More travellers now want their trips to do some good: to protect wild places, support the people who live near them and leave as small a footprint as possible. You do not need to go far from the city to travel this way in Gauteng.
What green tourism means
Green tourism, or ecotourism, brings together four ideas: conservation, community, culture and commerce. The Mexican architect and environmentalist Héctor Ceballos-Lascuráin is credited with coining the term “ecotourism” in the 1980s. He described it as travel to relatively undisturbed natural areas to enjoy and appreciate nature, in a way that supports conservation, has a low impact and benefits local people.
In practice it covers nature travel, responsible travel and sustainable tourism, and it starts with small choices.
How to travel lightly
- Respect wildlife. It is their home: stay in your vehicle unless you are allowed out, and keep your distance when you take photos.
- Choose operators and lodges that put conservation first, and book directly or through a reputable agent.
- Buy local. Handmade crafts and food from local producers keep money in the community.
- Learn a little about local customs, and a few words of the local language. Your hosts will notice.
- Walk, cycle or use public transport such as the Gautrain where you can.
- Choose direct flights where possible, and pack a refillable water bottle.
Three places to try it in Gauteng
Dinokeng Game Reserve
About 40 minutes from Pretoria, Dinokeng is Gauteng’s only Big Five game reserve, and it is malaria-free. Its name means “a place of rivers” in the languages of the baTswana and baPedi people who traditionally lived here. The reserve sits within a growing metropolis and aims to show that people and wild animals can share the same landscape. You can stay in a lodge, a self-catering chalet or a campsite, and permit and conservation fees help fund the reserve.
One practical tip: the reserve has warned about fake social media adverts offering accommodation inside Dinokeng. Book directly with a lodge or through a reputable agency, and never pay an unverified account. Read more in our guide to Dinokeng Game Reserve, or see details on Visit Gauteng.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
On the edge of Roodepoort, this garden and nature reserve is built around a waterfall in a rocky gorge. About 240 bird species have been recorded here, and a breeding pair of Verreaux’s eagles nests on the cliffs near the waterfall. Walking trails, a restaurant and wide lawns make it an easy half-day trip. Details on Visit Gauteng.
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
In Pretoria’s eastern suburbs, this 76-hectare garden is a calm green space right in the city, with a waterfall, wetland and grassland areas and guided tours that explain South Africa’s plant life. It is a good choice for a slow morning walk or a family picnic. Details on Visit Gauteng.
Before you go
Check opening times, fees and any booking requirements with each venue before you set off, and take your rubbish home with you. If you are not sure whether a lodge or tour operator is genuine, ask the venue directly or book through an established agent.
