Gay bars johannesburg

Much of Jo’burg’s best shopping and dining takes place in complexes—from funky repurposed industrial districts to megamalls—that have security guards.

Jo’burg was founded in the late 19th century, when gold was discovered beneath the rolling hills of Gauteng province. Safety-wise, check in with locals for a heads up on what to avoid—as the seat of South Africa’s wealth, Joburg has serious income inequality issues and some areas contend with lots of street crime.

No visit to Johannesburg is complete without a stop at Constitution Hill.

Priscillas often hosts themed nights and events‚ adding an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the experience. It also has the advantage of being connected to Pretoria, Kempton Park and O.R. Tambo International Airport by the Gautrain. Its popularity speaks volumes about its ability to create a space where everyone feels comfortable and celebrated‚ making it a true gem in Johannesburg's gay nightlife scene.

Trouble Bar

Trouble Bar is a popular spot in Johannesburg's gay nightlife scene‚ known for its lively atmosphere‚ diverse crowd‚ and commitment to creating a fun and welcoming space.

This stylish hotel complex, a reinvisioned 1970s concrete town, has a delightful speakeasy-style jazz dinner club in the basement, a 15th-floor rooftop resto-bar and a casual brunch-y restaurant, as well as an art gallery. 

Beefcakes (Illovo Muse, 198 Oxford Rd., Illovo, Johannesburg). This affordable but comfortable small hotel is a short distance from bars, restaurants and galleries.

Where to eat

Artistry JHB (22 Fredman Dr., Sandown, Sandton).

When you’re ready to venture out by day, you’ll find plenty to do. Sandton is a particularly affluent and self-contained suburb with its own convention centre, ginormous malls and a cool food scene. This creates a comfortable and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals to live‚ work‚ and explore all that the city has to offer.

The city's embrace of inclusivity and its commitment to equal rights make Johannesburg a destination where LGBTQ+ individuals can feel comfortable exploring the city's diverse offerings.

Top Gay Bars in Johannesburg

Johannesburg offers a diverse range of gay bars‚ each with its own unique character and atmosphere. But Soweto is not just about the past; it's a vibrant, living city with a throbbing nightlife, welcoming taverns, and a spirit of endurance that's palpable in its streets and its people.

Johannesburg may be a bustling urban giant, but it also boasts breathtaking natural escapes.

Try some Portuguese-Mozambican cuisine while hanging with the artsy bohemians of the Melville neighbourhood. The venue's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its welcoming atmosphere‚ attracting a mix of locals and visitors. These spaces serve as gathering points for locals and visitors alike‚ fostering a sense of belonging and celebrating the city's LGBTQ+ culture.

It's the perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a contemplative stroll. An ideal balance of cool and unpretentious.

Hallmark House/The Marabi Club (Maboneng Precinct, 54 Siemert Rd., New Doornfontein, Johannesburg). You’ll also find great street shopping and food on nearly every corner of the city afterward.

Just outside the city, the Cradle of Humankind awaits.

You might make new friends as well as have some fun.

Where to shop

44 on Stanley in Braamfontein (44 Stanley Ave., Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg).