Things To Do
in Orkney

Traditional farmer’s sausage (boerewors) served with mielie pap (maize porridge). Widely available at local taverns and braais — try it at a hotel restaurant or roadside stall.

Must-Try!

Deep-fried dough filled with savory mince or sweet jam; a common snack from bakeries and market stalls in town.

Spicy vegetable relish (chakalaka) served alongside cold cuts or grilled meat — a staple accompaniment at local eateries.

Polite, verbal greetings are appreciated—shake hands and make eye contact in formal introductions. Use 'Goeie dag' (Afrikaans) or a friendly 'Hello' if unsure.

Be mindful around industrial sites, private farms and places of worship; always ask permission before photographing people or private property.

Dress modestly when visiting churches, community centres and rural areas—casual town wear is fine for restaurants and markets.

Short, informal routes on nearby koppies offering panoramic views of the Highveld — best for morning walks and photography; check land access with owners.

Self-guided walks along farm lanes and gravel roads through cultivated fields and pastureland — good for birdwatching and experiencing rural life.

Trails around local dams and wetlands provide gentler walks, wildlife viewing and picnic spots—ideal in cooler parts of the day.

A small regional airfield close to Klerksdorp (short drive from Orkney) used for private and charter flights; limited scheduled services—best for private operators.

The nearest major international airport (approx. 2–3 hours’ drive depending on route and traffic); wide range of domestic and international connections and car rental options.

Smaller international/regional airport northwest of Johannesburg with some domestic flights and private charters; alternative to OR Tambo if driving from the east.

A significant portion of the white and mixed-race population speaks Afrikaans and maintains cultural traditions tied to farming and mining communities.

Black African residents from Tswana-speaking groups form a large part of the workforce and community life, contributing cultural practices and languages.

Workers and their families connected to the mining industry shape the town’s economy, rhythms and community structures.

Rugby is widely followed and played in towns across the Highveld; local clubs and school teams are active socially and competitively.

Soccer is popular at community and youth levels with local amateur clubs and neighbourhood pitches.

Played in summer months at schools and community grounds — part of the local sporting calendar.

Options are modest but possible: pap and vegetable stews, salads, and breads are common. Tell café staff 'ek is vegetariër' (Afrikaans) or 'ke a nwa dijo tsa semo' (Setswana phrasing for dietary needs) — expect to adapt menus where required.

Limited in a small mining town; bring snacks if you have strict requirements. Larger towns nearby (Klerksdorp) have more choices and supermarkets with specialty products.

Halal-certified restaurants are uncommon; seek out butcheries and stores in larger towns that can advise on halal meat or vegetarian alternatives.