5 things to do in Joburg during the festive season
Not going away this holiday season? Johannesburg always has a lot to offer, and a number of the activities won’t hurt your pocket.
Bungee jumping off the Orlando Towers
If you are the daring type, you can do the Soweto bungee jump at the Orlando Towers. The towers are part of an old power station that gets people’s blood pumping today. If jumping 33 storeys down is not your thing, the towers allow for a scenic view of the famous township. The bungee jump costs around R480.
Emmarentia Dam
Located near Johannesburg’s city centre, Emmarentia Dam is the perfect spot to visit for a summer picnic, bicycle ride or dog walk. The surrounding Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are home to unique gardens, plant and herb species to keep you even more in touch with nature. The garden alone dates back to 1866 and is an important part of the country’s natural history. Take a group of friends and enjoy what nature has to offer for free.
The Hector Pieterson Memorial in Meadowlands
A visit to the Hector Pieterson Memorial in Meadowlands, Soweto, is essential to learning more about South Africa’s history. The museum was built to honour the 1976 Soweto high school students whose protest turned fatal during the apartheid era. Among those that lost their lives was 12-year old Hector Pieterson. The museum houses rich audio-visual and oral testimonies of the protest and the era. A visit costs R30 for adults, and R10 for pensioners and children.
Gold Reef City
For a jam-packed day of fun for you and the kids, head to the Gold Reef City theme park in Ormonde. Famous rides such as the Anaconda, Runaway Train and Miner’s Revenge will keep the thrill-seekers busy, while the Lyric Theatre and the Gold Reef Casino can keep the easy-going entertained. Entry prices range from R165 to R515, and can be found on their website.
Eldorado Park outdoor gym
There’s no rest for some gym goers. If you’re one of them, head over to the outdoor gym in Kremetart Street, Extension 3. The fully equipped and modern outdoor gym is in partnership with Green Outdoor Gym and the City of Joburg, with the aim of enhancing the quality of life in Johannesburg’s neighbourhoods and providing easy access to health and fitness facilities. Grab your towel and sneakers and break a sweat free of charge!
