5 Outdoorsy Things To Do in Joburg

If this week is anything to go by, winter has arrived in Joburg. Fortunately, we live in one of the greatest cities in the world where outdoor activities are not limited to summertime - although if you're cold averse you may want to get these in quickly before the winter chill sets in.

So as we say farewell to summer, I've rounded up 5 of my all-time favourite outdoorsy things to do in Joburg! Plus one bonus amazing outdoorsy thing that's just out of Joburg.

1. Visit the prettiest park in Joburg

There are stacks of pretty parks in Joburg but this one has something none of the others do: a view of the city skyline. It's called the James and Ethel Gray park, and it's hidden away just next to Melrose Arch. Pack a picnic, the dog, and some friends, and spend the afternoon lounging around and admiring the city. You can read more about it's loveliness here.

2. Take a tour of Soweto, by bike!

If there's one thing I love, it's being a tourist. And (especially!) being a tourist in Joburg. Lebo's Bicycle Tours are the best way to see Soweto because you're surrounded by (actual) tourists and can't help but see the city through their eyes!

It's also incredibly moving as a South African, because the tour stops at both the Hector Pieterson memorial and Nelson Mandela's house in Vilikazi street. It's one of the most eye opening examples of how far we, as a nation, have come - and I love that.

Also, bikes and beer! Check it out here.

3. Learn about Joburg on an inner-city walking tour

The inner city is incredible. It's the vibrant present clashed with decades of history and no matter how often I visit, I learn something new each time. I learned the most when I did a walking tour with Anna-Belle of She Said She Said.

Although it was kind of a once-off event, there are some fantastic companies that offer all kinds of themed tours through the CBD. My favs are Joburg Places (led by Gerald Garner - the ultimate Joburg guru) and Past Experiences who offer everything from shopping and foodie tours to graffiti walks focused on illegitimate street art.

4. Eat and drink. But do it in the sky.

If you want outdoors with a twist - and you're not scared of heights - then Dinner in the Sky is a must. Sure, the food isn't exactly gourmet and the drinks prices are inflated, but you're at a table in the sky. 

If you can do it at sunset, even better (also, cheaper). Check out our experience at the Indaba Hotel here. The table is currently at the Fairway golf resort in Randpark, and you can preview the menu here.

5. Have a picnic on a boat.

One of Joburg's most underrated attractions, Zoo Lake's boats, are a complete blast and they're so cheap they're practically free. The experience is substantially improved with picnic food from Woolies, but that's just a suggestion. If the wind is blowing, use the opportunity to touch the fountain with your foot. We did.

And, finally, one outdoorsy thing just out of Joburg:

+1. Take a cable-car (no, not in Cape Town)

Fourty-five minutes outside of Jozi - and well worth the drive - is the Hartbeespoort aerial cable car. The views from the top are gorgeous, and you can book online to avoid the queues! Here's everything you need to know.

Have a magical time soaking up the sun!