Things To Do
in Edenvale

South African-style barbecue (braai) is a must-try: grilled meats and sosaties (marinated kebabs). Found at weekend markets, local delis or pubs that host braai events.

Must-Try!

Cured and spiced dried meats popular as snacks; available at supermarkets, speciality butcheries and markets around Edenvale.

A fragrant, mildly spiced curry influenced by Cape Malay cuisine — often available at local curry houses and restaurants in the broader Johannesburg area.

Maize porridge (pap) served with spicy vegetable relish (chakalaka); a common home-style dish found in casual eateries and township food stalls.

Weekend markets in Edenvale and neighbouring suburbs sell artisanal bread, pastries, biltong, curries and grilled snacks. Great for tasting multiple local flavors and meeting producers.

Nearby shopping precincts host food stalls and casual vendors with international and South African street food options — convenient if you’re exploring the area.

People appreciate a polite greeting and handshake in formal settings; casual greetings like 'Howzit' are common in everyday conversation. Use first names after being invited to do so.

Be respectful discussing sensitive topics such as politics or race — listen and be open-minded. English is widely understood, but using a few words of Afrikaans or local languages is appreciated.

Religious and community gatherings are important; dress modestly and follow local customs when attending services or events.

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly in informal or residential areas. Avoid taking pictures of sensitive infrastructure or military sites.

Tipping is customary in South Africa: restaurants generally expect 10–15% for good service, bartenders or bar staff R5–R20, and hotel porters about R10–R30 per bag. For taxi rides, rounding up or adding 10% for good service is common.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; contactless payments are increasingly available. Carry some cash (South African rand) for small stalls, markets and remote areas. ATMs are common but be cautious at night and use bank-affiliated machines when possible.

November to March brings warm days, humid afternoons and frequent late-afternoon thunderstorms. Carry sunscreen, light clothing and an umbrella; storms can be heavy but brief.

April to May is mild with cooling temperatures and clearer skies — great for outdoor activities and photography as the light becomes softer.

June to August are dry, sunny days with chilly mornings and cold nights; pack layers, a warm jacket and expect occasional frost but very little rain.

September to October brings warming temperatures and wildflowers in reserves. It’s a good time for hikes and birdwatching before summer rains set in.

Close to Edenvale, this reserve offers wetlands, grasslands and short trails suited to family walks, birdwatching and quiet bush outings.

Southwest of Johannesburg, known for rolling hills, streams and a network of trails with opportunities to spot small mammals and birds.

A larger reserve to the south offering longer trails, scenic ridges and panoramic Highveld views — great for full-day hikes and wildflowers in season.

Wetland areas within driving distance that are good for leisurely walks, wetlands photography and seasonal birdwatching.

The largest demographic group in Ekurhuleni and greater Johannesburg, comprising diverse ethnicities and languages (Zulu, Sotho, Tsonga, Xhosa, etc.).

Long-established communities with Afrikaans and English cultural influences; many involved in business, services and suburban life.

A significant community contributing to local business, cuisine (notably curries) and commerce in the region.

Mixed-heritage communities with cultural ties across languages and local traditions, contributing to the area’s diversity.

The most widely played and watched sport across communities — local clubs and major professional teams draw strong support in the region.

Rugby has a large following, especially around weekends and provincial fixtures; social and amateur rugby clubs are common.

Popular during the summer months, with local clubs and school competitions well-attended and socialized around.

Golf is popular among locals with multiple suburban courses and country clubs offering play and lessons.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in cafés and many restaurants; order vegetable curries, salads, grain bowls or paneer-style dishes. Ask staff for vegetarian dishes and double-check ingredients, as some sauces can contain meat stock.

Vegan choices exist but are less ubiquitous than vegetarian options — larger cafés and city restaurants will usually offer at least one vegan dish. Supermarkets stock plant-based milks and meat alternatives for self-catering.

Halal restaurants and butcheries are available in the greater Johannesburg/Ekurhuleni area; check signage or ask staff. Kosher options are less common outside Johannesburg proper.

English is widely spoken; inform staff of allergies and cross-contamination concerns. In smaller places, check sauces and spice mixes for hidden ingredients.