Things To Do
in Turffontein

Turffontein is a vibrant suburb located in the southern part of Johannesburg, South Africa. Known for its rich history and diverse culture, it offers a mix of residential areas and community facilities. The suburb is famous for the Turffontein Racecourse, a hub for horse racing enthusiasts.

Additionally, it is characterized by its lively markets and local eateries, reflecting the urban lifestyle of Johannesburg.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Turffontein Racecourse to learn about horse racing and its significance in the area.

afternoon
:

Head to a local market such as the Turffontein Flea Market for lunch and to explore various local crafts and food stalls.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the suburb to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a morning hike at the nearby Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy stunning views and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Johannesburg Botanical Gardens for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar or pub to experience the nightlife and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within the suburb)$5
🏨Hotel per night$50
🚌Public transport fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other areas.
  • Vibrant community atmosphere.
  • Safety concerns in certain areas, especially at night.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Some attractions may be less tourist-friendly.
  • "Sawubona" - Hello
  • "Unjani?" - How are you?
  • "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
  • "Uxolo" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Ngiyathanda" - I love it

Places to Visit in Turffontein

Visit one of these nice places.

Turffontein Racecourse

Capture the excitement of horse racing and the vibrant atmosphere during race days.

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

A beautiful landscape filled with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature photography.

Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Stunning gardens with colorful flowers and serene lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in Turffontein

Turffontein offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect its diverse culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional South African meals as well as international cuisine, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Turffontein Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry, popular in many South African communities.

Must-Try!

Braai

A traditional South African barbecue featuring a variety of meats, often served with pap and chutney.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Turffontein Flea Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food options, local crafts, and fresh produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

Turffontein enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) while winter can drop to around 5°C (41°F) at night. Rainfall is most common in the summer months, particularly in January and February.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Always greet people with a smile.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important. It is customary to address them with titles like 'Auntie' or 'Uncle.'

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Turffontein is generally safe, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious while walking alone at night. It’s also recommended to use registered taxis or rideshare services when traveling after dark.

Tipping in Turffontein

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest rand is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advised to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm weather with occasional thunderstorms. It's ideal for outdoor activities but stay hydrated.

Autumn (March - May)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors make this a pleasant time for exploration.

Winter (June - August)

Mild and dry conditions prevail, ideal for outdoor activities. Nights can be quite cold, so bring warm clothing.

Spring (September - November)

Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor photography.

Nightlife Guide

Turffontein at Night

Turffontein's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, and many establishments offer live music or DJ performances. It's a great place to socialize and experience local culture through its nightlife.

Hiking in Turffontein

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve Trails

Multiple trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, offering scenic views and the chance to see wildlife.

Hiking at Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

A short drive from Turffontein, this reserve offers beautiful hiking paths with diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Turffontein by plane.

O.R. Tambo International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Turffontein, this is the main international airport serving Johannesburg, offering flights to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Turffontein has a moderate level of walkability. While some areas are pedestrian-friendly, it is advisable to take caution when walking along busy streets. Sidewalks are available in most places, but off-main roads may lack proper pathways.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Black South Africans

The majority demographic, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity and community life in Turffontein.

Indian and Coloured Communities

These groups add to the rich cultural tapestry, influencing local cuisine, festivals, and social customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Turffontein, with local teams playing at community fields and attracting passionate fans.

Horse Racing

With the presence of the Turffontein Racecourse, horse racing is a significant sport and social event in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Turffontein can be congested during peak hours, especially on main roads leading to Johannesburg's city center. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but they may be limited. It’s advisable to plan travel times accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Turffontein.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Halal Food

Halal options are available at some eateries, but confirming with the restaurant is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available within Turffontein, including clinics and hospitals. Major hospitals are situated in nearby suburbs, offering a range of services. It is advisable to have travel insurance for access to better healthcare services if needed.

Discover South Africa

Read more in our South Africa 2025 Travel Guide.

South Africa Travel Guide