Not everyone is privileged enough to go overseas for the holiday or pay a visit to our wonderful coastal areas. On the other hand, some of us prefer to stay in Gauteng during silly season. That is why I will highlight the top 5 things to do in Gauteng if you are staying put.
Nelson Mandela Square
With the recent passing of our old president Nelson Mandela, I have to put Nelson Mandela Square up as my number one. The Nelson Mandela Square is situated in Sandton and emphasizes a European styled heritage and celebrates international style with true African hospitality.
Be part of exclusive shopping and some really fine dining. Be sure to take a picture of the Nelson Mandela statue and post it on our Facebook wall when you are there.
Cullinan Diamond Mine
Cullinan is a small town just east of Pretoria, Gauteng. This town is originally named after Sir Thomas Cullinan. In 1905 Cullinan made history by recording the world’s largest diamond (3 106 carats), that was discovered by Frederick George Stanley Wells.
There is a lot of tourist activity going on in Cullinan, from gorge sliding and horse riding, to tours to some museums about the history of Cullinan. If you just want to go through for a quick lunch and some tasteful beer, make sure you pay a visit to the Cockpit Brewhouse.
Melrose House
This stately mansion is located in the heart of Pretoria. It was built in 1886 by a prosperous businessman, George Jesse Heys. The Melrose house is named after the famous Melrose Abbey in Scotland.
Today, this elegant mansion is a wonderful historic house museum and every once in while they host an antique fair that is quite fun. Make sure to pay a visit to that historical landmark when you are traveling through the Pretoria inner city. You will be surprised with all the gems that you can find.
Horseback Africa
If you are looking to go horse riding, walking with lions, or taking stunning photographs of wildlife safaris, then Horseback Africa is just the place to visit. If you want something more sporty, don’t worry! You can also play polo.
Saddle up for this astonishing experience. Enjoy the freedom of being on horseback and viewing nature at its best.
Horseback Africa are also involved in numerous wildlife conservation initiatives, so head on over there and see how you can get involved.
Voortrekker Monument
If you want to trace back your Afrikaner roots, then you should pay a visit to the Voortrekker Monument. The Monument is located just south of Pretoria. You can’t miss this massive structure that is prominently located on a hilltop.
If you are paying a visit to Gauteng this coming long weekend, then you will be in luck! You will be able to view the Cenotaph. The Cenotaph is located in the centre of the Cenotaph Hall which is also the central focus of the monument. Annually on the 16th of December, at noon, you will be able to see a ray of sunshine that shines through an opening in the roof, and falling on top of the Cenotaph.
There you go! The top 5 things to do when you are planning to be in Gauteng this holiday season.
