Eight charming small towns to escape Johannesburg for a weekend

Looking to swap Joburg’s city noise for country calm? According to The South African, eight small towns within a few hours’ drive offer everything from mountain scenery and birdwatching to historic streets and riverside cafés perfect for day trips or weekend escapes.

Quick guide: what to expect

These destinations range from short drives to longer road trips. Each town brings a distinct character historic sites, outdoor activities, arts and cafés giving travellers near Johannesburg simple options when they need a break.

Towns to consider

Cullinan about 45 minutes

Historic buildings, cafés, antique shops and South Africa’s famous diamond mine make Cullinan one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Johannesburg.

The South African

Dullstroom around 2½ hours

Whether you’re visiting in winter for roaring fireplaces or summer for trout fishing, Dullstroom is an ideal choice for a scenic weekend destination.

The South African

Clarens around 3½ hours

Mountain views, art galleries and excellent restaurants have made Clarens one of South Africa’s best-loved small towns.

The South African

Parys around 1½ hours

Situated on the banks of the Vaal River, Parys offers riverside cafés, art galleries, antique shops and plenty of outdoor activities.

The South African

Kaapschehoop around 4 hours

Wild horses, dramatic viewpoints and cool mountain air make Kaapschehoop feel wonderfully different from Johannesburg.

The South African

Wakkerstroom around 3 hours

Quiet, scenic and surrounded by rolling grasslands, Wakkerstroom is perfect for birdwatchers and travellers looking to completely switch off.

The South African

Rosendal around 3½ hours

Artists, cafés and sandstone scenery have quietly turned Rosendal into one of the Free State’s hidden gems.

The South African

Magaliesburg around 1 hour

Close enough for a day trip but peaceful enough for a weekend away, Magaliesburg offers hiking, spas, markets and beautiful countryside.

The South African

Choosing your escape

Pick a destination based on how far you want to drive and what kind of break you need: short drives suit riverside cafés and markets, while longer trips open up mountain scenery, birdwatching and arts-focused villages. Each town listed above is presented by The South African as a near-Johannesburg option for a quiet weekend or a day out.