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TThe city of gold is green. Johannesburg, best known throughout the world for its rich mineral wealth, is also blessed with another natural treasure: more trees grow in this city than in any other urban centre in the southern hemisphere.
When you arrive in green Johannesburg by air, you’ll be astonished to see a verdant forest below you, stretching almost as far as the eye can see. It’s not what one expects from South Africa's commercial hub. Beneath that seemingly endless greenery is a densely populated, highly industrialised city. So how did this urban metropolis gain its green credentials?
There were virtually no trees in Johannesburg when it first emerged as a small town. The discovery of gold, however, heralded the arrival of mining companies, and mines needed strong wood to prop up their shafts.
A horticultural centre was founded at Zoo Lake – still a favoured leisure spot for locals – where saplings were tested for strength. Eucalyptus trees, commonly known as bluegums, were found to be most suited to this task and were planted en masse. The populace chose more attractive trees for their gardens, and the streets of spreading suburbia were planted with pepper, oak, jacaranda and plane trees.
Thus, Johannesburg’s forest took root and today, on satellite pictures, you may struggle to tell the difference between Johannesburg and a rainforest. Most original trees planted were exotic species, partly because the settlers found them familiar and partly because indigenous trees, which tend to be thorny, were not suitable for gardens or for lining streets.
But now South Africa’s Working for Water project has taken on the task of eradicating harmful alien trees that lower the water table and actively supports growing trees that aid the environment. Many indigenous plantings are replacing the city’s thirsty eucalyptus and jacaranda species.
If you need a break from city life, then choose to stroll in any one of Johannesburg's 2 000-plus parks, all overseen by Johannesburg City Parks.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Johannesburg City Parks
Tel: +27 (0)11 712 6600
How to get here
You will find public parks and gardens in just about every suburb. Check out the City Parks website to find your closest one.
Best time to visit
Spring and summer are best as the trees are at their most luscious and green.
Get around
On foot in the parks
What to pack
Lots of sunscreen and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore green Johannesburg on foot.
Where to stay
Perhaps the best observation point for viewing Johannesburg’s trees is at the Four Seasons Westcliff Hotel, set high on the ridge opposite the Johannesburg Zoo. It also happens to be one of the city's finest hotels.
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