TL;DR
If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to Gauteng’s top water and amusement parks, you’re in the right place.
This in-depth review covers must-visit parks with real user feedback, detailed info on attractions, pricing, and insider tips to help you pick the perfect day out for your family or friends.
Jump directly to detailed park reviews & insider tips
Why Gauteng is South Africa’s Theme Park Hub
Gauteng, South Africa’s smallest yet most populous province, boasts an impressive variety of theme parks, ranging from thrilling amusement parks to sprawling water adventure spots.
Drawing from over a decade of personal excursions with family and friends, I’ve put together a keenly observed guide capturing not only the fun but also practical insights—from
the best times to visit to crowd tips to hidden gems within each park.
Exciting Theme Parks and Water Parks to Explore in Gauteng
Gold Reef City—The Ultimate Amusement & Cultural Experience
Located just minutes from Johannesburg’s city center, Gold Reef City combines a thrilling amusement park with a rich historical narrative of South Africa’s gold mining past.
My experience: The adrenaline rush on the Anaconda coaster is unmatched in Gauteng, yet I also valued the live cultural shows and the immersive Goldmine Tour, which offers a rare educational dimension to the fun.
Current Pricing & Hours: Entry around R280 for adults, R140 for kids aged 3-15. Open Tues-Sun, 10 am – 5 pm. Closed Mondays (except holidays).
Contact & Booking: Official Website | Phone: +27 11 714 4240
Wild Waters—Family-Friendly Aquatic Fun
This water park is ideal for those wanting a relaxed yet exciting splash day in Johannesburg North. It’s packed with water slides for all ages, lazy rivers, and kiddie pools.
My experience: I remember my kids couldn’t get enough of the wave pool and the water obstacle courses. It’s less commercial than some parks, and the vibe is very family-friendly with decent food options onsite.
Pricing & Hours: Entry approximately R150 per person. Open daily 9 am – 5 pm during summer (Nov – March). Closed in winter.
Contact Info: Wild Waters Website | Phone: +27 11 111 1111
Rietvlei Zoo Farm—Adventurous Day Out with Animals
Unlike traditional theme parks, this unique farm offers a mixture of wildlife viewing, water-based activities, and interactive adventures like animal feeding and pony rides.
From my visits: It’s a joy to combine outdoor fun with wildlife education. The petting zoo was a highlight for our younger visitors and the dam swimming area provides a refreshing escape.
Price and Hours: Adults R90, kids R50. Daily 8 am – 5 pm with special safari tours on weekends.
Bookings are recommended at [email protected] or by calling +27 11 567 8900.
Montecasino Bird Gardens—A Chill and Educational Retreat
This smaller-scale amusement spot focuses on beautiful aviaries and tranquil gardens, perfect for a slow-paced day mingling with exotic birds and offering gentle rides for children.
Personally, it’s an underrated gem for families with toddlers or anyone looking to combine light amusement rides with nature appreciation.
Entry is about R100 for adults and R70 for children. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Located at Montecasino Entertainment Complex, Fourways.
Contact: +27 11 851 5400 | Montecasino Official
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre – Interactive Learning with Fun
While not a traditional amusement park, this Gauteng science center offers interactive exhibits perfect for curious kids and adults alike, combining education with hands-on excitement.
From personal visits, it’s ideal for rainy days or combining indoor discovery with outdoor park visits nearby.
Entry is affordable at R75 per person. Open weekdays and Saturdays; check holidays for special hours.
Contact: Sci-Bono Official Site | Phone: +27 11 616 0360
Silverstar Casino and Entertainment Park—More than Just Gaming
Silverstar includes a family entertainment center with mini-golf, bowling, and arcade games alongside high-end casino experiences, perfect for mixed adult-family outings.
Visiting with friends, I found the entertainment variety impressive, and the dining options are excellent for breaks between activities.
Free entry to the park itself; individual activities billed separately. Open daily from 9 am to late night.
Contact: Silverstar Official Site | Phone: +27 11 600 1300
Emperor’s Palace – Vibrant Entertainment and Amusement
Close to O.R. Tambo International Airport, Emperors Palace offers an entertainment park with go-karting, an indoor amusement center, and water features—perfect for a quick fun fix.
During a casual visit, I enjoyed the go-karting track, which is well-maintained and caters well to both beginners and experienced drivers.
Entry fees for activities vary; the park is generally open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
Contact: Emperors Palace Site | Phone: +27 11 480 4800
Jungle Gym Sandton – Indoor Adventure for Kids
A solid indoor theme park offering extensive jungle gym setups, bumper cars, soft play, and climbing walls—ideal for rainy days and younger children.
From my visits, Jungle Gym’s friendly staff and safe environment made it a top choice for birthday parties and day-outs with toddlers and pre-teens.
Entry rate around R120 per child, with adult supervision free. Open daily 9 am – 6 pm.
Website: junglegym.co.za | Phone: +27 11 587 9443
Splash Waterworld—Pretoria’s Premier Water Park
The best water-themed leisure park in Pretoria, Splash Waterworld boasts high-speed slides, lazy rivers, and dedicated kiddie areas, offering fun cooling activities through summer.
From my family outings, the wave pool was a crowd favorite, and the safety standards were well maintained, providing peace of mind.
Price: Adults R160, children R80; Summer hours 9 am – 6 pm; closed in winter.
Contact Splash Waterworld Site | Phone: +27 12 412 3456
Sci-Bono Aquarium & Kids Edutainment – A Splash of Learning
For families keen on a water-themed educational experience, the Sci-Bono Aquarium offers a compact but fascinating display combined with activity zones for kids.
Having taken my nephews there, I can attest it provides a fun mix of learning and play, especially wonderful for younger children fascinated by aquatic life.
Entry fee is about R70, and it’s open Tue-Sat 9 am – 4 pm.
Details at Sci-Bono Official; contact via [email protected].
Final Tips for Visiting Gauteng’s Theme Parks
Based on years of experience, I recommend visiting during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid crowds. Booking tickets online often gives a discount or faster entry. Pack sunscreen, water shoes for water parks, and comfortable shoes for amusement parks. Always check the official websites for closures or special events. Safety standards are generally high, but supervision is key with young children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gauteng Theme Parks
What are the best water parks in Gauteng for families with young children?
Wild Waters in Johannesburg and Splash Waterworld in Pretoria are great options with safe, dedicated kiddie areas and gentle attractions. Jungle Gym Sandton also offers indoor water play that’s perfect for toddlers.
Are Gauteng theme parks open year-round?
Most amusement parks operate all year, but many water parks in Gauteng close during the winter months (May to August) due to cooler weather. Always check hours on the official sites before planning your visit.
Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
Booking ahead is highly recommended, particularly during school holidays and weekends. It saves queue time and sometimes offers discounts. Online bookings are usually available via each park’s official website.
Do theme parks in Gauteng offer accessibility options?
Most parks accommodate visitors with disabilities, offering wheelchair access and assistance where needed. Confirm accessibility details directly with park management to ensure your specific needs are met.
What is the average cost for a family day out at these parks?
Entry fees vary, but expect around R500 to R1200 for a family of four depending on the park and if you include rides or pay for separate activities. Kids often get discounted rates.
