Get out…and about

Get those hiking boots on

Hiking is a wonderful way to get fit and explore our beautiful country, but to be safe, you need the right gear and proper plans for each and every trail.

Never hike alone:

There have been stories of lone hikers disappearing on a trail, so no matter how experienced you are, you’re always safer in a group. Stick together and don’t leave anyone behind. Stop and have regular check-ins and always end the hike together. If you’re on a day trip, tell family or friends about your plans and when you should be back. For more advanced hikers, share your trail route.

Plan ahead:

Research and get to know your route well ahead of time. Make sure you’ve looked at up-to-date maps and other important information, as well as the terrain and weather forecast. Contact relevant trail guides and organisations to ensure your planned hike is safe. Use social media groups to read people’s experiences of the route, and what hazards they came across.

Get the right gear:

Before you set off on your hiking adventure, bear in mind that different areas, terrains or seasons will affect what equipment you take with you.

You need:

Map, tide table (for seaside routes), compass, GPS unit, fully charged cellphone and spare power bank. If you’re going for a few days, two-way radios are a great idea.
Sunblock (even in winter), a good hat and protective sunglasses.
The right hiking shoes (worn in), jacket, waterproofing and the correct camping tent and sleeping bag for overnight getaways. Always take a pair of spare socks.
Fully charged headlamps and torches, plus spare batteries.
A first-aid kit: Make sure you know what’s inside and how to use everything correctly.
Everyone in your group must have a signal whistle.
Unfortunately, there is always the risk of crime, so take pepper spray along.
Invest in a durable water bottle and always take a spare with you. Pack water purification straws or tablets in case you find yourself without a reliable water source.
Food and snacks will depend on how long and far you plan to travel, but have enough nutrition for one extra day.
If you’re overnighting, pack either waterproof matches, lighters or flint-and-steel kits so you are able to make a fire if needed.
A multipurpose tool for quick repairs on the go and a simple sewing kit.
Emergency blankets are essential. These are lightweight and easy to pack into your bag.
Always take your ID and medical aid details.

Source: outdoorwarehouse.co.za.

A world of scien-tastic fun awaits at Sci-Bono these holidays

The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre – Science Explorers holiday programme will take place from December 18 to January 9. From getting messy with home-made monster slime to launching your own water-bottle rockets, it’s all happening at Sci-Bono. There’s a different’ scien-tastic’ activity every day to discover, explore, experiment with and enjoy.

Ever wondered how a remote-controlled car works, how rainbows are formed and how your heart pumps blood? Keen to make your own yummy ice cream and pop your own popcorn using solar power? How about creating your own ‘camera obscura’ to uncover the mysteries of photography?

Sci-Bono has awesome gadgets, gizmos, workshops and experiments galore to keep the whole family entertained while discovering the totally cool world of science. Meet their world-famous RoboDog and his humanoid pals at the 4IR exhibition.

Adventure awaits at Magaliesberg Canopy Tour

When adventure calls, the original Eco-adventure Canopy Tour in the Magaliesberg is professionally operated and unequalled by any of its rivals.

Experience the 2 400-million-year-old Magaliesberg on a unique canopy tour through the Ysterhout Kloof. The Magaliesberg Canopy Tour consists of 11 platforms built high within the rock faces of the kloof and joined by 10 slides up to 140m long and 30m above the stream below.

Trained guides assure the safety of each client while describing interesting facts about the ancient mountain, surrounding ecology, bird, and animal life. This is where your unforgettable, unmatchable adventure begins – enjoy flying through nature.
Anyone aged five years and upwards can participate, excluding expecting mothers.

Booking is essential.

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Enjoy the sunshine

Getting out during a pandemic

With a surge in the number of Covid-19 cases currently underway, many Joburg residents are reluctant to spend their free time indoors, and are opting rather for some lovely outdoor options.

Here are some great ideas of where you can go, in and around Joburg to breathe some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors:

Joburg Zoo – this is a great one for young and old alike. Take in the fresh air, and enjoy the sites and sounds of the beautiful animals.
Visit a restaurant with an outdoor seating area – a good meal on a hot summer’s day – what more could you want?
Enjoy a picnic – nothing says summer like a beautiful outdoor picnic at one of Joburg’s many parks
Hike the Melville Koppies – this hidden treasure is guaranteed to delight with its beautiful views
Walk the dog – a number of Joburg’s parks encourage dogs to accompany their owners on a day out in the sunshine, so why not let Brutus stretch his legs while you enjoy a pleasant day in the park?
Farmer’s market – particularly at this time there are many outdoor craft, Christmas and farmer’s markets where you can enjoy a morning shopping for gifts, and tasting delicious artisanal foods.
Enjoy the open spaces – Joburg has beautiful open spaces that make the perfect outdoor adventure for anyone, young and old.

While these are all outdoor activities, remember to remain vigilant to the risk of Covid-19. Keep yourself distanced from others, wear your mask properly and sanitise or wash your hands with soap and water regularly.