Things To Do
in Alberton
Alberton is a residential and industrial town in Gauteng, just east of Johannesburg. It blends leafy suburbs with practical amenities, including malls, parks, and family friendly eateries. The area serves as a convenient base for exploring the broader Johannesburg region while offering easy highway access.
Its mix of cultures and languages reflects the diversity of South Africa while maintaining a welcoming, small town feel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Alberton Heritage Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. Take a guided tour to learn about the local artifacts and the stories they tell about Alberton's past. Enjoy a light breakfast at the café nearby, sampling local pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, stroll through the beautiful parks surrounding the centre, soaking in the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Visit the nearby Alberton City Shopping Centre for lunch, where you can savor local cuisine and shop for unique souvenirs. After lunch, explore the various boutiques and art stores that showcase the works of local artisans.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Alberton's popular restaurants known for their South African cuisine. Try the famous boerewors or a traditional braai while mingling with locals. Conclude your evening with a walk along the scenic paths of the nearby parks, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Start your day with a refreshing nature walk at Modderfontein Reserve, where you can explore the beautiful flora and fauna of the area. Breathe in the fresh air as you navigate the well-marked trails, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, listening to the sounds of birds chirping around you.
After your morning hike, take a picnic lunch at one of the designated spots within the reserve, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing by the water’s edge, appreciating the peaceful environment. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak for a different perspective on the reserve.
As the day winds down, prepare for a cozy dinner at a local eatery that specializes in hearty meals. Engage with the friendly staff and learn about their favorite dishes, perhaps trying a local craft beer to accompany your meal. Wind down your evening with a stroll through the reserve to watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
| 🚇Public transport ride | $1-2 |
| 🏨One night in a midrange hotel | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near Johannesburg with easy highway access
- Friendly local communities and affordable dining
- Good value for money and family friendly venues
- Wide range of authentic South African cuisine and markets
- Nightlife is more limited within Alberton itself
- Some areas can be busy and traffic-prone during peak hours
- Smaller town feel means you may need to travel for certain amenities
- "Goeie môre" - Good morning
- "Goeie middag" - Good afternoon
- "Baie dankie" - Thank you very much
- "Asseblief" - Please
- "Praat jy Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is die pad na..." - Where is the road to...
- "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ek verstaan nie" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Alberton
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft, dappled light through mature trees makes for classic suburban photography, especially during golden hour.
Water reflections and open green spaces offer tranquil compositions ideal for landscape and lifestyle shots.
Hills and open plains provide a natural contrast to the urban backdrop, great for wide angle and wildlife photography.
Food in Alberton
Alberton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic South African sausage served with maize meal porridge and a spicy relish; widely enjoyed at braais and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A slow cooked stew prepared in a small cast iron pot, rich with meat, vegetables, and fragrant herbs.
A mix of grilled meats such as boerewors, steaks, and chicken, often served with pap, chakalaka, and salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local weekend market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and affordable street foods.
Nearby markets in the greater Johannesburg region where you can sample a variety of dishes and snacks from multiple vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common. Greet people in English or Afrikaans when you meet someone new, and use polite forms with elders. Personal space and modest behavior are valued in most public places.
Keep noise levels considerate in residential areas, especially late at night. Queue politely and be patient in busy shops.
Safety
Tipping in Alberton
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 10-15% at restaurants is common if service is good. Some casual spots round up, while larger venues may add a tip automatically. Cash is widely accepted, but cards are also common in most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with afternoon thunderstorms in the highveld. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Pleasant temperatures with mild days and cooler evenings. A comfortable time for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights. Layers are key; mornings can be crisp but skies are often clear for outdoor activities.
Rising temperatures with fresh greens and blooming trees. Great for outdoor walks and park visits.
Alberton at Night
Hiking in Alberton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible nature reserve with hills and trails suitable for short hikes and wildlife viewing.
A broader nature reserve with multiple trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to encounter native flora and fauna.
Close to the broader Johannesburg area, offering open landscapes and wildlife watching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Alberton by plane.
Johannesburgs main international gateway, accessible by car via major highways and reasonably connected via regional transport.
Smaller airport serving domestic and some international routes, a practical alternative for certain destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the community, contributing to local culture and language use.
A diverse mix of languages, including Zulu, Sotho, and Tswana, represented in daily life and commerce.
Active in business, culture, and community events across the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played at school and club levels across Gauteng.
A staple sport with local clubs, schools, and provincial teams.
Seasonal matches and local leagues during the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alberton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veggie curries, salads, grilled vegetable skewers, pap, and chakalaka. When dining out, ask for vegetable friends like lentils, beans, or mushrooms and request sauces on the side to manage spice levels.