7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Johannesburg

Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jozi, is a vibrant city teeming with life and culture. However, even the most dedicated urbanite needs a break from the hustle and bustle. For digital nomads living in Johannesburg, the surrounding areas offer a plethora of weekend getaway options. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these seven destinations provide the perfect escape from the city.

Magaliesburg

Just an hour's drive from Johannesburg, Magaliesburg is a retreat for those who appreciate nature and history. This small town is nestled at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountains, which are over two billion years old. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hot air ballooning, and visiting the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is also known for its luxurious spas and country lodges, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Magaliesburg is by car. It's a straightforward drive taking approximately an hour from Johannesburg, depending on traffic.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Sterkfontein Caves, where some of the world's most important hominid fossils have been discovered.

Where to Stay: The Mount Grace Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious stay with stunning mountain views and a top-notch spa. For a more intimate setting, Budmarsh Country Lodge provides a tranquil atmosphere and gourmet dining.

Where to Eat: The Black Horse Brewery and Restaurant not only offers a selection of craft beers but also a menu featuring hearty meals with a picturesque setting.

Pilanesberg National Park

For wildlife enthusiasts, Pilanesberg National Park is a must-visit. Located just over two hours from Johannesburg, the park sits in a volcanic crater and offers a Big Five safari experience. It's a malaria-free zone, making it a popular choice for families. Visitors can take guided game drives, hot air balloon safaris, or simply enjoy the rich biodiversity from self-driven tours.

How to Get There: Driving is the most convenient option, with a travel time of around 2 to 2.5 hours from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, book a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the park to witness the wildlife from above.

Where to Stay: The Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers comfortable accommodation with the chance of spotting wildlife right from your room. Bakubung Bush Lodge is another great option with family-friendly facilities.

Where to Eat: Most lodges in Pilanesberg offer excellent dining options, but for a change of scenery, visit the Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij for a cheese-tasting and light lunch in a charming farm setting.

Clarens

Known as the "Jewel of the Free State," Clarens is a picturesque town about three hours' drive from Johannesburg. It's a haven for artists, with numerous galleries and craft shops. The surrounding sandstone mountains offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding, and white-water rafting. The town itself is quaint, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a leisurely weekend.

How to Get There: Clarens is best accessed by car, with a scenic drive taking approximately three hours from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: Visit the Golden Gate Highlands National Park nearby to see the impressive sandstone formations and enjoy the panoramic views.

Where to Stay: The Clarens Eddies is known for its comfortable accommodation and friendly service. For a more upscale experience, the Mont d'Or Hotel offers luxury rooms and a spa.

Where to Eat: Clementines Restaurant and Bar is one of the finest in Clarens, known for its excellent steaks and cozy ambiance.

Dullstroom

Dullstroom is a charming village around two and a half hours from Johannesburg and is a fly-fishing mecca. The town is also known for its cool climate, making it a cozy getaway spot. Visitors can enjoy trout fishing, bird watching, and exploring the quaint shops and cafes. Dullstroom is also home to the highest railway station in South Africa.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Dullstroom is by car, with a journey time of about 2.5 hours from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the Wild About Whisky bar, which offers tastings of a vast selection of whiskies from around the world.

Where to Stay: Walkersons Hotel & Spa provides a luxurious countryside experience with stunning views and a top-notch spa. For a more rustic stay, the Highland Rose Country House & Spa offers a charming setting.

Where to Eat: Mrs. Simpson's Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a varied menu.

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is a lesser-known gem located just an hour's drive from Johannesburg. It's a great spot for hiking, with a variety of trails that offer different levels of difficulty and the chance to see a range of wildlife and bird species. The reserve is also home to some interesting historical sites, including old farmsteads and rock art from the area's early inhabitants.

How to Get There: The reserve is easily accessible by car, with a short drive of about an hour from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: The Diepkloof Farmstead trail is particularly scenic and offers a glimpse into the area's cultural history.

Where to Stay: While there are no luxury lodges in the reserve, nearby Heidelberg offers accommodation options such as the De Hoek Country Hotel, which provides a peaceful retreat with elegant rooms.

Where to Eat: For a rustic dining experience, the Stonehaven on Vaal offers a riverside setting with a menu that caters to all tastes.

Groot Marico

Groot Marico is a small town that's off the beaten track, about three hours from Johannesburg. It's famous for its mampoer, a potent fruit brandy, and the beautiful Marico River. The area is steeped in South African literary history, being closely associated with the writer Herman Charles Bosman. Visitors can enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty, take a mampoer tasting tour, or explore the river by snorkeling or diving in its clear waters.

How to Get There: The best way to experience Groot Marico is by car, with a drive of around three hours from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Herman Charles Bosman Living Museum, where you can learn more about the life and works of the famous author.

Where to Stay: Riverstill Guest Farm offers cozy accommodation with access to the river and a chance to experience farm life. For a unique stay, try the Marico Bushveld Dam Retreat, which has rustic chalets overlooking the dam.

Where to Eat: Stop by the Groot Marico Visitors Centre for a light meal and to sample some local mampoer and other regional specialties.

Cullinan

The small mining town of Cullinan, just 30 minutes from Pretoria and about an hour and a half from Johannesburg, is where the world's largest diamond was discovered. Today, visitors can take a tour of the still-operational Cullinan Diamond Mine. The town itself has a charming Edwardian setting with quaint shops, cafes, and a rich mining history. Adventure seekers can also enjoy activities like zip-lining and horseback safaris in the area.

How to Get There: Cullinan is best reached by car, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 hours from Johannesburg.

Travel Tip: Make sure to book a guided tour of the Cullinan Diamond Mine to see the big hole and learn about the diamond extraction process.

Where to Stay: The Cullinan Diamond Lodge offers comfortable accommodation and is conveniently located for exploring the town. For a more luxurious stay, the Premier Hotel and Spa Cullinan provides a relaxing retreat with spa facilities.

Where to Eat: Harrie's Pancakes is a local favorite, offering a variety of sweet and savory pancakes in a cozy setting.