Lanseria Airport is the only privately-owned airport in South Africa and, what was once a grass strip airfield used as an executive airport for corporate travellers, has now become the gateway to amazing African adventures. Hop off the plane, into your rental car and explore these top 10 attractions in and around Lanseria at your own pace.

1. Cradle of Humankind
Scientists believe that the origin of modern-day humans rests here. A World Heritage Site, the Cradle of Humankind offers visitors the chance to view over a dozen dolomitic limestone caves containing the fossilised remains of ancient animals, plants and most importantly, hominids. The vast nature reserve that covers over 3,000 hectares presents a delightful array of plants, animals and bird species; taking a hot air balloon ride (if weather permits) can be an amazing way to view the wildlife.

2. Oori Nature Reserve
Oori is located within the Rhenosterspruit Nature Conservancy in the Crocodile River Valley. The reserve lies within an increasingly endangered vegetation zone called bankenveld - a transitional zone between grassland and bushveld. This unique bankenveld is characterised by rocky hills, ridges, plateaus and plains. The reserve has introduced 52 animals and residents are slowly planting indigenous trees to help preserve the unique transitional vegetation.

3. Ama Zwing Zwing Zip Lines
Located just 40km from Pretoria and right next to the scenic Hartbeespoort Dam, the Ama Zwing Zwing Zip Line is an adventure you must put on your ‘to-do’ list. The zip line is made of seven slides and 10 platforms ranging from 2m to 14m in height. If you are not one for thrills, you can climb up to the highest platform and enjoy the breath-taking view of the surrounding Magaliesberg Mountains and Crocodile River.

4. De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary
The sanctuary’s breeding programme, which began in 1971, has played an important role in the survival of cheetah in South Africa. Besides cheetah, the centre has also successfully bred African Wild Dog, Brown Hyena and Cape Vulture. There are three hour guided tours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the sanctuary is open every day of the week and on public holidays. The sanctuary lies in the foothills of the Magaliesberg, close to Brits and Hartbeespoort Dam, and is just 45km from Lanseria Airport.

5. Lion Park
Travellers looking to get up close and personal with wildlife, but with no time for an elaborate safari, should consider visiting the Lion Park, which is located between Lanseria Airport and Fourways. You can self-drive through the easy routes in the park or go on a guided game drive. The park houses over 80 lions, including a number of rare white lions. The Cub World area allows you to interact with lion cubs and feed giraffes.

6. Magalies Wild Game Farm
Secluded, quiet and only a stone’s throw away from Joburg and Pretoria, the Magalies Wild Game Farm is an idyllic bush getaway. With a beautiful view of the Magaliesberg Mountains, Magalies Wild Game Farm features some fun and exciting things to do for young and old. Activities include bird and game watching, game drives, walking trails and sunset viewing.

7. Zoo Lake
Just 35km from Lanseria Airport, Joburg’s Zoo Lake is a great place to unwind after your flight. The park is known as one of the city’s best daytime picnic spots. You can enjoy paddling in the lovely man-made lake and feed the ducks while you are at it, or take a stroll along the shaded paths. If you don’t want to carry your own picnic basket, you can always enjoy authentic African cuisine at Moyo restaurant, located right on the banks of the lake.

8. Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is the largest science centre in Africa. The centre is a great destination for kids, with a number of exciting ‘edutainment’ activities and ‘hands-on’ exhibits that will keep young minds active and engaged. The centre also has holiday programmes that include science shows and interactive workshops. The centre is located in the old Electric Workshop building in the cultural precinct of Newtown, Johannesburg, and is just an hour’s drive from Lanseria Airport.

9. Harties Cableway
The Harties Cableway is the longest mono-cableway in Africa, certainly giving the Table Mountain Cableway a run for its money. The Harties Cableway is the perfect alternative for travellers looking for a relaxed nature trip in Gauteng, offering panoramic views of the beautiful Magaliesberg Mountains. Visitors can also enjoy educational mountain walks or relax in the shopping and dining areas. The KidZone play area offers younger visitors lots of fun.

10. Fourways Mall
Fourways Mall is a shopper’s haven, housing everything from antique stores to high-fashion clothing boutiques. The mall also has some great restaurants, hair salons and a movie hall. Located just 17km from Lanseria Airport, the Fourways Mall is one of the best places to kill some time before your flight or to do some last minute gift shopping.

First Car Rental has a car hire branch conveniently located in Lanseria Airport. Book a car and enjoy the exciting destinations close to the airport. If you are travelling further, take a look at our Top 10 places to see in Gauteng.