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PLACES TO SEE IN GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA
Gauteng Tourist Destinations and Tourist Attractions include all the places to see in Gauteng Province of South Africa
PLACES TO SEE IN GAUTENG GENERAL
Animal Parks & Zoo's Aquarium Arts and Crafts Botanical Gardens Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary Cheetah & Wildlife Centre Coca Cola Dome Cultural Village Dams & Small Lakes Game Parks & Nature Reserves Hartbeespoort Dam Heritage Sites Museums Lion Park Military History Museum Mystic Mountain Sanctuary Nasrec Natural History Sites Sandton Convention Centre Snake & Animal Park Sterkfontein Caves
SADDLE CREEK ADVENTURES
Saddle Creek Adventures is nestled in the Hekpoort Valley at the foot of the magnificent Magaliesberg Mountains. A mere 45 minutes drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, this picturesque adventure ranch venue is suitable for a fun filled family day out or as the perfect place to build team spirit or throw an adventurous function out in the wilderness. Saddle Creek Adventures boasts a collection of horses, quad bikes, go-karts and action archery. As a nearby attraction to the numerous lodges and hotels in the area, we are sure to provide an exhilarating adventure experience for all ages and occasions.
Archery : Ax Throwing : Go- Carting : Horse Riding, Quad Biking : Hot Air Balloon Safari : Scenic Helicopter : Spa Treatments : Kiddies Activities : Team Building : Group Functions : Conferences
CONTACT SADDLE CREEK ADVENTURES : Cell: 079 467 9906 : info@saddlecreekadventures.co.za
www.saddlecreekadventures.co.za
HERITAGE SITES
THE CRADLE OF HUMANKIND
World Heritage Site
The site is situated in the North Western corner of Gauteng, and has 13 excavated sites, amonst many unexplored ones. It has a rich anthropological value, game reserves, cultural villages and many other holiday attractions. The Site lies mainly in the Gauteng province with a small extension into the neighboring North-West province, and covers 47 000 hectares of land mostly privately owned. The Cradle of Humankind Site comprises a strip of a dozen dolomitic limestone caves containing the fossillised remains of ancient forms of animals, plants and most importantly, hominids. The dolomite in which the caves formed, started out as coral reefs growing in a worm shallow sea about 2.3 billion years ago. Swartlrans - The earliest known deliberate use of fire, some 1,3 million years ago, have been found on this site. Kromdraai - In 1938, the first specimen of robust ape-man was discovered at Kromdraai.
CONTACT THE CRADLE OF HUMANKIND : Tel +27 (0)11 355 1208 l:cradleofhumankind.gpg.gov.za
STERKFONTEIN CAVES
Where "Mrs Ples", a 2,5 million year old, and an almost complete skeleton estimated to be about 3,3 million years old were excavated. These caves have one of the richest and most productive anthropological sites in the world.The Sterkfontein Caves are located within the Isaac Edwin Stegmann Reserve about 10km from Krugersdorp. These caves were donated to the University of Witwatersrand by the Stegmann family. A section of the caves is open to the public, and there is a gravel platform from which the public can view the excavation site. Other facilities include a tea-room and small museum in which information about significant findings are on display.
The Sterkfontien cave system, about 12km north of Krugersdorp in Gauteng, is the site of some of the most important discoveries concerning human evolution. The limestone deposit at the surface, from which the first fossils were recovered, was formed by the collapse and infilling of a cavern as it became exposed by erosion. Underlying the old quarry is an extensive system of younger caves containing an underground lake and many limestone formations, part of which is open to tourists.
The Palaeo-Anthropological Research Unit at the Unitversity of the Witwatersrand has been excavating at Sterkfontein continuously since 1968, and more than 550 hominid fossil specimens have been found. For the year 'Mrs Ples' was the best specimen of A. africanus. However, towards the end of 1998, an entire australopithecine skull together with its skeleton was discovered by Dr Ron Clarke, in an underground cavern beneath the surface excavations. Owing to its great age (between about 3.2 and 3.5 million years) and completeness, this is regarded as the most important fossil find in South Africa since the Taung skull.
CONTACT STERKFONTEIN CAVES : Tel +27 11 717 9946 : info.sterkfonteincaves@wits.ac.za
BOTHONGO WONDER CAVE
Tucked away in the heart of the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve lies a true natural gem—the spectacular Bothongo Wonder Cave. Just a short drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, this breathtaking underground world is easily accessible through the main entrance of the reserve and can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure.
CONTACT Tel: +27 011 957 034 : bookings@rhinolion.co.za info@rhinolion.co.za
CLOSED MONDAYS
SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY
Over 50 years collection of weapons of war, ranging from the Anglo-Boer war to World War 2. It is the official WW2 art museum.
South Africa's premier institution for preserving the nation's rich military heritage. Located in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, right next to the Johannesburg Zoo, it houses a vast collection of over 44,000 artifacts spanning 37 categories—including rare aircraft, armored vehicles, weapons, and historical war art.
CONTACT SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY : Cell +27 87 086 7019 : Tel +27 12 492 5744 :info@ditsong.org.za
Erlswold Way, Saxonwold Johannesburg
VOORTREKKER MONUMENT
On 13 July 1937 the sod turning ceremony took place on Monument Hill. Advocate E.G.Jansen, chairman of the SVK turned the first sod. The cornerstone was laid by Mrs. J.C. Muller (granddaughter of Andries Pretorius), Mrs. K.F. Ackerman (great granddaugther of Hendrik Potgieter), and Mrs. J.C. Preller (great granddaughter of Piet Retief) on 16 December 1938 . Eleven years later the Monument was inaugurated on 16 December 1949. The total cost for the construction of the Monument came to £359,600, of which the state contributed the most. Additional funds were obtained through donations, special stamp sales, commemorative envelopes, mementoes and publications.
In 1949 a large amphitheatre was also erected to the North East of the Monument, which seats approximately 20,000 people.Notwithstanding the massive size of the Monument, two other elements make it a site worth visiting: the Historical Frieze and the Cenotaph Hall. Voortrekkers.The unique marble Frieze is an intrinsic part of the design - in bas-relief 27 panels depict the story of the Great Trek from 1835 to 1852. The Frieze does not only show the history of the Great Trek, but also depicts every day life, work methods, religious beliefs and the way of life of the Voortrekkers. The central focus point of the Monument is the Cenotaph. On top of the Hall of Heroes' is an arch from where one can view the interior of the Monument. It is through an opening in the arch that the sun shines at twelve o'clock on 16 December each year onto the middle of the Cenotaph and the words,
CONTACT : Voortrekker Monument Heritage Site : Tel ++27 (0)12 326 6770 : WhatsApp +27 (0)71 309 4173 : besprekings@kultuurtuiste.org.za
Eeufees Road Groenkloof Pretoria
HECTOR PETERSEN SQUARE
Near Diepkloof - Memorial site, photographic exhibits of the Soweto student uprisings of 1976.
The Hector Pieterson Memorial and museum opened in Soweto in 2002, not far from the spot where 12 year-old Hector was shot on the 16 June 1976 during the Soweto uprising that today is a symbol of resistance to the apartheid government.
Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Christmas Day and the Day of Goodwill)
Admission Fees: Adults R25; Pensioners and students R5.
ROODEPOORT MUSEUM : BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
The museum covers local history, the discovery of gold in Witwatersrand and the development of Roodepoort from mining camp to city. Roodepoort’s history can be traced back to the Stone Age. Guided tours take about 1 to 2 hours and feature period-room displays, including a 19th-century Highveld farmhouse, a Victorian townhouse, and 1920s/1930s lounges, alongside fine decorative art collections. The museum is in the Civic Centre building in Christiaan de Wet Road, Florida Park.
You must arrange your visit in advance
CONTACT ROODEPOORT MUSEUM :Tel 011 761 0225 or 011 761 0226. : Cell/ WhatsApp 083 677 4794: annes@joburg.org.za
Roodepoort Civic Centre: 100 Christiaan de Wet Road, Florida Park, Roodepoort
ADLER MUSEUM OF MEDICINE
Adler Museum of Medicine offers a unique, dual perspective on healing by displaying both Western advancements and traditional African practices: The museum actively showcases the legacy of African traditional healing, including an African herb shop and a simulation of a patient consulting a sangoma (traditional healer). It also features exhibits on alternative modalities like acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and Tibb. Rare Medical Antiques: Discover fascinating and unusual historical instruments, ranging from iron lungs, bleeding bowls, and leech jars to early electro-medical equipment and Africa's first kidney dialysis machine.
CONTACT ADLER MUSEUM OF MEDICINE : Tel+27 (0)11 717 2081 : adler.museum@wits.ac.za
University of the Witwatersrand Medical School Campus, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
LESEDI
Visitors to Lesedi can choose between The Monati (lunch) or Boma (dinner) cultural tours. These two-hour programmes are offered at 11:30 and 16:30 daily. On arrival, visitors are welcomed at the Ndebele Village by representatives of the tribes that dwell at Lesedi. The tour begins with a multi-sensory presentation of the origins of South Africa’s indigenous inhabitants, followed by a guided walk through the myriad tribal homesteads located in the Lesedi Cultural Village.
CONTACT LESEDI : +27 10 442 5888 : cro@aha.co.za
GAABO MOTHO CULTURAL VILLAGE
Gaabomotho Cultural Village is a unique cultural destination located just 45 minutes from South Africa’s capital, Pretoria. Situated in the vibrant heart of the township, we offer a diverse and immersive experience of South Africa’s rich and multifaceted cultural tapestry. Enjoy the beauty and the rhythm of the culture at Gaabo Motho With our traditional drums, music and dance we unite the world Many different types of tradition coexist at Gaabo Motho Experience village life as practiced by the Zulu, Ndebele, Tswana and Venda tribes originating from ancestors long ago.
Zulu Village : Venda Village : Tswana Village : Pedi Village : Tsonga Village : Ndabele Village
CONTACT GAABO MOTHO CULTURAL VILLAGE : Tel +27 12 051 8711 : Cell+27 72 070 7201 : info@gaabomotho.co.za
1596 Hebron Rd, Klipfontein, Soshanguve, 0164
WILDLIFE CENTERS
RHINO AND LION GAME RESERVE
Game Reserve Family Chalets in the Cradle of Humankind
Located in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable reserve offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, where nature and conservation come together in one of the most historically significant areas on the planet. Whether you are here for a day trip or an extended stay, the reserve provides a variety of activities, from guided safaris and animal encounters to exploring the breathtaking landscapes that define this unique region. Come immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, where the past meets the present, and enjoy an experience that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
CONTACT RHINO AND LION : Tel : (011) 957 0349 info@rhinolion.co.za : Mondays: Closed
MYSTIC MONKEYS AND FEATHERS WILDLIFE PARK
Our beautiful gardens and landscaping will surely make you feel like you are in paradise as you walk through our park. With a variety of exotic animals to feast your eyes on, the gardens are just an extra to the whole mystic monkeys outing experience.
Open 365 days a year!
CONTACT MYSTIC MONKEYS AND FEATHERS WILDLIFE PARK : Cell 079 875 3439 : Cell 082 566 4929 : blouduiker@mweb.co.za
Farm Buffelsdrift Bela Bela
BUSHBABY & MONKEY SANCTUARY
Monkey Sanctuary and Bush Babies offer Monkey Tours for the family where you can see Free-living monkeys in a natural and wild environment at Hartebeespoortdam, South Africa next to an Elephant Sanctuary. Primates, such as our squirrel, spider and capuchin monkeys, are given a new lease on life at Bushbabies Monkey Sanctuary. Previously raised as household pets, or bred for the pet trade, our monkeys are introduced to a wild world laden with waterfalls, lush vegetation, natural mountain springs and the chance to reside in as natural and environment as possible. Our goal is to give them the opportunity to live as they would in the wild.
CONTACT BUSHBABY AND MONKEY SANCTUARY : Tel +27 (0)12 258 9904 : info@monkeysanctuary.co.za
Hartebeespoortdam, South Africa
CHEETAH AND WILDLIFE CENTRE
The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre is proud to be featured in Born to Be Wild, the Apple TV+ documentary series following the early lives of endangered animals as they learn the skills needed to survive in the wild. The Centre is a non-profit organization and receives no government funding. Income is generated through tours, an adoption programme, donations and sponsorship.
CONTACT CHEETAH AND WILDLIFE CENTRE : Cel l063 693 7403 : Whatsapp 076 361 5180 | 072 285 3553 : bookings@dewildt.co.za
Plot 119, R513 De Wildt, Entrance 22, Brits, South Africa
CROC CITY CROCODILE FARM
Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park is fast becoming one of the most exciting attractions in South Africa, where visitors take part in thrilling activities such as holding a baby crocodile, touching exotic snakes and getting up close and personal with a tarantula!
CONTACT CROC CITY CROCODILE FARM : WhatsApp + 27 83 479 0468 : Cell: +27 83 657 7561 : Cell +27 83 321 1016
HARTEBEESPOORTDAM AQUARIUM
We are a small fresh water aquarium promoting Conservation through education of the indigenous fresh water fish of Southern Africa as well as other aquatic animals.
CONTACT HARTEBEESPOORTDAM AQUARIUM : Cell +27 82 469 2979 : hbtaquarium@gmail.com
Plot 97, Melodie, R511, Hartbeespoort, South Africa
SNAKE & ANIMAL PARK
Snuggled against the foot of the Magaliesberg on the eastern shore of Hartbeespoort Dam, lies this most remarkable private Park, surrounded by massive walls like those of a medieval castle protecting a rare gem. Within these walls, a world has been created where visitors can experience the essence of what makes Hartbeespoort Dam unique, the presence of animals, water lapping at stonewalls and jetties, giant tress, exotic foliage and towering cliffs. The park has the most interesting Snake show held on Public Holidays, School Holidays and weekends at 12H00 and 15H00. It is a show not to be missed.
CONTACT SNAKE & ANIMAL PARK : Cell 079 634 5189 : zoogang@hsap.co.za
1 Scott Street, Hartbeespoort Dam
THE LION PARK
The newly upgraded park abounds with a plethora of activities that are sure to excite and thrill those who venture forth within its confines. Visitors will have the option to embark on informative guided tours, or self-drive tours, during which they can come unbelievably close to Africa’s most beloved animals. Among other unique experiences on offer, visitors will also have the opportunity to feed giraffes, ostriches, and variegated antelope species while they roam freely across the park’s 1200-hectare expanse. At times, these animals can also be seen near the Wetlands Restaurant
CONTACT THE LION PARK : Cell +27 (87) 150 0100 : info@lionpark.com
LION FEEDING (Weekends & Public Holidays) 12:00
Lion & Safari Park R512 Lanseria road, within the Cradle of Humankind
THE RHINO & LION NATURE RESERVE
Located in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable reserve offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, where nature and conservation come together in one of the most historically significant areas on the planet. Whether you are here for a day trip or an extended stay, the reserve provides a variety of activities, from guided safaris and animal encounters to exploring the breathtaking landscapes that define this unique region.
CONTACT THE RHINA & LION NATURE RESERVE: Tel (011) 957 0349 or(011) 957 0109 : bookings@rhinolion.co.za or info@rhinolion.co.za :
512 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
THE ANNE VAN DYK CHEETAH CENTRE
Specialists in Cheetah breeding programmes. Guided tours available. Restaurant on premises.
CONTACT US : Tel: 063 693 7403 : bookings@dewildt.co.za
DIETMAR WIENING
The celebrated South African bronze sculptor, Dietmar Wiening, continues to live and work from his home and gallery overlooking the Crocodile River in Broederstroom. Born in Germany in 1943, the 83-year-old artist transitions seamlessly between managing his active studio, creating new limited-edition bronze works, and operating the Dietmar Wiening Sculptures Gallery alongside his wife.
CONTACT DIETMAR WIENING : Cell +27-82-891-9987 : lesley@dietmarwiening.com
R512 Lanseria Road Broederstroom Hartbeestpoort Dam North West Province
HARTBEESPOORT DAM
Surrounded by the majesty of the Magaliesberg mountain range, Hartbeespoort Dam is very popular for weekend getaways or day trips . . .
All water sports may be enjoyed including para-sailing, windsurfing, water and jet skiing!!!
For the more adventurous, why not try paragliding, hang-gliding or hot air ballooning?
We have an aquarium, private zoo, a snake park and a cableway.
Now you can explore and discover the scenic beauty, entertaining attractions, fun activities & places of interest of this wonderful land.
PLACES OF INTEREST
WITS ANGLO AMERICAN DIGITAL DOME (JOHANNESBURG PLANETARIUM)
The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, formerly the Wits Planetarium, is a groundbreaking, high-tech, multi-disciplinary digital research and innovation facility hosted by the School of Physics in the Faculty of Science at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. Anglo American partnered with the University in 2022 to support the refurbishment, expansion, and digitalisation of the then 62-year-old Johannesburg Planetarium to revolutionise how we understand and experience science, art, and culture.
The Digital Dome features high-resolution projectors, surround-sound technology, and auditorium seating to create a state-of-the-art immersive environment for pioneering storytelling with breathtaking displays and interactive educational resources, creating engaging experiences to captivate audiences of all ages and diverse interests.
CONTACT WITS ANGLO AMERICAN DIGITAL DOME : Tel 011 717 1399 or +27 11 717 1392 : info.digitaldome@wits.ac.za
GOLD REEF CITY
Just 8 kilometres from the centre of Johannesburg lies the world famous yet uniquely South African Gold Reef City. Here, a magnificent theme park and casino offers the widest range of attractions, fun and entertainment for the whole family.
A reproduction of a mining town, with exhibits, curio shops, restaurants & take-aways and a theme park, which includes a train ride tour.
With a selection of shops and eating outlets, there's plenty to keep you busy when you want to take a break from the Theme Park entertainment and historical attractions.
CONTACT GOLD REEF CITY : Tel: ++27 11 248 6800
Cnr Northern Parkway and Data Crescent, Ormonde, Johannesburg,
ROSEBANK ART AND CRAFT MARKET
The Rosebank Art & Craft Market (often referred to as the Rosebank African Craft Market) is one of Johannesburg’s premier shopping hubs for authentic, handmade African souvenirs, custom décor, and traditional artwork. Located in the pedestrian-friendly hub of Rosebank, it brings the vibrant energy, warmth, and rhythm of a pan-African marketplace directly to the city. The stalls are run by local and continental artisans offering an incredibly diverse selection of goods: • Traditional Art & Decor: Hand-carved wooden sculptures, colorful clay masks, paintings, and animal skin pillows. • Intricate Beadwork & Wire Art: Custom beaded jewelry, wire baskets, and bright accessories. • Fashion & Textiles: Traditional African garments, handcrafted footwear, and woven bags.
The market is open daily : Monday to Friday: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM / 07:00 PM : Saturdays: 09:00 AM – 06:00 PM : Sundays & Public Holidays: 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
VAN GAALEN CHEESE TOURS
A 60-minute walk through the working kaasmakerij on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, from fresh milk to coated cheese wheel. Finished with a guided tasting, coffee or tea, and a slice of Dutch apple cake.
CONTACT VAN GAALEN CHEESE TOURS : Cell/WhatsApp 083 226 7834 : info@vangaalen.co.za
Farm shop Wed – Sun 08h00–17h00 : Restaurant 08h00–17h30 · Closed Mon & Tue (except public holidays)
Portion 260 of the farm Skeerpoort, near Hartbeespoort, North West
THE COCA COLA DOME
The Coca-Cola dome is situated adjacent to Northgate Shopping Centre on the corner of Olievenhout Avenue & Northumberland Road, in Johannesburg's northern suburb of North Riding. The North Riding area is just North of the N1/ Western Bypass highway. The Dome is 3.5km from Amakoekoe Guest House
SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE
There is over 22,000m² of convention, exhibition and special event space. The Pavilion can seat 4,500 patrons. The Ballroom can seat 2,000 banquet guests and the 13 other meeting rooms can accommodate up to 350 delegates. The two exhibition levels have a combined floor space of 11,000m².
NASREC
One of Africa's largest Expo Centres that each year hosts a number of trade shows and sporting events.
For shopping and recreation, we recommend:
Northgate Shopping Centre,
Westgate Shopping Centre,
Fourways Mall,
Sandton City,
Cresta Shopping Centre,
Monte Casino,
Clearwater Mall
BOTANICAL GARDENS back to top
JOHANNESBURG BOTANICAL GARDENS
near the Emmerentia Dam The garden is situated on 365 acres and has a vast selection of plants and trees, including a rose garden, herbs and bonzai.
CONTACT US : : Tel +27 11 712 6600 : 011 721 6600
WALTER SISULU NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
Over 300 ha in size, cultivated exclusively with South African plants, it has a cycad garden, fern trail, arboretum and a waterwise demonstration garden and breeding black eagles amongst its many attractions. The Garden and nature reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife with about 240 bird species recorded on site. A breeding pair of Verreaux’s Eagles nest on the cliffs near the waterfall
CONTACT WALTER SISULU NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN : Cell+27 79 778 3851 : 086 100 1278 : sisulugarden@sanbi.org.za
Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort, 1724, South Africa
THE TSWAING CRATER
On the Gauteng/Northwest border, this meteorite crater is 1,4km in diameter, with adjacent eco-system, also an eco-museum.
CONTACT US : General enquiries/ hike/camping : Cell 060 624 5786 : Cell 060 476 5044 : Tel +27 (0)12 492 5765 info@ditsong.org.za
Onderstepoort Road (M35), Soshanguve – T, Gauteng, South Africa
ZOO'S back to top
JOHANNESBURG ZOO
The Joburg Zoo is one of the most popular local and tourist attractions situated in the leafy northern suburb of Johannesburg. The Zoo covers 55 hectares of land and was founded in 1904. The Joburg Zoo houses over 320 species of animals, totalling about 2 000 animals.
The Joburg Zoo is open to the public 364 days a year, including Christmas, New Years and Easter holidays. The Zoo maintains a high standard of animal welfare, nutrition and ethical conduct to ensure the physical and psychological well-being of all its animals.
The Joburg Zoo has many fun offers to visitors such as various night and day tours, school holiday programmes, venue hire and regular events for the public. Please look through our calendar to find a fun event for the whole family!
CONTACT JOHANNESBURG ZOO : Cell 082 803 0333
Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg
