Johannesburg, the bustling capital of Gauteng Province and the largest city in South Africa, offers a unique range of experiences for visitors. Comprising natural wonders, cultural encounters, and other rare treats, these sites, hiking trails, and little-known gems make your holiday a memorable one.
01. Magaliesberg Mountains
Have a day trip to the Magaliesberg mountain range, located just an hour’s drive from Sandton. This range is among the oldest mountain ranges in the world, believed to be 2.3 billion years old. A trail here is among the most exciting things to do in Sandton for hiking enthusiasts. They can discover different trails that vary from gentle hikes to more challenging ones, that suit different fitness levels. The serene environment at Magaliesberg, rich in biodiversity, offers a refreshing change to them, away from the bustling city.
02. Lindfield Victorian House
Be transported back in time as you step into Lindfield Victorian House. The owner and parlourmaid, Katherine Love, attired in Victorian garb, escorts visitors around the well-preserved, immaculate house. Note the elegant drawing room, numerous bedrooms, a nursery for the children, scullery, music room, and the library. All of these are filled with antiques that portray a story of a Victorian family and their way of living in a bygone era. This lovely home, offering many hours of pleasurable exploration, is a 30-minute drive from central properties like NH Collection Sandton.
03. Munro Drive Viewpoint
Do a short drive to Houghton during the day, and get to Munro Drive viewpoint, a lovely spot that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding areas leading towards the Magaliesberg mountain range. Visiting it at dusk affords you to witness a spectacular sunset which is unforgettable, followed by the twinkling lights of Johannesburg as the city embraces nightfall.
04. Maboneng Precinct
A neglected and least-visited inner-city area known as City and Suburban has been transformed into a vibrant creative and cultural hub, now known as Maboneng Precinct. This captivating enclave is filled with rooftop bars, cinemas, street art, and an array of local food outlets that attract scores of visitors with its lively atmosphere. On Sundays, there are additional features like more local food vendors, musicians, and designers, enhancing the aura of local culture and festiveness.
05. Honeydew Mazes
For intrepid travellers on the lookout for bold and unusual things to do, Honeydew Mazes is a great discovery. Located on a farm on the outskirts of Johannesburg, there are several giant outdoor mazes made of reed walls that keep changing themes every season. The mazes offer a quiz or puzzle to solve as you navigate your way down the winding passages. In the process, you learn to slow down, be amused by your own mistakes, and continue to wander and admire the beautiful surroundings.
06. Hartbeespoort Dam
The charming town of Hartbeespoort is situated close to a striking dam, with nature lending it a beautiful backdrop. It is not unusual for hikers in the Magaliesberg range to arrive here for relaxation and to admire the charming surroundings. River rafting, an aquarium, or visiting a village close by are other exciting possibilities here.
