By Naseerah Nanabhai
22:06:21

While lockdown regulations can be a little stifling, there are safe and enjoyable ways of enjoying the outside. Johannesburg has over 10 million trees and is renowned for having the world’s largest artificial forest.

Hiking proves to be one of the best ways to take in the flora and fauna of this urban forest. We’ve put together a list of some of the best places to hike in Gauteng:

Hennops Hiking Trail: Situated about 45 minutes away from Joburg, this trail selects three circular hiking routes. A 2 km walk, a 6 km walk and an 11.3 km walk. Each path starts by crossing the Hennops River and showcases superb views of the adjacent Magaliesberg mountains.

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve: Located on the largest nature reserve in Johannesburg (10 km from the city centre), this place offers hiking trails ranging from 3 km to 9 km. It is also home to zebra, blesbok and over 230 species of birds. Based on your choice of trail, you can either reach a hilltop or take a flatter one that follows the river.

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve: Near the city’s heart, this heritage site chooses between a 4 km guided walk and a more intense 10 km hike. Trails offer a fantastic view over the downtown skyline, entire fauna and geology.

Modderfontein Reserve: Located in the East Rand, this hiking spot is relatively flat. It offers trails between 3 km and 8 km that passes through natural springs, grasslands and a dam. This privately managed reserve is peaceful and provides benches to relax along the dam and cycling trails.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens: Regarded as one of the most beautiful parks in Joburg, this places offers a wide variety of unique flora, admirable birdwatching and a magnificent waterfall. Hiking trails are between 1 km and 3.5 km, which take you to the top of the Witpoortjie waterfall.

While you prepare to hike, make sure you wear a good pair of hiking shoes, drink lots of water, take snacks, wear sunscreen and take along a warm jacket with you.