From concrete to jungle: Your nature escapes in Joburg

TThings to do: the picnic spot along the Hennops River has been a go-to retreat since 1928 and is equipped with two swimming pools, braai facilities and a quirky suspension bridge. An off-road 4X4 trail with the Donga Lapa provides a great day out for groups. Set 2 - 3 hours aside for the trail and enjoy a braai at the lapa.

Things to see: on the off-road trail, spot blue wildebeest, zebra, kudu, blesbok and other small game species.
Contact: Visit the website or contact 082 825 9205.

4. Melville koppies

Melville Koppies is a Johannesburg City Heritage Site dating back 500 000 years. Indigenous vegetation covers the Koppies, providing a remarkable natural backdrop to the city. The reserve is divided into three areas - Central, East and West.

Things to do: take on the quartzite cliff in the western park, embrace city views in the eastern park, hike the Kloof in the western park where the Westdene spruit enters the Koppies, take monthly guided tours in the central park (the next one on December 4th - Click here to keep tabs on the calendar) or take the dogs for walks in the western park on the first Saturday of every month at 8:00.
Contact: Visit the website or call  011 482 4797.

5. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Another escape in the Roodeport area is the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens - a member of SANBI. The Garden has been voted the best place to 'get back to nature in Gauteng' for nine years in a row, and if you pay a visit, you will see why.

Things to do: the park frequently host events in the gardens. Upcoming events include a Nature & Macro Photography Excursion on 3 December, Kaya FM Gospel Concert on 4 December and To the Roots on 11 December. Leisurely strolls, picnics, the Eagles Fare Restaurant and The Nursery @ the Garden are also on your itinerary.

Things to see: Explore 600+ plant species and a waterfall, where a pair of Verreaux's Eagles are nesting. Reptiles, antelope and jackals can also be seen.
Contact: Visit the website or call 086 100 1278 

6. Zoo Lake

Joburg city slickers escape to Zoo Lake for exercise and seasonal events.

Things to do: visit the well-loved Moyo restaurant for a real Saffa cuisine experience, take leisurely strolls or jogs around the lake, spy on water birds basking in the sun, brave the water in a boat, chill out on the lawns or join a team at the Zoo Lake Sports Club. The best time to visit is between November and March, when the park is green and active visitors are keen on getting their summer bodies in shape.

Popular events include the annual Jazz on the Lake and Carols by Candlelight events. The monthly Artists under the Sun open air art exhibition also takes place at Zoo Lake.

Cost: Entrance to the park is free. Additional fees apply for boat rides.
Contact: Visit the website or call 011 712 6600.

7. Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Emmarentia Dam

A popular escape on the city's doorstep is the Botanical garden, providing fun and relaxation for young and old.

Things to do: Running, walking the dogs, picnicking and admiring the gardens. Canoeing is a popular activity on Emmarentia Dam, which forms part of the gardens. Anglers can even try their luck in catching carp and whoever said you have to stay close to the sea to try your luck with a SUP? Grab a packed picnic basket at the cafe and prepare for some serious unwinding. The park often hosts concerts, movies and events.

Things to see: be on the lookout for the Shakespeare garden, hedge garden, succulent garden, chapel garden, rose garden, herb garden and the arboretum. Enjoy the view over Emmarentia Dam and its aquatic birds, like geese, dabchicks and moorhens. 
Contact: Visit their website or call 011 782 7064