Sometimes you just need a change of scenery and to leave the fast pace life of Johannesburg ( known as Joburg) for a relaxing getaway that’s just a few hours’ drives away. These are some places you can visit. 

Advertisement



Editors Note: All photos taken from wikipedia.org

1. Hartbeestport (Harties) 

Hartbeespoort Dam

Distance from Joburg: 78KM; 1-hour drive

Activities: View of the beautiful dam, boat rides, watersports, fishing, and hot air balloon rides.

Where to eat: Silver Orange Bistro (Almost Orange) or French Toast Restaurant 

 

2. Magaliesburg 

Magaliesburg street

Distance from Joburg: 70KM; 1h20 drive

Activities: Hiking the Root Castle, hiking trails, zip-lining, horse riding, hot air balloon rides, and cooking classes at Wicked Food Earth.

Where to eat: The Black Horse Brewery and Restaurant or Hollybrooke Farm 

 

3. Vaal 

Vaal river

Distance from Joburg: 74.5KM; 1-hour drive

Activities: Beautiful long river walks with the scenic area, picnics, wine tasting, concerts, and car shows. 

Where to eat: Montevallo Estate Restaurant 

 

4. Clarens, Free State

Clarens view

Distance from Joburg: 303KM; 3.30-hour drive

Advertisement



Activities: River rafting, wine tasting, quad biking, and horseback riding. 

Where to eat: Masutsa Restaurant 

 

5. Parys, Free State

Church in Parys

Distance from Joburg: 111KM; 1.2-hour drive

Activities: Hiking, boat rides, river rafting, and spas. 

Where to eat: O’S Restaurant Parys 

 

6. Cradle of Mankind, Maropeng 

Cradle of Humankind

Distance from Joburg: 50KM; 1-hour drive

Activities: Explore Maropeng and Sterkfontein caves.

Where to eat: Tumulus Restaurant 

 

7. Pilanesberg Game Reserve 

Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Distance from Joburg: 177KM; 2.5 hours drive 

Activities: Game drive, watersports, and quad biking.

Where to eat: Pilanesberg Centre 

 

8. Maboneng Precinct 

Distance from Joburg: Within Joburg

Activities: Market on the main, walk on the main street, art gallery

Where to eat: Shakers Maboneng

 

 

 

You May Also Like

Things I love about South Africa

South Africa is a country filled with opportunity, breathtaking surroundings, fascinating people,…

Bloukrans Bridge: South Africa’s Thrilling Leap of Faith

Hey there, my adventurous friend! If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline…