Things To Do
in Benoni

Scenic vistas at sunrise and sunset, reflections on the water, waterfowl and charming lakeside paths ideal for portrait and landscape photography.

A rich wetland and birding area with opportunities for wildlife and macro photography, especially migratory and resident waterbirds.

Characterful streets, historic buildings and local markets provide candid urban photography opportunities and human-interest shots.

Neighborhood parks with mature trees and family activity make for relaxed lifestyle and documentary-style images.

A traditional South African sausage (boerewors) grilled at a braai, typically served with pap (maize porridge) and spicy vegetable relish (chakalaka). Find it at local braai joints, weekend markets and many casual restaurants.

Must-Try!

Cured and spiced dried meat snacks (biltong) and dried sausage (droëwors) sold at butcher shops and markets — great for picnics or excursions.

A hollowed-out loaf filled with curry — originally from Durban but common in Gauteng — available at some cafés and curry houses in Benoni.

Skewered marinated meat (sosaties) or locally-sourced grilled fish at seafood or braai-style restaurants around the lakes.

Regular weekend markets near lakes or suburban shopping areas sell street-food stalls, grilled meats, baked goods and artisanal products — ideal for sampling local flavors and meeting vendors.

Small informal spots and taverns (locally known as shebeens) around town serve affordable plates, snacks and local drinks — good places to try home-style cooking if you’re comfortable with a more local setting.

A friendly hello and handshake are common; English works well but using a local greeting (e.g., 'Sawubona' in Zulu or 'Hallo' / 'Goeie dag' in Afrikaans) is appreciated. Smile and be polite.

Avoid making assumptions about people’s backgrounds; topics like family and sport are safe, while race and politics (including apartheid) can be sensitive — approach with care and listen.

If visiting a township, go with a reputable local guide, ask permission before photographing people, and respect residents’ privacy and local rules.

Casual clothing is fine in most places; modest dress may be appropriate for religious sites. Public displays of anger or loud confrontations are frowned upon.

In restaurants tip around 10–15% for good service; smaller tips (R5–R20) are appreciated for café staff, petrol attendants and hotel porters. Rounding up taxi fares is common but not mandatory.

South African rand (ZAR) is the currency; credit and debit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. Cash is useful for markets and small vendors; mobile payment apps (SnapScan, Zapper) are increasingly common. ATMs are widely available, but use machines in secure locations and notify your bank before travel.

(November–March) Hot with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; mornings and early evenings are best for outdoor activities. Pack light clothing, sun protection and a lightweight rain jacket; expect occasional thunder and short-lived heavy rain.

(April–May) Milder temperatures and generally stable weather — pleasant for walking, markets and outdoor photography as the intense summer heat eases.

(June–August) Cool and dry, with chilly mornings and evenings; daytime can be sunny and comfortable but bring a warm layer for early morning and night. Frost is rare but possible inland.

(September–October) Warming temperatures and blossoming trees, with increasing chances of late showers; great for birdwatching and wildflowers.

The largest demographic group in Benoni and the broader Ekurhuleni area, with diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds (Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa and more).

A significant minority community with long-standing ties to the area, involved in local business, farming and suburban life.

A smaller but visible community contributing to the town’s commerce and culinary offerings.

A diverse community present in the region with its own cultural and family networks.

Widely played and followed across communities, with local clubs and school leagues active in the East Rand.

A popular spectator and community sport, especially at schools and clubs in the Gauteng region.

Common at schools and suburban clubs during the summer months, with local fields and weekend matches.

Several golf courses and country clubs in the area make golf a popular recreational activity.