December in Jo’burg – 10 fun things to do

It’s holiday time and you need a break.
Time to treat yourself and your family:

  • book in at the Rivonia Premier Lodge (we offer country living in Sandton)
  • join the activities that Johannesburg has to offer. But, please remember to follow the Covid 19 protocols while you are out and about.

1. City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Johannesburg

City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Johannesburg

Explore Johannesburg safely and in comfort from the top deck of an open-top bus. This tour stops at all top sites in and around the Johannesburg allowing you to explore the economic powerhouse of Africa, easily and safely.
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2. Get swinging at Acrobranch

An 18 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
Adults and children – Acrobranch in Melrose gives you the chance to go swinging through the treetops with your family and friends. The Acrobranch is equipped with four zip lines, swing bridges and Tarzan swings. The courses are family-friendly and safe for children as young as three years, and there’s a lot of variety, from acrobatic bungee-style adventures to obstacle courses and even combination courses.
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3. Guided bicycle tour through Soweto

Experience daily life in Soweto on guided bike tours. Check out Nelson Mandela’s house and all the other iconic sites inwhile learning about the history of Apartheid in South Africa. Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers.
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4. Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens

A 40 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
This nature reserve is perfect for your next picnic. Spread your picnic blanket out beneath the waterfall, with binocs watch the Verreaux’s Eagles perched at the top, walk through the magnificent gardens or look down on the sprawling lawns from the top of the waterfall.
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5. Maboneng Precinct

A 30 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
From a Sotho word meaning “place of light,” Maboneng has indeed brought new light to the city. It’s the best place to experience unique cafés and restaurants, exciting nightlife, and one-of-a-kind shopping. Walk around this vibrant part of town and take it all in. Sundays are the best time to go as Market on Main comes alive, but there is plenty to do on any other days.
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6. The Living Room

A 30 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
Eat tapas and sip cocktails in this awesome rooftop venue in Maboneng which overlooks Jo’burg’s magnificent city skyline. Surrounded by plants and greenery you feel as if you are in a rooftop jungle. Keep an eye on The Living Room Facebook page for events like the hosted DJs on some Sundays.
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7. Melville Koppies Nature Reserve

A 26 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
On a Sunday go hiking in the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve. A birders’ paradise, the reserve boasts over 200 bird species. Also look out for hedgehogs, civets, mongooses and genets, as there are various small mammals around. Melville Koppies Central has controlled access only and is manned by several staff members, and guards are posted in key spots around the reserve. Details of these tours and hikes can be found on calendar/map of www.mk.org.za

8. Fourways Farmers’ Market – Modderfontein Reserve

A 17 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
This is the most beautiful outdoor market in Johannesburg. Located on the 265-hectare private reserve it’s also a perfect place for your family hike.
At the market deliciousness awaits! Gourmet delights tempt you for breakfast or lunch. There is an incredible selection of locally made cheeses, cured meats, sweet treats, jams, freshly squeezed juices, preserves and finally, beautifully handcrafted jewellery, clothing, beauty products and decor.
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9. Gold Reef City Theme Park

A 28 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
Gold Reef City is a world class amusement park – a great place to spend a fun day. Located on an old gold mine, the park is themed around the gold rush that started in 1886 on the Witwatersrand, the buildings on the park are designed to mimic the same period.
Take your pick from 18 thrilling rides, 13 dedicated kids’ rides, Jump City Trampoline Park, an authentic underground mine tour, 12 dining options and various retail stores.
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10. Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square

A 17 min. drive from Rivonia Premier Lodge
Sandton City, Africa’s most iconic shopping centre, is the perfect place to buy those Christmas gifts for family and friends. Defining the Sandton skyline, this prestigious setting is home to over 300 of the world’s most coveted retail brands, and embodies all the glamour of world-class shopping, dining, and leisure. Nelson Mandela Square, the vibrant hub adjoining Sandton City, is a must visit. Shop, dine and enjoy!
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PLEASE be cautious wherever you go. Wear a mask! Social distance!