Fun for Under R200: The Best Budget Adventures in Johannesburg

There’s something magical about discovering a city on a budget. In Johannesburg, that magic lives in unexpected places — a hidden roller rink, a mountaintop Ferris wheel, a tree-top zipline, or even a Viking-inspired axe-throwing arena. And believe it or not, you can experience all of that and more without breaking the R200 mark.

Here’s how to have a rich experience in Joburg — without spending more than a couple of hundred bucks.

 Ride High at the Waterfall City Ferris Wheel

Perched beside the Mall of Africa, the Waterfall City Ferris Wheel is more than just a ride — it’s a moving postcard view of Midrand. With 26 gondolas slowly rotating 30 meters in the sky, it offers a gentle, awe-inspiring way to see the city from above.

If you’re with kids, there’s an entire fairground with small rides starting from just R20. But let’s be honest, adults can’t resist a ride on the teacups or a whirl on the carousel either.

Cost: R20 per ticket 
Where: Waterfall Park, Mall of Africa, Midrand
When to Go: Weekends are vibey, but weekday mornings mean fewer queues.

Roll Back Time at RollEgoli

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Nestled in Bryanston, RollEgoli is the kind of throwback gem you only find if you’re in the know. This retro roller rink opened in 2015 and brings back the joy of skating with a community twist. Whether you’re gliding like a pro or holding onto the railings for dear life, you’re welcome here.

Beyond the rink, there’s a garden space with trampolines, jungle gyms, and scooter tracks — ideal for families or even just a chilled hangout with friends.

Cost: R110 entry | R40 skate rental
Where: 296 Main Rd, Bryanston
Pro tip: No bookings needed. Just pull up and roll.

Sip Boutique Wines in Craighall or Fourways

For less than R200, you can indulge in an expertly curated wine tasting at either Gerakaris Family Wines or Eighteen13 Wine Shop.

Gerakaris, tucked away in Craighall Park, is an intimate, leafy escape offering local Syrah and Chenin Blanc tastings with an optional cheese board.

Meanwhile, Eighteen13 in Fourways prides itself on being unpretentious and proudly South African. Their tastings include boutique wines you won’t find at your local bottle store.

Cost: R100–R150
Booking: Required for Eighteen13; recommended for Gerakaris
Vibe: Chill, informative, and 100% local

Climb, Zip & Swing at Acrobranch Melrose

Acrobranch in Melrose brings out your inner adventurer. Think tightropes, ziplines, and forest bridges suspended in the treetops. Safety is tight (you’re clipped in the whole time), but the adrenaline is real.

With courses for both kids and adults, it’s an easy way to escape city noise without leaving the city.

Cost: R160 — R200 per person depending on the number of obstacles chosen
Bonus: Book online to secure your harness

Discover Science the Cool Way at Sci-Bono

Tucked in the heart of Newtown, Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is part museum, part interactive playground. Think: robots, light experiments, puzzles, and STEM-themed games that’ll make your inner child geek out.

It’s a family-friendly space but also surprisingly fun for adults (no judgement if you spend too long at the brain teaser wall).

Cost: R60 adults | R40 kids
Where: Cnr Miriam Makeba & President St, Joburg CBD
Hours: Open daily, 9am–4:30pm

Adventure Golf

Whether you call it mini-golf or putt-putt, Adventure Golf has been a staple Joburg pastime for decades. The trickling waterfalls, caves, and neat-as-a-pin courses are nostalgic yet still a fun challenge.

With locations across Randburg, Stoneridge, Fourways, and Hillfox, you’re never too far from a game.

Cost: R80 –R140
When: Until 10 pm on weekends
Great for: Dates, family outings, or proving you’re the putting champ of your crew.

Dig Into the Daily Harvest Table at Fresh Earth Café

For a wholesome, hearty meal under R150, head to Fresh Earth Café in Emmarentia. Their daily harvest table is a colourful spread of wild rice, lentil curries, freshly baked breads, salads, and more — all made with love and local produce.

It’s the kind of place where the staff know your name and your gut thanks you after.

Cost: R149 per plate
Where: 103 Komatie Rd, Emmarentia
When: From 11:30am daily
Local love: Health-conscious locals swear by it.

The Real Win? Quality Experiences Without Overspending

In a city as vibrant and culturally rich as Johannesburg, it’s easy to believe you need a big budget to have fun. But that’s just not true. With a bit of local knowledge and an adventurous spirit, you can enjoy a full day out for less than R200.

So skip the fancy bill and make real memories — on skates, in treetops, or over some good food and wine.

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