Summer is the perfect opportunity to plan an outing for one of the scrumptious picnics in Johannesburg and surrounds. The weather is stunning, the views are gorgeous, and in most cases, you can simply show up with everything else taken care of by the team. Pro tip – most experiences require booking at least 3 days in advance, so plan ahead. If you’re keen on making the most of the fair weather, see our top picnic experiences in Joburg.
Have we missed any of your favourite spots? Please let us know in the comments below or email [email protected]
Indaba Hotel
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
The team at Indaba Hotel in Fourways is giving you the ideal opportunity to make the most of fair weather with their Country-Style Picnics in Johannesburg. The menu offers two options for you to enjoy in the gardens and comes readily packed with picnic rugs and all the other essentials for you to choose your spot and set up.
Choose from a variety of charcuterie, sticky chicken wings, roast beef, and a mixed cheese selection with the Bespoke Box. Included in the box is an assortment of snacks, fresh baked goods, two desserts, and canned Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé and Merlot from Spier.
Each picnic basket serves two people, and soft drinks and beverages can be ordered at the hotel. Orders must be placed 6 hours before arrival.
Cost: Bespoke Picnic Box – R690 per couple | Gourmet Picnic Box – R575 per couple. Book via [email protected] or call 011 840 6600
When: Daily, from 11am to 4pm
Where: Indaba Hotel, Corner of William Nicol Dr and Pieter Wenning Rd, Fourways, Johannesburg
The Maslow Hotel
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
The Maslow Sandton Hotel welcomes guests to their monthly luxurious Sunday Society Picnics with Graham Beck. Sip on the finest Graham Beck bubbly while you indulge in meticulously crafted light meals for two in a picnic basket, from appetizers to decadent desserts. The picnic also features curated live music and engaging activities all set up in a vibrant atmosphere. A dress code and creative theme apply to each event.
Cost: From R750pp | R1 500 per couple | Book via Quicket
When: First Sunday of the month, see upcoming dates here
Where: The Maslow Hotel, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
Thaba Eco Hotel
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
The picnic encounters at Thaba Eco Hotel is something truly special, set in th tranquil nature surrounds of Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve in Joburg South. Dine in ultimate style as the team provide comfortable loungers, picnic tables, and shaded umbrellas for your relaxation.
The gourmet menu features a grazing box with inventive seasonal salads, salmon bagel, seared fillet panini, and dips, bread and a cheese board that will impress. End with a trio fo caramel and chocolate brownies. Water is included in the picnic, and drinks are for your own account.
Cost: From R950 for two, see menu here. Book via email [email protected]
When: On request
Where: Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, 46 Impala Rd, Johannesburg South
Casalinga Organic Farm
Need to know: Guests are required to bring their own picnic blanket and cushions
Make the most of Casalinga Organic Farm’s ample green space and try a casual picnic in the gardens. You can order meals from the restaurant and enjoy in your own space. “My farm to table journey started 12 years ago when I took part in my first slow food movement, my journey as a chef has grown more over the years with my experience of multiple cultural cuisines,” says Executive Chef Rausharn Griffon on the venue’s cuisine.
You’re welcome to bring your own blankets, even camping chairs and a table. The allocated “picnic” tables and chairs at Casalinga are limited.
Cost: Various
When: Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30am. Closed on Monday
Where: Plot 328 Rocky Ridge Rd, Muldersdrift
Lethabo Estate
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
Looking for the perfect spot to unwind for picnics in Johannesburg? The picnic spots at Lethabo Estate offer something truly special. The space is nestled by the riverbank with the sound of rapids in the background. You might even spot a Cape Clawless Otter.
The Gourmet Romantic Picnic baskets are set up on a private stretch of river, complete with a comfy mattress, cushions, and throws. For a touch of luxury, the Rapids, Aphrodite’s, Ophelia’s, and Fish Eagle picnic spots are totally private. Enclosed by tall reeds and trees, they feature thatched gazebos with dreamy setups—a double bed for lounging, mosquito nets, and a beautifully set table right by the water.
Their picnic fare is wholesome and delicious with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free also on offer.
Cost: From R435pp to R1800pp, see options here. Book via email [email protected] or call 082 654 1690
When: Daily, various times from 9am
Where: 25 Jukskeidrif Rd, Pretoria Rural, Lanseria
Ground the Venue
Need to know: Guests are required to bring their own picnic blanket and cushions
The gorgeous country-style setting at Ground the Venue in Muldersdrift is wonderful for all types of smaller celebrations or just a day out with family and friends. Escape the hustle of the city and take in the fresh countryside air.
On offer is a variety of different picnic options from child-friendly sets up your own picnic “vibe” to pre-set up tables in the Vineyard for special occasions. The team also offer a Boschendal and Boujee Picnic Experience that is a fun way to picnic “in style” and requires you to just sit back and relax. Guests can top up their picnic package with a wine tasting and you are also welcome to bring your furry friends along.
Cost: From R650 for two, see menu here. Book via email [email protected] or call 063 296 2274
When: On request
Where: Plot 19 Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
Greensleeves Johannesburg
Need to know: Guests are required to bring their own picnic blanket and cushions
Create your dream picnic with the amazing goodies from Greensleeves, Johannesburg’s famous medieval-themed restaurant. Their deli is packed with the best treats from South African food artisans. Think top-notch cured cold meats, handcrafted cheeses, tasty preserves, jams, pickles, relishes, fresh bread from their wood-fired oven, homemade pates, dips—you name it.
Pick your favourites for your basket, grab a bottle of wine, a craft beer, or some fresh juice, and chill out in their gorgeous gardens under the shade of ancient stinkwood trees. Got a sweet tooth? They’ve got handcrafted ice cream desserts and awesome coffee waiting for you too.
Cost: Order from Deli, various prices
When: Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, various times. Closed on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
Where: R563, Sterkfontein, Krugersdorp
Toadbury Hall Country Hotel
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
While exploring the ambling beauty of the Crocodile River, consider one of the picnic experiences at Toadbury Hall Country Hotel to take advantage of their idyllic outdoor dining. Sip on a glass of bubbly and tune down for a relaxing time spent with good company and good food.
The picnic offering features delectable dishes and a bottle of wine to share. Snack on delights that include smoked salmon rillette, beef sirloin and roasted lemon chicken. The dishes are served in elegant wicker picnic baskets, and the team provides blankets and cushions to ensure a relaxed, enjoyable and laid-back experience.
Cost: R450pp, see menu here. Book via email [email protected] or call 010 593 7523
When: Daily, from 11.30am to 3:30pm
Where: Toadbury Country Hall Hotel, Plot 64, Beyers Naude Drive, Elandsdrift
Avianto Estate
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
Dial up the glamour with relaxation at its finest with Avianto’s Exclusive Picnics, crafted for unforgettable moments in their enchanting gardens. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a friend or family outing, or a surprise gesture, this picnic menu is the perfect choice.
The setup comes complete with a TeePee tent, an umbrella and comfortable bean bags, and a decadent spread of al-fresco fare. Nibble on thyme-infused meatballs, salmon silvers, charcuteries, and homemade dips and bread with vegan options as well. A bottle of red, white, rose or sparkling wine is included in your picnic.
Cost: R1900 for two, see menu here. Book via email [email protected] or call 010 593 7523
When: On request
Where: 69 R114, Muldersdrift
Kievits Kroon
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
With its lush manicured lawns, beautiful rose beds, landscaped gardens and Cape Dutch-style Manor House, picnics at Kievits Kroon Country Estate in Pretoria are somewhat of a throwback to the wine estates of the Cape.
For a quiet, grown-up weekend escape, try the gourmet picnic baskets to savour on the lawns of the estate to celebrate a special occasion or for a spontaneous dining option with a difference.
Kievits Kroon’s team will supply your picnic blanket, cushions and a delicious basket of treats which include wraps, quiches, terrines, paté, smoked salmon, a selection of cold meats, salads and cheeses, fresh bread and a variety of fruit and desserts. Advance booking is essential.
Cost: R395pp, book via email [email protected] or call 012 819 8600
When: Daily, from 11am to 4pm
Where: 41 Reier Rd, Kameeldrift-East, Pretoria
Rosemary Hill
Need to know: Guests are required to bring their own picnic blanket and cushions
Escape to the countryside with a dreamy picnic at Rosemary Hill! Picture yourself surrounded by the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and cheerful birds as you dig into a delicious sharing box. Find the perfect spot on the farm and enjoy a relaxing time with family and friends.
The menu keeps it simple and wholesome, featuring grilled chicken ciabatta, cocktail riblets, chicken drumettes, dessert tapas, and homemade lemonade, with vegan and gluten-free options available too.
Everything comes packed in a wooden box with eco-friendly, biodegradable, and recyclable containers. Keep in mind, your picnic spot is yours to enjoy for up to 4 hours.
Cost: From R375pp and R650pp, see menu here. Book via Activitybridge
When: Daily, from 11am to 4pm
Where: 41 Reier Rd, Kameeldrift-East, Pretoria
Irene Country Lodge
Need to know: The offer includes a full setup including a picnic blanket and cushions
Having a picnic overlooking one of Gauteng’s most beautiful lakes is certainly a lovely way to spend an afternoon. The team at Irene Country Lodge stack their baskets with proudly South African treats. Think traditional koeksisters and biltong alongside chicken prego rolls, salmon and cream cheese wrap, and many more sweet and savoury creations. Family baskets are available with a special menu for the little ones.
Cost: From R550 for two, see menu here. Book online
When: On request
Where: Nellmapius Dr, Irene, Pretoria
