The small village of Magaliesburg is situated some 80 km from Johannesburg and Pretoria and is nestled at the foot of the Magaliesberg range of mountains. The mountain range has seen the establishment of numerous hotels, guest houses and resorts along its entire length. In the Eastern part of the range is to be found the Hartbeespoort Dam, a Mecca for the weekend holiday maker from Gauteng. The dam is home to almost as many different watersports as you can think of, and is an extremely popular venue.
The mountains offer many routes to rock climbers and details can be obtained from the Mountain Club of Pretoria. Hot-Air ballooning and hang-gliding are also carried out in the area. There are a great many attractions in and around the village of Magaliesburg. There is a fish farm, a trout farm, the Buffelspoort Holiday Resort, antique shops, a game lodge and a lion park, steam train rides and art galleries. The Magaliesburg region of Gauteng offers just about any tourist attraction and outdoor activity that you can imagine, and has become probably the most regularly visited region by the people of Gauteng.
Magaliesburg, nestled in the foothills of the ancient Magaliesberg mountains in the West Rand of Gauteng, South Africa, offers a variety of activities and sights for visitors. Here are five recommended things to do and see:
1. Magaliesberg Canopy Tour
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops of the Magaliesberg mountains. This canopy tour takes you on a series of slides between platforms built high within the forest canopy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery and a unique perspective on the area's flora and fauna.
2. Maropeng and the Cradle of Humankind
Visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre, the official visitor center for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. This area is renowned for its rich paleoanthropological significance, with numerous fossil sites that have yielded some of the oldest hominid fossils ever discovered. The interactive exhibits and guided tours provide a fascinating insight into human evolution.
3. Hot Air Ballooning
Take a hot air balloon ride over the Magaliesberg range and the Cradle of Humankind. The early morning flights offer a serene and majestic view of the landscape, often followed by a champagne breakfast upon landing. This is a perfect activity for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a peaceful adventure.
4. Bill Harrop's Original Balloon Safaris
Another option for hot air ballooning, Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris provides a highly professional and memorable experience. Soaring high above the countryside, you’ll get panoramic views of the Magaliesberg mountains, farmlands, and rivers, making for an unforgettable start to your day.
5. Mountain Sanctuary Park
For nature lovers and hikers, Mountain Sanctuary Park offers pristine trails through indigenous forests, crystal-clear mountain pools, and stunning rock formations. It’s a great spot for picnicking, bird watching, and exploring the natural beauty of the Magaliesberg mountains.
These activities provide a diverse mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty, making Magaliesburg a wonderful destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.