Things To Do
in Turffontein
Turffontein is a historically diverse suburb of Johannesburg, known for its eponymous racecourse and proximity to central Johannesburg. The area blends residential estates, informal settlements and commercial corridors, reflecting urban South Africa's contrasts. It's well connected by major roads and is a gateway to both the northern suburbs and the city center.
Visitors can experience a mix of sports, markets, and cultural flavors within a short drive of Turffontein.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport and take a scenic drive to Turffontein. Check into your accommodation and refresh yourself after the journey. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of South African cuisine.
Visit the Turffontein Racecourse, where you can explore the rich history of horse racing in the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the onsite restaurants, surrounded by the excitement of the racetrack. Spend some time strolling around the neighborhood, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Dine at a traditional South African braai (barbecue) restaurant, where you can taste local meats and dishes. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences. As the night unfolds, head back to your accommodation or explore nearby bars for a nightcap.
Take a short trip to Johannesburg for a guided tour of the Apartheid Museum, gaining insights into the nation's history. Spend time reflecting on the struggles and triumphs depicted in the exhibits. After the museum, enjoy breakfast at a trendy café in the Maboneng Precinct.
Explore the arts and culture of the Maboneng precinct, browsing galleries and boutiques. Grab lunch at a local eatery, experiencing the fusion of flavors created by diverse cultures. Visit the nearby Market on Main for local crafts and foods.
Return to Turffontein and enjoy dinner at a local family-run restaurant, savoring home-cooked meals. Engage with the friendly staff, who are eager to share tips about the area. As the evening winds down, take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚆One-way ticket (local transport) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse (1 night) | $40-70 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines
- Close to central Johannesburg and north suburbs
- Reasonable costs and good value for money
- Various markets, street food and cultural experiences
- Some areas can be congested and noisy
- Safety requires usual urban precautions
- Certain attractions require travel to central or other suburbs
- "Sawubona" - Hello (Zulu)
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you (Zulu)
- "Dankie" - Thank you (Afrikaans)
- "Hoe gaan dit?" - How are you? (Afrikaans)
- "Unjani?" - How are you? (Zulu)
- "Hello" - Hello (English)
Places to Visit in Turffontein
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic architectural lines and equestrian scenes; best at sunrise or during events for dynamic action shots.
Panoramic city views from a classic tower setting, especially dramatic at dusk.
Historic fortifications and skyline backdrops; powerful portraits and architectural photography.
City silhouettes from elevated viewpoints near the inner city, morning or golden hour ideal.
Green corridors and urban landscapes offering lush nature against city backdrops.
Food in Turffontein
Turffontein Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hollowed-out loaf filled with curried meat and/or vegetables, a South African classic found at many spots across the city.
Must-Try!
Grilled sausage in a fresh roll with toppings; common at street stalls and braai gatherings.
Milled maize porridge served with grilled meat and spicy chakalaka relish.
Slow-cooked stew in a small cast-iron pot, rich with meat, vegetables, and spices.
Spicy relish paired with bread or pap as a flavorful side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A Saturday market with artisanal foods, street eats and craft stalls—great for tasting local flavors.
Casual stalls offering curry, samosas, bunny chow, and grilled specialties; good for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and eye contact; greet people when entering shops or lifts.
English and Afrikaans are widely understood; Zulu and other languages common in daily life.
Respect queues; avoid loud public displays; show respect in cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Turffontein
Ensure a smooth experience
15-10% at sit-down restaurants; round up taxi fares; tip guides and staff for tours.
Cash and card widely accepted; many places support tap/card; mobile payments like Zapper or SnapScan common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Mild temperatures with clearer skies; great for city walks and photography when light is soft.
Cool days and chilly nights; layers recommended; occasional frost in the mornings.
Warming days, budding trees; perfect for markets and outdoor exploring.
Turffontein at Night
Hiking in Turffontein
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular network of paths along the Spruit river offering easy to moderate hikes.
Near areas with walking trails and green spaces.
Scenic, varied terrain with water and gardens, a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Turffontein by plane.
Johannesburg’s main international gateway, ~30-40 minutes by car depending on traffic; taxis and ride-hailing services available.
Alternative airport, closer to northern suburbs; primarily domestic and regional flights; 40-60 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of mixed-income neighborhoods with strong community ties.
People who work in central Johannesburg and the northern suburbs.
Nearby universities and colleges contribute to a youthful population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across South Africa with local leagues and stadiums nearby.
A staple in South Africa’s sports culture with local clubs and matches in the region.
Seasonal matches and local clubs; often played in parks and grounds.
Turffontein Racecourse is a key venue for South African horse racing events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turffontein.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian curries, salads, and grilled vegetable platters; ask for plant-based options or cheese substitutes.