Johannesburg, the City of Gold, boasts magnificent summers that are characterised by hot, dry mornings, refreshing afternoon thundershowers and clear, warm evenings. These are best enjoyed by those that love the outdoors and want to sample the beauty of South Africa in a very real, personal way.
There are plenty of local attractions in and around Johannesburg that are ideally suited to those that love the outdoors or that want to take advantage of the beautiful weather that graces Gauteng. For those that want to indulge in the glorious outdoors of this country.
Here are some of our top choices of things to do in Johannesburg on a Sunny Day…
The Johannesburg Botanic Garden
Right in the heart of the northern suburbs of Johannesburg are these gorgeous gardens. They boast more than 4 500 rose varieties, 30 000 trees, and extensive areas in which to walk and explore. close to many excellent hotels in Johannesburg, picnic areas mean that these gardens are ideal for a family day out (especially for those with energetic little ones). The vegetation here includes medicinal and cosmetic plants as well as traditional African herbs and the more everyday varieties to which we are accustomed. As a result, the Johannesburg Botanic Garden is the setting of choice for many brides and grooms looking for the ideal backdrop to their photographs.
The Oppenheimer Gardens
The lush verdant beauty of the Oppenheimer Gardens is a surprising find in the heart of Soweto – one of the country’s largest and most metropolitan townships. This thick forested area is home to a huge variety of bird species, but is set apart for its including urban areas, such as the Credo Mutwa Cultural Village and the Oppenheimer Tower. These gardens are brimming with all kinds of plants; ranging from the wild olive and aloes to honeysuckles and coral trees. Sir Ernest Oppenheimer was a major mining magnate in the country and invested a significant amount of money in the development of housing in Soweto when it was so sorely needed. Thus, he continues to be an important part of the local history.
Liliesleaf Farm
In addition to being a historically significant attraction, this farm is also particularly pretty in its leafiness and abundance. Guided tours take visitors through the gardens, to the museum and the restored home of yesteryear. There is a conference centre for hire for product launches, events and celebrations too. Feel the fresh Gauteng air and sunshine as you peruse the farm and its fascinating context.
Row Boats on Zoo Lake
Spending the day rowing peacefully on the lake and feeding the ducks is not only about tourists keeping busy. It is a therapeutic retreat from the city life, immersing yourself in the beauty of South African nature and clearing your heart and head of the chaos. Zoo Lake is fabulous for dog walkers, joggers, skateboarders and families with children that want to run around together and enjoy playing unhindered within gorgeous surrounds. Being less than 20 minutes from the epicentre of Johannesburg, Zoo Lake is convenient and accessible. Row boats are available for hire and can take up to six people, including little ones.
