Dog Walks In Johannesburg

Spring is springing and now that we have a little more freedom (both us and our hounds) there is no better time to explore with your dogs some incredible parks around Johannesburg.

This a great variety to choose from whether you want to go on or off leash, a gentle stroll or a bit of adventure trail. Whichever option you go for, please make sure that you take only socialized dogs especially for off lead adventures. 

If you are new to dog walks in Joburg, keep your possessions on you to a minimum and hidden. Keep hydrated, especially if you’re not used to the Joburg summer sun. Walks earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon are mor enjoyable for you and your dogs. 

Tips and Etiquette 

• Please take a poop bag with you

• Leash always (even if you’re planning on an off leash walk you never know what might happen with other dogs)

• Water if you think it’s going to be a long walk especially in summer 

• If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for your dog (rather walk when its cooler)

• Leave your dog toys at home … it may just cause issues with other dogs wanting to play

Here are some of my favorite walks that we love to go on in and around town. 

Delta Park in RandburgDelta Park is popular with dog walkers due to  hectares of lush green grasslands and woodlands. There are also several dams for the dogs to wade in, and an heaps of bird life to keep an eye on. 

A couple of the entrances also sell doggie products and coffees for the humans.

Do keep an eye out for cyclists as the walking and bike trails often intersect and they can come through at a speed. 

Daria Photography KUIER.co

Emmarentia Dog Park ,is a firm favourite with dogs and their humans! 

Check your entrances to see if you can enter off/ on leash. The off leash entrances are the top entrance on Thomas Bowler or Orange Road. There are a couple of dams where in summer, the dogs just love to jump in and cool down. 

It also has a great community atmosphere and apart from the entrance there is little interaction with cyclists.

The Wilds – one of Joburg’s most beautiful park, The Wilds has been declared a National Monument. Its located sits in the dead centre of urban Johannesburg and is easy to drive by if you don’t know what you’re looking for.  The park is open for walking tours during the summer months and you can bring your dog provided it’s on a leash. The views from the top of Joburg are spectacular and you get the added additions of seeing some of artist, James Delaney’s Owl and other animal installations 

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Sandton Field and Study Centre – is located near the Sandton business district,  this tract of urban greenery is fenced off for safety and allows for dogs to run free and off-lead. The horses in the land across from the park are in eye-view for the dogs, making for much excitement. 

There is also a fabulous café on the property to cater for the humans.

James and Ethel Grey park – is a small park close to the suburb of Birdhaven, just south of Melrose Arch, and started its life as a bird sanctuary - hence the rather apt name for the suburb closest to the park. Sandspruit River that winds through a range of beautifully landscaped lawns, indigenous vegetation, walkways and benches. 

By the main entrance in Birdhaven there is an area for the dogs to potter around off leash and it’s a hugely socialble part of the park. The views of the Joburg skyline are fabulous as well. Grab a cup of coffee from Voodoo Lily up the road and enjoy the scenary.

Melville Koppies Nature reserve - is not only a reserve but also a Johannesburg City Heritage Site. It is the last conserved remnant of Johannesburg's ridges as they were before the discovery of gold in 1886. Its open daily, but it is recommended that you walk in groups. Definitely not a walk for elderly or injured dogs. There are also monthly guided walks if you want to learn more about the reserve and dogs on leads are welcome 

Here are some other places to consider in and around Joberg

• Echo Dog Park in Fourways 

• Walkhaven in Muldrersdrift  

• Faerie Glen in Pretoria

• Huddle Park Golf & Recreation in Linksfield

Organized walks 

Before COVID there was an increasing number of night dog walks being run by either breed groups or organisations such as dotsure Night Walkies.

There are often in parks and well organised with water, night lights etc (also something fun to do with the kids) 

As we start to open up again keep an eye out for night walks as something different to do with the pets (and your family).  

Enjoy the summer and your fur babies 

Writer: 

Daria Higgins 

KUIER.co

FAMILY DATE NIGHTS IN JOHANNESBURG

Most of us know the value of a date night with our partner, but how many of us place similar effort into creating family nights? A chance to put away technology and do something that the whole family will enjoy! We have decided to try and have a family night once a month, anything from movie night, or playing games, cooking together or going out for food. It is a European tradition that we would quite like to adopt.  

Whilst it is a bit harder to find kid friendly activities here in Joburg, there are some restaurants and places that we have discovered are really well geared up for the whole family: 

• Night Tour at the Zoo - you get to see animals, take your touches and toast marshmallows on the open fire - what more could you ask for!

• Fishmonger / Craft / Local Grill , Col'Cacchio- these four restaurants are brilliant with kids, as soon as you arrive they bring activities for the kids to do, and have a great kids menu. The real bonus is you would go there without the kids too, so the food is great. (The milkshakes at Craft are out of this world, and ask to do the kitchen tour at the Local Grill - fantastic when you have guests to stay).

• Bambanani - now the food isn’t ideal, but the first Saturday of the month they have a disco and our kids just loved it - allowing my husband and I to have a lovely glass or two of wine.

• Monte Casino - You will love it or hate it, but for a family night, whilst I wouldn't choose to go there with friends or just my husband, it’s really fun with kids. They often run a variety of events - I took ours to the Christmas village for the outdoor cinema and it was brilliant (apart from the rain, and losing two of my children in the lift as the other one ran out into the car park). The event itself was really well put together with dressed up characters, beanbags to watch the family Christmas movie and nice gift shops, despite my parenting fails I am looking forward to going back another time (maybe with my husband next time). In addition to the events, there is the theatre, and cinema there if you have older kids.

• Joburg Theatre - Lovely theatre with some great family shows throughout the year - obviously the Christmas pantomime is a hit, and this year I am looking forward to taking my daughter to the ballet there in October too.

• Johannesburg Country Club, the Auckland Park club has been renovated into a lovely family-friendly restaurant overlooking the beautiful gardens. Each Friday they have the sports team there to provide races, cricket and the bouncy castle for the kids.

Children Specific Restaurants:  

• Spur - Various

• Panettone - Zoo Lake

• Papachinos - Various

• Milkbar - Parkmore

• Mikes Kitchen - Various

• River Cafe - Sandton Field and Study

• Jamie’s Italiane- Melrose Arch

  
  What Have I Missed? Do You Have A Favourite Place You Like To Take The Kids?

Best Places to View Jacarandas

Its that time of year when Joburg and Pretoria turn purple. There is a saying amongst students that if you haven't started revising for your exams by the time the streets turn purple it's too late. 

The Jacaranda's don’t last all that long, the best time is usually the second or third weekend in October, just after the first rains have come at the start of summer.  

Half Day Trips: 

Rosebank  

Park in Rosebank Mall, and then head out towards Tyrwhitt Avenue, and across Oxford Road into Melrose. Take a stroll around the avenue's before heading back along Jellicoe. Finish up with a drink or meal at the Keys Mile. If you are looking for views, we recommend Marble or Mesh Club (which is open to the public after 4pm), or the Milk Bar for great vibe.  

Picnic In Emmarentia Park 

Park in Emmarentia car park, just off Orange Road, and then stroll up Troon Road, up and over Barry Herzog, and into the beautiful Clovelly Road. You can stroll all around Greenside, before heading back into Emmerentia to pick up your picnic and head into the park. (If you have kids there is a great play area right by the entrance on Olifants Road.  

Take A Heritage Stroll

Drive around the streets in parkview, before parking at the bottom of Westcliff Steps on Crescent Drive or the intersection of Wicklow Avenue and Westcliff Drive. The 210 steps are well worth the climb to take in a view across the whole of Johannesburg.

Westcliff is home to all the old "Randlords", its one of the oldest parts of the city. With its large properties with incredible views. It is also home to two outstanding (and over subscribed) schools; The Ridge (boys) and St Catherine’s (girls). The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation run wonderful guided walks. 

Lunch @ Four Seasons Hotel - Westcliff 

This is a must do at least once during your stay here. You can not beat the views from the terrace at this luxury hotel. But make sure you book, it is incredibly popular at this time of year. You may even want to go for a walk around the zoo in the morning, since its right opposite.  

Pretoria 

Pretoria is usually 3 degrees warmer than Joburg, as a result the Jacarandas bloom a few weeks earlier than they do in Joburg. 

A great viewing spot is the Union Buildings, which you can get to via the Gautrain, take the Hatfield stop and then the H3 bus. 

If driving, head to the Brooklyn Area, and drive along Pienaar Street and Murray Street, amongst others. For the White Jacaranda's drive along Herbert Baker Street, and then up into the Klapperkop Nature Reserve to get an ariel view. 

For more info on 2Summers hunt for the White Jacaranda's Click here to read her post and see more beautiful photos.  

Want to join others to explore the streets? We arrange a meetup every month over in our Around the World Hikers WhatsApp Group. Email me here to get an invite and come join us.

Where to Take your Guests in Joburg

One of the most enjoyable parts about being an expat is having friends and family come over to visit. While living in South Africa might have its frustrations and challenges at times, visitors to South Africa are never disappointed.

While many tourists might head straight to Cape Town or the bush and completely bypass Joburg, having friends come to stay in the city is a wonderful opportunity to show them an African city that is becoming more and more popular with visitors every year.

1. A Drink With a View

Even with the many “koppies” (small hills) in the city, it can be difficult to get a view of the city unless you’re in a tall building.

Make the most of some of the best views in the city by taking your visitors for a sunset drink at Marble in Rosebank, or the balcony of Flames at the Four Seasons Hotel at the Westcliff.

If you’re hungry, and looking for 5-star dining, you can also choose to stay for a meal at either.

If you’re lucky you might catch a summer thunderstorm, or in October, the purple Jacaranda bloom that happens every spring.

2. A Special Treat

The Saxon is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city, and is famous for its afternoon tea, and its spa.

Internationally renowned South African chef Luke Dale-Roberts has also set up a restaurant at The Saxon. This is definitely worth visiting if you feel like splurging on a 7-course set menu. 

3. Explore the Cradle of Humankind

Finding out more about prehistory and our early human ancestors is relevant to visitors from any part of the world, so a visit to the Cradle of Humankind is a must if you’re looking for an enlightening and educational experience.

The Cradle is also known for its variety of restaurants and outdoor venues. For upmarket Italian try Casalinga, for contemporary cuisine try Roots at Forum Homini or if you’re looking for something a bit more wholesome try Leafy Greens, a vegan restaurant on the Casalinga property.

4. A Weekend Market

Outdoor weekend markets have become very popular in Joburg, especially since they’re perfect for making the most of the city’s sunny climate, even in winter.

The city’s markets are also a great way to interact with all kinds of different people, as well as get a taste of local food and drinks, and just to have a good time (Joburgers definitely know how to have fun!).

• Saturdays: 
  Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein
  Bryanston Organic Market

• Sundays: 
  Market on Main in Maboneng (go exploring in the Maboneng Precinct afterwards)
  Fourways Farmers Market opposite Monte Casino
  Waterfall Market at Mall of Africa

• Monthly markets are also found in the greater Gauteng area, including:
  Irene Village Market
  Ngwenya Country Market

5. Arts & Culture

Johannesburg is a thriving cultural hub, with several world class galleries and museums. If your guests are here on the first Thursday of a month, take them out to Rosebank, Braamfontein or Maboneng, where all of the art galleries and some stores open late for First Thursdays.

Other well-known art galleries and museums to visit are:

• Apartheid Museum

• Origins Centre (a great complement to a trip to the Cradle of Humankind)

• Constitution Hill

• Keyes Art Mile (Circa and Everard Read Gallery, with Goodman Gallery and David Krut further down the road)

• Lilliesleaf (historical museum in Rivonia)

6. Township Culture

It’s no secret that South Africa’s segregated past is an indelible part of the city, but there’s no better way to engage with than with a visit to Soweto, one of South Africa’s most famous “townships”, or designated residential areas for black people under apartheid.

There are many ways to visit Soweto, which include many different private tour offerings, but you can also go there by yourself and visit some of the following places:

Vilakazi Street: a historical precinct with several restaurants, Mandela House museum and the Hector Pieterson memorial and museum, which commemorates the Soweto Riots that took place on the 16th of June 1976.

Orlando Towers: a repurposed landmark, the well-known Orlando Towers are now a tourist attraction with a bridge swing and a range of other activities on offer.

An easy way to get around Joburg with guests is to take them on a Red Bus tour, which stops at several locations in and around the city centre, as well as the Apartheid Museum, with additional smaller bus trips that take guests to Soweto.

Day Trips in Gauteng

Joburg is a busy city. There’s so much going all the time, and more than enough events, restaurants and activities to keep you busy, week in and week out. But sometimes you need to get out and have a breather, and just take a break from the urban intensity.

Here are some weekend day trip ideas for when you feel like you need to get out and experience something a little bit different:

1. Muldersdrift

It’s crazy to think about, but some of our earliest human ancestors lived in and around Joburg, which is why it is known as the Cradle of Humankind.

The main attractions here are the Maropeng Visitors Centre and Sterkfontein Caves, all recently built or upgraded to offer an insightful look into our ancient past.

Besides that there is a lot to do in the Muldersdrift area, from eating at a variety of restaurants to just enjoying being outside. For more information here are some ideas:   

• Monaghan Farm

• Take your pooch out for a walk

• Enjoy some fine dining at Roots

• Appreciate outdoor sculptures and an event at Nirox

2. Magaliesberg

The Magaliesberg is named after a chief who ruled over the area in the past, Mogale. Today it’s known for its guesthouses, hiking trails and restaurants, which you can read more about on the Magalies Meander website, which promotes tourist attractions in the area.

Hiking in the area is a particularly good way to let off some city stream, but note that you will need to pay an entrance fee and go early, as some of the best places are on private land and will often only let in a certain number of people per day.

The easiest way to take advantage of hikes in the area is the join the Mountain Club. Other places like Mountain Sanctuary are open to the public.

If you’re looking for less exertion, you can also explore the area on an old-fashioned steam train.

3. Soweto

Soweto is one of South Africa’s largest and most established townships, and is a popular tourist attraction. It’s easy to get there from the city on the highway, but you can also go there on an organised tour or even on a City Sightseeing Tour.

Some places to visit and things to do:  

• A bicycle tour with Lebo’s Backpackers

• Eat “Chisa Nyama”, or “hot meat” at one of the many restaurants in and around Vilakazi Street

• Get your adrenaline pumping on the bridge swing at Orlando Towers

• Visit Mandela House museum and the Hector Pieterson memorial

4. Suikerbosrand

There are a number of nature reserves in Gauteng, mostly in and around Johannesburg and Pretoria, but also further afield. One of the most popular, for hiking, biking and general nature appreciation is Suikerbosrand, south of Joburg.

On your way back you can also stop for tea at Her Majestea’s Salon, or even enjoy a meal there.

5. Hartebeespoort Dam

“Harties”, as it’s known to locals, is a historical dam not far from Joburg, and besides water activities there is also a lot to do in the area.

The newly built Harties Cable Way is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the area, and if you’re looking to engage with nature you can walk “trunk in hand” with an elephant at the Elephant Sanctuary.

The Silver Orange Bistro and Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient Hotel are also two dining attractions in the area.

6. Pretoria

A 30-45 minute drive from Johannesburg, or a 40 minute trip on the Gautrain (depending on which station you get on at), the capital city is easy to get to and explore on a day trip from Joburg.

There are a lot of museums and historical attractions in the city centre, but some of the more famous tourist attractions are Freedom Park and the Voortrekker Monument.

The Tswaing Crater near Soshanguve is also another natural attraction to explore just outside of

Some other ideas of things to do in Pretoria:

Market at the Sheds at 012 Central

Park Acoustics

7. Cullinan

Further north past Pretoria is Cullinan, a diamond mining town that has now grown to become a popular weekend getaway for its strip of restaurants which include the recommended As Greek as it Gets.

Here you can also visit Gauteng's version of the Big Hole, or take part in a range of other activities on offer.

Close by you can also visit Dinokeng, the closest you’ll get to the Big 5 in Gauteng, with a number of self-driving routes and lodges that can take you on a game drive in the area.

For more ideas on things to do in and around Gauteng, these websites can give you some ideas:

2 summers

Travel Start

Have we missed anywhere? Where is your favourite place to visit? Let us know over in our Moving to South Africa Facebook Group.

Johannesburg Tours

People often ask me if I feel safe to walk around and explore Johannesburg. Like any city there are no go area's. or places I would only go through with a local, or as part of a group. But there are lots of places that you just have to be aware (rather than paranoid). Plan your trip, know where you are going, where to park, and leave your Rolex at home.  

Here are my top experiences, the majority are individually or community run, with the larger more established tours at the end. 

1. Day Tour With Thami 

Thami provides the BEST tour in the whole of South Africa! Every guest who comes to stay with us, has to go out with him, at least for half a day. We have sent global CEO's, and my in laws out with him. Thami has grown up in Soweto, he know everyone and everything. There isn't anything he can't show you or explain to you. Thami will personalise your tour, and give you a day you will always remember! He really is outstanding. All the profits he makes go directly back into the people of Soweto. 

2. Micro Adventures Tour Guide 

https://www.facebook.com/KWTMicroadventurer/

Great variety of adventures to go on, from running up the stairs at Ponte Tower, to exploring Joburg's Heritage. Each event always has a great mix of people who create a welcoming environment. But be warned their adventures sell out quickly, so if you see something you would like to do, make sure you book it! 

3. Johannesburg Heritage Foundation

https://www.facebook.com/groups/112707830122/

My good friend Heather Mason from 2Summers told me about these guys, and wow what a great find! They provide a vast amount of knowledge and history delivered in a variety of formats, from bus trips to neighbourhood walking tours. They always run a special offer on tours throughout September to celebrate Heritage Day.  

4. Joburg Photowalkers & InstaWalks 

For those who want to explore off the beaten path, join the Photo walkers facebook group, or keep a look out for the next Instawalk. 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/710081799017014/

5. Dlala Nje - Hillbrow 

Most Joburger's consider Hillbrow a no-go area. Thankfully Micro Adventures and Dlala Nje are changing that, by encouraging people to return, by running Hillbrow and Ponte tours and have also just opened a bar and yoga classes inside Ponte Tower.  Dlala Nje operate a youth club based out off Ponte, all proceeds from their tours go directly to the running costs.. 

6. City Skate Tours

https://www.facebook.com/cityskatetours/

The tour lasts three hours and skateboards are provided (tours are for persons aged over 18 only). The first hour is usually spent teaching you how to skate, before heading into town to tell you more about the history, and point out some up and coming urban developments, graffiti and street sculptures.   To book contact Mnyandu on +27 79 839 8833, email cityskatetours@gmail.com. Tours from R300 per person (including skateboard rental). Tours on Sat, Sun, start at 10:00 and 14:00.

7. New In Town Orientation Tour

Have you just moved to Joburg? There is no need to do this all on your own. We can pick you up and show you around for the day! Introduce you to people within your area, take you to the local yoga studio, shops, schools, parks, and generally help you get your weekly routine set up. We are all expats so understand whats its like, let us take you shopping and introduce you to all our favourite South African brands! Contact us to learn more.

General Tours - You Need To Do At Least Once

Red Bus Tour

Lebo's Bicycle Tour - Soweto

Past Experiences

Joburg Places  

Have a specific question? I like to hang out over on Instagram, and often have a story or two to show you around Joburg. Come PM any questions or concerns you have over at: https://www.instagram.com/expatcollection