Gauteng

The name Gauteng comes from the Sotho and means, "Place of Gold," an appropriate name given, due to the fact that much of the wealth from this province originated in precious metals.

The capital, Johannesburg, and the City of Tshwane (Pretoria), make Gauteng the commercial, industrial and administrative heart of South Africa and the driving force for the whole of southern Africa. 
Gauteng is the international gateway to South Africa, since most overseas visitors land at the Johannesburg International Airport. It is a province that combines a fascinating blend of Western know-how with African magic - with a whole range of possibilities, from shopping, dining and entertainment to arts, culture and outdoor activities. 

Sandton is the country's most expensive shopping centre, a Mecca of restaurants and entertainment, and is the personification of modern life. Soweto is the best place for one to experience the spirit of authentic South Africa, with its lively entertainment areas. 

See the birthplace of humanity at the Cradle of Humankind in Sterkfontein, which now has been declared a World Heritage.  The riches of the Premier Diamond Cullinan mine will leave you breathless, where in 1905, the Cullinan Diamond of 3,106 carats was discovered. Despite the urbanisation of Johannesburg, there are still opportunities to go back to nature in the surrounding areas. Wildlife farms, lakes, rivers, hiking and picnic places are all around. The area of Sedibeng/Vaal river is a very popular recreational area for water sports and fishing. 

The city of Tshwane, about 50 km north of Johannesburg, is the administrative capital of the country. It is a quieter pace than Johannesburg and therefore has developed an abundance of open spaces. There are more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves.