Johannesburg dogs might not have beaches, but they do have some beautiful parks, koppies and nature trails to explore. Hiking is a great workout for both you and your pup, but not every trail welcomes dogs.
From easy park walks to bushveld-style routes and splash-friendly dog parks, here are some of the best dog-friendly trails in and around Joburg.
Johannesburg Botanical Garden, Emmarentia
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden in Emmarentia is the original dog-walking favourite.
With paved paths, grass routes, ducks, shade and benches, it is an easy option for senior dogs, social pups and anyone who wants a relaxed walk followed by fresh air and coffee.
Weekday mornings are best, as weekends can get busy.
Dogs must be kept on a leash.
Entry fee: R30 for adults and R15 for children.
Delta Park, Blairgowrie
Delta Park is one of the largest parks in the Randburg area and offers an easy, open-air outing for dogs and their humans.
Expect wide fields, wooded trails and walking routes that link three tree-lined dams. The park also features a sensory trail, bird-viewing hides and the Florence Bloom Bird Sanctuary.
There is a dam for dogs who enjoy a splash, plus a café for a post-walk stop.
Entry is free.
Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, Roodepoort
Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is known for its waterfalls, large trees and grassy picnic spots.
The trails are wide, with plenty of shade, making it a good choice for summer mornings. You might also spot the resident Verreaux’s eagle pair while you walk.
Saturday mornings between 7am and 10am are best, as it can get busy later in the day.
Dogs must be kept on a leash and are not allowed to swim in the dams.
Entry fee: R70.
Kloofendal Nature Reserve, Roodepoort
Kloofendal Nature Reserve gives you a bushveld feel without leaving Joburg.
The trails include rocky ground and small koppies, making it a good option for high-energy dogs that enjoy sniffing and exploring. You might even spot zebra and blesbok from a distance.
The routes can be stony, so check your dog’s paws when you get home.
Entry is free, although guided walks with Friends of Kloofendal cost R50.
Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, Emmarentia
Melville Koppies offers some of the best views over Joburg, with beautiful wildflowers in spring.
Melville Koppies East is open daily for walks and socialised dogs are welcome. Melville Koppies West is also open daily, but it is advisable to walk only during scheduled walks.
A ranger leads the group, which helps keep everyone safe.
Bring water for your dog and wear a hat, as there is almost no shade on the koppie.
Entry fee: R100 per adult and R50 for under 18s.
Walkhaven Dog Park, Zwartkop
Walkhaven Dog Park is a dog-friendly escape with wide open spaces, scenic walking trails and dams where splash-loving pups can cool off.
For nervous dogs, The Barking Plot offers a private play area. There are also picnic spots and braai areas under shady trees, while The Dog Box Grill & Pizza Mutt is a dog-friendly restaurant.
Walkhaven also has The Collar Club, a private venue for dog parties, birthdays and gatherings.
Entry fee: R55 per adult and R40 for children and pensioners.
Before you go
Always check leash rules before visiting, carry water for your dog and keep an eye on their paws after rocky trails. Johannesburg has plenty of outdoor spots where dogs can stretch their legs, sniff new smells and enjoy a proper adventure.
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