Johannesburg: The Evolution of Maboneng (Place of Light)

Discover the creative eastern side of inner Johannesburg on this 2-hour walking tour of the city. Maboneng, a Sotho word meaning place of light, is a fitting name for this district thanks to its reputation as Johannesburg’s creative hub. Meet your tour guide outside the Curiocity Backpackers hostel before setting off on the walk through the precinct. The first stop is The Cosmopolitan, one of the most elegant heritage buildings in downtown Johannesburg. Built in 1899, it was opened as a hotel and bar in 1902. Next, venture over to the Drivelines Development, a new urban development that uses upcycled shipping containers as affordable housing. From here you’ll walk over to Agog, the latest addition to Mabongeng’s burgeoning art scene.  Shop at the Kwa Mai-Mai Traditional Healers Market, said to be one of the oldest in the city. Here you’ll encounter Sangomas (traditional healers) and medicines as well as traditional clothing. Round off your shopping spree at The Collectors Treasure, the largest second-hand bookstore in the southern hemisphere. Finish off the tour with a walk through Doornfontein’s an open-air museum and surrounding cultural hotspots.