{"id":42006,"date":"2026-09-25T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-09-25T05:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=42006"},"modified":"2026-09-24T07:46:05","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T05:46:05","slug":"world-tourism-day-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/world-tourism-day-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"World Tourism Day 2026: How TAo Be a Tourist in Your Own City in Gauteng"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">South Africa will commemorate World Tourism Day on Sunday, 27 September 2026, with the national celebration taking place at Legend Golf and Safari Resort in the Waterberg District of Limpopo. While the official programme takes place outside Gauteng, residents can mark the day closer to home by exploring the province&#8217;s heritage sites, museums, parks, wildlife attractions and cultural destinations.<\/p><div id=\"gaute-3317199945\" class=\"gaute-after-paragraph-1 gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Department of Tourism says World Tourism Day forms part of Tourism Month, which encourages South Africans to explore the country&#8217;s tourism offerings and support local tourism businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Gauteng residents, the occasion provides an opportunity to become a tourist in their own city and discover attractions across Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng and the West Rand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/gauteng-heritage-month-2026\/\"><strong>ALSO READ: Gauteng Heritage Month 2026: Six Local Businesses Keeping Culture and Craft Alive<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">South Africa marks World Tourism Day in Limpopo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.limpopo.gov.za\/?page_id=3398\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Department of Tourism, Limpopo Provincial Government<\/a> and tourism sector partners will host the national World Tourism Day programme in Waterberg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The event will take place under the theme, \u201cGrowing South Africa&#8217;s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the department, the programme will focus on how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are changing tourism, including visitor experiences, destination management, operational efficiency and sustainable tourism practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The programme is expected to include government and tourism sector representatives, local artists, cultural groups, a digital tourism activation and a Sustainability Village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Celebrate World Tourism Day without leaving Gauteng<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">World Tourism Day does not require Gauteng residents to travel across the country to participate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gauteng has tourism experiences across its five regions, ranging from museums and historical landmarks to wildlife reserves, cultural attractions and outdoor spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents can use the occasion to explore somewhere new in their own city, revisit a familiar attraction or plan a day trip to another part of the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some ways to spend World Tourism Day in Gauteng.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1170132234\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Discover the Cradle of Humankind<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Cradle of Humankind on the West Rand gives Gauteng residents an opportunity to explore one of the world&#8217;s most important areas for understanding human origins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The World Heritage Site covers approximately 47 000 hectares and contains several important fossil sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maropeng serves as the official visitor centre for the Cradle of Humankind and uses interactive exhibitions to explore the development of humankind and the history of the planet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A visit to the area can form part of a wider West Rand day trip, particularly for families looking for an educational experience during the school holidays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42009\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-149x112.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-449x337.png 449w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184-1200x900.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-184.png 1417w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sahistory.org.za\/article\/cradle-humankind\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South African History Online<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Explore Constitution Hill<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Johannesburg residents can spend World Tourism Day learning more about South Africa&#8217;s journey from its divided past to constitutional democracy at Constitution Hill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The precinct is a former prison and military fort that is now home to the Constitutional Court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its historical spaces include the Old Fort, Women&#8217;s Jail and Number Four.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The site connects the stories of people who were imprisoned there with wider discussions about human rights, justice and democracy in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"414\" height=\"340\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-185.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42010\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-185.png 414w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-185-150x123.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-185-300x246.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 414px) 100vw, 414px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.southafrica.net\/gl\/en\/travel\/article\/place-of-human-rights-constitution-hill-johannesburg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South African Tourism<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Spend the day at a Gauteng nature reserve<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tourism does not have to mean museums, hotels or long road trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gauteng residents can use World Tourism Day to explore the province&#8217;s natural spaces, hiking areas and wildlife destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dinokeng Game Reserve, north of Tshwane, offers a wildlife experience within Gauteng. The reserve covers about 19 000 hectares and is home to free roaming wildlife including the Big Five.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A nature based day trip can also give residents an opportunity to explore another part of the province without travelling beyond Gauteng.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"596\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42011\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186.png 900w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186-149x99.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186-300x199.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186-450x298.png 450w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-186-767x508.png 767w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dinokengreserve.co.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.dinokengreserve.co.za<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1170132234\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Visit a botanical garden or park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A slower World Tourism Day can be spent outdoors at one of Gauteng&#8217;s gardens or recreational spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort is one option for residents looking for walking trails, indigenous vegetation and birdlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The garden is known for the Witpoortjie Falls and the Verreaux&#8217;s eagles that nest around the Roodekrans ridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents can also explore parks and outdoor attractions closer to where they live, turning an ordinary Sunday outing into an opportunity to experience their city differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"439\" height=\"669\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-187.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42012\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-187.png 439w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-187-150x228.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-187-197x300.png 197w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 439px) 100vw, 439px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gardenvisit.com\/gardens\/walter_sisulu_national_botanic_garden\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gardenvisit.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Explore Gauteng&#8217;s liberation heritage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gauteng has a significant concentration of sites connected to South Africa&#8217;s political and social history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents can explore destinations including Constitution Hill, the Union Buildings, Sharpeville heritage sites, Liliesleaf, June 16 Memorial Acre and Walter Sisulu Square.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A number of Gauteng locations also form part of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites included in the UNESCO listing for Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These destinations allow visitors to explore events and people that shaped South Africa while seeing parts of Gauteng they may not ordinarily visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42013\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188.png 900w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188-149x83.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188-450x250.png 450w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-188-767x426.png 767w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.za\/Attraction_Review-g312583-d1632448-Reviews-or10-Union_Buildings-Pretoria_Gauteng.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Union Buildings<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"655\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-189.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42014\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-189.png 655w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-189-150x103.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-189-300x206.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-189-450x309.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 655px) 100vw, 655px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sahistory.org.za\/place\/sharpeville-gauteng\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sharpeville Heritage Site<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"530\" height=\"347\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-190.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42015\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-190.png 530w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-190-150x98.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-190-300x196.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-190-449x294.png 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 530px) 100vw, 530px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sahistory.org.za\/place\/liliesleaf-farm-rivonia-johannesburg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Liliesleaf<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"493\" height=\"328\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-191.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42016\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-191.png 493w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-191-149x99.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-191-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-191-449x299.png 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 493px) 100vw, 493px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/whyjoburg.com\/soweto\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">June 16 Memorial Acre<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"638\" height=\"365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-192.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42017\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-192.png 638w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-192-149x85.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-192-300x172.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-192-449x257.png 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myguidejohannesburg.com\/arts-and-culture\/walter-sisulu-square-of-dedication\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Walter  Sisulu Square<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Discover Gauteng&#8217;s wildlife<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Families looking for a wildlife focused outing can consider Gauteng&#8217;s zoos, nature reserves and animal attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The province&#8217;s tourism offering includes wildlife and safari experiences ranging from urban animal attractions to game reserves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A visit to a zoo or wildlife destination can also introduce children to conservation, biodiversity and the different species found in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents should check the attraction&#8217;s current opening hours, admission requirements and visitor information before travelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"638\" height=\"365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-194.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42019\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-194.png 638w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-194-149x85.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-194-300x172.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-194-449x257.png 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 638px) 100vw, 638px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myguidejohannesburg.com\/wildlife-and-nature\/johannesburg-zoo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">My Guide Johannesburg<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1170132234\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Become a tourist in your own neighbourhood<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">World Tourism Day can also be celebrated without travelling far from home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents can explore a local museum, township tourism experience, public artwork, historical precinct, market or cultural attraction in their own municipality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Soweto, Maboneng, Alexandra, Mamelodi and other Gauteng communities offer different perspectives on the province&#8217;s history, food, culture and everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"516\" height=\"387\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-195.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-195.png 516w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-195-149x112.png 149w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-195-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-195-449x337.png 449w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 516px) 100vw, 516px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sahistory.org.za\/place\/soweto-johannesburg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Soweto<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exploring locally can also help residents discover attractions they may normally associate with visitors rather than their own leisure time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42021\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196-450x300.png 450w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/image-196-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theincidentaltourist.com\/the-maboneng-precinct\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maboneng<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Explore another Gauteng region<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gauteng may be South Africa&#8217;s smallest province by land area, but its tourism experiences extend across five distinct regions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Johannesburg offers museums, heritage sites, arts, entertainment and township experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tshwane combines national monuments, museums, gardens and wildlife attractions, while the West Rand is home to the Cradle of Humankind and a range of outdoor activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ekurhuleni has its own cultural and heritage attractions, while Sedibeng offers history, outdoor experiences and destinations around the Vaal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">World Tourism Day can therefore become an opportunity to choose a region outside your usual routine and spend the day exploring it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Means for Gauteng Residents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">World Tourism Day offers Gauteng residents a reason to look at their own province from a visitor&#8217;s perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents do not necessarily need an overnight trip or a large travel budget to participate. A museum visit, heritage walk, nature outing or trip to another Gauteng neighbourhood can become a local tourism experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Department of Tourism says Tourism Month encourages South Africans to explore the country&#8217;s diverse tourism offerings and support local tourism businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Gauteng residents, that can mean visiting attractions, using local guides, eating at local establishments and exploring tourism experiences across the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors should confirm operating hours, entrance fees, booking requirements and weather conditions directly with individual attractions before setting out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1170132234\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">World Tourism Day puts local exploration in focus<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">South Africa&#8217;s official World Tourism Day celebration will place the national spotlight on Limpopo on 27 September, but the occasion can be marked in every province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Gauteng residents, the day provides an opportunity to discover the history, nature, culture and attractions available close to home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the Cradle of Humankind and Constitution Hill to wildlife reserves, botanical gardens and township experiences, there are different ways to experience Gauteng without leaving the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Becoming a tourist in your own city can start with something as simple as choosing a place you have never visited and spending World Tourism Day discovering it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is World Tourism Day 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">World Tourism Day takes place on Sunday, 27 September 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where will South Africa celebrate World Tourism Day 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The national celebration will take place at Legend Golf and Safari Resort in the Waterberg District of Limpopo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is South Africa&#8217;s theme for the 2026 celebration?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Department of Tourism says the national programme will take place under the theme, \u201cGrowing South Africa&#8217;s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can Gauteng residents celebrate World Tourism Day?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Residents can explore heritage sites, museums, parks, botanical gardens, wildlife attractions, township experiences and other destinations across Gauteng.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where can families go for World Tourism Day in Gauteng?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Options include the Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng, Constitution Hill, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Dinokeng Game Reserve and other family friendly attractions across the province.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>South Africa will commemorate World Tourism Day on Sunday, 27 September 2026, with the national celebration taking place at Legend Golf and Safari Resort in the Waterberg District of Limpopo. While the official programme takes place outside Gauteng, residents can mark the day closer to home by exploring the province&#8217;s heritage sites, museums, parks, wildlife attractions and cultural destinations.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":42023,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"world tourism day","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[53],"tags":[77,101,11863],"ppma_author":[11575],"class_list":["post-42006","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-visit-gauteng","tag-south-african-tourism","tag-visit-gauteng","tag-world-tourism-day"],"authors":[{"term_id":11575,"user_id":23,"is_guest":0,"slug":"nomthandazo","display_name":"Nomthandazo Ntisa","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/ec3262463e8ed5ea26dca074ed7eff95ffede057639be73a77f7896ccd06170f?s=96&r=g","author_category":"1","first_name":"Nomthandazo","last_name":"Ntisa","user_url":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/","job_title":"Content Editor","description":"Nomthandazo Ntisa is a journalist and Content Editor at What's On G with more than six years of experience in journalism, digital publishing, and content strategy. She covers the people, places, events, and issues shaping Gauteng \u2014 producing stories that help readers understand and connect with life across the province."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42006","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=42006"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42006\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":42024,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42006\/revisions\/42024"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/42023"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=42006"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=42006"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=42006"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=42006"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}