Sasolburg

Sasolburg was established in 1954 as a planned industrial town to accommodate workers for the world's first commercial oil-from-coal refinery (Sasol). Situated on the southern banks of the Vaal River in the northernmost part of the Free State, it forms an integral part of the Vaal Triangle industrial heartland. Unlike many industrial centers, Sasolburg was designed with a strong focus on urban forestry, resulting in the planting of over 100,000 trees to balance its manufacturing landscape. The local economy is almost entirely driven by the petrochemical industry and chemical manufacturing, making the town a vital technological asset for South Africa. Beyond industry, Sasolburg has gained recognition as a premier sports hub, particularly for athletics and water sports on the nearby Vaal Dam. The infrastructure is modern, featuring wide boulevards and extensive parklands tailored for a specialized workforce. Despite its heavy industrial roots, the town maintains a high standard of living through its proximity to the river and recreational facilities.

Nearby cities

Bloemfontein

The judicial capital of South Africa is often called the 'City of Roses' due to the abundance of flowers.

Welkom

The second-largest city in the Free State emerged after the discovery of rich gold deposits and is known for its urban design.

Kroonstad

The city is located on the Vals River and is an important agricultural service center in the northern Free State.

Bethlehem

Located in the fertile valley of the Maluti Mountains, this place is the center of wheat production in the country.

Phuthaditjhaba

Often simply called QwaQwa, this town is scenically located in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains.

Harrismith

This major stopover on the N3 highway is located at the foot of the prominent Platberg mountain.

Clarens

A picturesque art village at the foot of the Maloti Mountains, known as the jewel of the Free State.

Golden Gate

Famous for its golden-shimmering sandstone cliffs and its spectacular Highlands National Park.

Potchefstroom

A university town on the banks of the Mooi River, known for its many historical buildings.

History & landmarks

Soweto

A historic township on the outskirts of Johannesburg, Soweto is the vibrant heart of South African history and culture.

FNB Stadium

The largest stadium in Africa and venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final.

11 Diagonal Street

A distinctive skyscraper in Johannesburg designed to look like a diamond.

Sentech Tower

A 237-meter-tall television and radio broadcasting tower in Johannesburg.

Nature

Teko Lake

A smaller lake in the Free State.

More places

Sasolburg Petrochemical Plant

The original Sasol facility, transitioned from coal to natural gas for chemical and polymer production.

Golden Gate Highlands

A mountain park with spectacular sandstone cliffs.

South Deep Gold Mine

One of the largest gold mines globally by reserves, utilizing highly mechanized mining techniques.

Mponeng Gold Mine

The deepest gold mine in the world, stretching over 4 kilometers beneath the Earth's surface.

Hector Pieterson Memorial

The memorial honors the young student Hector Pieterson and the students who died during the 1976 Soweto Uprising.

Apartheid Museum Complex

The complex illustrates 20th century South African history, showing the rise and fall of the state-sponsored racial apartheid system.

Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill in Johannesburg is a former prison complex that is now the seat of the Constitutional Court of South Africa.

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden in Johannesburg, popular with families.