In Parktown circa 1960, two decades of harsh demolition began, and hundreds of homes in the area were demolished to make way for what many feel are some of the "ugliest buildings in Africa"; mainly large, impersonal government institutions.
As a result, a trust was formed to rally support for the heritage of this unique part of the city, and to combat public indifference by making the houses more accessible. Over the years, the trust has put a stop to the demolition of a number of old buildings, but as they will tell you, the conservation task still has a long way to go.
Parktown and Westcliff are two of the oldest suburbs of Johannesburg, and they have been home to wealthy mining magnates from as far back as 1892. This concentration of power and wealth, combined with the often exuberant and extravagant taste of these pioneers, is reflected in the homes they built on the prominent ridges, which lie north of the city centre.
In order to further their aims of honouring these spectacular houses and homesteads, the Trust organises fascinating tours of the houses and gardens, many of which are not accessible to the public. In recent years the Trust has expanded its historical tours to include other parts of the city, as they continue to educate people about this city's fascinating heritage.
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Bike through the inner city of Johannesburg on a guided cycling tour. Discover hidden gems and learn about local history and culture, food, and street art as you explore with your guide.
Ready to visit a city within a city? Ready to experience photogenic, bustling Soweto? On this full day tour your local guide, will take you past all the hotspots in Soweto, the Apartheid Museum and sites in Johannesburg.
Join this hop-on hop-off tour. Visit the suburbs and downtown area of Joburg, Constitution Hill, purchase a ticket to the the Apartheid Museum, and join the optional Soweto tour.
Experience the heart of Johannesburg on a guided walking tour. Discover the city's hidden gems, stunning architecture, and historical landmarks with a local guide.
Enjoy a full-day trip to Kruger National Park, and keep an eye out for the Big 5, other unique animals and beautiful scenery in one of the largest reserves in Africa.
Discover the city center of Johannesburg, whose geometrical design and high skyscrapers bring Manhattan island to mind. Continue towards Soweto, Johannesburg's south western township, a symbol of the fight for freedom.
Enjoy a 2-night safari in Kruger National Park and get a taste for the wilderness of South Africa. Look for the legendary Big Five and other animals on game drives at night and during the day.
Visit the ever-evolving creative neighborhood of Maboneng. Learn about the entrepreneurial spirit of its urban regeneration, the murals that beautify the street and the vibrant culture.
Explore Soweto's key attractions with a local guide and visit the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill. Enjoy a Johannesburg city tour aboard an iconic open-top hop-on hop-off double-deck bus.
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