Museums & galleries
Johannesburg Planetarium
Johannesburg Planetarium
Located on the University of the Witwatersrand campus in Braamfontein, this facility is Africa's first large-scale planetarium. Visitors go here to view exhibits and scheduled shows focused on astronomy, the stars, and the mechanics of the universe.
Getting There
The planetarium is situated in the Braamfontein area, which is centrally located. From the city centre, it is a short trip via ride-sharing services or local transport, typically taking about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for a visit. This provides enough time to explore the available exhibits and attend a full planetarium presentation.
When to Visit
The experience is indoors, making it a viable option regardless of the season. It is advisable to check the schedule for specific showtimes before arriving to avoid waiting. Like many campus-based attractions, it can become more crowded during university event periods or school holidays.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location, the planetarium can be combined with other cultural sites in the vicinity:
- Alexander Theatre (0.8km)
- Joburg Theatre (1.2km)
- Schlesinger Building (1.5km)
- MuseuMAfricA (1.5km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors