By Jessica Morelock
Located in South
Africa, Johannesburg is the third largest city on the African continent. Its size, coupled with the fact that it is the economic hub of Africa, lends to a culturally diverse city which has much to offer its visitors. If you are planning a family trip to South Africa, you will find that there are several fun activities to do with children in Johannesburg and its surrounding area.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City, combining education and fun, is a theme park which was constructed around an authentic gold mine from the late 1800s. In addition to riding over 20 theme park rides, children will enjoy a gold pouring demonstration and panning for gold when they visit the historic part of the park.
Gold Reef City Theme Park
Tel: (011) 248-6800
Fax: (011) 248-6863
www.goldreefcity.co.za
Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
The Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve is located just outside of Johannesburg in Gauteng, South Africa. Your children will scoff at the thought of going to the zoo, when they find out about all of the animals that they can see at the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. In addition to rhinos and lions, cheetahs, tigers they can view a variety of other animals which are native to the area in their natural habitat. The Reserve also has a children's playground.
Tel: (011) 9570-1096
www.nature-reserve.co.za
Croc City Crocodile Farm
For an opportunity to learn about and see one of the world's most dangerous predators, take your children to Croc City, which is located just north of Johannesburg. The friendly staff gives tours and shares information about crocodiles. Although it is an educational experience, the largest draw of Croc City is the opportunity to hold a baby crocodile.
Croc City Crocodile Farm
Tel: (083) 657-7561 / (083) 321-1016
Fax: (086) 672 -6719
www.croccity.co.za
Dirt Ryder Adventures Park
If your children enjoy adventurous outdoor activities, they will be ecstatic when you take them to Dirt Ryder Adventures Park where they can ride go-karts, play paintball and play sand volleyball. There is also a Kiddie Track and Kiddie Play center for children under the age of 12.
Farm ME 12B Pelindaba Rd,
Lanseria
P.O Box 786832
Sandton 2146
Tel: (071) 677-8673
www.dirtryders.co.za
Honeydew A-maize-ing Mazes
Honeydew A-maize-ing Mazes is home to several different types of human mazes which are enjoyed by all ages. Their Maize Maze is the most famous, but it is closed until early 2010. When you visit you will have to try out your problem solving skills on Honeydew's Elemental Maze, Rope Maze, Labyrinth Maze or Indigenous Maze.
Honeydew A-maize-ing Mazes
82 Boland Street
P.O. Box 3911
Honeydew 2040 South Africa
Tel:(010) 222-0075 or (073) 795-2174
Fax: (086) 554-9015
www.honeydewmazes.co.za
Resources
About the Author:
Jessica Morelock began her professional writing career in 2007, after a three-year stint as a producer and co-host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She has also worked for the airline industry and as a travel agent. She completed a bachelor's degree in political science at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
