johannesburg tours day trips

The 5 best Johannesburg day trips

Jun 20, 2019 • 5 min read

As the sun peaks over the horizon balloons start to rise on Bill Harrop's airborne tours © Heather Mason / Lonely Planet

Gauteng , the landlocked South African province surrounding Johannesburg , has a rich archeological and geological history. This history has created a multitude of unusual tourist activities within an hour or two of Jo’burg – from fossil-filled caves to old diamond-mining towns to balloon safaris over the some of the oldest mountains in the world: here are five of the best Johannesburg day trips.

The Cradle of Humankind

The only Unesco World Heritage Site in Gauteng province, the Cradle of Humankind is home to some of the oldest hominid fossils ever discovered. It’s just over an hour from downtown Johannesburg but the Cradle feels like a primordial landscape, with infinite grassy savannah interrupted only occasionally by modern buildings.

The Cradle occupies 470 sq km and is dotted with limestone caves, including the Sterkfontein Caves where Dr Robert Broom discovered 'Mrs Ples' – the 2.3 million year-old Australopithecus africanus fossil – in 1947. Sterkfontein is open for guided tours and has a great museum devoted to human evolution.

Maropeng , the official visitors centre for the Cradle of Humankind, is a few kilometres from Sterkfontein. The massive, dome-shaped structure, shaped like an ancient burial mound and covered in grass, is a child-friendly museum that tells the story of humans on earth. Visitors can tour Maropeng and Sterkfontein together for a combined price of R190 (US$13).

After a long day of exploring human history, pop in to the luxurious Cradle Boutique Hotel for a glass of wine or cappuccino overlooking the ancient hills.

Hot-air balloon safaris

Floating silently over the earth in a hot-air balloon is awe inspiring, no matter where you are. But there’s something about floating over the rolling hills of the Magaliesberg – one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges – at sunrise, with mist rising up from the Magalies River and maybe even a glimpse of a zebra or giraffe in the distance. The whole scene makes Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris in Skeerpoort a truly unforgettable experience.

The tour requires participants to wake at an ungodly hour (especially in summer when the sun comes up early), as the balloons take off just before sunrise. But this magical activity is totally worth a bit of sleep deprivation. Lucky visitors will find themselves in a balloon with the dapper Bill Harrop himself, who wears a jaunty wool cap and cracks witty jokes in between blasting bursts of hot air up into the balloon.

The balloon trip includes a hearty champagne breakfast after the tour, and participants receive a certificate of achievement for braving the sky in a balloon.

Tour Magaliesberg's canopies by zipline

Ziplining has become a popular adventure activity throughout South Africa and the Magaliesberg mountain range is a great place to do it. The Magaliesberg Canopy Tour , hosted at the Sparkling Waters Hotel & Spa about 90 minutes from Johannesburg, takes participants on a series of ten crisscrossing 'zips'over a scenic gorge called Ysterhout Kloof. The longest line is 140m and the tour lasts an exhilarating 2½ hours.

Sailing over the gorge, with sandstone cliffs above and thick vegetation below, is as beautiful as it is exciting. Ziplining provides a great thrill without the abject terror of bungee jumping or skydiving. The canopy tour includes a light lunch.

Explore the history of Cullinan

In 1898, Sir Thomas Cullinan discovered diamonds about 100km north of Jo’burg and went on to found the Premier Diamond Mine. The town that quickly sprung up around the mine was named after him, as was the 3100-karat that was discovered at the site a few years later by Frederick George Stanley Wells. The Cullinan Diamond – the largest diamond in the world – was gifted to the Queen of England and went on to become part of the British Crown Jewels.

Today, the diamond mine is still in operation and Cullinan is a charming little tourist town. The town boasts several historic homes and churches, a couple of museums, and visitors can even tour the diamond mine.

The historic buildings include McHardy House , which is the oldest house in town –  it was built for mine manager William McHardy and his family in 1903. Also worth a look is St George’s Anglican Church, which was designed by acclaimed architect Sir Herbert Baker in 1908. Cullinan also has several quirky antique shops and a couple of atmospheric pubs along the old railroad tracks. As Greek As It Gets , one of Gauteng’s best Greek restaurants, is just outside the diamond mine's gates.

Go twitching at Marievale Bird Sanctuary

Virtually unknown to anyone outside the birding community, Marievale Bird Sanctuary is one of Gauteng’s best-kept secrets. An hour’s drive from Johannesburg near the town of Nigel, Marievale is part of a wetland created by the local mining industry in the 1930s. Since then Marievale has become home to more than 230 species of birds. The sanctuary is run by the Gauteng provincial government and admission to is free.

It’s best to arrive at Marievale as close to sunrise as possible, when the air is clear and the morning light is soft. Sitting inside one of the sanctuary’s many bird hides, the only sounds are swishing grass, birdsong and rippling water as birds leave the glassy wetland surface and take off into the air.

Marievale has a lovely picnic area so bring along some eggs and sausages and enjoy a breakfast barbecue after bird watching.

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/south-africa-lesotho-and-swaziland-travel-guide-11

Explore related stories

Jul 8, 2020 • 6 min read

How would your travel wish list look if money were no object? From luxury hotels to yachts in the Med, here's the ultimate fantasy bucket list.

Dec 11, 2019 • 5 min read

Apr 2, 2019 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2019 • 7 min read

Aug 28, 2018 • 7 min read

Jun 27, 2017 • 6 min read

Feb 17, 2014 • 10 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

Top Tours in Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg tours.

• Multi-day Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Ultimate Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria

2. Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour

3. Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour

4. Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

5. Johannesburg and Soweto tour

6. Captivating 3 Day Kruger Safari Adventure From Johannesburg

7. 5 Day Katekani Lodge Kruger National Park Safari

8. Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum

9. Half Day Pretoria City Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

10. Rhino and Lion Park Safari Tour

11. Full Day Pilanesberg Experience in Open Vehicle

12. Elephant & Monkey Sanctuary Tour from Johannesburg

13. Half Day Lion Park tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

14. Johannesburg: Hot Air Balloon Flight along Magalies Valley

15. Maropeng Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Cave Experience (Caves is closed)

16. Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour

17. Jo'burg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Apartheid Museum & Soweto

18. Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto with Lunch

19. Lesedi Cultural Village & crudle of Humankind Guided Tour

20. Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch

21. Full Day Safari Tour of Pilanesberg National Park, Open Jeep experience

22. Walk with Elephants Experience plus Monkey Forest Walk

23. 7 Day Classic Kruger National Park Safari

24. Full Day Tour Apartheid Museum and Soweto

25. Soweto Half Day Tour

26. 2 Day Pilanesberg ultimate Luxury Safari

27. Private Full Day Soweto and Johannesburg Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

28. Full Day Exquisite Pilanesberg Safari from Johannesburg

29. Captivating 2 Day Kruger Safari from Johannesburg

30. Soweto Township Cultural Tour incl Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela House

What travellers are saying.

• Full Day Ultimate Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria
• Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour
• Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour
• Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum
• Jo'burg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Apartheid Museum & Soweto
• Stephenson Adventures
• SafariExpress
• One Day Africa
• Biggestleaf Tours
• Honest Travel Experience (Johannesburg)
• Dynamic Transfers and Tours
• Ingrid's Safaris - Day Tour
• Kamaroutes travel Designers
• Wildside Tours and Safaris - Day Tours
• Cashan Africa Tours & Safaris
• Pogiso's Tours
• Rossco Car Rentals Tours & Shuttles
• Pilanesberg Safaris and Tours
• African Safari Guru
• Felleng Tours
• Soweto & Other Townships - Daily tours through the eyes of a photojournalist
• Soul Adventures

#1 Johannesburg Day Tours

Our top selling tour.

8 Hours - From Johannesburg

Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

The Ultimate Johannesburg Tour takes you to iconic heritage sites in Johannesburg CBD and Soweto; showcasing South Africa’s turbulent history and promising future. It’s an opportunity to learn more about events that shaped the country’s past and discover the dynamic cultural diversity of two of the most prominent cities in the country.

Highlights of the Johannesburg tour includes Constitutional Hill, Carlton Centre, the Apartheid Museum and the vibrant Newtown Junction.

From ZAR 1555

Trending Tours

Soweto apartheid museum and lunch tour.

You’ll get a true sense of the soul of the city of Soweto and events that shaped South Africa’s fight for freedom and equality...

Soweto and Lunch

Soweto is the largest Black residential area in South Africa and has a population of more than 3.5 Million people with the land in extent ...

From ZAR 1295

Ultimate Pilanesberg Open Vehicle Day Tour

Come and experience the Pilanesberg National Park on a morning and afternoon Open 4×4 safari vehicle drive experience...

From ZAR 2750

Choose your Johannesburg Experience

Johannesburg Day Tours

From ZAR 900

Soweto Day Tours

Pilanesberg Day Safaris

From ZAR 775

Private Johannesburg Tours

From ZAR 1795

Popular Johannesburg Tours

• < 4 Hours

From ZAR 1750

Lion Park Tour

Customizable private johannesburg day tour with guide.

From ZAR 4500

From ZAR 1500

Soweto Tour

From ZAR 1100

Johannesburg Tours

Rhino and lion park tour.

From ZAR 1995

Lesedi Cultural Village Tour

From ZAR 1800

Elephant and Monkey Sanctuary Tour

From ZAR 2975

Apartheid Museum Tour

From ZAR 1350

Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre

From ZAR 1925

Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Caves Tour

From ZAR 1695

Johannesburg Half Day Tour

From ZAR 1250

Pretoria Tour

From ZAR 1450

2 Hour Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour

From ZAR 700

4 Hour Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour

2.5 hour soweto bicycle tour, 4 hour soweto bicycle tour, soweto and lion park.

From ZAR 2500

Soweto Night Tour

Pilanesberg day tours, 3 hour pilanesberg morning / afternoon safari drive.

From ZAR 6500

Full day Guided Open Vehicle Safari Drive

From ZAR 1675

3-Hour Shared Game Drive in Pilanesberg National Park

From ZAR 850

3-Hour Private Game Drive in Pilanesberg National Park

From ZAR 5500

Johannesburg  Tours: It’s time for a day trip out in the City of Gold!

The vibrancy of Johannesburg City cannot be avoided. There is something happening all of the time; on every street and on every corner!  Johannesburg day trips out and about  will let you really see the city for what it is: a bustling tourist attraction. Sure it is a  city  and it’s always buzzing, driving the South African economy forward.

But beneath the layers of commerce lies a rich history. Johannesburg had incredibly humble beginnings as a mining town. But unlike many of South Africa’s earliest mining camps, there was something about  Johannesburg  that had real staying power. Of course, the copious amounts of gold had a pull, but there was certainly more than that. And the city continues to grow.

It has seen so much happen and bears many marks left by history. These marks are now part of Johannesburg’s unique sightseeing tourist attractions. The MoAfrika  Johannesburg city tour itinerary  offers exciting tourist sightseeing stops, and tour packages designed to create the ultimate sightseeing experience. Full day tours and half day tours take guests to some of the most memorable places and then there is always the option of indulging in safari adventures. Safari day tours from Johannesburg take guests into the  wild of Pilanesberg , where animal sightings are plenty. But when you find yourself in Johannesburg, do you know how you will be spending your time?

MoAfrika has the best wheelchair friendly day trip options in Johannesburg for you to choose from. Come and explore Johannesburg in a day! Here is what you need to know!

What to do in Johannesburg today? A List of the best Johannesburg Tours:

• Johannesburg day tour
• Johannesburg half day tour
• Johannesburg walking tour
• Johannesburg full day tour
• Ultimate Johannesburg tour
• Constitutional Hill tour
• Top of Africa tour
• Johannesburg and Soweto tour
• Johannesburg and Lion park tour
• Johannesburg City tour
• Johannesburg apartheid Museum Tour
• Johannesburg Helicopter Tour
• Johannesburg Sky dive tour
• Johannesburg Kruger Safari
• Johannesburg Safari tour
• Johannesburg Lion Safari tour
• New town tour
• City of gold Tour
• Gold Reef City Tour
• Johannesburg Mine tours
• Johannesburg wildlife tours

The best budget tours: Who says the city needs to be expensive

Some of the most exciting Johannesburg day tours are the budget tours. Taking you on unforgettable sightseeing adventures to places like Soweto, the Lion and Rhino Park, and the various museums, you will be visiting all of the best tourist attractions. For those who don’t want to do a self drive day trip from Johannesburg, at MoAfrika we offer bus tours and transfers from Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban.

Half a day in the city

Johannesburg city tours are guided tours, leaving you in the hands of an experienced guide who knows the ins and outs of the city, guaranteeing that you will be getting the most out of your day. Half day tours, that are great if you are on a budget, include the Soweto Tour, Gold Reef City Tour, Pretoria Tour, the Apartheid Museum Tour, Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Caves Tour, Lion Park Tour, and the half day Johannesburg Tour, among others. These exciting tours are all affordable and under the guidance of an experienced Johannesburg tour operator, you will see the city with new eyes!

Make a day of it with a full day tour

With so much to see, sometimes it is best to visit the city on a full day tour. The  Johannesburg day trip  is a guided tour, allowing you to sit back in comfort while being taken on a whirlwind tour. The Ultimate Johannesburg Day tour is a full day tour and one of the best. The best Johannesburg city tour itinerary includes time spent at the  Apartheid Museum , the Lesedi Cultural Village, Soweto, and of course plenty of time in the city itself. MoAfrika also takes guests into the historical city of Pretoria. It is a cultural experience, designed to show you urban Africa at its finest while stepping back in history to appreciate how far the city and its people have come.

Read more on our safari tour to Pilanesberg National Park .

Local day trips from Johannesburg, time away from the city

The surrounding areas of Johannesburg offer numerous sightseeing tourist attractions for you to explore. Johannesburg tour operators have created excursions away from the city, giving guests the opportunity to see African wildlife.

These daily trips from Johannesburg include time spent in Pilanesberg Park as well as the Rhino and Lion Park for a proper safari, adventures to the Cullinan Mine, and time spent at the Sterkfontein Caves and the Cradle of Human Kind. About MoAfrika MoAfrika is a Johannesburg tour operator with a difference.

With unique touring options selected based on affordability, maximum sightseeing opportunities and with plenty of activities, each travel tour is designed for memory making. 15 years of experience, combined with a fresh approach to visiting attractions in South Africa, MoAfrika has made a name in offering exciting 1 day tours, 2 day tours, and 3 day tours to see Johannesburg and the surrounding areas.

Find us on TripAdvisor! Many of our guests have recommended our Johannesburg city tour itinerary as the best way to see the city. We also offer custom private tours of this famous city and its surrounds.

Let MoAfrika take you into the heart of South Africa with an affordable Johannesburg day tour! Can’t find what you are looking for? We offer a wide selection of day trip packages, contact us now for our 2024/2025 prices and availability. 

Frequently asked questions, what is the cost of johannesburg day tours.

The cost of Johannesburg day tours can vary depending on the tour operator, itinerary, and inclusions. On average, these tours can cost anywhere from ZAR 600 to ZAR 1,500 per person. However, there are also budget-friendly options available, with some tours starting at around ZAR 300 per person. It’s important to research and compare different tour operators to find a tour that fits your budget and preferences.

What is usually included in Johannesburg day tours?

Typical Johannesburg tours may include the following: Hotel pickup and drop-off & transportation throughout the day, such as an air-conditioned bus or minivan. A visit to the Apartheid Museum is usually included. You can visit landmarks such as the Nelson Mandela House, Regina Mundi Church, and Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum.  You may also visit other attractions such as the Cradle of Humankind, the Lion Park, or the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.  Many tour itineraries include lunch, which may be a traditional South African meal or a more western-style option. Included is usually a knowledgeable tour guide that will accompany you throughout the day, providing insights into the history and culture of Johannesburg and South Africa.

How long do Johannesburg day tours usually last?

Johannesburg day tours can vary in length and itinerary, but most typically last between 4 to 8 hours.

• +27 (0) 82 506 9641
• +27 (0) 72 783 9787
• [email protected]
• Address: 16 Karen Road, Illiondale, Johannesburg, South Africa

Popular Tours

Additional information, awards and recognition.

Copyright © MoAfrika Tours 2024

MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

WhatsApp Now

Home » Travel Guides » South Africa » 15 Best Day Trips from Johannesburg (Updated 2023)

15 Best Day Trips from Johannesburg (Updated 2023)

Johannesburg is found in the northeast of South Africa and is home to the country’s main international airport. With a sprawling urban area that stretches for miles, it’s the most populated city in South Africa. Even so, it’s not one of the country’s three capital cities. Unusually for such a large city, once the extensive suburbs and townships end, there is nothing except open plains and beautiful countryside. Despite this, Johannesburg is often avoided by tourists visiting South Africa because of its reputation for crime.

But this is largely overstated, and rarely impacts visitors to the city. The reality is that Johannesburg is the cultural heart of modern South Africa. All in all, Jo’burg is the perfect base from which to explore the many national parks and game reserves found in the area. It’s also the ideal place to see the best of South Africa’s contemporary culture. Down the road is the historic city of Pretoria, where you can learn more about the divided history of this country. Not too much further away, Sun City offers amusement and water parks for those looking for a different kind of escape from Johannesburg. In other words, there are many great day trips to be done from Johannesburg, and these are the very best.

Below you’ll find my top picks for attractions easily reached from Johannesburg. Having traveled extensively across South Africa more than once, I know first-hand what’s worth your hard earned time, and what isn’t.

1. Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is perhaps South Africa’s most famous national park.

It’s also one of South Africa’s largest, covering an enormous area of almost 8000 square miles. Johannesburg acts as an ideal gateway for international travelers to South Africa looking to visit the park.

From Johannesburg, a multitude of companies offer day tours to the fringes of Kruger. Here you can get a taste for the wild nature of South Africa’s savannas and see the icons of African wildlife, including the Big Five game animals.

It can be tricky to see all five species (lions, elephants, rhinos, Cape buffaloes, and leopards) in a single day.

However, it’s not impossible with an experienced guide, and there are plenty of other animals to keep you open-mouthed, from giraffes to hyenas.

With such an expanse of wilderness to explore, you’re sure to find yourself wanting to return again and again. After all, no two days at Kruger National Park are ever the same.

Recommended tour : Kruger National Park 3-Day Safari

Soweto is found on the outskirts of Johannesburg’s city centre. Although now considered part of the city itself, for a long time this area was very, very separate.

It makes for an incredibly interesting day trip, as Soweto was the largest township in South Africa during the dark days of Apartheid.

The name of the area means simply South Western Townships, and a tour here will give you a glimpse of the Johannesburg beyond its glittering central office blocks.

You can learn about the turbulent history of the township but also experience the vibrant lifestyles that are lived here. The modern symbol of Soweto, the muraled cooling towers of Orlando Power Station, are a sign of this.

A must for any visit to Soweto is the Apartheid Museum. It’s galleries are dedicated to detailing the horrors of South Africa’s policies of racial division. But there’s a lot more to see besides.

The Orlando area was home to Nelson Mandela before his imprisonment on Robben Island. Now a museum and national monument, the tiny red brick building where he lived still holds the bullet holes and burn marks caused by petrol bombs, alongside much of its original contents.

Tours also include time learning about the Soweto Uprising, an event that led to the deaths of several school children protesting against the use of Afrikaans in Soweto schools.

Together attractions make Soweto an intriguing place to visit, and one of the best day trips to make from Johannesburg.

Available tour : Johannesburg and Soweto Apartheid Full Day Tour

3. Sun City

After a heavy dose of history and politics in Soweto, you may be looking for something a little more light-hearted and relaxing when it comes to taking your next day trip from Johannesburg.

Sun City is essentially one big holiday resort. South Africa’s most famous getaway, it’s an excellent place to visit if you are looking for relaxation, fun, and amusement parks.

Think Las Vegas, and you’ve got Sun City pretty much sussed. You can find everything from spas and water parks, to bars and even a casino. In short, fun for all the family.

Kitsch it definitely is. Yet at the same time, Sun City has an allure like nowhere else in South Africa, and certainly nowhere within proximity to Johannesburg.

Sun City is a two-hour drive away from Johannesburg, meaning that while there are plenty of hotels tempting you to stay the night, it makes for a great day trip too.

What’s more, trips to Sun City are often combined with a tour of Pilanesberg National Park, my next pick.

Available tour : Pilanesberg Full-Day Shared Safari with Sun City Visit

4. Pilanesberg National Park

Pilanesberg National Park is located right next to Sun City, but it’s an entirely different world to explore.

Being so close to Johannesburg, Pilanesberg makes for an excellent place to visit to experience the wild nature of South Africa without needing to spend days in the bushveld.

The park takes its name from an enormous mountain, formed from a now extinct volcano. But most people visit for the chance to see the huge variety of wildlife that lives within its boundaries.

You can spot all of the Big Five animals, as well as almost every species which calls South Africa home.

The volcanic landscape is simply breathtaking, especially around the Mankwe Dam area of the park.

To get a real overview of all the park’s magnificent landscapes, ascending to the skies in a hot air balloon is a fabulous idea.

5. Pretoria

Pretoria is found just an hour to the north of Johannesburg’s city center and is one of South Africa’s three capital cities (alongside Cape Town and Bloemfontein).

As a result, it’s home to a host of administrative offices, many beautiful pieces of architecture in their own right.

There’s also a great deal of history, connected not only with the Afrikaaners who founded the city, but also the nomadic tribes who roamed the plains of the area before them.

To get a feel of what the city’s all about, a good place to start is the impressive Voortrekker Monument.

It’s a grand legacy built to commerorate the hardships faced by Afrikaaners forced to move north to escape British colonisation.

For a full lowdown of the history of this time, head to Pretoria Forts, built to protect against British advances.

Then visit the Union Buildings on Meintjieskop hill. The seat of the South African government, the buildings were designed by British architect Sir Herbert Baker, who was also partially responsible for New Delhi.

6. Magaliesberg

Magaliesberg is a formidable mountain range found to the north of Johannesburg and an area that makes for a wild escape from the confines of the city. The scenery is absolutely beautiful.

It’s rugged, mountainous and full of wildlife, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the nature, to hike to waterfalls, and to climb its peaks.

Alternatively, grab a ticket for the Hartbeesport Aerial Cableway, which will take you to the top of the Magaliesberg Mountains without any effort.

Elsewhere in the area you can find many farms and wildlife reserves, giving visitors the opportunity to explore local life in this secluded part of South Africa just a short hop from the country’s biggest city.

7. Rustenburg

Rustenburg is a city located two hours away from Johannesburg, and it’s found in beautiful surroundings in the foothills of the Magaliesberg Mountains.

Meaning ‘place of rest’ in Afrikaans, it’s a phrase which still perfectly describes the town.

It’s really the gateway to exploring the entire region, but the town itself offers visitors a look at Afrikaaner history in the area.

There is a great museum explaining the town’s importance, and there are many battlefields nearby which were the scene of fighting during the Anglo-Boer War.

8. Hartbeespoort

Also found in the foothills of the Magaliesburg Mountains is the town of Hartbeespoort.

This lakeside community is a charming place to visit and is the site of the Hartbeespoort Dam.

It’s an excellent place to wind down and to enjoy boating trips or cruises across the scenic lake.

That said, Hartbeespoort has also become a center for adrenaline sports.

White water rafting on the Crocodile River (no crocs present) is becoming increasingly popular, while divers have the unusual opportunity of delving into what was once a chrome mine.

Meanwhile, big cat lovers should head to the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Center, a sanctuary committed to protecting these superb creatures.

9. Maropeng Visitor Centre

The Maropeng Visitor Centre, found within the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an incredible learning center and exhibition space located close to Magaliesburg.

The center showcases the rich discoveries that have been made in the area by archaeologists uncovering human fossils and remains and piecing together the early years of humanity.

It’s a great insight into the importance of southern Africa to the evolution of humankind as a whole. Its exhibits include stone tools thought to be a million years old, predating our own species by around 700,000 years.

10. Sterkfontein Caves

The Sterkfontein Caves are located close to the Maropeng Visitor Centre and can be visited on the same day trip from Johannesburg.

Ten to 15 minutes apart, it’s well worth ensuring any tour you go on includes a shuttle between the two attractions.

The caves are part of the broader Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site because it was within these caves that many of the most important discoveries have been made.

These include the unearthing of many, very early human species, such as Australopithicus bones dated to around 3 million years ago.

The most famous example is probably Little Foot, a near complete skeleton 3.5 million years old. Little Foot was only discovered in 1994, and had enough of the ankle remaining to show he or she walked upright.

11. Krugersdorp

Krugersdorp is predominantly a mining town, built to take advantage of the huge deposits of gold and minerals that were discovered in the Witwatersrand area close to Johannesburg.

The town itself may not have much to offer tourists, but the surrounding area is rich in beautiful scenery and many underground cave systems that can be explored.

A favourite place to visit is the aptly named Wonder Cave. One of South Africa’s largest caves, it drops 22 meters below ground.

Visitors are able to reach the bottom thanks to 87 steps, from where the range of stalagtites, stalagmites and cave pearls are best viewed.

A second top Krugersdorp attraction is the Bothongo Lion and Rhino Reserve, which has game drives in open-sided vehicles departing multiple times a day.

12. Cullinan

Cullinan is another mining town found close to Johannesburg, and this town is very much of interest to those wanting to learn more about the history of the region, and the mining opportunities that brought many settlers here.

Many of the buildings date back to the early 20th century, when the town was first established. Walking through the streets is almost like taking a step back in time.

The town contains several small museums worth popping into, while horse rides and zip-lining are available in the surrounding countryside.

13. Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is an unusual nature reserve, in that it’s located less than ten miles from Johannesburg city center.

Being so close to the city, it’s surprising to find so much wildlife and beautiful scenery right on the doorstep, and makes for an easy escape, as well as a great look at the nature of the region.

So although Klipriviersberg might not meet the stature of either Kruger or Pilanesberg national parks, it still makes for a superb day out from Johannesburg.

The reserve has healthy populations of many ungulates and antelopes, including zebra, wildebeest, and red haartbeest. But Klipriversberg is best known as a birding destination, with 230 bird species identified in the reserve.

14. Skeerport

Skeerport is a quaint little town that’s found close to the Hartebeesport Dam, not far from Johannesburg.

This small town is set in glorious surroundings and is known as one of the area’s best hot air ballooning spots.

Take to the skies as the sun rises and enjoy the incredible scenery from the air. If you can manage the early morning departure from Johannesburg that is!

15. Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein makes for a long day trip from Johannesburg, but it’s worth the drive to see South Africa’s judicial capital in all its glory.

The city center is awash with lawyers rushing from attractive building to attractive building.

Among them are several interesting museums, including a detailed Boer War Museum.

The city’s Loch Logan Waterfront complex is a nice place to do some shopping, before relaxing on the lake edge with a drink as the sun descends on another day in paradise.

15 Best Day Trips from Johannesburg (Updated 2023):

• Kruger National Park
• Pilanesberg National Park
• Magaliesberg
• Hartbeespoort
• Maropeng Visitor Centre
• Sterkfontein Caves
• Krugersdorp
• Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
• Bloemfontein

5 Unmissable Day Trips from Johannesburg

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: September 14, 2023

Home >> South Africa >> 5 Unmissable Day Trips from Johannesburg

Take a city tour of Johannesburg and you will quickly realize the cities most visited attractions have some connection to the apartheid era. However, the Gauteng Province has so much more to offer. We have 5 unmissable day trips from Johannesburg to top your list!

Within a couple of hours drive from Johannesburg city, you can be on safari on a game reserve, in the mountains or experiencing tribal cultures.

Make the most of your time in Joburg by including these great day trips from Johannesburg in your itinerary.

Table of Contents

Things to Know About Travelling in Johannesburg

Tourism around the area of Johannesburg is on the increase. With so many geological wonders and so much natural beauty, it’s no surprise. 

While it is no secret that crime in South Africa is higher than in many other countries, it is much safer than in previous decades.  

Safety Precautions for Johannesburg

When travelling abroad, it always pays to be safety conscious. Never carry too much money or anything of value. 

If you are concerned about driving, arrange organised tours as these are much safer. We have provided recommendations of the best value for money tours for each day trip.

If you do decide to hire a car and drive yourself around, make sure you always keep the doors locked and the windows closed, especially at traffic lights or in traffic. 

Slow down gradually at the traffic lights and leave plenty of distance between yourself and the vehicle in front.  

Do not leave any personal possessions on show in the car or tour bus and always take your belongings with you. 

Car Rental in Johannesburg Car rental in Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole is very affordable and an excellent way to get around the city and out on day trips without relying on tours or public transport.

Discover Cars have excellent Car Rental Deals in Johannesburg  with no hidden fees and free cancellation.

Top 5 Day Trips from Johannesburg

Safari at pilanesberg game reserve.

On a visit to South Africa, seeing the big five is at the top of most people’s list, and there’s no better place to go on a self-drive safari than Pilanesberg .

You can reach the gates of Pilanesberg National Park in the Northwest Province in two and a half hours from Johannesburg city. The reserve, once a volcanic crater, impresses visitors with stunning dramatic scenery. 

Each section of the park offers different vistas with unique rock formations, thick Acacia thickets, vast open grasslands and pockets of arid land.

Pilanesberg has several dams with photographic hides where you’ll often get magnificent sightings of elephants, zebras and other game. Home to over 300 species of birds, the park is a haven for twitchers and is also one of the best parks in Africa to see Leopards and African wild dogs. 

You can take a self-drive safari around the game park or book a game drive if you would like to the experience of a professional safari guide.

Visiting Kruger National Park? Let us help you plan your Kruger self-drive safari with our Practical Guide to Kruger Self Drive Safari for First-Timers .

If you choose self-drive safari, the main road through the park is tarmac, and most of the tracks are accessible in a standard car.  The best sightings are often along Kabu drive near the Bakubung gate and around the Mankwe dam.

The park has a visitors centre in the middle of the reserve which has a cafe and a shop. 

Directions to Pilanesberg National Park

To get to Pilanesberg National Park, follow the N4 to the Northwest Provence and pick up the signs to Pilanesberg. 

Open Times and Entrance fee to Pilanesberg

Opening Times: The gates are open from 6 am till 6.30 pm.

Entry: The entrance fee is 110 ZAR (~USD$5.90) for foreigners. There’s also a charge of 40 ZAR (~USD$2.15) for your vehicle.

Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Full-Day Safari from Johannesburg

Take a full-day safari tour of Pilanesberg Game Reserve from Johannesburg. The tour includes:

• Return transportation from your Johannesburg hotel
• Two 2.5-hour game drives with a qualified ranger in an open safari vehicle.
• Lunch and all conservation fees

See here for full tour details

Extend your stay in Pilanesberg National Park

While you can easily take a day tour to Pilanesberg for Johannesburg, it’s worth staying at least one night, as the best wildlife sightings are usually at dawn and dusk. 

Sun City is the best place to stay as its close to the park. It has a multitude of facilities including a golf course, a casino and an outdoor water park. 

If you prefer somewhere a little quieter, the African tented lodge is superb and only a 10 minute drive away.

Cradle of Humankind 

The Unesco World Heritage site in the Gauteng Province is a fascinating day trip. Archaeologists discovered some of the oldest hominid fossils here in caves amidst the vast grass savannahs. 

You can visit the Sterkfontein Caves as well as the Maropeng visitors centre, both of which have fascinating museums. 

Maropeng Visitors Centre 

The visitors centre takes you on a journey through the evolution of humankind. There are some superb interactive exhibits for children and some exciting fossils and bones to see. 

Scientists now widely believe that Africa was where human life began over 3.5 million years ago. The world-class exhibits will give you great insight into your ancestors.

The architecture of the Maropeng visitors centre is also notable. The sizeable dome-shaped structure resembles a burial mound covered in green grass. It is quite striking amidst the arid landscape around it.

Sterkfontein Caves

Take a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves; only a few minutes drive from the Maropeng Visitors Centre.

It was here that Dr Robert Broom discovered an almost complete skull of an Australopithecus africanus- a pre-human that’s nearly 2.3 million years old. 

The caves are easily accessible with modern wooden walkways where you can observe the areas where these remains where found. 

Excavations continue today with the Palaeo-Anthropology Scientific Trust funding much of the work.

One of the most recent findings was Little Foot , an almost complete skeleton of an Australopithecus, approximately 300 million years old. It’s one of the earliest discoveries that shows the evolution of humankind.  

How to get to Maropeng from Johannesburg 

From Johannesburg take the N1 towards Pretoria and then the Hendrik Potgieter (M47) to Krugersdorp. Continue for 10 km along the N14 / R28 and turn right onto the R563 towards Hekpoort. Look out for the sign to Maropeng.

Opening Times and Entrance Fee to Cradle of Humankind 

Opening Times: Both the Sterkfontein Caves and the Maropeng Visitors Centre open between 9 am and 5 pm. The last tour around the caves leaves at 4 pm.

Entry: A combined ticket to the visitors centre and the Sterkfontein Caves costs 190 ZAR for adults (~USD$10.20).

Cradle of Humankind: Shared Half-Day Tour

On this half-day ( 5 hr) tour from Johannesburg, explore the Sterkfontein caves where Mrs Ples and little foot were found. Visit the Maropeng Center and the world’s most important hominin site

Tour includes:

• Entrance fees
• Driver/ guide
• Bottled water

Nirox Sculpture Park 

Close to Maropeng in the Khatlhampi Private Reserve is a sculpture park set in a stunning oasis of green. 

The landscaped gardens and ornamental lakes are the perfect places to relax, take a stroll and enjoy a picnic. 

The sculptures range from contemporary perspex images to more traditional stone statues. Many are brightly coloured, and around every corner of the gardens, you’ll find something of interest to see. 

Close by the water, look out for the monitor lizards which are not quite as attractive as the park’s impressive works of art. Don’t worry, they may look like dragons but are vegetarian so won’t bite.

There’s a restaurant with a very chilled and relaxing atmosphere worth visiting which serves local gin and beer

Opening Times and Entrance Fee to Nirox Sculpture Park 

Opening Times: The gardens are only open on Sundays between 10 am and 4 pm, although occasional outdoor concerts do take place on Saturdays.

Entry: The entrance fee is 120 ZAR (~USD$6.50), and there’s a free onsite car park.

How to get to Nirox Sculpture Park 

The GPS coordinates for your sat nav are: S25° 59′ 09.56″ E27° 46′ 59.17″ and the address is 24 Kromdraai Road. It’s no more than a 15-minute drive from the Cradle of Humankind visitors centre.

Hartbeespoort Dam, North West Province

Another day trip from Johannesburg that should not be missed is the Magaliesberg Mountains. These mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the Hartbeespoort Dam, which is around an hours drive from Johannesburg. 

A trip up Harties Aerial Cableway is a must if you want to experience the best panoramic views of the area. The cable car takes you to the top of the mountain where you can enjoy the magnificent views from the terrace. 

There’s a short walk around the Dassie loop which has informative signs along the way that explain any points of interest. 

You’ll also find a children’s playground and a small bar. Get there early enough, and you’ll be able to grab one of the best spots under the veranda. Giant bean bags make it a perfect place to relax and soak in the exquisite vistas.

Hartbeespoort Dam Wall 

If you want to get closer to the dam, there is a single lane road that skirts the water’s edge. The route passes through a long tunnel and takes you across the dam wall. 

You can park close-by for a closer look at the large wall, which is almost 150 metres long and nearly 60 metres high. 

Hartbeespoort Dam Cruise

Enjoy a luxurious, 2-hour boat cruise on the waters of the Hartbeespoort Dam with panoramic views of the oldest mountain range in the world. Tour includes:

• 2 Hour cruise experience
• Local traditional South African food (or 3-course buffet lunch on Sundays)
• Service and music
• Day pass into the nature reserve

See here for full cruise details

Schoemansville 

In the nearby village of Schoemansville, you’ll find several ticket offices selling boat rides on the water. There are also several activity places in the region including a Zipline at Amanzingwe Lodge. 

Balloon Safaris across Magaliesburg 

The ultimate way to experience the stunning landscape of the Magaliesburg is in a hot air balloon. A hot air balloon safari doesn’t come cheap, but the experience will provide you with unforgettable memories. Get full details here .

Lesedi Cultural Village 

South Africa has a rich diversity of people and cultures with 11 official languages spoken. 

On a day trip from Johannesburg to Lesedi Cultural Village in Gauteng, you get a real insight into the lives of people who are of Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Ndebele and Basotho origin. 

While the village is a tourist attraction, the homes and costumes give an informative insight into tribal traditions. The people are friendly and are always happy to answer any questions. You can also have your photograph taken alongside them in traditional dress.

During the tour, you’ll hear stories about various tribes, and there’s an exciting film to watch. 

However, the highlight of the trip is the cultural dance show where the rhythm of the drums provides fantastic energy to the incredible dancing. 

Lesedi Cultural Village is also a great place to pick up some local souvenirs. The jewellery, in particular, is reasonably priced and makes a perfect gift.

Tours to Lesedi Cultural Village

There are two tours to the village each day. The first is at 11.30 am and includes lunch while the second is at 4.30 pm and includes dinner.  

Lesedi Cultural Village Half-Day Tour Discover the history and traditions of various South African tribes on a half-day (4.5 hr) Lesedi Cultural Village tour with traditional music and dance and a feast of traditional African cuisine.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Soft drinks, bottled water

Full day Cradle of Humankind and Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour

Experience both in one day. See the diverse cultures of South Africa at Lesedi Cultural Village and then step back in time at the birthplace of humankind with a visit Cradle of Humankind as you explore the Sterkfontein Caves and the Maropeng Visitor Center.

• Entrance fee
• Lunch and snacks

About the Author

Fiona Berry

Fiona is an international music examiner whose work takes her to schools all over the world. Her travel blog Passport and Piano is growing fast. It provides inspiration, travel tips, and resources to help people visit unique destinations away from the ordinary.

Deals of the Week   Solo is the new black   Up to 50% OFF

Johannesburg Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Johannesburg. We've got 508 adventures going to Johannesburg, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 268 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Johannesburg tour packages with 1,750 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Pilanesberg 2 Day Magical Safari

MK was an excellent, happy, friendly, organized guide. He has an excellent eye for spotting animals ion the game drive. We were lucky and saw a large variety of big game. The hotel, food and stops were very good.

• Sightseeing

Cradle of Human Kind, Sun City & Pilanesberg Game Reserve Tour

The tour was a great introduction to South Africa and its complex history. Jakes is very knowledgeable and is passionate about his country. He also took the time to customize the tour for me (more time in Pilanesberg) if you are looking for a short trip where you see a lot and in comfort this is a great option.

• Overland Truck

Botswana and Falls Overland: Wildlife Walks & Safari Drives

Amazing trip and first overall impression of Africa.

3-Madikwe Game Reserve Luxury

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

3-Day Dinokeng Game Reserve Tour

Kruger in Depth

Successful safari in Kruger national park , great itinerary, driver , ceo, guides and accommodations . Only let down was the commuter bus for long dayys of travel , TOTALLY UNSUITABLE FOR 18 ADULTS, MORE SUITABLE TO PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN ON A SHORT SCHOOL EXCURTION .

Kruger Lodge Experience (3 days)

The best part of our tour was the enthusiasm of our guides/staff. We could tell they loved what they did.

Pilanesberg Wildlife Safari

Explore Cape Town & Kruger National Park National Geographic Journeys

Trip of a lifetime! Absolutely loved every minute and I am telling all my friends to go!

• In-depth Cultural

Jozi's Architecture and History, Private tour

Big Five South Africa Wildlife Experience

Explore Kruger National Park National Geographic Journeys

Great trip, from our stay at Malikana Guesthouse and the hospitality provided by Soekie and her family to our forays into Kruger National Park and Karongwe Game Preserve. We had the opportunity to see so much, even had a chance to walk with cheetahs! Our tour group was phenomenal which made it that much better and Guillaume and the guides who took us through the game preserves made sure we saw the Big Five and so much more. My family and I would highly reccomend this trip.

Magical Kruger National Park Safari

Amazing trip , we had great fun

3-Day Classic Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari

Excellent trip - can only recommend!

• €30 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

11 Days Cape Town, Garden Route & Kruger

Great communication & quick responses from travel company. Full itinerary in detail given. The company make a good effort to adapt itinerary if want to do a certain activity. Excellent itinerary of places to visit from the garden route to Kurger. Pick ups and drop offs included before and after tour. Friendly guide. Lovely host at guest house & nice accommodation throughout. Tour was still on even with just 2 of us. Overall would highly recommend to use!

What people love about Johannesburg Tours

The tour was very interesting and we saw 2 of the Big 5 and a lot of other animals. Our first time to South Africa to see the animals up close. Our guide Jakes was very knowledgeable and he knew where to spot the animals. Very sharp eyes too. What a wonderful experience, and we had such a lovely time in Pilanesberg and Johannesburg. Amatungulu is highly recommended to anyone who is considering this tour

Well organised and good activities.

Tours starting from Johannesburg

• for 7 Days (77)
• for 3 Weeks (55)
• for 2 Weeks (42)
• for 10 Days (31)
• for 3 Days (28)
• for 4 Weeks (7)
• to Africa (246)
• to South Africa (189)
• to Botswana (9)
• South Africa Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit South Africa 2024/2025
• 10 Best Family Safari Holiday Packages 2024/2025
• Best 10 Day South Africa Itineraries (with Reviews)

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Johannesburg

Day trips from johannesburg.

• Johannesburg to Soweto
• Johannesburg to Pilanesberg National Park
• Johannesburg to Hartbeespoort
• Johannesburg to Pretoria
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Ultimate Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria

2. Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour

3. Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour

4. Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

5. Johannesburg and Soweto tour

6. Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum

7. Half Day Pretoria City Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

8. Full Day Pilanesberg Experience in Open Vehicle

9. Half Day Lion Park tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

10. Artistic Half Day Tour of Johannesburg

11. Johannesburg: Hot Air Balloon Flight along Magalies Valley

12. Maropeng Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Cave Experience (Caves is closed)

13. Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour

14. Lesedi Cultural Village & crudle of Humankind Guided Tour

15. Full Day Safari Tour of Pilanesberg National Park, Open Jeep experience

16. Gold reef city amusement park and mine tour.Private transport

17. Walk with Elephants Experience plus Monkey Forest Walk

18. Private Full Day Soweto and Johannesburg Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

19. Soweto Township Cultural Tour incl Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela House

20. Johannesburg (Sunset & Dinning & Rooftop) Hopping Experience

21. Horseback Safari Adventure in Hartbeespoort from Johannesburg

22. Private 5-Hour Lion Park Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

23. Ultimate Johannesburg Soweto Experience with Apartheid Museum

24. Captivating Safari Lion Park Experience (Half Day Guided Tour)

25. Pilanesberg and Sun City Tour

26. Sun City Day Tour from Johannesburg ZAR R2600

27. Cradle of Human Kind Tour - Maropeng and Wondercave Tour

28. Johannesburg City Tour(Half-day)

29. Full-Day Cradle of Humankind Guided Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

30. Full-Day Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg and Pretoria

What travelers are saying.

• Full Day Ultimate Pilanesberg National Park Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria
• Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour
• Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour
• Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum
• Johannesburg and Soweto tour
• Stephenson Adventures
• One Day Africa
• Honest Travel Experience (Johannesburg)
• Motleys Tours and Travel
• Kamaroutes travel Designers
• Dynamic Transfers and Tours
• Nhlalala Travel
• Balanta Imagine Safaris
• Mount Zion Tours and Travels
• Shikwaru Adventures
• Pogiso's Tours
• Rossco Car Rentals Tours & Shuttles
• Imbizo Tours
• Soul Adventures