Hartbeespoort Dam

Hartbeespoort provides a holiday haven, a fun diversion for the fast living population of Gauteng. There is a marvellous array of entertainment, from outdoor activities to amusement parks and animal sanctuaries. It is the place for lovers of Watersports, with sailing, boating, water skiing, windsurfing, and jet skiing available. The Transvaal Yacht Club, is a beautiful sight with the yachts moored and dotted about on the dam, and has been there since 1923. One can also hire canoes, boats, or book a weekend on a yacht.There are a variety of leisure and speed Boat cruises. One of the few Inland Sea Rescue Institute stations is based here, their mission is to save lives on any South African waters.

Many spots around the dam are suitable for family picnics and braais. There are Animal parks and Sanctuaries, nearby reserves have leopards, jackals, genets, cheetahs, hyenas, sables and giraffes. The Elephant Sanctuary allows one to get close to elephants and there are also an Aquarium, Snake park and Monkey and Bushbaby Sanctuary.

The Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway provides panoramic views of the ancient magical Magaliesberg mountains, 100 times older than the Himalayas. The Air Sports of Paragliding and Hang gliding are available for fantastic views. Bill Harrop’s Hot air Ballooning is popular, with spectacular views of game in reserves and the surrounding landscapes. Zwing Zwing Zip Lines with 10 platforms and 7 slides, also close to the dam, offers breathtaking views of the area.

Hiking trails over the peaceful hills and valleys around the dam is another popular activity. Bird watching and horse trails are also available. There are 4 scenic Golf courses, some on the banks of the dam, and some surrounded by the Magaliesberg mountains with indigenous vegetation. The dam has Art and craft, and Curio shops. Maropeng, Lesedi Cultural village and Sun City are nearby tourist attractions less than an hour’s drive away.

The climate is one of the best in the world, with year round sunshine. The temperature is between 16 and 29 degrees all year, with afternoon thunderstorms in summer, and sunny dry winters.