Wondering what to do for Freedom Day on 27 April 2015? First Car Rental has put together a list of places to visit that capture the past, present and future of South Africa’s amazing journey to becoming a democratic and united republic.

1. Nelson Mandela Museum, Mthatha, Eastern Cape

Start your Freedom Day weekend at the Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha. The museum was opened in 2000, ten years after Madiba’s release from prison in 1990 and incorporates three sites – Mvezo (near Coffee Bay, where Mandela was born); Qunu (his childhood village); and the Bhunga Building in Mthatha where the story of the life and times of one of South Africa's greatest leaders is depicted.

2. Nelson Mandela Memorial, Howick, KZN

The Nelson Mandela Memorial at Madiba’s Capture Site was erected to mark the 50-year anniversary of what began Nelson Mandela’s “long walk to freedom”. The iconic and powerful national monument was designed by South African artist Marco Cianfanelli. Madiba’s profile spans across 50 columns and the shape and form of the sculpture are representative of the 27 years Mandela spent behind bars in his efforts to bring equal rights and governmental representation to the nation.  

3. Robben Island, Cape Town

If you have not been there already, a visit to the Robben Island is certainly a trip worth taking. Robben Island is where Mandela spent 18 of his 27 year prison sentence. A 9km ferry ride off the shore of Cape Town takes you to Murray’s Bay Harbour situated on the east coast of the Island. Guided tours are conducted by formers political prisoners who are fully knowledgeable about the islands 500 year history.  Along with being a World heritage site, Robben Island is also a protected natural eco-system. The island is home to about 132 species of birds and is also inhabited by the Cape Fur Seals. Visitors can also spot Southern Right whales, Dusky and Heaviside’s dolphins.  

4. Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg

Just 15 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport or 20 minutes from Sandton, the Apartheid Museum is where you can discover the true story of South Africa – the story of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. The exhibits have been assembled a multi-disciplinary team of curators, historians, designers and film makers and include provocative film footage, photographs, text panels and artefacts of South Africa’s tumultuous past and well as inspiring stories of the struggle towards democracy. The Museum is a must-see for all South Africans.  

5. Vilakazi Street, Johannesburg

One of the most famous streets in South Africa, Vilakazi Street is a thriving tourist attraction known for its history, township heritage and vibrant spirit, and not to mention being the home of two Nobel laureates – Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Vilakazi is also known for its great restaurants that serve up exceptional local cuisine.  The historic Hector Pieterson Museum, that commemorates the role of the country's students in the struggle against apartheid, is just a short walk away from Vilakazi Street.  

6. Main Street Walk, Johannesburg

Running along the heart of Johannesburg’s corporate mining district, Main Street is home to the offices of some of the world’s largest mining companies. The once thriving street that linked to South Africa’s mining origins deteriorated at the beginning of the 21st Century, but the area was resuscitated with the construction of the Main Street Mall and the conversion of a section of the street into a pedestrian area.  Today there are several mining artefacts and equipment placed along the street creating a living museum. There are also several pavement cafés, craft markets and restaurants creating a safe and sustainable commercial environment.  

7. Constitution Hill Precinct, Johannesburg Located in Braamfontein, Constitution Hill is the seat of the Constitutional Court of South Africa. Before Constitution Hill was established in 2004, the precinct housed the Old Fort Prison complex. Built in the 1890’s the complex originally housed prisoners of the Anglo-Boer War until 1902. The complex then became a detention centre of political prisoners.  Today Constitution Hill has become a symbol of freedom and the triumph of democracy and human rights.  

8. Maboneng Precinct, Johannesburg

The colourful Mabogneng Precinct is a representation of South Africa’s growth and development. From a no-go zone to a thriving commercial community, the Maboneng Precinct’s transformation is nothing short of impressive. With a mix of art galleries, designer stores, and funky restaurants and cafes, the precinct has breathed new life into downtown Johannesburg becoming one of the hippest places in the city.      

9. Kliptown Open Air Museum, Soweto

A location of great historic importance, the Kliptown Open Air Museum, located in the heart of Soweto, was where the Freedom Charter was drafted in 1955. The art on the outside walls and inside the buildings depicts the people who were involved in making history. Along with visiting this historic site, visitors can also visit the lovely art galleries, craft shops and eat at number of fine restaurants in Soweto serving traditional South African cuisine.  

10. Phezulu Cultural village, Durban

If you want to experience the spirit of Africa, the Phezulu Cultural Village is the place to be. The Phezulu Village showcases the beauty of Zulu culture and lifestyle. The picturesque park has beautiful views of the famous Valley of a 1000 Hills. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the village, watch the traditional Zulu dance show and even meet the Ramesis, the 90 year old Nile crocodile that lives in the Village’s crocodile park.   Book a car with First Car Rental and take a trip to these inspiring and thought provoking destinations in South Africa this Freedom Day weekend. First Car Rental has 49 branches located nationwide for convenient car rental.  

Book a car with First Car Rental and take a trip to these inspiring and thought provoking destinations in South Africa this Freedom Day weekend. First Car Rental has 49 branches located nationwide for convenient car rental.