to high-end shops, offices, and even the Sandton Sun hotel. Right next-door you’ll find Nelson Mandela Square, where a six-metre bronze statue of the late Nelson Mandela overlooks up-market shops, sidewalk cafes, and premier restaurants serving up both local and international flavours.

Stretching across 156 km², Sandton has been dubbed Africa’s richest square mile with every step estimated to be worth R1-million. The fast-growing suburb is well connected with O.R. Tambo International Airport thanks to the swift and nifty Gautrain, Johannesburg’s rapid-transit railway system.

Sandton Highlights

  • Sandton City (one of the largest shopping centres in Africa) and Nelson Mandela Square make it a mecca for shopping
  • South Africa’s business capital and home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)
  • Luxury hotels the Sandton Sun and the DaVinci Hotel are situated in Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square respectively
  • The Michelangelo Towers is the highest hotel in Sandton, towering at an impressive 34 floors

Frequently Asked Questions

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Sandton

  • Winter (May–September) offers optimal safari conditions, while summer brings newborn wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Timing is tailored to your interests.

  • Major international gateways include Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo), Cape Town, and Durban. From Johannesburg, charter flights reach private lodge airstrips in around 90 minutes, avoiding long road transfers. Light aircraft require soft bags and minimal luggage (a small trade-off for time and comfort).
    Self-driving is possible on well-maintained roads, but most luxury travellers prefer private transfers or flights after long-haul journeys.

  •  Sabi Sand for leopards, Timbavati for value, Eastern Cape for malaria-free travel. The “best” safari depends on your priorities.

  • Where you stay shapes your safari, so we match accommodation to your travel style – from honeymoons and family trips to conservation-led escapes.

    We generally prioritise private concessions for their exclusivity and conservation impact. Top choices include Sabi Sand Game Reserve (leopards and high-end lodges), Timbavati (excellent Big 5 value), Madikwe & Pilanesberg (malaria-free), and Tswalu (desert luxury with a strong conservation focus).

    Our Travel Experts recommend the right lodge for your priorities, whether that’s photography, romance, family ease, or purpose-driven travel.

  • Private concession safaris range from $500–$2,500 per person per night, depending on exclusivity and season. Our curated journeys typically start around $1,700, including meals, activities, and drinks.

    We recommend at least three nights in any safari location to move beyond sightings into understanding behaviour and rhythm.

  • With proper planning and expert guidance, South Africa is safe to travel. Private lodges maintain high security standards, and our locally based team provides real-time advice.

  • Yes, particularly along routes like the Garden Route. However, many guests prefer guided transfers or flights for comfort and efficiency.