The world-renowned hop-on hop-off buses will be launched in Johannesburg, the Gauteng economic development department says.

MEC Qedani Mahlangu announced that Gauteng's first hop-on hop-off bus would be launched in January next year.

"Tourists will soon be able to jump on an iconic red open top bus and explore some of the most famous tourist locations in Johannesburg," she said in a statement.

On Friday, Mahlangu outlined some plans for tourism in the province for this year and next year and said the busses would make the city more tourists friendly.

"These buses will allow visitors to explore the city's history in a safe and convenient way, making the city more tourist friendly."

Mahlangu said the buses, which operate in 100 cities on six continents around the world, will offer commentary in 17 different languages."