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Day 1
Start your day at The Wilds Nature Reserve, nestled on the slopes of two rocky koppies in Houghton. The Wilds Nature Reserve spans 16 hectares of indigenous vegetation and tranquil parkland.
The reserve features winding stone pathways, cascading waterfalls and serene fountains, with vibrant wild red aloes adding bursts of colour – even in winter. At its highest point, a sundial offers sweeping views of Johannesburg’s skyline, making it a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The Wilds serves as a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, supporting local biodiversity and hosting small-scale events, guided walks and community art installations. Its rejuvenation – led by volunteers and artists – has transformed it into one of Johannesburg’s most cherished green spaces. of the country, South Africa.
Address: Houghton Dr, Houghton Estate
Proceed to SOJO Helping Hands Foundation Urban Farm, located in the heart of Rosettenville, Johannesburg South. The farm is a dynamic initiative that empowers local communities to cultivate healthy, sustainable food while promoting job creation and self-reliance.
Established as a pilot project in Townsview in 2024, the farm spans 400 square metres and operates on principles of organic farming tailored to urban environments. Driven by community champions and supported by local businesses, the farm integrates zero-waste practices, earthworm farming and composting systems to regenerate soil and conserve water. It also serves as a platform for skills development, offering hands-on training in sustainable agriculture and food security.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours, engage directly with farmers, gaining insight into the farm’s role in uplifting the community. With its focus on environmental stewardship and social impact, the SOJO Urban Farm offers a refreshing urban eco-tourism experience – one that celebrates resilience, innovation and the power of growing together.
Address: Rossettenville, Johannesburg South
Lunch at Kraal Restaurant, Thaba Eco Hotel
Visit Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, the largest proclaimed nature reserve within Johannesburg’s metropolitan area. The reserve is Joburg’s largest green gem – 680 hectares of open veld, koppies and flowing streams just 11 km from the city centre.
The reserve is a haven for biodiversity, home to over 238 bird species, 600 plant species and a variety of mammals including zebra, blesbok, duiker and black wildebeest. It also boasts one of the highest concentrations of Iron Age archaeological sites on the Witwatersrand, with stone-walled settlements dating back to the 1400s.
Managed by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Klipriviersberg features a network of nine hiking trails, scenic picnic spots and historical landmarks such as the ruins of the Confidence Reef Gold Mine and the Marais family farmhouse. It’s a favourite destination for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone seeking a peaceful escape in the city’s southern greenbelt.
Address: Impala Road, Kibler Park
Day 2
Start your day with a visit to the Kloofendal Nature Reserve, one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most ecologically diverse protected areas. Nestled in the suburb of Roodepoort, the reserve is renowned for its rugged quartzite ridges, indigenous vegetation and rich biodiversity – including small antelope such as duiker and klipspringer, as well as mongoose, hedgehogs and rock hyrax.
The reserve features a network of scenic hiking trails, a tranquil bird hide overlooking a small dam, along with picnic areas ideal for families and nature lovers. It also holds deep historical significance as the site of the Confidence Reef Gold Mine, where the Struben brothers discovered the first payable gold on the Witwatersrand in 1884 – an event that helped spark the founding of Johannesburg. The mine was declared a National Monument in 1983 and can be visited by appointment.
Managed by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Kloofendal is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, school groups and guided educational tours. Its blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes it a unique escape within the city’s western corridor.
Address: Veronica St, Kloofendal, Roodepoort, 1709
Visit Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden which spans 300 hectares of landscaped gardens and natural Highveld vegetation in western Roodepoort.
At the heart of the gardens lies the dramatic Witpoortjie Waterfall, cascading down the Roodekrans Ridge – a favourite picnic spot since the late 1800s. The reserve is home to over 600 indigenous plant species and more than 240 bird species, including a resident breeding pair of Verreaux’s Eagles, whose nest overlooks the waterfall.
Visitors can explore hiking trails, themed gardens such as the Cycad Garden, Succulent Rockery and the Waterwise Garden, as well as tranquil lawns ideal for family outings. With its blend of conservation, recreation and education, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens offer one of Gauteng’s most scenic and serene nature escapes.
Lunch at Sakhumzi Zoo Lake
After lunch visit Johannesburg Zoo, one of the city’s most cherished public spaces and a cornerstone of urban conservation. Spanning 55-hectares of landscaped parkland in Saxonwold, the zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 320 species – including elephants, lions and the rare white rhino.
Renowned for its commitment to animal welfare and biodiversity, the zoo offers a wide range of educational programmes, guided night tours and interactive family-friendly experiences. As part of the original Hermann Eckstein Park donation, it has remained open to all communities throughout its history, making it not only a key attraction, but also a symbol of inclusivity and environmental stewardship in Johannesburg.
Contact Details
The Wilds Nature Reserve
Telephone: +27 11 643 2313
Website: jhbcityparks.com
Wlater Sisulu Botanical Garden
Telephone: +27 86 100 1278
Website: sanbi.org.za
Kloofendal Nature Reserve
Telephone: +27 79 693 5608
Website: jhbcityparks.com
Klipriviersberg
Telephone: +27 11 943 3578
Website: klipriviersberg.org.za
Johannesburg Zoo
Telephone: +27 11 646 2000
Website: jhbcityparks.com
SOJO
Telephone: +27 71 336 7531
Website: sojo.co.za
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