Hartbeespoort Dam Area

Just a short westward drive out of Joburg you'll find yourself in some of the most serene and beautiful natural surroundings that will rival most places in the country - in the heart of the Magaliesberg mountains.

This area has been declared a biosphere, the Magaliesberg Biosphere, where the Mountains are a Protected Area and land below them are a Buffer Zone.

Over the years, plenty of tourist attractions have sprung up in the Buffer Zone around the Hartbeespoort Dam and the Village. So this little gem, which is an easy drive from the city, is surely not to be missed. When you feel like you need a break from the fast-paced hustle and bustle of Jozi, it makes perfect sense to unwind in the outdoors, and few places will be able to satisfy your craving for nature as well as the Magaliesberg. More recently the mountain Guest Houses and Resorts have become more popular with Gauteng residents, and a host of adventure activities are now available for the urbanites, within an easy drive away.

The Hartbeespoort Dam, lies at the foothills of the Magaliesberg mountain range, and is a popular destination for people from Joburg and Pretoria wanting to get away from suburbia for a day - or even a weekend. All water sport activities may be enjoyed including para-sailing, windsurfing, water and jet skiing. However, the water quality is at times not up to specification, and so angling and swimming is not always recommended. For the more adventurous, hang-gliding or hot air ballooning are available, but for those preferring a more relaxing day, the village of Hartbeespoort, which is situated along the shores of the dam, offers markets, an aquarium, private zoo, a snake park and a cable way to explore.

Accommodation in this part of the Magaliesberg region is plentiful, with everything from rustic campsites, to budget-friendly Bed and Breakfasts and even decadent, luxurious lodging. In recent years, planning a few days out of the city has never been easier and visitors are offered a number activities, accommodation options, and restaurants. 

Places and sightseeing spots around the Hartebeespoort Dam

The Buffeslpoort Valley lies between the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg Mountains and a line of low hills that shield it from the N4 highway. Once you are in this Valley it is so still and beautiful that you could never imagine that you were only just over an hour away from the hustle and bustle of City life. The Valley forms the catchment area of the Buffelspoort Dam, and it has been long known that it is safe to drink the water from any mountain stream in the area. It’s places like this in the Magaliesberg, where spectacular valleys, rivers, lakes and indigenous forests combine to make one of the most worthwhile day trips away from the city. 

Whether you're looking for an adrenaline packed afternoon on a Canopy Tour or hiking up the mountains, or for eating a scrumptious meal and treating yourself to a luxurious spa, chances are, you’ll find it here. Even angling for bass, swimming, and boating in the clear waters of the Buffelspoort Dam are awaiting you. There is plenty to do here, so be warned that a casual day trip might quickly turn into an extended weekend stay.

Places and sightseeing spots around the Buffelspoort Dam