Apparently time travel doesn’t exist yet, or does it? A trip to Gold Reef City will get you wondering! This turn of the century time capsule will have you pinching yourself to make sure you aren’t dreaming.

The Gold Reef City theme park is constructed on an old gold mine that closed down in 1971. Gold was first discovered in Joburg in 1886, flooding the economy with new prospects and possibilities.

Gold Reef City has come a long way since the days of mining for gold, however the park has ensured that the history and architecture are maintained. Even the Gold Reef City staff are dressed to fit the theme set by the Victorian styled houses straight out of the 1800’s.

Any true South African knows how to find a good deal or discount, we have put together the best way to get the most from your Rands at Gold Reef City.

Gold Reef City falls under the Tsogo Sun brand, and like its cousins in entertainment, Gold Reef City continues to bring nothing but excellence to their name. Members of certain programmes and loyalty rewards will receive discounts on various things from accommodation to park entrance fees and more.

• Map: download the map here
• Operating Hours:
  • The Park is closed every Monday and Tuesday except during Gauteng school holidays.
  • 9:30am - 5pm
• Contact Details:
  • 011 248 6986
• Address: Northern Pkwy & Data Cres, Johannesburg
• More Info: Website

Gold Reef City Entrance Fees

Gold Reef City offers different prices for riders and non-riders with special deals for school groups and packages.

• R210 - Thrill Rider (Must be taller than 1.3m)
• R120 - Non-Rider (Must be taller than 1.3m)
• R130 - Rider (Under 1.3m)
• R175 - Pensioners (Incl. Thrill Rides if capable)
• FREE - Children (Under 3 years of age)

Gold Reef City Packages

The park caters to large and small groups with school often requesting tours they have put together some excellent value for money packages available to students and families alike.

School tours are only run from Wednesday to Friday from 9am - 3pm, outside of school holidays. Members of SunRands reward programme receive future discounts when staying or dining with Southern Sun brands.

• Family Ticket
  • R535, 2 Adults + 2 Children under 1.3m
• Preschool Fun Day (Kiddies Corner Rides and Attractions)
  • R100 per student (Preschool Only)
• Heritage Tour + Rides
  • R130 per student - (Grades 1 to 4)
  • R160 per student - (Grades 5 to 12)
• Heritage Tour
  • R100 per student - (Grades 1 to 12)
• Rides Only
  • R100 per student - (Grades 1 to 4)
  • R140 per student - (Grades 5 to 12)
• SunRands Rewards Programme: Join
• Bookings: here

Gold Reef City Specials

Reward Card Holders at Gold Reef City enjoy exclusive rewards and discounts on an array of activities the park offers. Becoming a member is free and easy and allows you some added discounts on things to do at Gold Reef City.

• Register to become a Reward Card Holder: here
• Reward Card Holders:
  • Above 1.3m:
    • R160 - Gold Cardholder
    • R140 - Platinum Cardholder
    • R120 - Black Cardholder
  • Under 1.3m:
    • R100 - Gold Cardholder
    • R90 - Platinum Cardholder
    • R80 - Black Cardholder
• Student Thrill Rider:
  • R175 - (Upon presentation of a valid student card)

Gold Reef City Tours

It is said to be the only history lesson you will actually enjoy, tours are catered to all ages and you are sure to leave having learnt something new. There are 2 tour options available at Gold Reef City; the Heritage Tour / Jozi Story of Gold tour (STO) and the Mine Tour.

The STO tour will transport you all the way back to 1889, when the gold rush began. The tour will begin with an introductory film which features 2 bots exploring the history and story of how Gold Reef City began.

Tour goers will then descend 75 meters underground where they can experience gold mining in its true form, you can expect to pan for gold in the clear cold underground waters followed by the treat of watching this molten liquid being poured, a sight you will not easily forget. Lastly, visitors can experience the 2 museums the Theme Park houses.

• The Heritage Tour / Jozi Story of Gold: A guided tour through the history of Gold Reef City, includes a trip down the mine and museum entrance and rides
  • R340 per person (Walk-Ins)
  • R275 per person (Pre booking is essential, existing account)
  • R295 per person (Pre booking is essential, No existing account)
• The Mine Tour: A guided tour that descends into the depths of the mine.
  • R250 - Kiddies Rider + Mine Tour
  • R240 - Non Rider + Mine Tour
  • R295 - Pensioner Rider + Mine Tour
  • R330 - thrill Rider + Mine Tour

Regrettably children under the age of 6 will not be allowed on the Mine Tour.

A mere 8 kms from Johannesburg city centre, Gold Reef City’s accommodation options are conveniently close enough to enjoy a day in the city and venture back to the park for a restful night sleep.

Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel

The Theme Park Hotel is situated within the park itself where the Victorian turn of the century architecture prominently features in the hotels facade.

When staying at the Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel you will feel an overwhelming sense of luxury and elegance.

Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel features:

• Free WiFi
• Television with DSTV in each room
• In room Tea and Coffee facilities
• Electronic Safe
• Hair Dryer
• Outdoor Pool
• Gardens
• Buffet Breakfast at Barney’s Restaurant

Tip: Tsogo Hotel Rewards members enjoy 5% discount on accommodation.

The rooms available at Gold Reef City emulate the glamorous gold rush period. This is evident in the luxurious decor and styling each room features.

The rooms available at Gold Reef City Theme Park Hotel are:

• Standard Room from ± R1600 - R2000
  • This room sleeps 2 people on a either a double bed or 2 twin beds, the en-suite bathroom is fitted with a shower and bath combo and all the modern amenities.
• Deluxe Room from ± R1800 - R200
  • This room sleeps 2 people on a king size bed and sleeper couch. The en-suite bathroom features a separate shower and bath.
• Executive Room from ± R1900 - R1800
  • The larger Executive Room sleeps 2 people on a king sized bed. The room features an en-suite bathroom with a walk in shower.
• Family Room from ± R1800 - R2100
  • The Family Room sleeps 4 people, 2 adults and 2 children (u18) and features a shower bath combination.
• Suites from ± R3300 - R3100
  • The spacious suites available sleeps 4 people in 2 seperate rooms, either on a king sized bed or 2 twin beds. This room is ideal for a family and provides plenty of space to move around. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a bath and seperate shower.

  Your stay in any of the rooms available ensure free entrance to the Gold Reef City theme park as well as the buffet breakfast available at Barney’s, found directly opposite the hotel.

• Contact Details: 011 248 5700
• More Info: Website

Southern Sun Gold Reef City

The Southern Sun Hotel at Gold Reef City is situated in the entertainment centre, it is the epitome of warmth and hospitality.

The gold rush theme is prominent throughout the building itself bringing about a sense of splendor and wealth.

Southern Sun Gold Reef City features:

• 500mb of free high speed WiFi daily
• Child care facilities
• A variety of shops
• Complimentary breakfast
• Kids u18 stay for free
• Conference facilities
• Smoking and wheelchair accessible rooms respectively

The parks close proximity to many local tourist attractions makes it a great spot to set up your home base for exploring the treasures the Gauteng region has to offer.

The 38 rooms available are all equipped with; complimentary tea and coffee making facilities, mini bar, DStv, electronic safe and all the modern amenities to have you feeling right at home. The decor is lush and sophisticated, the perfect atmosphere to relax and unwind after a busy fun filled day in the park.

Rooms available at Southern Sun Gold Reef City:

• Standard Rooms from ± R2000
  • Standard rooms sleep 2 people on a king size bed, with an en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower. This room is available in a wheelchair friendly option upon request.
• Executive Rooms from ± R3500
  • The Executive Rooms sleep 2 people in separate bedrooms each on a king sized bed. The en-suite bathroom is fully equipped with modern amenities and a separate bath and shower. The room includes a separate guest bathroom.
• Suites from ± R3500
  • These 4 star luxury suites sleep 2 people on a king size bed. The suite features a mini lounging area and an en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower.

  Unfortunately, the Hotel pool is currently closed, however, there is still plenty to do in the theme park to keep your days filled with fun, excitement and non stop thrills.

• Contact Details: 011 248 5152
• More Info: Website

Gold Reef City offers visitors an array of blood curdling activities and rides that are not for the faint hearted, however, if speed is not your idea of fun try your hand at some of the more gentle rides and activities specially catered to those with a weak demeanor.

Thrill rides are restricted to heights and ages to ensure the utmost in safety, but don’t fret as they have specially catered for the younger generation with tailor made rides designed to delight the kids.

Tip: Remember to check if the ride you are interested in is open during your visit.

• More Info: Website

Anaconda

The Anaconda attracts thrill seekers from across the country, a heart stopping ride through the twist and turns of this full harness roller coaster will have you coming back for more, again and again.

• Terra - Meter: 9/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Dream Boat

The Dream Boat uses the forces of gravity to swing riders into the air and back down to earth. The swaying motion has turned many stomachs and is not for the faint hearted. Image: Credit:Caption:

• Terra - Meter: 7/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Golden Loop

The Golden Loop features a 360 degree horizontal loop that has rider rushing back down to earth at 85kms/h, reaching its top speed in under 4 seconds.

• Terra - Meter: 8/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Jozi Express

The Jozi Express will have you zooming through the treetops and dipping down into the mine dumps. If you suffer from a fear of heights this ride is definitely not for you. Experience breathtaking views over the entire park on the Jozi Express.

• Terra - Meter: 7/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Miner's Revenge

The Miner’s Revenge ride is a giant gondola will invert you while rotating both forward and backwards motion. The full body harnesses ensure you stay strapped in while you swing and jirate high above ground.

• Terra - Meter: 8/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Runaway Train

This runaway train has riders clinging on for dear life as it traverses down the track towards Thunder Mountain.

• Terra - Meter: 6/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Tower Of Terror

This 90 degree plunge face first into the depths of hell itleff. Riders are warned they can experience it a few times before having to give their heart a break from the rush. The 50 meter drop will have you reaching speeds of 100 kms/h in under 5 seconds. This is the fastest scariest ride at Gold Reef City.

• Terra - Meter: 10/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Raging River Rapids

This slower paced water ride is for the whole family, rush down waterfalls and raging rapids all in the safety of a giant rounded boat that provides 360 views the river and surrounds.

• Terra - Meter: 6/10
• Height Restriction: Children between 95cm and 1.3m must be accompanied by an adult.

UFO

The UFO is all about centrifugal force, rotating at 50kms/h, it is sure to have you holding on tight, at times it feels like the ride itself could lift off at any moment and send you into orbit.

• Terra - Meter: 7/10
• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Mermaid

The Mermaid is a twist on the classic cups and saucers ride. Instead of cups you are seated in fancy sea shells as they spin and twist along the makeshift ocean floor.

• This ride is for all ages.

Lazy Boats

The Lazy Boats guarantee riders a wet experience. Enjoy the surrounding jungle as the boats gentle drift along gently, this ride will leave you in fits of laughter.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1.3m must be accompanied by an adult.

Log Ride

Experience the thrill of riding a run away log through the calmer rapids the park has to offer. Riders will experience a short drop at the end where the splash factor will have you drenched.

• Height Restriction: Children between 95cm and 1.3m must be accompanied by an adult.

Giant Wheel

The Giant Wheel will have you in awe of the natural surrounding, noted as one of the best ways to view the park and the local Johannesburg area surrounding it. The massive ferris wheel is a gentle and smooth ride with ample photo opportunities.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1.3m must be accompanied by an adult.

Tornado

The Tornado is a simulation racing ride, except you aren’t in any control of where you go. Spin around and zoom across the track as it seems you would crash into other riders at any moment adds to the thrill of the ride itself.

• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Wave Swing

The Wave Swing is a giant swinging chair ride, much like the ones you are used to seeing at smaller carnivals only bigger, a lot bigger.

• Height Restriction: 1.3m and above

Golden Wave

The newest edition to the Kiddies Corner, the Golden Wave allows little ones control of their own little hot air balloon. Don’t worry the balloons are not actually inflated but rather simulate take off and landing as they slowly rotate.Image:Credit:Caption:

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult, No children over 1.5m allowed on this ride.

Vintage Cars

The Vintage Car ride is a slow ride along a short track where kids feel as if they are driving these fun cars.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult.

Dragon Ride

The Dragon Ride features friendly faced dragons that kids hop into and ride up and down in a circular motion.

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and below only.

Carousel

The classic Carousel is a favourite among the younger visitors. Hop onto a horse and enjoy the merry-go-round.

• Height Restriction: 1.5m and under, Children under 95cm must be accompanied by an adult.

Cup & Saucers

The Cups & Saucers ride is for kids only. Your little ones can hop into the tiny tea cups that will be spinning across the floor.

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and under

Flintstones

Always wanted to ride in the Bedrock cars, the Flintstones ride allows you to do just that.

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and under

Safari Train

This mini jungle train toots through the tiny forest.

• Height Restriction: 1.5m and under

Mouse Trap

The Mouse Trap is a fun take on bumper cars, will you be the mouse or the cat?

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and under

Shongololo

The gentle thrill ride twist and turns down its track in a circular motion. Riders hop into the giant green centipedes or commonly known as Shongololos in South Africa.Image:Credit:Caption:

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult.

Elephant Ride

The Elephant Ride lets your kids fly around on magical elephants in a safe environment.

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and under

Balloon Wheel

The Balloon Wheel is a mini ferris wheel, where riders sit in small balloon shaped carriages while rotating vertically.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult.

Pit Stop

The Pit Stop is a driving track where little ones can feel in control.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult.

Fun Train

The Fun Train explores the entire park, the slow paced train ride is for the whole family with various stops along the way.

• Height Restriction: Children under 1m must be accompanied by an adult.

If rides are not your thing, try your hand at the many other activities on offer at Gold Reef City. Explore the old gold mine or pan for gold yourself in the cold earthy waters. Gold Reef City has something for everyone.

Monkey Walk Nets

This fun wall of nets will have your little ones feeling like monkeys as they climb, swing and fly through the air.

This activity is carefully supervised and will provide hours of fun and entertainment for the younger generation. There is no rough housing allowed and strict height restrictions are implemented.

• Height Restriction: 1.4m and under

Crush Museum

The Crush Museum allows visitors to experience how miners in the 1800’s lived and worked. Large photographs fill the walls as they provide insight and a glimpse into the world of yesteryear.

Farm Yard

The Farm Yard is a kids favourite, be delighted while interacting with some of the friendliest farm animals your kids will meet.

Animals will always bring a smile to your kids faces, enjoy an afternoon of petting and feeding these friendly furry friends at Gold Reef City.

Turtle Creek Putt Putt

Turtle Creek Putt Putt is Gold Reefs City unique mini golfing experience. This activity has no age or height restrictions and comes at a small additional cost.

• Cost: R20 pp

Gold Panning

Experience the thrill of gold panning like it was done years ago, hidden in the mud and icy water are specs of golden glittering goodness.

Pan the stream and who knows you could be leaving the park with a lot more spending cash in your pocket. This activity is perfect for the whole family.

Heritage Houses

The Heritage Houses allow guests to experience life during the 1900s, become a mining official and see how they lived without the modern amenities we are accustomed to.

Science Exploratory

Explore the hidden secrets the Science Exploratory holds, the many exhibits are both fascinating and educational.

The Science Exploratory will amaze you with the wonders of science, be educated in a fun interactive way that is suitable for all ages.

Train Museum & Bullion Coach

The Train Museum is a unique touch of history, explore one of the last remaining Bullion Trains in the world. Find out what exactly a Bullion Train is and how it differs from the conventional stream trains.

Jump City

The latest attraction at Gold Reef City, Jump City, is an indoor trampoline park.

Access to jump city is inclusive of your thrill rider ticket and jumpers only need to purchase the Jump City non slip socks that can be reused on another visit to Jump City.

• Cost: R30 per pair (non slip socks)
• Jump City Features:
  • 21 Trampolines
  • A Dodgeball Court
  • 2 Basketball Lanes
  • A Foam Pit with a Climbing Wall
  • An Extreme Jumping Wall
• More Info: Website

Magic Company Gold Reef City

Along with the large variety of games The Magic Company also features ten pin bowling and a 4D theatre experience.

Grab a snack and drink from the Sales counter while you exchange your cash for gaming tokens.

• More Info: Website

10 Pin Bowling

Bowling takes place under UV lights making it a cosmic experience for young and old. This is the perfect activity for the whole family. The additional charge for this activity includes your shoe rental and score prints.

• Cost: R55 pp

4D Motion Theatre

The very popular 4d Theatre recreates reality with a mind blowing 4d experience. Riders enter the spaceship like capsule that rises on hydraulic lifts and actually dips and turns as the experience is screened. This ride accommodates 1-4 riders per operation.

• Cost: R40 pp

Gold Reef City Eateries

Gold Reef City Theme Park caters to everything, the wide variety of eateries suites all budgets and will satisfy the pickiest eaters.

• Barney’s Restaurant & Bar - Enjoy light lunches and dinners of the a la cart menu.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Mon - Sun, 6:30am - 10:30pm
  • Contact: 011 248 5710
  • More Info: Website
• Mugg & Bean - Coffee themed restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and an early dinner.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6851
  • More Info: Website
• OLA Milky Lane - Delicious fun ice cream treats and waffles.
  • More Info: Website
• Barcelos - Portuguese flame grilled chicken. (Halaal)
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 9607
  • More Info: Website
• Oldees Diner - serves casual lunches and is known for their burgers and milkshakes.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6848
  • More Info: Website
• Digg Inn - Family dining option serves breakfast, lunch and early dinners.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6904
  • More Info: Website
• Anat - Middle eastern cuisines like; Shwarma, Falafel and Hamburgers
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6821
  • More Info: Website
• Chip ‘N Dip - Golden fries served with an array of sauce options.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6821
  • More Info: Website
• King Pie - A wide selection of pie options available.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6821
  • More Info: Website
• Wimpy - Quick service restaurant.
  • Operating Hours:
    • Wed - Sun, 9:30am - 5pm
    • Mon - Sun (During school/public holidays only) 9:30am - 5pm
  • Contact: 011 248 6943
  • More Info: Website

Gold Reef City Casino has a plethora of gaming tables and slot machines at your disposal, try your hand at the jackpot spin or beat the best in a game of Texas hold'em.

Gold Reef City Casino is more than just a gambling powerhouse, the casino centre is also host to a variety of eateries aside from the wide selection of slots and table games.

• Operating Hours: 24 Hours/ 365 days a year

Gold Reef City Tables

Almost every type of table game is available at Gold Reef City Casino, ranging from American roulette, Reef Routine Poker, Baccarat and Blackjack. Table buy ins range from R10 to a large R500. A special new feature of Video Poker is also now available at Gold Reef City Casino, where you can challenge yourself against online competitors.

Gold Reef City Slots

There are an incredible 1600 slot machines at Gold Reef City Casino, ranging from 1c to R100 a spin.

The stand alone jackpot machine fall under the “up to 99% payback” policy, which boasts some of the highest payouts in South Africa.

Gold Reef City Casino Eateries

A wide variety of bars and restaurants are housed within the casino, these family friendly eateries are the perfect break from the slots. Restaurants and bars found at Gold Reef City Casino:

• Back to the Moon - A themed restaurant and after dark hotspot
• Boston BBQ - A family restaurant with buffet options
• Maestro - Family restaurant and eatery
• News Cafe - Famous breakfast and coffee spot
• Ocean Basket - Seafood restaurant
• Pavilion Coffee House - Coffee shop

Gold Reef City is an entertainment hub just 30 minutes from OR Tambo airport. It has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike with many repeat visitors yearning to return to the thrill of the theme park.

Make some lasting memories and fill your Instagram feed with amazing shots of the surrounding landscape as you take the plunge into this 20th century mining world.

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