Johannesburg Gold Mines - Johannesburg hotels, Johannesburg accommodation,South Africa

Johannesburg Gold Mines

The largest gold resources in the world were found in the area of the Witwatersrand and it is therefore not a surprise that South Africa is one of the world leaders in gold mining. Johannesburg's other name, "Egoli" means City of Gold. The gold-bearing stone is mined at considerable depth. The Western Deep Level Mine, with its shafts of depths to 3900 m, is one of the deepest in the world. Mining at such deep levels is usually highly problematic, because the temperature rises by 1 degree every 33 metres.

However, the geo-thermal conditions in South Africa are favourable. Nevertheless, immense machinery and air-conditioning are still required to make the working conditions underground tolerable. The air is cooled down to 32 degrees, but the workers have to cope with almost 100 percent humidity.

The material, work and energy needed for gold production is enormous. To produce one single fine ounce (= 31,104 g), 3,3 tons of ore, 5440 litres of water, 572 kilowatt hours electricity, 12 cubic metres of compressed air, lots of dynamite and tons of chemicals are used. After the gold-containing ore has been brought to light, it passes many more processing stages in a gold refinery, until the precious metal eventually reaches the state of absolute purity.

The price of gold has declined constantly in the last few years, mainly because of competition from cheaper gold from Russia and Australia. South Africa's gold industry has been under enormous pressure at times and could only survive because the Rand constantly lost its value against the major currencies. Only recently the gold price has improved.

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Johannesburg South Africa

City of dreams and the heartbeat of South Africa. A glittering, vibrant, fast-paced world class African city. Set within the world’s largest urban forest. Diverse in culture, colour and heritage. Joburg’s contrasts will capture your heart. And awaken your soul.

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Johannesburg Nature

Joburg is host to 17 nature reserves 63 ha of bird sanctuaries, 87 ha of nature trails, 80 ha of botanical gardens and 108 dams.

Johannesburg Weather

Johannesburg, South Africa

Temp:	27°C
Wind Chill:	27°C
Humidity:	42%

Speed:	10 km/h
Direct.:	30°
Barom.:	1022.0 mb

NNE

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As you’d expect in any large city, Joburg has a host of hotels for every budget, and also many beautiful smaller properties tucked away in beautiful leafy suburbs.