Nelson Mandela Bridge illuminated at night above Johannesburg’s rail yards, with downtown buildings behind it. — PHOTO“Mandela Bridge, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.jpg” by South African Tourism · CC BY 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP for this site.

AFRICA JOHANNESBURG · SOUTH AFRICA

Nelson Mandela Bridge walk

Cross the cable-stayed bridge between Braamfontein and Newtown on its reserved pedestrian walkway above the rail yards.

What to expect

The 295-metre Nelson Mandela Bridge links Braamfontein with Newtown, spanning the railway yards at the edge of Johannesburg’s inner city. Its reserved pedestrian and cycle lanes let visitors cross the landmark on foot and see the bridge structure from close range. This is a working traffic bridge, so the walk is a short crossing rather than a traffic-free promenade.

Free entry

Before you go

Entry and costs

Crossing the public pedestrian walkway requires no attraction ticket. Transport, guided tours and venues at either end are separate; temporary works or public-safety controls can affect access.

Visitor notes

Keep to the marked pedestrian side and watch for cyclists at shared points. The City’s development agency identifies the bridge as the link between Braamfontein and Newtown. For a first visit, plan a daylight crossing and arrange your route back in advance; SAPS recommends busy, well-lit routes and exploring in a group where possible.

Opening hours

Date-specific hours are not available for this place. Check the official page for the day you plan to visit.

Good for

City walkLandmark viewsFree day out

Official sourceJohannesburg Development Agency — Nelson Mandela Bridge

Checked 1 November 2026. Hours, entry rules and access can change; check this page again before you visit.

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