Johannesburg is a city commonly known as the City of Gold, not only because it is the economic capital of South Africa, but also a position where one can access some of the most iconic and diverse destinations of the country. Although Johannesburg city is a busy city, it is encircled by a range of stunning scenic views, varied history, and cultural heritage sites that make the best day trips. Whether it is an adventure-seeker, a history lover, or a tourist who wants to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, the city of Johannesburg has so many experiences that can be acquired in one day. The 8 best day trips in Johannesburg are listed below and have their own appeal.
Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind is one of the most important archaeological parks in the world and definitely one of the best day tours in Johannesburg, found approximately 50 kilometers North West of Johannesburg. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site where there are numerous fossils that have influenced our evolutionary history. The region is commonly known to have limestone caves, specifically the Sterkfontein Caves, where early hominid remains, including the remains of “Mrs. Ples” and “Little Foot” have been found.
Tourists have the option of visiting the Sterkfontein Caves and other adjoining places such as the Maropeng Visitor Centre, which gives visitors informative exhibits of the origins of humankind. Cradle of Humankind maintains exquisite nature reserves, which also surround the Cradle of Humankind, therefore, it is ideal to those who wish to have a historical day out which includes some form of exploration.
Pilanesberg National Park
A visit to the Pilanesberg National Park is one of the most outstanding day trips one can make to Johannesburg especially to those that love wild and natural marvels. Pilanesberg, located approximately two and a half hours out of Johannesburg, is one of the best game reserves in South Africa and the home of the “Big Five” lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros. The park lies within the deposit of a dead volcanic crater offering the best background to spend the day viewing the game.
The visitors will be able to experience guided safari drives whether by open vehicles or self-drive safaris. The various topography of the park such as grasslands, woodlands and water holes make it to be a wildlife haven. Birdwatching is especially popular in Pilanesberg where there are more than 350 bird species in the park. Being so close to Johannesburg, it is a must visit destination when one wants to see the amazing wildlife of the South African country without attending to great distances.
Magaliesberg Mountains
Nature lovers, in addition to outdoor enthusiasts, would not pass a day trip to the Magaliesberg Mountains without second thought. The Magaliesberg, which is within an hour drive of Johannesburg, has a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and visiting the quaint town of Hartbeespoort. The mountains are characterized by scenic scenery, waterfalls and various flora and fauna.
The Hartbeespoort Dam has been one of the most remarkable attractions and a visitor can experience any water sports or just take a quiet boat ride. To have a more intimate experience of nature, consider hiking the top of the Magaliesberg where one has a panoramic view of the rest of the landscape. Nearby, there are also a few adorable lodges and restaurants and it is an ideal place to take a rest after a day of sightseeing.
Pretoria
Pretoria, otherwise called the Jacaranda City is only a few minutes drive away and is a wonderful blend of a historical and cultural treat that is worth seeing and experiencing. The administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria, is a city rich in historical sites, so it is an ideal day trip destination in the history and culture lover of Johannesburg.
The best attractions in South Africa are the Union Buildings,ither the seat of the South African government and the Voortrekker Monument, which is an impressive representation of Afrikaner history. The parks that are available in the city especially the ones near the Pretoria national botanical garden are the most serene location in the city of Johannesburg. You would not want to miss the experience of walking through the streets that are filled with beautiful jacaranda trees and specially in spring when the trees are fully bloomed, and the city turns into a forest of purple.
Sun City Resort
In case you want a more luxurious and entertaining day out approach, then Sun City Resort is the right place to be found approximately two hours off Johannesburg. Sun City is an enormous casino of entertainment complexes that dazzle with a big number of activities that the rest of the world describes as being the solution to Las Vegas in Africa. You want to have a spa day; you want to have a casino day, you want to relax at the pool, Sun City has it all.
The resort has golf courses, a water park, and zip-lining, which is an adventure activity. Pilanesburg National Park is also nearby the resort thus a wildlife safari can be easily combined with high-quality relaxation and entertainment. Sun City is a place to go when one wants to enjoy the glamor aspect of South Africa without missing a thing in terms of the nature of the environment.
Cullinan Diamond Mine
To be able to see something unique historically, another area to visit is the Cullinan Diamond Mine which is approximately 30 minutes to Johannesburg. It is a well-known mine producing some of the largest and most renowned diamonds of the world including the Cullinan Diamond later cut into the Great Star of Africa, the British Crown Jewels.
The mine has guided tours that will bring you into the guts of the mining to enable you to know the history of diamond mining in South Africa. Cullinan town per se is famous with its quaint old-fashioned buildings and its quaint streets that give a visitor an idea of what the past used to be like. The Cullinan Diamond Mine is an educative and interesting visit that every person who is interested in the mining history of South Africa and diamond industry should have.
Clarens
Located on the foot of Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a very beautiful town that is approximately three hours away in Johannesburg and has gained popularity among people seeking art, nature and peace. The jewel of the free state, Clarens has a lively artistic scene, and there are many local and international galleries in the town.
There are breathtaking landscapes about it with mountainous dramatic views, rivers, and rich meadows. There are outdoor activities that visitors may participate in (hiking, cycling, fishing, etc.) or explore the town via the cobbled streets visiting the boutique shops and cafes located in the town. In the cases of art enthusiasts or people who just wish to get on a vacation, Clarens is one of the ideal day trips around Johannesburg.
The Lion & Safari Park
The Lion and Safari Park is a perfect place to visit to family and those who love animals since it is only an hour drive out of Johannesburg. Park contains a diverse range of wildlife and it has lions, cheetahs, hyenas and giraffes. Tourists can also have a guided tour, during which they are going to see these grand animals close up. The park also presents the animal encounters: to feed lion cubs or walk along with the cheetahs.
The Lion and Safari Park is also a good place to have a day out in nature, as it has some of the best picnic sites besides its wildlife tours. This is an excellent option on a one-day trip of Johannesburg because of its variety of wildlife and its accommodating family ambience.
Conclusion
Johannesburg is a city that has the city life and at the same time one can visit some of the most beautiful and historical places in South Africa. These are the most ideal day trips around Johannesburg giving the best blend of adventure, culture, history and nature. Be it the ancient caves of the Cradle of Humankind, the excitement of a safari in Pilanesberg or the artistic flair of Clarens, one literally has to drive a short distance to the city to find something of your interest.
To make such traveling experience, these day trips are the chance to immerse yourself in the variety of landscapes and cultural enrichment which South Africa is famous with. All of these places offer a specific opportunity to explore the natural beauty and historical richness of the country thus making them an ideal option of any visitor of Johannesburg who may want to make the most of their stay in South Africa.
