Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway: The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide, Review & Insider Tips
Quick Glance:
- Location: Magaliesberg Mountains, near Hartbeespoort Dam, less than 1 hour from Sandton
- Main Attractions: Aerial cable cars, Sky Park, Two-Seater Chair Lift, Dassie Walk, kids’ zone, mountain biking, scenic restaurants
- Ticket Price: From R160pp (Book on Webtickets)
- Open Days: Wed–Sun (Closed Mon/Tue)
- Website: hartiescableway.co.za
- Contact: 012 253 9910 / 079 023 3012
Why Visit Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway?
Hidden within the Magaliesberg Mountains, Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway isn’t just a cable car experience—it’s a complete day trip destination. Less than an hour from Sandton, it’s accessible yet offers that glorious ‘out-of-city’ feeling.
Why it stands out:
- Longest mono-cableway in Africa
- Weatherproof and load-shedding-resistant
- Panoramic views of the Hartbeespoort Dam
- Activities for all ages
- Incredible restaurants and outdoor adventures
“What blew me away was how the cableway combines thrill and tranquility in one spot. It’s a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively.” — My visit in March.
My Experience: A Ride Above the Clouds
The ride to the top in a fully enclosed four-seater cabin was smooth, silent, and breathtaking. I opted for the two-seater on the way down—a wind-in-your-face, legs-dangling thrill ride.
What I noticed instantly:
- The cabins were spotless and modern.
- The ascent was gradual, perfect for taking photos.
- There was no waiting time despite a weekend crowd.
“Watching the sun glint off the dam as birds soared beneath me—it’s the closest I’ve come to flying.”
PRO TIP: If you’re visiting during peak hours, try to get in line early for the two-seater experience.
Ticket Prices, Booking Info & Opening Hours
Ticket Pricing Table:
| Ticket Type | Price (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Adult | R160 | Ages 13+ |
| Children (4–12 yrs) | R105 | |
| Senior Citizens | R105 | With ID |
| Kids under 4 | Free | Must be accompanied |
Booking Site: Webtickets
Opening Hours:
| Day | Opening Time | Last Ride Up | Last Ride Down |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday–Friday | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM | 4:30 PM |
| Saturday/Public Hols | 9:00 AM | 4:30 PM | 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM | 4:30 PM |
| Monday–Tuesday | CLOSED | — | — |
Sky Park: High-Flying Family Adventure
South Africa’s only four-level Sky Park is perched right at the summit. Whether you’re clambering over rope bridges or zipping across from platform to platform, this isn’t your average jungle gym.
Features:
- 40 different climbing, crawling, and soaring challenges
- Dual zip lines from either side of the platform
- Safety harnesses and trained supervisors
“Our kids couldn’t get enough of it! Even we adults joined in the zipline fun—it was hilarious and humbling.”
Great For: Teens, families, adventure groups.
Kids Zone: Mountain-Top Fun for Children
Perfectly curated for younger children, the Kids Zone offers:
- Jungle gyms
- Slides and climbing nets
- Ice cream parlour (huge hit with mine!)
- On-site staff for safety
“This gave me the chance to unwind with a cappuccino while watching my daughter laugh herself silly.”
Two-Seater Chair Lift: For Open-Air Thrill Seekers
Want something a little more daring than a glass pod? Try the Two-Seater Chair Lift. You’re suspended in the open air, legs dangling, wind in your hair.
Why it’s different:
- Fully open-air (no cabin)
- Great for photo ops
- More immersive and less crowded
“It felt like paragliding—but calmer. The openness gave me a totally different view of the dam.”
The Dassie Walk: Scenic Trail on the Summit
This 1.2km paved loop wraps around the top of the mountain, providing access to:
- Viewing decks
- Benches to rest and reflect
- Educational signs about local wildlife and geography
Ideal for:
- Morning or sunset strolls
- Low-impact exercise
- Casual photography
Mountain Biking Trails: Adrenaline with a View
The bike trails offer a unique combination of rocky inclines, downhill rushes, and forested paths.
Trail Highlights:
- Routes for beginners to pros
- Scenic viewpoints along the way
- Bring your own gear or rent nearby
“I’m no pro biker, but even I managed a trail and the views at the peak stopovers were so worth it.”
Food & Drink: Where to Eat at the Summit
Restaurant Highlights:
| Restaurant | Type | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Hero | Upscale Dining | Local cuisine with gourmet presentation |
| Farm to Fork | Casual Fine Dining | Organic, family-friendly menu |
| Exception illy | Café | Coffee, pastries, light lunches |
| Pizza Shack | Fast Casual | Wood-fired artisan pizzas |
| The Lookout Deck | Bar + Lounge | Cocktails & craft beers + stunning view |
“The pizza was legit—crispy crust, generous toppings. Bonus: the kids devoured it without complaint.”
Getting There: Directions & Parking Info
Address: R511, Hartbeespoort, North West, South Africa
Parking: On-site secure parking available
Drive Time: Approx. 45–55 mins from Sandton or Pretoria
Map: Google Maps – Hartbeespoort Cableway
User Tips & Insider Recommendations
Tips from My Visit:
- Bring sunscreen & a hat—it’s high altitude.
- Go mid-week to avoid crowds.
- Ride up with the closed cabin, ride down with the two-seater.
- Pack a light jacket; summit can get windy.
FAQs (Tap to Expand)
Is the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway safe?
Yes, the cableway is Swiss-designed and maintained to the highest international safety standards. The gondolas are fully enclosed, weather-resistant, and regularly inspected. Trained staff are also available at all loading and unloading points.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Booking online via Webtickets is highly recommended, especially on weekends and public holidays, to avoid queues or disappointment.
Is the cableway operational during load shedding or rain?
Absolutely! The Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway is load-shedding proof and continues to operate in light to moderate weather conditions. Operations may be temporarily paused only during severe weather for safety reasons.
How long is the ride on the cableway?
The ride to the summit takes approximately 6-8 minutes, offering sweeping views of the Magaliesberg Mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam throughout the journey.
Are pets allowed on the cableway?
No, pets are not permitted on the cable cars or within the Sky Park and restaurant areas, with the exception of registered service animals.
Is the cableway free on your birthday?
Yes! South African citizens can ride for free on their birthday. You must bring your valid South African ID or birth certificate to redeem this offer. Terms and conditions apply.
What are the best times to visit the Harties Cableway?
Arrive early—between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM—to enjoy shorter queues and cooler weather. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
What should I wear or bring along?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes, especially if you plan to explore the Dassie Walk or Sky Park. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are also a must!
Are there food and drinks available at the top?
Yes, the summit hosts a range of restaurants and cafes including Hero, Farm to Fork, The Lookout Deck, and Pizza Shack. Whether you’re craving a craft beer or wood-fired pizza, there’s something for everyone.
Is the Harties Aerial Cableway wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the base station and summit are wheelchair-friendly. However, not all walking trails or adventure features (like the Sky Park) are suitable for wheelchair users.
Can I host an event or party at the cableway?
Definitely! The venue caters to corporate events, team-building sessions, birthdays, and even intimate weddings. Contact them via [email protected] for packages and availability.
What is the difference between the enclosed cable cars and the new two-seater chair lift?
The enclosed gondolas offer a sheltered ride and are ideal for families and groups. The two-seater chair lift provides a breezier, open-air ride with your legs dangling—perfect for adventurous souls or couples.
Where exactly is the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway located?
It’s located in Hartbeespoort, less than an hour from Sandton, Gauteng. Get directions via Google Maps.
Are there age or height restrictions for the Sky Park?
Yes. Sky Park participants must be at least 1.2 meters tall and 6 years old. Safety gear is provided and mandatory. Trained staff supervise all activities.
Can I bring my own food or picnic?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed. The on-site dining options are affordable and offer a variety of cuisines and snacks for all tastes.
Final Thoughts & Review
My Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
This is more than just a ride—it’s a full-on adventure destination. From peaceful mountaintop walks to adrenaline-pumping Sky Park moments, it caters to every type of traveler.
Would I go again? In a heartbeat.
“If you’re in Joburg or Pretoria and don’t visit Hartbeespoort Cableway at least once, you’re truly missing out on one of SA’s most scenic experiences.”
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
