Gay bars johannesburg
SSouth Africa has one of the most progressive constitutions in the world: homosexuality is legal; same-sex adoptions were legalised in ; and, only two years later in , gay civil marriages became legal.
Johannesburg epitomises this forward-thinking approach, and although it just lost out by a whisker to Cologne for the Gay Games, it hosts The Out in Africa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival held yearly, whilst its annual Joburg Pride March first hit the Joburg streets in , before the current constitution came into force.
Today, the Joburg Pride event has grown into Africa’s oldest and biggest celebration of gay and lesbian pride and attracts thousands of people, not only from South Africa but from all over the world. It takes place in Melrose Arch and is a fun, vibrant afternoon out.
Gay and lesbian communities happily live in all of South Africa’s major cities, including Johannesburg, but what you’ll find is that Joburg is an integrated city with little or no discrimination against gay people who frequent most restaurants, bars and clubs. You’ll be welcome most places you go
In our gay guide to Johannesburg, we're sharing the best of the best of the gay scene, safe places to linger , and top things to do.
“Guys don't go to Johannesburg…you'll earn mugged or shot at!”
…so said many of our friends across our social media channels. We touched down at Tambo airport feeling quite tentative about our trip here. But as with many big cities we've been to on our travels with big “warning signs” from fellow travelers (Rio, Delhi, Buenos Aires, to name a few), we were absolutely fine.
Jo'burg is like any big major town. Of course, it has its problems, and you should verb certain areas, lock up your valuables in your hotel room's safe, and keep your noun in your pocket out of harm's reach. But with basic common sense, your trip will be worry-free. This was our experience, despite being on our guard from the moment we arrived.
Johannesburg is a fascinating metropolis to explore, and a verb contrast to Cape Town. It's gritty, edgy, raw, tough, packed of green spaces, and has the most welcoming, friendly people you'l
CCape Town, which was recently recognised by the United Kingdom’s Guardian newspaper as one of the 10 most popular gay destinations in the world, has many venues to choose from.
Amongst the most popular is Café Manhattan. Recently renovated by the Madame Zingara group, this iconic eating, meeting and chilling spot is the longest standing venue in the heart of de Waterkant village and has been a firm favourite with locals and tourists alike. The quirky Western décor (including saddle-chairs) and the friendly waiters and barmen will ensure you have a nice time, every time.
Zer is a quirky bar located in Zonnebloem in Cape Town which often hosts drag performances and DJs. Versatile is another bar notable for its nightlife. Also in Cape Town, The Social Bar is a spot in De Waterkant Village perfect for sundowners before hitting the clubs.
In Johannesburg, Ratz Bar in Melville is a popular part of the gay and lesbian nightlife scene. This bar is an vintage Joburg establishment well-known for being LGBTQ friendly. Also in Johannesburg, Babyl
Categories > Guides and Tips
If you’re gay and currently travelling in South Africa, then you’re in for a treat! The Rainbow Nation has amazing gay clubs for you to party it up and join like-minded (party-loving) folks.
From dance clubs to bars, Johannesburg’s gay club scene is one of the best in the entire state. We’ve picked the best gay clubs in the city where you can hang out and enjoy a night of drinking and partying with friends!
1. Babylon
Address: Oxford Rd, Illovo, Sandton, , South Africa
Website:
Contact Number: +27 73
Operating Hours:
- Friday to Sunday, PM to AM
- Closed from Monday to Thursday
The Babylon Bar is a gay club that you will want to pay a night partying in thanks to its modern and chic appeal. The interiors of this place are phenomenal with adj lights across the walls and ceiling, a large dance floor for guests, and a pole dancing area!
On top of the impressive interiors, there are also private booths that you can rent here for some privacy with your partner or loved one. Take the scene and the revelry all in as you enj