Named after the South African Boer politician, Willem Eduard Bok, Boksburg is a lively city enveloped by Johannesburg’s urban sprawl. It was once dominated by highveld farms before the discovery of gold in 1887 and the settlement went on to become an important coal mining hub.
Things to do in Boksburg
You can enjoy a classic South African “braai” in Bokkie Park, a community green space and a popular spot for picnicking on the weekends. Kids can let loose in the children’s playground or meet friendly animals in the on-site petting zoo while birdwatchers can spot waterfowl in the pond. Bokkie Park also hosts a monthly market where locally made arts and crafts are sold.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you can cool off in the swimming pools of Wild Waters, which is located in the far north of Boksburg. In addition to its thrilling waterslides, there’s a super tube, a raging rapids river ride and a family-friendly wave pool. Nearby is the East Rand Mall, which is packed with big-name brand retailers, global eateries and a cinema complex.
On the eastern edge of Boksburg is the Korsman Bird Sanctuary, a 100-hectare preserve that was once used as a hunting ground by the San people. It provides a habitat for more than 250 bird species, including black egrets, goliath herons and African spoonbills. Follow the two-kilometre-long verge trail that rings the sanctuary and offers sightings of water mongoose and a variety of butterflies.
Getting around Boksburg
Boksburg is around 25 minutes’ drive from the centre of Johannesburg and 20 minutes from O.R. Tambo International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Boksburg and travel throughout the city. Minibus taxis are also readily available for getting around.