Things To Do
in Roodepoort
Roodepoort is a northern Johannesburg suburb known for leafy residential areas, family-friendly parks, and convenient access to the city. It blends suburban calm with shopping hubs and cultural venues, all within a short drive of central Joburg. The area boasts green spaces like Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden and Kloofendal, offering easy escapes from city life.
With a diverse mix of residents and cuisines, Roodepoort serves as a welcoming base for families and travelers exploring the West Rand.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short drive from Roodepoort. Enjoy a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, where ancient hominid fossils were discovered, providing a fascinating glimpse into human evolution. The morning air is fresh, and the scenery of the surrounding hills sets the perfect backdrop for an educational adventure.
After a hearty lunch at a nearby café, spend your afternoon exploring the Maropeng Visitor Centre, which offers interactive exhibits that delve deeper into the story of humanity's origins. Stroll through the serene grounds and take in the picturesque views of the rolling landscape. You might even encounter some local wildlife, making the experience even more memorable.
Return to Roodepoort in the evening and unwind at a local restaurant serving traditional South African cuisine. Savor dishes like bobotie or biltong while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with local music. As the sun sets, reflect on the day's discoveries and plan for more adventures ahead.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, an oasis of tranquility in Roodepoort. The morning sun filters through the trees, creating a beautiful light as you explore the diverse plant life and enjoy the serene sounds of nature. Look out for the resident pair of Verreaux's eagles as they soar overhead.
After a morning of exploration, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the waterfall, which is a stunning feature of the gardens. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the lush surroundings, taking in the beauty of the flora and possibly spotting some small mammals or birds. As you feast, listen to the gentle sound of the water cascading down the rocks.
As evening approaches, consider attending a gardening workshop or a nature talk often hosted in the gardens. Engage with local enthusiasts and learn about the importance of conservation and native plants. End the day with a peaceful stroll and watch the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🚗One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Wide green spaces and easy access to nature
- Affordability and family-friendly suburbs
- Proximity to Johannesburg with practical transport links
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to central Joburg
- Traffic during peak hours and some areas require caution at night
- "Goeie dag" - Good day
- "Hoe gaan dit met jou?" - How are you?
- "Baie dankie" - Thank you very much
- "Asseblief" - Please
- "Waar is die naaste badkamer?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
Places to Visit in Roodepoort
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush gardens, a prominent waterfall, and birdlife set against rolling hills—great for landscape and nature photography.
Open spaces, wetlands, and woodland trails offering opportunities for wildlife and macro photography.
Elevated vantage points around Roodepoort provide sunset opportunities and cityscape shots.
Food in Roodepoort
Roodepoort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional maize meal served with spicy chakalaka and grilled meat, a staple at braais and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled boerewors sausage in a crusty roll, often with onions, tomato relish, and chutney.
A hollowed-out loaf filled with spicy curry and vegetables; a beloved quick bite in urban South Africa.
Marinated skewered meat (often lamb or chicken) grilled over coals and served with sides.
A creamy custard tart dusted with cinnamon, a popular dessert across cafés and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, baked goods, ready-to-eat street snacks, and crafts.
Casual bites from various vendors, offering quick dishes and regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people formally until invited to use first names.
Stand in line and wait your turn; politeness and greetings are valued.
South Africa’s multicultural society encourages respect for different cultures and backgrounds.
Safety
Tipping in Roodepoort
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if no service charge is included; 10-15% is standard for good service. For taxis and hairdressers, tip modest amounts as appropriate.
Most places accept cash in ZAR and cards (Visa/Mastercard). Mobile payments like SnapScan or Zapper are common at markets and cafés; keep some cash for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with late-afternoon thunderstorms possible; stay hydrated and wear sun protection. Outdoor activities shine in the mornings and early evenings.
Milder days and cooler nights; ideal for outdoor walks and photography with softer light.
Cool to mild days, often with chilly evenings; a light jacket is useful, and indoor markets become popular gathering spots.
Longer days, blooming gardens, and vibrant outdoor scenes—great for exploring parks and trails.
Roodepoort at Night
Hiking in Roodepoort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of short to moderate trails through scrubland and wetlands with birding opportunities.
Scenic trails around a waterfall and reserve, ideal for photography and nature walks.
World Heritage site with limestone caves and guided tours; a longer day trip from Roodepoort.
Airports
How to reach Roodepoort by plane.
Johannesburg’s primary international gateway, roughly 40–60 minutes driving from Roodepoort depending on traffic.
A smaller, closer airport to Roodepoort for domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Black African, White, Coloured and Indian/Asian residents living in a suburban, family-oriented setting.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and community leagues.
Widely played and watched, with regional clubs and school teams.
Seasonal matches are common in parks and clubs around the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roodepoort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Indian-influenced eateries and markets; look for chana masala, lentil curries, paneer dishes, samosas, and vegetable sides. When unsure, ask for no meat and opt for veggie curries, salads, or pap with chakalaka.