Having memorable experiences does not always have to mean breaking the bank. Sometimes, fun and exploration come at no cost.
In the City of Gold, there are a number of fun and interesting things to do. And guess what? You don’t have to harm your wallet.
Here’s a look at just a few of the best free things you can get up to in and around Joburg this holiday season:
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
A view of the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens overlooking the Emmarentia. Photo by Paul Saad.
Founded in 1969, the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens consist of large, grassy open spaces scattered with trees. It is the ideal place for a run, a picnic or simply walking your dog.
The various special gardens present the chance to enjoy the beauty of nature while admiring the attractive mix of bunched indigenous and exotic plants surrounded by lawns. An added plus is that you can do all of this while overlooking the gorgeous 7.5-hectare Emmarentia Dam.
Hector Pieterson Memorial
Image; Getaway Gallery
Located in Orlando West, the Hector Pieterson Memorial commemorates the life of Hector Pieterson and all those who marched through Soweto on the 16th of June 1976.
In visiting the memorial, you will learn more about the Soweto youth uprising, South Africa’s unfair history, as well as what it took for the country to be where it is today.
The Wilds Nature Reserve
Located on the outskirts of Houghton, The Wilds Nature Reserve showcases nature in its utmost beauty.
You can expect a pristine natural environment, with paths that ramble across the hillsides providing gorgeous views of the city.
There are also running waterfalls and fountains, making the atmosphere more refreshing. The nature reserve is also ideal for photographs. So go ahead and pay it a visit. Perhaps, this might be where you get your next profile picture.
First Published by: Getaway Magazine
Words compiled by: Nomvelo Masango
Also see: A solo getaway might be just what you need this year
