Photo by Clodagh Da Paixao on Unsplash
Johannesburg, South Africa. Whether you’re heading there for a visit or relocating to Joburg with your family for work or personal reasons, you’ll find no shortage of things to do and see. This cosmopolitan hub is South Africa’s largest city, packed with urban attractions. But what if you’d rather trade concrete sidewalks and window shopping for a proper trail adventure with your dog?
Tail-wagging opportunities abound in Johannesburg
As a newcomer, it’s important to know that many of the parks and walking areas in and around Joburg charge an entry fee, which can vary by season. The City of Johannesburg also notes that crime can be an issue in some parks, so they recommend visiting in a group or joining a guided tour. Don’t let that put you off exploring with your dog. Instead, think of it as a great reason to meet new human and canine friends and build your own hiking group.
Where should you go?
- Huddle Park Golf and Recreation offers easy walking trails ranging from 2.5 to 5 kilometers and is open year-round. If your household includes at least two humans and two pups, you can even purchase an unlimited dog-walking membership.
- Lonehill Koppie (near Lonehill Park) has multiple small streams and is ideal if you’re looking for a more natural, outdoorsy hike without leaving the city.
- Sandton Field and Study Centre is an off-leash haven in the northern suburbs, perfect for dogs who just need to run free for a while.
- Walkhaven Dog Park is a dog-centric farm with open grasslands for romping, ponds for swimming, and a dog-friendly restaurant and bar. Entry is free for your dog, with a small fee for humans. It’s close to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO-listed archeological site.
- The Wilds Nature Reserve is a National Monument located right in the heart of the city. Often described as Joburg’s “secret garden,” it’s spectacular. You can visit on your own seven days a week during business hours, or join a formal guided tour.
If you and your dog enjoy running together, keep an eye out for Parkrun events around Johannesburg. These timed 5K runs take place across the country, typically on Saturday mornings. They’re free, dog-friendly, and an excellent way to connect with other active, like-minded people.
Venturing farther afield
You may never run out of dog-friendly hiking options around Johannesburg, but eventually you and your four-legged trail partner may be ready to explore farther afield. South Africa offers countless breathtaking landscapes worth the trip—just remember that your dog will need to sit out any safari experiences. You’ll find plenty of ideas for pet-appropriate adventures here.
Post-hike refreshments around town
After a good hike and plenty of sniffing, you and your intrepid pup will probably be ready to sit, stay, and refuel. Fortunately, Johannesburg has a number of spots where you can relax together, including:
- Arbour Café & Courtyard, a French bistro known for delicious galettes and crêpes for you, plus fresh water and a warm welcome for your dog.
- Delta Cafe & Don Quixote which serves hearty breakfast and brunch options for people and offers treats for pups from their shop.
- Vovo Telo, a go-to for excellent coffee, baked goods, and other artisanal specialties.
- Voodoo Lily Café, a cheerful café in Birdhaven with a menu that includes options for both kids and dogs. It’s a lovely place to unwind with a glass of wine and toast a successful day on the trails. (Your dog will have to skip the vino, of course.)
Mind your manners
Bringing your dog out and about in Johannesburg calls for the same thoughtful pet etiquette you’d use anywhere. Dogs are expected to be quiet—no persistent howling or nuisance barking—and to be well-mannered around people and other animals. If your dog injures someone, you may face a fine or even jail time, so keep them on leash and under control unless you’re in a designated off-leash area.
Respect for other dogs is also taken seriously. In Johannesburg, it’s against the law to harass, provoke, or harm a dog.
