Explore Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary

Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary opened its doors in 2000. Over the past two decades, this animal conservation centre and zoo has become known as one of the best in the city. Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary's main goal is to educate the public about animals and promote conservation efforts in and around the Midrand area. If your little one has a keen interest in animals, bring them here to experience a zoo encounter unlike any other. Here are just some of the experiences and activities available at the Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary:

It's All About Conservation

Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary was originally a bird park. Inspired by his travels in Europe, founder Eddy Van Eck, wanted to create a safe haven for the community and an educational environment for children. At the time, Midrand was largely under developed and was home to a variety of owl and bird species. With the boom in property and retail development in the area, these animal species suffered massive habitat loss. That's where Lory Park found its true calling for conservation, rehabilitation and breeding of endangered species. The zoo welcomed in wildlife of all kinds, making it one of the top animal attractions in the city. Today, Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary is a well known family-friendly venue, offering both children and adults the opportunity to interact with their favourite animals.

Animal Encounters

Come and visit Lory Park's magnificent array of mammals, birds and reptiles. The zoo is continually expanding due to its breeding programmes and conservation initiatives. The newest member of their family is a female Siberian tiger named Kiska. She is the last tiger cub to be bred at the zoo, so make sure to stop by and say hello. Lory Park also offers up close encounters with their owls and reptiles for children and adults. If you pay them a visit on a weekend, be sure to book yourself an encounter. The zoo believes that these encounters lead to important educational moments and memories that will last a lifetime. These encounters also help fund the park's conservation efforts and are an excellent way to give back. Show your support by booking an encounter for you and the family as soon as possible.

School & Holiday Programmes

Lory Park Animal & Owl Sanctuary is first and foremost an education centre. They run their school and holiday programmes with passion and dedication, providing the most informative and insightful tours as possible. You can book a guided or non-guided tour for your school class or as a family outing. The guided tour includes information on each animal's habitat, diet, conservation status and interesting facts. The tour also includes close up animal encounters with lion or tiger cubs, reptiles, or owls, depending on the animal's feeding schedule and the weather conditions. The tour concludes with a question and answer session, allowing the kids to ask questions about their favourite animals or any new animals they've learned about on the tour. Lory Park also offers guided tours for adults. If you've always wanted to learn more about birds, reptiles or wild cats, book yourself a tour as soon as possible.

You can find about more about Lory Park's school tours and holiday programmes here.

For More Information

Visit www.lorypark.co.za for more information about the zoo's available activities, entrance costs and opening times. You can also follow them on Facebook to stay up to date with their latest events and new arrivals.

Details: 180/1 Kruger Road, President Park, Midrand, Gauteng | (Tel) +27 11 315 7307 | Email: info@lorypark.co.za \ education@lorypark.co.za.

It's a biodiverse world at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is one of Joburg's best hidden gems. Tucked away on the west rand, the gardens are home to a host of indigenous plant and animal species. The gardens have been a popular outdoor venue since the 1800s, and were officially named a botanical garden in 1982. Since then, the gardens have been open to the public for guided tours, hiking trails and events. Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts and young families flock here to enjoy the lush outdoors. Here's what you can expect to find when you pay the gardens a visit:

Photo credit: Shane Wilken

The Urban Wild

Most first-time visitors to the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens are surprised to find a booming natural ecosystem right on their doorsteps. You would never expect to find such a diverse array of plant, animal and insect species just 30-minutes from Joburg central. The Gardens are home to approximately 240 bird species, including a breeding pair of Verreaux’s Eagles. Bring your binoculars along with you to see how many bird species you can spot. The eagles nest is nestled within the cliffs of the famous Waterfall. This is absolutely the highlight of the gardens and is a popular spot for selfies and romantic picnics. The Gardens also feature a variety of mammal species such as honey badgers, aardvarks and Mountain Reedbuck. Although difficult to spot during the day, these animals occasionally pop out of their territories to welcome hikers to the gardens.

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens accommodates over 600 naturally occurring plant species. If you've always wanted to learn more about our indigenous plant life or how to grow a succulent garden, this is the place for you. The Gardens offer a wealth of knowledge and abundant beauty to enjoy. There is also a children's garden complete with jungle gyms and swings to keep the little ones entertained and engaged in nature. Our favourite by far is the bird and butterfly garden situated near the main entrance. But don't take our word for it, come and explore the gardens yourself. You might just find your new favourite outdoor hangout in the city.

Succulent Garden at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens.

Take a tour

Touring the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is certainly not a once-off event. That's why the gardens offer a variety of tours to help guide you through the many winding pathways, puddles and picture-worthy landscapes. Customise your walk through the gardens according to your interests - whether its clivias, cycads or creepy crawlies, there's sure to be a tour for you. Not sure where to begin? Take a virtual tour of the gardens before heading out to experience the real thing. Once you're sure of where and what you'd like to explore, book your tickets online via Webtickets. The gardens are open to the public every day from 08:00 to 17:00, so you really have no excuse not to visit. To keep up to date with special events at Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, follow them on Facebook. Events take place at the gardens year round, so make sure not to miss out.

Photo credit: Shane Wilken.

For More Information

Visit www.sanbi.org/gardens/walter-sisulu for more information.

Details: (Tel) 086 100 1278 | Email: Sisulugarden@sanbi.org.za | Address: End of Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort, Gauteng.

Horseback Riding Trails In Joburg

Chartwell Stables

Chartwell Stables has been in operation since 1987. Primarily a children's riding school, Chartwell Stables boasts 45 magnificent horses. The school caters to all levels of riding from beginner to advanced. They also offer adult training classes with no prior experience required. If you've always wanted to learn horseback riding, this is the place for you. Chartwell Stables also hosts regular training shows and fun days open to the public. They are conveniently located just five minutes from Fourways so pay them a visit as soon as you can.

Details: (Tel) 073 952 8572 | Email: cstables@netactive.co.za | Address: 112 Runnymead Street, Chartwell, Fourways, Johannesburg.

Ride Jozi

If you've been searching for the perfect way to pop the big question, Ride Jozi has your answer. Bring your special someone for a romantic horseback ride on the serene woodland trails at Ride Jozi before settling in for a comfy outdoor picnic. Ride Jozi will even set out rose petals and a bottle of champagne if that's your fancy. Ride Jozi also offers horseback rides for children over six years old, from beginners level to advanced. Littlies can take a guided pony ride to introduce them to the magic of horseback riding. Bring the whole family along for a day out in nature.

Details: (Tel) 076 291 6997 | Email: info@ridejozi.co.za | Address: 13 Bultfontein Road, Nietgedacht 535-Jq, Lanseria.

SA Trails

Unleash your inner cowboy with SA Trails. Situated next to the picturesque Northern Farm Nature Reserve, SA Trails offers livery, horseback riding lessons and early morning rides in the Western style of riding. They cater to all levels of riding and their trails offer water crossings, long cantering stretches and a variety of cross country jumps for the more adventurous riders. SA Trails also has a kid's party venue ideal for a cowboy/cowgirl themed birthday bash. Find out more about their facilities on their website.

Details: (Tel) +27 (0) 82 533 4545 | Email: info@satrails.co.za | Address: Plot 33, Nietgedacht, Johannesburg North Fourways/Lanseria.

Ranger Stables

Ranger Stables is a community-based Equestrian Center situated at REEA, the Rand Epileptic Employment Agency in Craighall Park. Most of their 24 horses and ponies are rescues that have been rehabilitated out of dire conditions. Through lots of hard work and love, these horses have been taught to trust again. Ranger Stables offers lessons, outrides, competitions, pony parties and rides, and equine therapy. Visit them to find out more about their community initiatives and get involved in their outreach acitivies.

Details: (Tel) 082 452 9321 / 076 305 5652 | Email: rangerstables@gmail.com | Address: Cnr Richmond and, Marlborough Ave, Craighall Park, Randburg.

Club Street Equestrian Centre

Club Street Equesterian Centre is neatly tucked away between Linksfield Ridge and a Huddle Park Golf Course. From the main road, you would never know that it's there, but just a quick right turn will lead you straight into a horse lover's paradise. Club Street Equestrian Centre offers horseback riding lessons, as well as trail rides, children's holiday clubs and pony rides. If you live on the east side of Johannesburg, take a short drive out to the centre to escape from real life for a few hours.

Details: (Tel) 083 383 0290 | Email: clubstreetstables@gmail.com | Address: 119 Club Street, Linksfield, Johannesburg.

Explore The Wild Outdoors at Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers. Also known as the "Jewel of Joburg South", this 700 hectare reserve boasts an array of activities and attractions for all ages. If you've been dying to take a trip to the bush but just can't seem to find the time or finances, then this is the spot for you. The reserve is free to enter for all and is conveniently located just 10km from Johannesburg city centre. So, pack up the car this weekend and take the family out for a day of fun and adventure at the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. Here are some of the fantastic sights they've got on offer:

Wildlife Galore

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is the largest proclaimed nature reserve in the Johannesburg Metropolitan area. It is home to a diverse array of animal species, including zebra, red hartebeest and black wildebeest. There are also over 230 bird species that can be found in the park! There really is no need to leave Johannesburg to experience the very best nature has to offer. Bring your binoculars and cameras with you on this mini safari trip. We suggest that you join a guided walk on your first visit. These walks take place on the fourth Sunday of every month and are open to one and all. You can find more information on the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve website.

Hiking Trails

More experienced hikers should certainly explore the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve's many trails. Whether you're in the mood for a short sprint or a long, meandering stroll there should be a path worth exploring. Take a few moments along your journey to stop and admire the magnificent flora surrounding you. The reserve beams with colour all year round - hardy aloes and cactuses flower in the winter while blushingly bright daisies sprout in the spring. Gardeners will adore the lush, natural expanse of the reserve with all its wonderous indigenous plants and trees. So, get on your walking shoes and come explore the great, wild outdoors.

A Little Bit of History

The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is not only a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the inner city. The site is steeped in history. Visit the ruins of a Voortrekker farmstead and wagon built in 1850 by Sarel Marais. You can also visit the Marais family graveyard on the southern part of the reserve. At the opposite end of the reserve sits the remains of the Vierfontein Dam, also known as the Silent Pool. Visit the majestic springs and renew your sense of peace, wellbeing and connection to the natural world.

Don't spend another beautiful, sun-shiny Joburg day cooped up inside. The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve awaits you!

Details: (Tel) 011 943 3578 | Email: secretary@klipriviersberg.org.za | Website: http://klipriviersberg.org.za/

Botanical Gardens And Nature Reserves In Roodepoort

Are you looking for Botanical Gardens And Nature Reserves In Roodepoort? Look no further! Known for its many valleys and koppies, Roodepoort is a nature lover's paradise. Boasting the National Botanical Garden with its indigenous Verreaux's eagle and powerful waterfall, as well as a handful of other lookout points and hiking trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy when they visit the beautiful west.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

Over 600 plant species and 220 bird species, as well as a number of reptiles and small mammals such as antelope and jackal, occur naturally in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. There are several wonderful walks through the garden and a trail up alongside the waterfall for the not so faint-hearted. The gardens have adopted a ‘carry-in carry-out’ litter policy that means you take home any rubbish with you, and an outcomes-based schools’ environmental education programme that caters to school groups in the garden. There are a wonderful nursery, a gift and book shop and a restaurant; and over Christmas and on selected weekends, the grounds play host to sundowner concerts. But the star of the show is the garden itself with a succulent rockery, a cycad garden, the water garden with water-loving.

Explore Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden.

Kloofendal Municipal Nature Reserve

Boasting with 110 hectares of highveld vegetation, the Kloofendal Municipal Nature Reserve lies on the site of the very first gold mine of 1884, opened before the reef was discovered, and the old shafts have been restored and are now national monuments. This does nothing to detract from the beauty of the place, where walking trails are freely available to all. Walks can be self-guided or you can join one of the trails lead by a qualified field guide – contact Friends of Kloofendal to do so as they look after the reserve. They also organise talks and other activities. There are picnic areas and a stone amphitheatre is for hire for events. Kloofendal is one of the most popular botanical gardens and nature reserves in Roodepoort and is fit for the entire family.

Explore Kloofendal Municipal Nature Reserve.

Image By FROK.

What do you think of our list of Botanical Gardens And Nature Reserves In Roodepoort? Did we leave anything out? Let us know in the comments below.

Entertainment In Randburg

It's time to have a little fun in the suburb of Randburg! Question is: what do you feel like doing today? You can head to one of the malls in the area and see one of the latest movies on circuit. Or you can spend some time in the sun and fresh air competing for the best par with Adventure Golf. Or how about taking a stroll through Delta Park? The options are endless.

What Are Your Looking For?

Movies
Parks
Recreational Activities
Sports

Movies

Cresta Shopping Centre

Looking to catch one of the latest blockbusters on the big screen? Then be sure to make your way to Ster-Kinekor Cresta Shopping Centre for a fun day out at the movies. There's sure to be a film that'll catch your eye, whether you're looking for an animation for the kids, something romantic for you and your sweetheart to watch together, some adrenaline-packed action or a story that'll have you reaching for a tissue (or two). To see what's on at the movies at Cresta, click here to visit the Ster-Kinekor website. You can either book your tickets online, or purchase them at the cinema. Don't forget to grab the popcorn and slushie!

Visit Cresta Shopping Centre.

Northgate Shopping Centre

For the ultimate experience in movie viewing, visit the Century Cinemax at Northgate Shopping Centre in Northriding. This is the very first shopping centre in South Africa to feature the amazing movie-screening technology from Century Cinemax. You can expect top-notch cinemas reaching international standards, boasting impressive state-of-the-art surround sound and clear picture. Each screen is unique and offers a different experience for maximum family entertainment and comfort.

Visit Northgate Shopping Centre.

Parks

Delta Park

One of the city's biggest green lungs and a Sunday stroller's paradise, Delta Park in Victory Park offers visitors wide open spaces and plenty of lush to help them reconnect and enjoy nature. There's 104-hectares of grassland and woodland to explore. Be sure to wear comfy clothing and shoes, as you can stroll these grounds for hours! This is also a wonderful spot to take your four-legged companions, as there's plenty of space for them to run around, stretch their legs and even meet a few new fur friends. Many of the park's visitors enjoy the many walking trails, which link three beautiful tree-lined dams. Don't forget to pack a lovely picnic basket, find the perfect spot and enjoy the ambiance.

Visit Delta Park.

Golden Harvest Park

Near the Northgate Shopping Centre and Ticketpro Dome in Northriding, is a pristine 55-hectare park, offering visitors rolling walks around a dam and indigenous bushveld to admire and enjoy. This beautiful park is a hidden gem that not many Joburgers are aware of. The Golden Harvest Park is completely fenced off with a guard at the gate to ensure the park's visitors' safety while the explore and experience this stunning little piece of nature. Also, keep in mind that there's an entrance fee that needs to be paid in order to get into this park, but the minimal fee is well worth it.

Visit Golden Harvest Park.

The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

One of the most popular parks within Randburg, the 81-hectare Johannesburg Botanical Gardens form one of the city’s vital green lungs. Visitors can expect large, grassy, open spaces scattered with trees, offering the perfect location for runners, picnickers and dog walkers. It hosts the occasional concert season and kite-flying competitions, as well as the ever-popular Linden Market four times a year. Visitors can also spend the afternoon taking a leisurely stroll through the park's special gardens – the Shakespeare Garden, the Rose Garden, the Herb Garden, a Hedge Demonstration Garden and the main arboretum. The park is fenced and there are gates located at all the entrances which are staffed by security guards.

Visit The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.

Recreational Activities

Adventure Golf

Within the Ferndale on Republic Mall premises lies a well-known putt-putt course that everyone who resides in Randburg knows of, as it has been in its exact location for MANY years. Gather the family and enjoy a little bit of competitive fun at the Adventure Golf course. There are three different courses to choose from, each with nine holes, ranging in difficulty, offering guests of all ages hours of entertainment. Along the way, enjoy the many various natural features, caves, Koi ponds and water fixtures. And after an exciting game, why not grab a drink from the onsite bar?

Visit Adventure Golf.

Northgate Ice Rink

When was the last time you went ice skating? Or have you never been ice skating before? Well, it's time to make your way to Northgate Shopping Centre, pull on some skates and take to the ice at the Northgate Ice Rink. This is the perfect spot if you're looking to plan a kids birthday party or just want to do something fun with family and friends. There are two sessions that run throughout the day and there's the option of skate hire if you do not own your own ice skates. And if you're feeling thirsty or a tad peckish, there is also a tuckshop on site.

Visit the Northgate Ice Rink.

Randburg Raceway Indoor Karting Track

Put the pedal to the metal and enjoy some go-kart racing action at the Randburg Raceway Indoor Karting Track in Strijdompark. They cater to drivers aged between 7 to 70 and offer three different kart sizes, ensuring that everyone can join in on the speedy fun! There are also various race styles available, including quick 10-minute races, Grand Prix style events and endurance races. Please note that bookings are essential. It's thrilling entertainment for the whole family.

Visit the Randburg Raceway Indoor Karting Track.

Honeydew Mazes

For unique outdoor entertainment for the whole family while getting some fresh air and sunshine, visit Honeydew Mazes and get lost in their a-maize-ing mazes! They offer a variety of mazes to explore, as well as Moonlight Mazes where you venture through the twists, turns and dead ends of the various mazes at night, in the dark. This is also an interesting entertainment option for birthday parties, school outings and team building events.

Visit Honeydew Mazes.

Image by Honeydew Mazes.

Sports

Randpark Golf Club

With two of the best manicured courses in the country, as well as separate a mashie course, Randpark Golf Club’s uniquely different to other golf courses. It is the ultimate urban golf destination on par with excellence. Also, be sure to check out their takeaway, golf events, special offers and more.

Visit Randpark Golf Club.

Randburg Harriers Running Club

Founded in 1982, the Randburg Harriers Running Club is a family-orientated running club offering a variety of amenities and facilities available to their members. This is just the club if you're looking to get into running as a sport. There's entertainment for all ages.

Visit Randburg Harriers Running Club.

Ballbreakers Cresta

Grab your friends and head to BallBreakers Cresta to play a few rounds of pool. This pool hall is just the place if you're looking to catch the latest sporting action, grab a few after work drinks with colleagues and friends, listen to a few good tunes from the jukebox or if you want to hon your pool skills and sink a few balls.

Visit Ballbreakers Cresta.