Johannesburg might conjure images of a concrete jungle, but it is a legend when it comes to having the biggest, manmade forests surrounding and within an urban city.
In fact, there are some 22 000 hectares of open green space, parks and nature reserves, giving you loads of options when it comes to spending quality time outdoors.
And what better way to unwind in nature, soothing the busy assault modern daily life has on our attention and psyche, than by breaking bread with friends and family.
Try one of these suggestions for a relaxed day picnicking in the park.
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
On weekends this massive garden set across 81-hectares is flush with outdoor-lovers and sporty, nature-enthusiasts. As one of Johannesburg’s vital green lungs, just six kilometres from the city centre, it is made up of grassy, open spaces scattered with trees.
It also hosts the occasional concert season and kite-flying competitions. Energetic canoeists and small-boat enthusiasts all enjoy the dam area too. On its northern side you can stroll through a rose garden and indigenous herb patch.
If you plan to go:
Address: Olifants Rd, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7-days a week, 06h00 to 18h00
Contact: 011 712 6600
Delta Park
This park, located in Randburg, has three tree-lined dams and extensive grasslands and woodlands to unwind in.
The south-east corner of Delta Park is said to be one of the most tranquil areas, complete with dedicated picnic spots. Your day spent here should include taking in the sensory trail and bird-viewing hides within the Florence Bloom Bird Sanctuary.
This spacious park is also home to an environmental centre, which offers a holiday programme for children between the ages of six and 13 years, as well as a range of fascinating wildlife-related courses for adults.
If you plan to go:
Address: 77 Craighall Rd, Victory Park, Randburg
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7-days a week, 06h00 to 18h00
Contact: 011 888 4831
Zoo Lake
This is a firm favourite for a day out in nature, with its beautiful lake and well-maintained walkways just outside of Saxonwold.
Kids can enjoy cycling around the lake or feeding the ducks. This is also a popular venue for concert events and open air art exhibitions. Make a point to see the Johannesburg Heritage Coronation Fountain here.
If you plan to go:
Address: Corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and West World Street
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7-days a week, 06h00 to 18h00
Contact: 011 712 6600
Rietfontein Nature Reserve
Rietfontein Nature Reserve is ideal for relaxed hikes, chilled picnics and just enjoying some serene natural views, not too far from the bustling city vibes of Sandton and Johannesburg.
Located 24km north of the city in the small suburb of Paulshof and mainly comprising open veld and koppies. It has abundant bird, plan and wildlife including blesbok, zebra and duiker. It is also prized Iron Age archaeological site.
The reserve is fenced, and has several nature trails and hikes, ranging from short routes to nine kilometres long. The Bloubos Spruit, translated to ‘blue bush stream’, can be seen on most of them. Popular for its beauty as well as its safety, this is ample parking space and security on duty to keep a watchful eye.
If you plan to go:
Address: 138 Holkam Rd, Rietfontein, Sandton, 2191
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7-days a week, 06h00 - 18h00
Contact: 011 943 3578
Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
This tranquil nature oasis, aptly referred to as Johannesburg’s Jewel of the South, is just 10 km from the centre of Johannesburg, 5 km from Soweto and 25 km from Sandton.
This reserve boasts a labyrinth of great hiking trails, biking trails as well as running trails across 640km - each varying in difficulty but there is something to suit all levels of fitness.
Outdoor enthusiast can enjoy a broad selection of wildlife sightings of zebra, red hartebeest, and black wildebeest too.
If you plan to go:
Address: 129 Peggy Vera Road, Kibler Park
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7-days a week, 06h00 - 18h00
Contact: 011 9433578
Kloofendal Nature Reserves
A wonderful retreat from urban life in Roodepoort, Kloofendal Park is seen as a conservation corridor between the Bankenveld, Drakensberg and Savana ecosystems.
Attractions include a stone amphitheatre, with picnic spots and ablution facilities. There is also a dam, complete with a wildlife-spotting hide. Enjoy a day outdoors with the opportunity to spot the odd dassie or hedgehog amongst other small mammals along the park’s walking trails of various distances.
If you plan to go:
Address: Veronica St, Kloofendal, Roodepoort
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7 days a week, 06h00 to 18h00
Contact: 011 674 2980 or 079 693 5608
Wilds Nature Reserve
Calming natural beauty best describes this 16-hectare nature reserve on the outskirts of Houghton. It is set against koppies with well-developed indigenous gardens, allowing you to enjoy exceptional hillside views of the surrounding urban life and natural vegetation.
This is a peaceful nature reserve offering evergreen freshness from the surrounding city. The green, manicured lawns are also perfect for a picnic. There are numerous walking routes and hiking trails. Make a point of taking in the city views from the sundial set at the peak point of the park.
If you plan to go:
Address: Houghton Dr, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg.
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7 days a week, 06h00 to 18h00. It is fully fenced and the security guard is on duty every day.
Contact: 011 674 2980 or 079 693 5608
Melville Koppies East
The eastern part of this reserve is the spot to be if you want to enjoy a beautiful natural setting in Johannesburg, while being active too. It is seen to be the safer part of the Koppies, compared to the western side. The central area is gated, offering various hiking trails, with an entry fee charged for this part of the Koppies.
However, it is still possible to have a brisk walk out in the fresh air, and enjoy some refreshments on the rocky outcrops. There are however no ablution facilities here.
If you plan to go:
Address: Park opposite the Puma Garage corner 8thAvenue and Rustenburg Road in Melville.
Entrance fee: No
Operating times: 7 days a week, 06h00 to 18h00.
Contact: 079 532 0083
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