Go into The Wilds

The Wilds is undoubtedly one of Joburg’s most beautiful natural spaces and, with hectares of indigenous plants and vistas over the city, is a glorious spot to host a romantic picnic.

Until recently, the park was considered a no-go zone, and it grew into a tangled mesh of foliage while the waterways and buildings fell into a state of disrepair. Enter James Delaney, artist and champion of the park. James lives in an apartment next door to The Wilds and took it upon himself to begin clearing plants and motivating others to lend a hand in fixing fences and painting benches, separating and donating indigenous foliage, restoring the entrance, greenhouse and waterways, and generally reclaiming the park for its community. It’s an ongoing process but with support from local schools, businesses and citizens gaining momentum, the park is on its way to returning to its well-deserved position as Joburg’s darling. While dog walkers and ramblers have returned, you can still find a quiet spot for just the two of you.

DO IT Stick to the restored western section of The Wilds, which has guarded parking off Houghton Drive. The eastern section is still overgrown and potentially unsafe.