Gauteng is often seen as an urban jungle with a fast pace. Despite the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of green spaces where families can relax, unwind, and enjoy fresh air or a picnic with loved ones. With spring here, now is the perfect time to xplore these spaces and take advantage of the activities they offer. Here are 10 green spaces in Gauteng for outdoor activities and picnics. They provide a mix of peaceful picnic spots, adventurous hiking trails, and fun experiences for both adults and kids, making them ideal for a day out in nature.
1. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden (Roodepoort)
Entry Cost: R70 for adults, R20 for children (under 6 free)
Activities: Walking trails, picnic spots, birdwatching (home to the Verreaux’s Eagles), and a waterfall. Ideal for families, with ample space for kids to play.
2. Delta Park (Randburg)
Entry Cost: Free
Activities: Walking and biking trails, birdwatching at the Florence Bloom Bird
Sanctuary, picnic spots, and open spaces for children to run around. Also has a
children’s play area.
3. Rietvlei Nature Reserve (Pretoria)
Entry Cost: R70 per adult, R30 per child (under 6 free)
Activities: 40km of roads within the reserve make for a pleasant outing with the family. Game viewing ranges from cheetah to Rhino. There is also birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and picnic areas. Children can enjoy spotting wildlife like zebras and rhinos.
4. Johannesburg Botanical Gardens (Emmarentia)
Entry Cost: Free
Activities: Open lawns for picnics, beautiful gardens, boating on Emmarentia Dam, and walking paths. Dog-friendly, and kids can enjoy running around the vast open spaces.
5. Groenkloof Nature Reserve (Pretoria)
Entry Cost: R55 for adults, R30 for children
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, 4×4 trails, and picnic areas. There’s a chance to see giraffes, zebras, and antelope. Kids will love the chance to see animals up close.
6. Zoo Lake (Saxonwold)
Entry Cost: Free
Activities: Rowing on the lake, playground for kids, walking paths, and designated picnic spots. It’s a relaxed park for both family gatherings and outdoor fun.
7.Hennops Hiking Trail (Centurion)
Entry Cost: R100 per person, children under 12 pay R50
Activities: Hiking trails (varied difficulty levels), picnic areas, and river crossings. Ideal for active families who enjoy hiking and nature walks.
8.Gillooly’s Farm (Bedfordview)
Entry Cost: Free
Activities: Fishing, birdwatching, walking trails, and picnic spots. There is a restaurant
on site, and kids can enjoy feeding ducks by the dam.
9.Modderfontein Reserve (Modderfontein)
Entry Cost: R30 for adults, R15 for children
Activities: Walking, running, mountain biking, and picnics. The reserve offers vast open spaces and scenic spots perfect for family outings and a children’s play area.
10. Bunny Park (Benoni)
Entry Cost: Free
Activities: Interaction with farm animals (especially bunnies), picnics, playground for
kids, and wide open spaces for family relaxation. This is a favourite for young children who love animals.
