Sample Johannesburg's culture at Nelson Mandela Square

People hoping for a cultural experience during a luxury holiday in South Africa should head to Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg.

Tourism leaders have suggested the square - which is situated in the Sandton district of the city - is renowned for its fantastic upmarket retail outlets and huge range of gourmet al fresco dining opportunities.

With more than 300 boutiques and stores in the vicinity, it is easy to see why the area is so popular.

The square has a significant historical importance too, as visitors flock to see the six-foot statue of Nelson Mandela, which was first erected in 2004.

It was put up to mark the tenth anniversary of democracy in the country and before this point the region was known as Sandton Square.

Johannesburg and Cape Town are both becoming increasingly popular among tourists and both destinations played their part in helping South Africa land the best sports tourism accolade at the recent World Travel Awards.