There’s nothing quite like a weekend getaway from Gauteng. If you find yourself looking for a break from a hectic week, have a look at Home, Food & Travel’s list of great getaways to visit around Gauteng.
Gauteng is a beautiful and diverse province with an eclectic culture that accommodates anyone and everyone. Entertainment is plenty and travellers who enjoy the nightlife will love the clubbing scene.
Gautengers will swear that they have the best weather in South Africa all year-round so you can enjoy events such as picnics, hiking, bungee jumping and more without worrying about the weather. You can also shop till you drop with the wide selection of shopping malls that cater to any need and style you might have.
Top 10 weekend getaway locations around Gauteng
Dullstroom
- Distance from Johannesburg: 2h30m
Dullstroom is a small town found in the province of Mpumalanga. The beauty and number of activities to take part in making it the perfect place for a weekend getaway with the family or a loving couple.
There is such a wide variety of accommodation options in Dullstroom that can cater to any budget that you will be spoilt for choice. Whether you are travelling in a large group or a couple there will be a place for you to stay in Dullstroom.
Click here to see the different types of accommodation in Dullstroom that the Home, Food & Travel team has reviewed.
The town of Dullstroom is famous for being one of the premier fly-fishing destinations in South Africa. Keen anglers travel from all over to fish in Dullstroom and bring home an excellent catch.
Top activities to enjoy in Dullstroom:
- The Dimitrov Art Gallery is the perfect place to see some beautiful local artwork; you will find a small crowd visiting almost every weekend.
- Animal lovers can pay a visit to the Dullstroom Birds of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre, where they can interact with beautiful birds and learn more about them.
- If you love horses then you will love the Dullstroom Riding Centre, where horses and ponies are just waiting for you. Adults and children can enjoy a variety of riding experiences while witnessing the beautiful scenery of Dullstroom.
- History buffs can explore some of the local monuments as Dullstroom has many remnants of the Boer War. Visit the Long Tom Pass which was named after the long-tom cannons that were used during the Anglo-Boer War, or the Steenkampsberg Pass; one of the highest passes in the region.
Vanderbijlpark
- Distance from Johannesburg: 1h
The industrial city of Vanderbijlpark is a beautiful place to spend a weekend getaway. The city was named after scientist Dr. HJ van der Bijl, who was tasked with helping the industrial development of South Africa.
While Vanderbijlpark is known as one of the industrial centres of Gauteng, the beautiful and tranquil natural surroundings are one of the main draws for travellers.The streets are lined with a large number of beautiful green trees and the enormous Vaal River is great for those who love to do water-based activities.
Top activities to enjoy in Vanderbijlpark:
- The Emerald Animal World houses a wide variety of animals such as mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians that can be viewed by the general public. It’s tons of fun for animal lovers and children who want to learn more about conservation.
- Love playing in the water? Besides the Vaal River, Vanderbijlpark has the famous Aquadome at the Emerald Resort. Waterslides, shipwrecks and heated pools are just some of the activities to be enjoyed.
- Thrill seekers can enjoy a trip to the Emerald Casino and try their luck.
- History buffs will want to take an opportunity to visit the Sharpeville Heritage Precinct. This heritage site is dedicated to all the men and women who suffered during the Sharpeville massacre.
- Those who love fitness and nature should definitely try out Suikerbosrand Hiking Trail. Not only is it a great workout but you can also enjoy the natural sights and sounds of the surroundings.
- There are a wide number of water-based activities that travellers can enjoy by taking a trip to the Vaal River. Visitors can enjoy regattas, boat cruises, water-skiing, swimming and fishing trips on the river.
Bela Bela
- Distance from Johannesburg: 2h
Also known as Warmbaths, the town of Bela Bela is famous for its hot springs and game reserves that host the Big 5. Bela Bela is Northern Sotho for ‘boiling-boiling’, a name which was chosen due to the discovery of the famous hot springs in the 1800s.
The hot springs can reach a temperature of 53 degrees Celsius, and the waters are filled with minerals and properties that soothe and nurture the body. They are located inside the Forever Resorts and are confined by a series of water slides and swimming pools.
It’s the perfect place to go when you want to enjoy a relaxing and laid-back holiday. Nature reserves surround the area and the mild climate means you will have sunshine almost all the time. The interesting roadside stalls and number of restaurants are loved by visitors no matter where they come from.
Top activities to enjoy in Bela Bela:
- Hot springs aside, one of the major draws for travellers in Bela Bela is the number of game reserves and conservancies. Take a day to enjoy the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve or visit the Nylsvley Nature Reserve; which is known for being one of the best locations for spotting birds in the whole of South Africa.
- For golf lovers, a visit to the Zebula Country Club is what you need. This pristine bushveld estate is perfect for golfers who enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful fields of green.
- Of course, you cannot go to Bela Bela and not take a dip in the soothing hot springs. Pay a visit to Forever Resorts and head on down to the springs where you will feel your troubles melt away.
Magaliesburg
- Distance from Johannesburg: 1h10m
Also known as the sleepy little village, Magaliesburg is a town that was created near the majestic Magaliesburg Mountains. It has stood the test of time and is the perfect place to escape the busy city of Johannesburg when you want a taste of the old days.
The local steam train, the Magaliesburg Express, delivers day trippers on a regular basis – truly a sight to behold.
Visitors driving through the town will find that there is plenty to see. You can enjoy the creations of locals by driving along the local artist’s route through the neighbouring Cradle of Humankind.
Accommodation on offer can range from laid back luxury to stylish luxury. The Hornbill Lodge is surrounded by the beautiful natural surroundings, while the Protea Hotel Hunters Rest is centrally located and offers elegance and class.
Top activities to enjoy in Magaliesburg:
- If the rush of adrenalin is what you crave then you can enjoy a trip on one of South Africa’s most popular zip lines; the Ama Zwing Zwing Zip Line. Enjoy a ride like no other, with seven zip lines to choose from ranging from two to 14 meters in height.
- The nearby Hartbeespoort Dam allows visitors to take part in a range of water-based activities, including fishing.
- The Strawberry Farm is a great place to spend the afternoon in Magaliesburg. The farm is open to the public so that they can pick as many strawberries as possible and take them home.
- Mountain biking is a very popular activity in Magaliesburg. There is a wide selection of Bike Parks and MTB Trails to choose from, each with its own beautiful views of Magaliesburg.
- The gold rush was a very significant event in South Africa’s history, and the best place to catch a glimpse of its impact is to take a trip to the Komdraai Gold Mine.
Sun City
- Distance from Johannesburg: 2h
The internationally acclaimed Sun City can be found deep in the bushveld in the heart of an ancient volcano. Fantasy and desire come together in this fabulous resort with its world-class hotels, game reserves, and a variety of entertainment.
Visitors who spend the night in Sun City can enjoy free access to the Valley of the Waves; the most advanced Water Park in South Africa! Guests will get to experience the wave machine, flume rides, the Temple of Courage and various pools!
Top activities to enjoy in Sun City:
- The Valley of Waves is a must-visit for anyone staying in Sun City.
- Learn more about the many different cultures of South Africa by paying a visit to the villages of Lesedi and Motseng. You will be able to enjoy beautiful visual experiences and learn more about different African cultures and customs.
- Take a hot air balloon ride over Pilanesberg to fully enjoy the majesty of the area. It’s the finest way to view Sun City.
- Visit the number of game reserves in the surrounding area, most of which house the popular Big 5. Predator World allows you to spot wildlife you don’t always get to see in the wild.
- If you want to try something new you can always go on the Segway Gliding Tours. Learning how to ride is simple and taking a trip through Sun City on one with your friends and family is a memory you will cherish forever.
Hartbeespoort
- Distance from Johannesburg: 1h
Also known as ‘Harties’, Hartbeespoort is a small resort town situated on the slopes of the Magaliesburg Mountains and the banks of the Hartbeespoort Dam.
The dam is very popular among visitors and the wide variety of holiday homes make it a great place to escape from the busy city. The scenery of the surroundings is too beautiful to ignore, so many travellers enjoy a scenic drive through and around the town to take it all in.
Water sports can be enjoyed along the dam, and beautiful birds can be seen in the local bird sanctuary. Many local restaurants serve up delicious traditional South African dishes of a wide variety that everyone can enjoy.
Top activities to enjoy in Hartbeespoort:
- River rafting and abseiling activities provide an unforgettable thrill for travellers. With the Dam and the Mountain so close you can enjoy these activities without having to go too far to experience them.
- There are plenty of places to enjoy horseback riding activities and trails in the area. Each one offers their own special trail and views of Hartbeespoort that you will love.
- Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to Borakalalo Park and the Hartbeespoort Dam Aquarium.
- Another must-visit location is the De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Centre where they care for and breed cheetahs.
Muldersdrift
- Distance from Johannesburg: 40m
The town of Muldersdrift is a picturesque rural area that forms part of the Crocodile Ramble; a popular scenic tourist route. It is regarded as the most popular of all the craft routes of South Africa.
Muldersdrift is well-known for its beautiful accommodations as well as its restaurants, and health resorts. Often referred to as the ‘wedding capital’ of Gauteng, you will find more than 40 wedding venues and conference centres.
The third largest cave in South Africa, the Wonder Cave, is situated near Muldersdrift. As one of the show caves of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, it is one of the richest hominid fossil sites in the world.
Top activities to enjoy in Muldersdrift:
- If you enjoy fun and excitement then you have to take a trip to the Adventure ‘n Beyondpaintball field.
- A hot air balloon trip is a great way to take in the magnificent view of the Muldersdrift area.
- Lovers of culture and history should take a trip to the Wonder Cave and discover the wonders of this World Heritage Site.
Hammanskraal
- Distance from Johannesburg: 1h15m
The rural town of Hammanskraal is a very pretty place, with many kind people that offer warm and welcoming hospitality.
Visitors travelling through the town can pay a visit to the number of game reserves and farms in the area and get the full African bushveld experience.
To the East of Hammanskraal is the new tourist region of Dinokeng, which translates to ‘a place of rivers’. The name refers to the Olifants and Limpopo Rivers that run through the region. Dinokeng is one of the most beautiful sights to behold in the area.
Top activities to enjoy in Hammanskraal:
- Get your adrenalin pumping by trying out the Rust De Winter Bundu 4×4 Trail; an activity that has tourists pouring in the area.
- Take your pick of the many different game reserves in the area. Spot the famous Big 5 or visit the local farms and see some horses and cattle.
- A number of golf courses can be found in the area so you can enjoy 18 holes on beautiful fields of green.
Parys
- Distance from Johannesburg: 1h20m
Situated on the banks of the Vaal River, the town of Parys received its name from a German surveyor named Schilbach and is the Afrikaans translation of Paris. The location of the town next to the Vaal River reminded him of Paris on the River Seine.
One of the main reasons people come to visit Parys is to see the Vredefort Dome Area; the place of the oldest and largest meteorite impact site in the world.
Top activities to enjoy in Parys:
- As Parys is a farming town there is a wide selection of farms you can visit. Visitors can enjoy berry picking at the Bon AF Berry Farm and bring a selection of delicious berries home with them.
- There are plenty of water-based activities to enjoy in Parys such as White Water Rafting and fly-fishing.
- There are many hiking trails in the area that are fun for visitors to travel through.
- Families and friends seeking a thrill can enjoy some paintball at Earth Adventures Paintball.
Krugersdorp
- Distance from Johannesburg: 40m
The mining town of Krugersdorp is regarded as the industrial hub of Western Gauteng. The beautiful old buildings and architecture make it a town well worth visiting.
There are many thrilling activities that can be enjoyed in Krugersdorp, the variety of activities available allow everyone to have something to enjoy during their visit to the town.
The numbers of game reserves and wildlife sanctuaries in Krugersdorp are numerous, and have travellers from all over the world coming in constantly.
Top activities to enjoy in Krugersdorp:
- Face your fears and try out bungee jumping, the bridge swing or the Burma Bridge in Krugersdorp. Taking in the sights from high places and experiencing the rush of adrenalin will definitely be an experience to remember.
- Survival Training Courses are very popular in Krugersdorp. Take your pick of which course you would like to try and learn how to survive in different types of conditions in the outdoors.
- There are a number of game reserves to visit in Krugersdorp. You cannot spend a weekend in the area without paying a visit to the Krugersdorp Game Reserve, the SA Birds of Prey Centre or the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve.
- The Sterkfontein Caves are truly a sight to behold; the myriad of stalagmite and stalactite formations are incredibly beautiful. Guided tours through the cave go through the limestone structures via the underground lake.
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