Five hiking trails near Johannesburg for every adventure-seeker

Johannesburg is known for its bustling city life, but for those looking to escape into nature, there are a number of scenic hiking trails just a short drive away. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely nature walk, a moderate trek, or an adventurous trail, these five hiking spots around Johannesburg offer incredible landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the perfect dose of tranquility…

1. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

• Location: Roodepoort, approximately 30 minutes from Johannesburg
• Trail Length: 3 km (multiple paths available)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is one of Johannesburg’s most beautiful nature spots. This botanical oasis is famous for the Witpoortjie Waterfall, a majestic waterfall that draws visitors year-round.

The garden’s well-maintained trails are lined with indigenous plants and flowers, offering lots for plant enthusiasts and bird watchers. Among the notable wildlife, you might also catch a glimpse of the resident Verreaux’s eagles, often seen soaring over the waterfall.

Ideal for beginners and families, the trails here are relatively easy and offer shaded paths through various sections of the garden.

2. Kloofendal Nature Reserve

• Location: Roodepoort, around 25 minutes from Johannesburg
• Trail Length: 2 km – 3.5 km
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Another one in Roodeport, Kloofendal Nature Reserve is a peaceful sanctuary offering several short, manageable trails that wind through grassy plains, rocky outcrops, and woodland areas.

This reserve has a fascinating historical touch as well, featuring the ruins of an old gold mine, which tells the story of the region’s mining history.

This reserve’s trails are suitable for all levels, making it a fantastic spot for a quick hike or a family outing. With both shaded areas and open landscapes, the variety of scenery within the reserve makes it a hidden gem for Johannesburg locals and visitors alike.

3. Hennops Hiking Trail

• Location: Near Centurion, about 45 minutes from Johannesburg
• Trail Length: 5 km – 11 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

For hikers looking for a touch of adventure, the Hennops Hiking Trail is a must-visit. Hennops has a network of trails that offer excitement and variety, with features like suspension bridges and a unique cable car crossing over the river.

On your hike, you’ll pass through river valleys, dense woodland, as well as rocky ridges with expansive views of the surrounding Magaliesberg mountains.

This trail is ideal for intermediate to advanced hikers who enjoy rugged terrain and the thrill of river crossings. The scenic diversity and well-marked paths make it a rewarding experience, especially for those eager to challenge themselves a bit more.

4. Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge

• Location: Muldersdrift, around 35 minutes from Johannesburg
• Trail Length: 5 km – 18 km
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Cradle Moon Lakeside Game Lodge has stunning natural scenery, along with the excitement of spotting wildlife along the trails. Set around a serene dam and framed by the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, Cradle Moon’s hiking trails range from short 5 km routes to longer 18 km adventures.

As you hike, you’re likely to encounter giraffes, zebras, and antelope grazing peacefully nearby, adding a safari-like experience to your hike.

This spot is also ideal for those looking to combine a nature hike with a wildlife experience. The variety of trail lengths makes it suitable for different fitness levels, and the beautiful lake views provide a calming backdrop, perfect for a memorable day outdoors.

5. Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

• Location: Heidelberg, about an hour from Johannesburg
• Trail Length: 4 km – 17 km
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

The Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is one of Gauteng’s largest nature reserves, providing a wide range of trails suited for more seasoned hikers.

With its combination of grasslands, rugged hills, and rocky valleys, Suikerbosrand provides a challenging and scenic hiking experience. The reserve is also home to a variety of animals, including wildebeest, zebras, and several bird species, creating a unique and immersive nature experience.

For those up for a longer trek, the 17 km trail offers spectacular views of the Highveld landscape and a true escape from the hustle of city life.

Shorter trails are available too, but they still capture the beauty and diversity of the reserve, making Suikerbosrand ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring new terrain.