Nelson Mandela Bridge

Overview

The Nelson Mandela Bridge is an iconic steel arch bridge that spans over the railway lines connecting Braamfontein to the Newtown Cultural Precinct. It is a symbol of Johannesburg's transformation and a tribute to Nelson Mandela.

The bridge is a significant landmark in Johannesburg, symbolizing the city's progress and honoring Nelson Mandela's legacy.

Bridge Architecture Cultural

Location

Address

Smit Street, Johannesburg

Neighborhood: Newtown

Coordinates

-26.204100, 28.047300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1 hour

Full Experience

2-3 hours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• flowering gardens
• outdoor events

summer

hot

• extended evening activities

autumn

mild

• fall foliage

winter

cool

• holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

No advance booking needed
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water camera

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: minimal

• uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes and clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• none
• none
• not applicable
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Joburg Connect

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Events, Local guides

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: OR Tambo International Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

$30 30 min

public_transport

$5 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

metro

$1.50 15 min

bus

$1 20 min

taxi

$8 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and great views

Historical Significance: Important events and transformations in Johannesburg

Insider Tips

Free entry at all times
Best food at nearby cafes

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee at nearby cafes
• Ask for guide Sarah

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Afrikaans, Zulu

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Mid-span of the bridge

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Iconic cityscape

#NelsonMandelaBridge #Johannesburg

Photography Rules

allowed areas entire bridge and surrounding areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Museum Africa

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Market Theatre

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Theatre

Sci-Bono Discovery Centre

Distance: 400m

Walking: 6 min

Type: Science Museum

Reviews

4.6

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early for photos"
"Explore nearby cafes"
"Great city views"

Contact Information

+27 11 833 9292

info@joburg.org.za

www.joburg.org.za

Social Media

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