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Experience Johannesburg from above with this Carlton Centre guide
Are you afraid of heights like I am? Then it’s time to conquer your fear by climbing the fifth-tallest building in South Africa—Carlton Centre.
The 50-story skyscraper will give you a panoramic view of Johannesburg and Pretoria. I went there on a cloudless day, and boy, the scene took my breath away!
If you’re looking to experience the same breathtaking view, this guide is all you need.
Things to Know
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: 150 Commissioner St, Marshalltown
History
The Carlton Centre is a mixed-use skyscraper filled with offices and shops. This behemoth of a building was built in 1974 by the American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill. It stands at 223 meters (730ft) and is located on the eastern side of the Gandhi Square Precinct.
For 46 years, Carlton Centre was South Africa’s tallest building. It was a symbol of Johannesburg’s growth and urban development during the 1970s.
How to Get There
By Car: Carlton Centre has a parking space for at least 1,000 cars. You’ll pay for the parking fee on foot upon entrance.
By Bus: The Rea Vaya Bus has drop-off stations near Carlton Centre. It will cost you a base fare of R9.50 and will increase by R12.50 per 10 kilometers.
By Taxi: The standard fare for taxis is R70, and they will charge you R9.50 per kilometer.
Top of Africa

Contact: +27(0) 11 308 2876/2101
Fees:
- Children under 12: R10
- Adult: R15
Carlton Centre’s main attraction is found at the very top. Called “Top of Africa,” the observation deck can be accessed using the elevator. Once at the deck, you will be greeted by a stunning 360-degree view of Johannesburg and its skyline.
It was given its name because, during its construction in 1973, it was hailed as the tallest building. The skyscraper was a symbolic figure of Johannesburg being a major economic hub in Africa.
Where to Eat
Wimpy
Media From: wimpy_sa
Location: Shop 251
Phone: +27 11 331 8584
Website: wimpy.co.za
Price: $
A family-friendly restaurant, Wimpy’s is a place that treats you like royalty. They serve all-day breakfast and lunch and are particularly famous for their burgers.
I tried their Double Up Breakfast, and it was worth the R74.90. They also make great coffee here. Definitely try their Short Cappuccino priced at R19.90.
Steers
Media From: steers.sa
Location: Shop 54
Phone: +27 10 590 6318
Website: steers.co.za
Price: $
Craving for something grilled? Steers is a must-try restaurant at Carlton Centre. It has been South Africa’s favorite burger joint for 20 years.
They also have a selection of appetizing grilled chicken that is tender and juicy. It comes in three flavors: Lemon & Herbs, Mild, and Peri Peri.
There are also loin pork ribs on the menu that are barbecued to bring out the meat’s juiciness. It comes with fresh and well-seasoned hand-cut chips.
Debonair’s Pizza
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Location: Shop 200
Phone: +27 11 331 5107
Website: debonairspizza.co.za
Price: $$
Enjoy a meal with your family or friends at Debonair’s Pizza. Their pizzas offer something bold and unique in terms of flavor.
For R229.90, try their meaty Chicken Cram-Decker. It consists of three layers of thin-crust pizzas stacked on top of each other! Each layer has chicken cheese grillers and Debonair’s secret sauce.
I personally love their dessert, Death by Chocolate. It consists of a warm chocolate pudding at the base, molten chocolate in the middle, and chocolate mousse on top. It’s not too sweet even with all the chocolate, making it the perfect ending for my meal.
Falcon Peak Spur Steak Ranch
Media From: spursteakranches
Location: Shop 228
Phone: +27 11 331 5888
Website: spursteakranches.com
Price: $$$
Taste the juiciest steaks at Falcon Peak Steak Ranch. They also serve burgers, ribs, and wings, perfect for group dining.
If you are on a plant-based diet, don’t worry! Spur offers vegetarian dishes so anyone can dine in!
Fishaways
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Location: Shop 225
Phone: +27 11 331 5107
Website: fishaways.co.za
Price: $$$
Even though Johannesburg does not have a lake, river, or sea, you can still taste authentic and fresh seafood via Fishaways. Try their Seafood Spicy Hotpot filled with hake nuggets, calamari strips, and prawns; it’s only R94.90!
Milky Lane
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Location: Shop 240B
Phone: 010 590 6318
Website: https://milkylane.co.za/
Price: $
Craving something sweet? Head to Milky Lane to enjoy their ice cream treats. Their sundaes go perfectly well with their ice cream cakes.
Try their Custard Surprise, a sundae with layers of Milky Lane’s NiceCream, custard, and chocolate sauce. It also has fresh banana slices and wafers that complete your delicious sweet treat.
Where to Shop
Identity
Media From: identity_store
Location: Shop 175
Phone: (011) 331 9905
Website: https://www.identity.co.za/
Support local by shopping at Identity. The store offers casual and streetwear apparel made by South African fashion designers. They have well-fitted jeans, eye-catching graphic tees, and cozy hoodies.
What I love about this shop is their footwear! I have a pair of color-blocked sneakers from Identity that I wear every day. They’re super comfortable and stylish, and I think they’re worth the R480.
Ackermans
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Location: Shop 122
Phone: +27 11 331 9632
Website: https://www.ackermans.co.za/
If you’re on a budget and need some clothes, Ackermans is definitely the place to shop. They have affordable clothing and accessories. You can find everything in this store, from casual wear to smart outfits.
They also have seasonal promotions, making it easier to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
I bought lots of my everyday wear here. They’re cheap yet stylish and have excellent material, making me look fashionable even on my not-so-pretty days.