D-Day is upon us… after almost four years in development, Atterbury’s pride and joy, the Mall of Africa, is opening tomorrow. And by all accounts shoppers are in for a treat of note when they visit this massive 300-store shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destination this weekend. Here is your handy guide to navigating the mall so that you don’t miss anything!
If I camp out in front of the entrance overnight so that I can be first, when will I be let in?
There are in fact 26 entrances, so it’ll be a tough call to pick one! But there is no need to camp overnight, the mall and all the stores open at 9am, and there will be a multitude of activities and promotions going on during the course of the day and the opening weekend.
How do I get there?
There are many ways to reach the Mall of Africa, whether you drive (Atterbury expanded the surrounding road network to allow ease of access), or take public transport – the new Bridal Veil Bridge over the N1 even has a cycle and pedestrian path! If you come from Pretoria or Johannesburg a combination of the Gautrain (Midrand station is a stone’s throw away) and a short Uber ride will drop you right at the door… there are even two dedicated Uber drop-off and collection points on the southwest and southeast sides of the Mall at Entrances 5 and 9.
Where should I go first?
It depends on whether you want to eat, shop, explore or be entertained… Ster-Kinekor is opening the cinema complex with a 9am 3D Imax screening of the action movie Captain America. Clothing retailer H&M is offering free goodie bags for the first 300 shoppers through its doors. A few international brands are opening their very first stores in South Africa, so if it’s complete novelty you’re after, head straight for Zara Home, Mango Man, unisex clothing retailer The Kooples… or follow the smell of coffee to recent arrival Starbucks! If utter A-lister luxury attracts you, follow the signs to the Versace, Armani Exchange and Hugo Boss stores on level 5.
What else should I look out for?
Africa’s landscapes and geographical features inspired the iconic mall’s design, and there are five courts that each represents a different aspect of the African story, each with its unique energy. Today and for the opening weekend, there will be special surprise activations in each of these courts, so make sure you explore…! The Crystal Court is the biggest and forms the heart of the Mall of Africa and is an opulent space that speaks of luxury, with a soon to open Champagne Bar. The Forest Walk Court, where the cinemas are situated, forms the spine of the mall on level 3 and represents the lush green landscapes of the continent, with benches and outdoor scenery. The Oleum Court is where you’ll find Edgars, and this is dedicated to precious natural oils of Africa. The Great Lakes Court is inspired by water, that precious resource, and this is also where you’ll find Woolies. Finally, the Desert Court is situated near the Town Square, which invites you to sit down and relax, and leads out onto the open green grass of Waterfall Park… the perfect place to take a breather from all the excitement of shopping.
It’s heaven! Can I stay forever?
Almost! The Mall offers longer trading hours than other centres, and will be open seven days a week, 09h00 to 20h00 on Mondays to Saturdays and 10h00 to 20h00 on Sundays and public holidays.
