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We've been big advocates for people to visit the Heritage Site that is Melville Koppies ever since we launched Time Out Johannesburg last year.
Why? Well, not only does it afford Joburgers with an escape from the city within the city, but its natural beauty and spectacular views put it right up there in the 'South Africa's scenic hikes' debate.
If you haven't had the chance to visit - or needed this as a reminder to go again, we spoke to Melville Koppies volunteer Jenny Grice to help convince you to get off the couch and out into the wild.
Think of this as your 2026 'Couch to the Koppies' challenge.
"Those of us who volunteer at Melville Koppies are always delighted at how happy and grateful people are when they complete their hike, stroll or guided tour. When they arrive, there’s always a little trepidation on the part of visitors – will they get lost on the path, will they enjoy their adventure, is it worth the money and time that they’ve expended to get to the Koppies?" Grice shares.
"Almost always when people leave it’s with a ‘thank you, we had a wonderful hike’, ‘you’re doing such great work, well done’, ‘we’ll definitely come again, we didn’t know this place existed’ or something along those lines. Often people meet others on the group activities and become life-long friends."
"Come and visit and experience the Koppies for yourself. We’re open every Sunday morning from 8am to 11.30am. Self-guide yourself on the 5km hiking trail and 3km heritage trail, try out the short scavenger hunt for the young and young at heart or just find a solitary bench or a rocky view site and gaze across the big city," Grice adds.
For those not keen on the self-guided hikes, an 8km guided hike is hosted on the last Sunday of every month, while the second Sunday of every month sees volunteers gather for a storytelling session, which will open your eyes to what came before in this untouched area of bustling Johannesburg.
Melville Koppies information
Cost: Adults - R100; U18s - R50; U5s - Free
When is it open? Sundays from 8am to 11.30am
Where do I park? Marks Park, Judith Road, Emmarentia
What should I wear? Comfortable walking clothes and shoes
Contact: friendsofmelvillekoppies@gmail.com / 072 348 0578
Website: www.mk.org.za
All proceeds from the entrance fee helps pay the wages of the invaluable conservation team, as well as extra security on Sundays.
Walk through time: Why the Melville Koppies guided hike is a Joburg must-do
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