Things To Do
in Randburg

Randburg, South Africa is a leafy northern suburb of Johannesburg known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and convenient access to major city centers. It blends residential calm with vibrant shopping, dining, and green spaces, making it popular with locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to Sandton and other northern suburbs allows easy day trips to Cradle of Humankind, Lanseria, and beyond.

The area is multicultural, with a mix of Afrikaans, English, and other communities shaping a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Cradle of Humankind
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Maropeng Visitor Centre, where you can delve into the origins of humanity through interactive exhibits. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, where fascinating fossils were discovered. Be sure to appreciate the stunning landscape of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you absorb the rich history.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a quaint café near the visitor center, embark on a scenic hike through the Cradle of Humankind, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Stop by the nearby Lion & Safari Park for an unforgettable encounter with wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos of the majestic animals.

evening
:

Return to Randburg for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional South African cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal while reflecting on the day's discoveries, perhaps trying dishes like bobotie or biltong. Cap off the evening with a visit to a cozy bar for a nightcap, listening to live music that showcases local talent.

day 2
Art and Culture in Randburg
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Randburg Arts and Culture Centre, where you can admire local artwork and learn about community art initiatives. Participate in a workshop if time allows, creating your own piece of art as a memento of your visit. Enjoy a light breakfast at the centre's café, surrounded by inspiring creativity.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby 44 Stanley, a trendy area filled with boutique shops and galleries. Take your time browsing through unique local crafts and fashion, and grab lunch at a stylish café that offers delicious artisanal dishes. After lunch, visit the nearby Lindfield Victorian House Museum for a glimpse into the life of a Victorian family in South Africa.

evening
:

In the evening, head back to Randburg and enjoy a theatrical performance at the nearby Joburg Theatre. Experience the vibrant local arts scene, whether it's a play, musical, or dance performance that catches your interest. After the show, unwind with a late dinner at a stylish eatery, discussing the highlights of the performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee (regular)$2-3
🚕1 km taxi ride$0.80-1.20
🥤Bottle of water (0.5 L)$0.50-1.00
🍺Beer (0.5 L) in a bar$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Leafy, suburban charm with easy access to Sandton and central Joburg
  • Great shopping centers, parks, and family-friendly attractions
  • Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
  • Many attractions are spread out, requiring a car
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Baie dankie" - Thank you very much
  • "Waar is die naaste toilet?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
  • "Kan jy asseblief help?" - Could you please help?
  • "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Goeie dag" - Good day

Places to Visit in Randburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Northcliff Hill

Iconic viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas of Johannesburg at sunrise or sunset.

Delta Park

Urban nature reserve with birdlife, wetlands and tree-lined paths for nature and landscape photography.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

Lush gardens and a waterfall backdrop ideal for nature and landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Randburg

Randburg offers a diverse mix of South African staples and international flavors, with plenty of casual eateries, cafés, and family-friendly spots. Expect grilled meats, hearty stews, biltong, bakes, and fresh bakery options, alongside modern takes on global cuisines.

Randburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bobotie

A comforting Cape Malay dish of spiced minced meat baked with an eggy topping.

Must-Try!

Pap and vleis

Maize meal (pap) served with meat and rich gravy, a staple comfort meal.

Biltong

Dried cured meat snack, popular as a quick bite or starter.

Chakalaka

Spicy vegetable relish often served with braai and breads.

Melktert

Creamy milk tart dessert, a beloved SA treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cresta Market and Food Court (local options)

Casual market-style stalls and eateries around Cresta Centre offering varied street-food options.

Fourways Farmers Market

Weekend market with local produce, street-food vendors and crafts near Randburg.

Climate Guide

Weather

Randburg experiences a temperate highland climate with warm summers and cool winters due to its elevation. Summers (Nov–Feb) are hot with potential thunderstorms; winters (Jun–Aug) are cool and dry; spring (Sep–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) are mild with pleasant daytime temperatures. Rain is most common in summer, and snowfall is extremely rare.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting customs

A friendly handshake with eye contact; English or Afrikaans greetings are common in daily life.

Dress code

Smart casual in most venues; modest attire is appreciated in more traditional settings.

Photography etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people in private spaces and be respectful in sensitive areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of common urban crime patterns; stick to well-lit, busy areas at night and avoid displaying valuables. Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing services, keep car doors locked and windows up in traffic, and follow local guidance during high-crime periods.

Tipping in Randburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is good; casual tips for bar staff or drivers as appropriate.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in malls and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days with occasional afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and wear sun protection during outdoor activities.

Autumn

Mild days with cooler evenings; comfortable conditions for walking and exploring outdoor spaces.

Winter

Cool to mild days with crisp mornings; layers recommended and more indoor activities available.

Spring

Warmer days with blooming flora; ideal for outdoor adventures and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Randburg at Night

Randburg’s nightlife tends to be more low-key, with casual pubs, family-friendly bars, and dining spots near malls. For livelier options, head to nearby Rosebank, Sandton, or Fourways for clubs, live music venues, and rooftop bars. Expect a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with opportunities for live Afrikaans and indie music on weekends.

Hiking in Randburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Northcliff Ridge Trail

A short to moderate hike with city views and photo opportunities.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

Popular nature reserve with trails, a waterfall, and picnic spots.

Cradle of Humankind (Day trip)

World-renowned fossil site with nature reserves and cave tours about an hour away.

Airports

How to reach Randburg by plane.

O.R. Tambo International Airport

Johannesburg's main international gateway, about 30-45 minutes from Randburg by car depending on traffic.

Lanseria International Airport

A smaller airport closer to the northern suburbs, convenient for domestic flights and some regional connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability varies by neighborhood; central hubs around malls offer good pedestrian access, but most areas are car-dependent with longer distances between attractions. Sidewalks exist in many suburbs, though safety and traffic should be considered when walking at night.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afrikaans-speaking

A significant portion of residents; many also speak English.

English-speaking

Widely used in business and daily life; common across many communities.

Indian and African diaspora

A diverse mix of cultures influencing local food, music, and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (football)

Widely followed and played, with many local teams and events throughout Gauteng.

Rugby

A major sport across SA, with local clubs and match days in the greater Johannesburg area.

Cricket

Seasonal matches and facilities available in and around the city.

Golf

Several courses in and around Randburg offering varied levels of play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during weekday mornings and late afternoons. Randburg is well-connected by roads with malls and business parks nearby; direct rail service is limited within Randburg itself, so car, taxi, or ride-hailing is common. Plan extra travel time during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Randburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie-friendly curries, salads and grilled vegetables; ask for maize pap instead of meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Johannesburg offers a mix of public and private healthcare; private hospitals and clinics (such as Netcare and Mediclinic facilities) provide high-quality care. Travelers should check their health insurance and carry international medical card details; reliable pharmacies are common in malls and town centers.

Discover South Africa

Read more in our South Africa 2025 Travel Guide.

South Africa Travel Guide