Mai Mai Market, Johannesburg - a group of cars parked next to each other in a parking lot
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Mai Mai Market Johannesburg

Experience the vibrant heart of Johannesburg at Mai Mai Market, a cultural hub with legendary braai and traditional healers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Peak vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Mai Mai Market, Johannesburg - a group of cars parked next to each other in a parking lot

Mai Mai Market Johannesburg

Best Time

Weekends

Peak vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the vibrant heart of Johannesburg at Mai Mai Market, a cultural hub with legendary braai and traditional healers.

4.4
(5k reviews)

"The atmosphere is crazy over here. It's literally a party every day!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Cash is King 💰

Many vendors prefer cash, so come prepared with Rand. ATMs might be scarce.

Come Hungry! 🍖

The braai here is legendary. Don't miss out on the delicious grilled meats and local flavors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Braai Experience

Authentic Braai Experience

Throughout the market

Savor mouthwatering grilled meats cooked over open flames. The aroma alone is intoxicating!

Traditional Healers' Stalls

Traditional Healers' Stalls

Wooden cabins

Discover a fascinating array of traditional medicines, crafts, and spiritual items.

Vibrant Local Culture

Vibrant Local Culture

Market grounds

Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere, music, and friendly local interactions.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibrant Atmosphere

Mai Mai Market is a lively hub of culture and commerce. Expect a sensory overload with music, food sizzling, and bustling crowds. Go with an open mind and ready to explore!

Plan Your Culinary Adventure

This market is renowned for its delicious street food, especially braai (BBQ). Come hungry and be prepared to sample a variety of grilled meats and local delicacies. It's a true taste of Johannesburg!

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Peak vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, more relaxed
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kwa Mai-mai with my two lovely friends 🥩 #kwamaimai #kwamaimaimarket #kwamaimaivibes🇿🇦😁😜 #shisanyama #jozi #fyp #viral #sama #sama28 #southafrica #zulutiktok @Asanda @Mhlekazi
@duduzile_thecookingjourn
40.2K likes • 1.3M views

Cash is King 💰

Many vendors prefer cash, so come prepared with Rand. ATMs might be scarce.

Come Hungry! 🍖

The braai here is legendary. Don't miss out on the delicious grilled meats and local flavors.

On this episode of “Road Kill” we go international to Kwa Mai Mai Market in Johannesburg, South Africa 🇿🇦 where they make the most delicious braii (bbq) in the world !! 😫😋 #foodreview #restaurant #foodie #travel #fyp #bbq #braii #southafrica #johannesburg #streetfood
itsjlotto
0 likes • 256.3K views
Kwa Mai Mai Traditional Market Address: 14 Berea Rd, City and Suburban, Johannesburg, 2094 Phone: 071 791 3754 #kwamaimai #berea #kasihustlers
kasi_hustlers_sa
3.7K likes • 162.3K views

Explore with an Open Mind 🤔

Embrace the vibrant chaos and unique cultural offerings. It's an experience!

Bargain Respectfully 🤝

Negotiating prices is common, but always do so with a smile and respect.

Kwa Mai Mai traditional market is the heart of Johannesburg CBD on Berea road in Jeppestown. The market is the oldest of its kind in Johannesburg. It is essentially split into two… the traditional healers stalls, made up by a neat rows of small wooden cabins. There is an array of items on offer. From tourist-focused statuettes and carvings. To traditional tribal garb made out of a variety of ...
georgephilipasphotography
4 likes • 436 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Cash is King 💰

Many vendors prefer cash, so come prepared with Rand. ATMs might be scarce.

Come Hungry! 🍖

The braai here is legendary. Don't miss out on the delicious grilled meats and local flavors.

Explore with an Open Mind 🤔

Embrace the vibrant chaos and unique cultural offerings. It's an experience!

Bargain Respectfully 🤝

Negotiating prices is common, but always do so with a smile and respect.

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the market grounds.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mai Mai Market is celebrated for its incredibly vibrant atmosphere and authentic street food, particularly its legendary braai. Visitors love the immersive cultural experience and the opportunity to connect with local traditions. However, some find the market can be overwhelming due to crowds and noise, and advise caution regarding personal belongings.

"It’s a place to socialise meet people, with variety of foods,stalls&beautiful music a place to go to if you want to unwind"

Big G kheswa

"The place Kwa Mai Mai Traditional Market is very entertaining however music from different stalls makes for loud experience rather than one singular DJ to entertain visitors. The facilities for guests to relieve themselves (toilets) is non existent which is troubling when pressed to access restrooms. The food is amazing however variety of food would help not everyone selling wors, liver, steak altogether. Variety of meals recommended example samp, bunny chow, cow heels, intestines, chicken giblets,,,,, just to name a few could add to experience. Dessert not optional and would be great to have some cake or ice cream, pudding , milkshake to add more flavour to the Kwa Mai Mai market. Overall 2 star ⭐ rating as mentioned above and parking is limited inside and outside. No mashalls to guard vehicles , and. Loads to improve...... Plus is Jewel Mall is right up it's ally Could visit Roots Grill nearby. Thanks"

Zolile Mhiga

"The place was so packed that we waited for two hours for our food and found out that the lady swapped our order with the other group. Since we were so hungry, we ate what we were given. They have to find a better way to manage orders. Other than that it was a vibe"

Flaviour Shogole

What People Like

Authentic braai
Vibrant atmosphere
Cultural immersion

What People Dislike

Crowded
Can be noisy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mai Mai Market is located at 14 Berea Rd, City and Suburban, Johannesburg. You can reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt. Public transport options might be available, but ride-sharing is often recommended for convenience and safety.Instagram

Parking can be challenging due to the market's popularity and location in the CBD. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.

For tourists, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are generally the most convenient and safest options for getting to and from Mai Mai Market, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.Instagram

While public transport might be available, it's often less direct and can be more time-consuming. Checking local transport routes or asking your accommodation for advice is recommended.

Mai Mai Market is located in the Johannesburg CBD, which is a different area from Sandton. The travel time can vary significantly depending on traffic, but it's a notable contrast to the more modern Sandton district.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Mai Mai Market is generally free. You can wander through the stalls and soak in the atmosphere without purchasing an admission ticket.

The market is typically open throughout the week, but hours can vary. It's best to visit during daylight hours, especially on weekends when it's most vibrant. Some vendors may close earlier on weekdays.Instagram

There is no separate entrance fee for the braai areas. You pay for the food you order directly from the vendors.

Mai Mai Market is a walk-in market, and there's no need to book a specific time. The best experience is often during peak hours when the atmosphere is most lively.

While not always formally advertised, some local guides or tour operators might offer visits to Mai Mai Market as part of a Johannesburg city tour. Inquiring with local tourism providers is recommended.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Mai Mai Market offers a rich cultural experience with traditional healers, vibrant street food (especially braai), local crafts, music, and a lively atmosphere. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Johannesburg's heritage.Instagram+2

Like any busy urban market, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items. The vibrant atmosphere is generally welcoming.TikTok

The market is famous for its delicious braai (barbecue) with various meats grilled to perfection. You'll also find other local street food delicacies and traditional dishes.Instagram

Yes, you can find a variety of souvenirs, including carvings, traditional clothing, beadwork, and other handcrafted items. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts.Instagram

Absolutely! Music is a big part of the Mai Mai Market experience, with lively tunes often playing, contributing to the energetic and festive vibe.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The absolute must-try is the braai (barbecue). Juicy, perfectly grilled meats are the star of the show here. You'll find various cuts and preparations that are incredibly flavorful.Instagram

Food prices are generally very affordable, reflecting its status as a local street food destination. You can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Mai Mai Market is primarily known for its meat-centric braai. Vegetarian options might be limited, so it's best to inquire with individual vendors if you have specific dietary needs.

Yes, you can typically purchase a variety of beverages, including local beers, soft drinks, and traditional juices, to complement your meal.

While it's street food, many vendors maintain good hygiene practices. Observing how food is prepared and handled can give you peace of mind. The popularity of the food stalls is a good indicator of quality.

📸 📸 Photography

The market offers fantastic photo opportunities, from the vibrant street food stalls and sizzling braai to the colorful traditional crafts and the lively interactions of people. The unique architecture of the wooden cabins is also photogenic.Instagram+1

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors or traditional healers. Many people are happy to be photographed, but respect their privacy.Instagram

Late afternoon can offer beautiful golden hour light, while midday provides bright, vibrant colors. The market is always bustling, so any time during operating hours will offer dynamic scenes.

The rows of wooden cabins housing traditional healers, the open braai areas with smoke rising, and the colorful displays of crafts are all highly photogenic spots within the market.Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the bustling atmosphere, and a prime lens can be good for low-light or portraits if you ask permission.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mai Mai Market can be an exciting outing for families, offering a vibrant and educational experience. The lively atmosphere, music, and the spectacle of food being prepared can captivate children. It's a great opportunity to expose them to different cultures and traditions in a hands-on way.

Key recommendations for families: Come during daylight hours, especially on weekends when the market is most active. Keep a close eye on children in crowded areas and ensure they have comfortable shoes for exploring. While the braai is a highlight, be mindful of younger children around open flames. Consider trying some of the colorful crafts as souvenirs. It's a chance for kids to see a different side of Johannesburg beyond the typical tourist spots.TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Mai Mai Market is a dream destination for budget travelers. The market offers incredible value for money, especially when it comes to food. You can enjoy a substantial and delicious meal of authentic braai for a fraction of the cost you'd pay in a restaurant.Instagram

Beyond the food, many of the crafts and souvenirs are also affordably priced, allowing you to pick up unique mementos without overspending. The entrance is free, making it an accessible attraction for everyone. Tip: Bring cash, as many vendors don't accept cards, and be prepared to haggle respectfully for the best prices on goods.

📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts

For photographers and culture enthusiasts, Mai Mai Market is a treasure trove of visual and experiential richness. The market's vibrant colors, diverse people, and unique traditions offer endless opportunities for stunning shots and deep cultural immersion.Instagram+1

Key areas to focus on: The intricate details of traditional healers' stalls, the dynamic action of the braai chefs at work, the colorful textiles and crafts, and the candid moments of daily life. Remember to always ask for permission before taking close-up portraits. The market's energy, especially on weekends, provides a lively backdrop for capturing the essence of Johannesburg's heritage.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of Johannesburg: Mai Mai Market's Cultural Significance

Mai Mai Market, officially known as Kwa Mai-Mai, is more than just a marketplace; it's a vital cultural hub and one of Johannesburg's oldest traditional markets.Instagram Located in the CBD on Berea Road, it serves as a living testament to the city's rich heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and traditions of its people. The market is essentially divided into two main sections: the traditional healers' area and the vibrant shisanyama (braai) section.Instagram

The traditional healers' section features rows of small wooden cabins, each a unique space where practitioners offer a range of services and goods. Visitors can find traditional medicines, spiritual items, carvings, and tribal attire. This area provides a fascinating insight into indigenous African healing practices and beliefs, making it a significant cultural attraction.Instagram

Complementing the spiritual side is the lively shisanyama, where the air is thick with the aroma of sizzling meat. This is where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy delicious braai, often accompanied by music and a festive atmosphere. It's a place where community and culinary delights intertwine, offering an authentic taste of Johannesburg's vibrant street food culture.TikTokInstagram

A Culinary Journey: The Braai Experience at Mai Mai Market

The shisanyama section of Mai Mai Market is a paradise for meat lovers. Here, skilled vendors expertly grill a variety of meats over open flames, creating an irresistible smoky aroma that draws visitors in. This is the quintessential Mai Mai Market experience, offering a true taste of South African braai culture.Instagram

From succulent lamb chops and boerewors (traditional sausage) to chicken and beef cuts, the selection is diverse and always cooked to perfection. The meat is often seasoned with local spices, adding a unique flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. It's a communal dining experience, with people gathering around to enjoy their freshly grilled meals, often accompanied by sides like pap (maize porridge) or salads.

Many visitors rave about the quality and affordability of the food. It's not just about the taste; it's about the entire sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling market combined with the delicious, freshly prepared food. It's a culinary adventure that truly captures the spirit of Johannesburg's street food scene.Instagram

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