Best Free Sites in Johannesburg

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is the largest official nature reserve in Johannesburg, and it's well worth the short drive from the center of the city. The area contains diverse wildlife, including zebra and black wildebeest. There are also six hiking trails that range in difficulty.

Kloofendal Nature Reserve was founded on the site of the first payable gold mining operation of 1884 (this was prior to the main reefs being discovered). The old shafts have been restored and are national monuments, open to view. The wildlife is generally of the smaller variety, the main attraction being the pristine vegetation contained by the reserve. Walking trails traverse the area. The facility is also occasionally offered as a live music venue. It closes from May to September due to the high risk of veld (bush) fires during this time.

The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is an expansive green space that proves to be a respite to the local population in the busy city. Located close to Emmarentia Dam, the gardens pose great scenic potential. Apart from that a great variety of indigenous flora is also displayed in a well-organized manner. Of the different gardens inside The Shakespeare Garden and The Rose Garden attract most number of visitors. The large lawn area is used by local joggers and picnickers, and there might be an occasional concert as well.