Nature reserves near Joburg for an easy family day

Self-drive game, bird hides, picnic grids and gentle trails — big space, low crowds.

For a low-stress day with plenty of space, a reserve is hard to beat: self-drive game roads, bird hides, picnic grids and trails to suit any energy level.

Several are twenty to fifty minutes out and rarely crowded. Pack a picnic (or the braai, where it's allowed) and make a morning of it.

12 spots below — tap any for details, hours and directions.

Wild & reserves

4.7 (18k)

Common questions

Which reserves near Joburg are good for families?

Rietvlei and Dinokeng for self-drive game, Rhino & Lion for a full day with a cave and bike park, Suikerbosrand for hiking, and Walter Sisulu or Modderfontein for an easy picnic-and-trail day.

Can you picnic or braai at these reserves?

Many have designated picnic and braai sites (Rietvlei's Marais Dam, Suikerbosrand's Holhoek, Dinokeng). A few, like botanical gardens, allow picnics but not fires — check first.

Nature reserves near Joburg for an easy family day

Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden

Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre

Vergenoeg Nature Reserve

Owl Rescue Centre

Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

The Wilds Nature Reserve

Mystic Monkeys & Feathers

Bushbabies Monkey Sanctuary

VulPro Vulture Conservation

Rhino & Lion NR (Bothongo)

Lory Park Zoo & Owl Sanctuary

Common questions