Gold Reef City Johannesburg
Johannesburg's premier theme park, offering over 30 thrilling rides, historical gold mining exhibits, and entertainment for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter queues
Gold Reef City Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter queues

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Johannesburg's premier theme park, offering over 30 thrilling rides, historical gold mining exhibits, and entertainment for all ages.
"A must-visit for thrill-seekers and families looking for an exciting day out in Johannesburg!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment and save time at the park. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of fun. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Golden Loop
Roller Coaster
Experience the thrill of this Schwarzkopf shuttle roller coaster with its intense launch and inversions.

Tower of Terror
Roller Coaster
A legendary drop tower ride that offers breathtaking views and a heart-stopping freefall.

Storm Chaser
Roller Coaster
This thrilling ride is a favorite for its intense twists and turns, promising an adrenaline rush.

Anaconda
Roller Coaster
A classic coaster with a unique Giovanola design, known for its smooth yet exciting ride.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Visits are Key
Book Tickets Online in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment and save time at the park.
:ticket:👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of fun. :athletic_shoe:
☔ Avoid Rainy Days
Rain can significantly impact your experience and lead to ride closures. Check the weather and reschedule if needed.
:umbrella:📱 Download the Park App
Check for wait times and ride status updates to plan your day efficiently. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Always book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment and save time at the park.
:ticket:👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of fun. :athletic_shoe:
☔ Avoid Rainy Days
Rain can significantly impact your experience and lead to ride closures. Check the weather and reschedule if needed.
:umbrella:📱 Download the Park App
Check for wait times and ride status updates to plan your day efficiently. :iphone:
🍻 Enjoy Adult Drinks
Don't forget to check out the adult beverage options for a more relaxed experience.
:beer:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Gold Reef City Johannesburg for its thrilling rides and fun atmosphere, making it a popular choice for a day out. However, some find the park can get extremely crowded, leading to long wait times, especially on weekends and during school holidays. The need for advance online booking is also a point of note for many.
"Gold Reef City Theme Park is perfect for Everyone!
I wholeheartedly recommend this park for both families and couples. There's a dedicated kids' area that will keep the little ones entertained for hours, while adults have plenty of options to get their adrenaline fix. If you're an adult who loves a thrill, you absolutely will not be disappointed – Gold Reef City delivers big on excitement!
Beyond the fantastic rides and attractions, Gold Reef City also serves as an excellent event venue, offering beautiful rooms for booking. This makes it a versatile destination, whether you're looking for a fun day out or a special place to host an event."
Sj Kumalo
"My family and I recently spent a fantastic day at Gold Reef City Theme Park, and it was an absolute blast. The park, with its charming gold rush era theme, offers a perfect blend of excitement and entertainment for all ages. We went looking for some fun and thrills, and the park certainly delivered.
We started our day with some of the more exhilarating rides. The Runaway Train provided a great start, offering a classic roller coaster experience with plenty of twists and turns. The Storm Chaser was a highlight, with its fast-spinning motion and height providing a real adrenaline rush. We also loved the Wave Swing, which was a more gentle but equally fun experience, and the Tornado, which spun us into a whirlwind of excitement. The Anaconda, in particular, was an unforgettable experience with its high-speed twists and inversions—a definite must-ride for anyone seeking a true thrill.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was my son's experience in the Virtual Reality Zone. The immersive VR games transported him to incredible new worlds, and he had a fantastic time. It was a unique and modern touch that added to the park's diverse offerings.
Overall, it was a truly fun-filled experience that created some wonderful family memories. The park was clean, well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and helpful. It was the perfect day to enjoy some rides, laughter, and quality time together. We had so much fun on the rides we chose, and we're already looking forward to our next visit. We'll definitely be braving the scarier, more intense rides next time to see what else Gold Reef City has to offer!"
Thobile Mkhonta
"Awesome! Plenty rides, queues not too bad, lots to do in the day. Parking is free which is great. You need to buy tickets online in advance, but very reasonably priced. Would recommend. 🎢"
Dylan Brandes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gold Reef City Johannesburg is easily accessible from the city center. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt, which are readily available and convenient. Driving is also an option, with ample parking available at the theme park.
While direct public transport routes might be limited, you can often combine bus or train services with a short taxi or ride-share to reach the park. It's advisable to check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes.
From OR Tambo International Airport, the most convenient options are pre-booked airport transfers, taxis, or ride-sharing services. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, there are several hotels and guest houses in Johannesburg near Gold Reef City, offering convenient accommodation for visitors. Some even provide shuttle services.
The address for Gold Reef City Theme Park is 1 Northern Pkwy, Ormonde, Johannesburg, 2091, South Africa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry prices can vary, but typically range around R265 per person. It's highly recommended to check the official Gold Reef City website or book online for the most current pricing and potential discounts.
Yes, it is strongly advised to book your tickets online in advance. Many visitors report that walk-ins are no longer permitted or that online booking is the only way to secure entry.
Keep an eye on the official Gold Reef City website and their social media pages for any ongoing promotions or discounts. Sometimes, booking online can offer better rates.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and on specific days. It's best to check the official Gold Reef City website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Recent visitor feedback suggests that purchasing tickets at the park entrance might not be possible, and online booking is the preferred or required method.
🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience
Top rides include the thrilling 'Tower of Terror' drop tower, the intense 'Golden Loop' roller coaster, the 'Storm Chaser', and the 'Anaconda'. There are over 30 rides to choose from!
Absolutely! Gold Reef City offers a mix of thrill rides for adults and more moderate attractions suitable for children, making it a great family outing.
To fully enjoy the park and its rides, plan for a full day. If you want to experience most of the attractions without rushing, a full 8-10 hours is recommended.
Yes, Gold Reef City has an interactive history of gold mining, offering a unique educational element alongside the theme park fun.
Check the park's social media or app for ride status updates. If a ride is closed, focus on the many other attractions available. Sometimes rides are closed for maintenance, especially in winter.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gold Reef City offers a variety of food stalls and restaurants, from fast food to sit-down options. You can find everything from burgers and fries to more substantial meals.
Generally, theme parks have restrictions on outside food and beverages. It's best to check Gold Reef City's specific policy, but usually, you'll need to purchase food inside the park.
While specific options may vary, most theme park food courts offer a range of choices. It's advisable to inquire at the food stalls directly about ingredients and preparation for dietary needs.
Yes, adult drinks are available at Gold Reef City, adding to the overall experience for visitors.
This is subjective and depends on your preference! Many visitors enjoy the convenience of the various food stalls for quick bites, while others might prefer a sit-down restaurant for a break.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture iconic shots with the roller coasters in the background, the park's themed architecture, and panoramic views from higher points. The entrance area and main thoroughfares offer great photo opportunities.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted on the rides for safety reasons. However, you can capture plenty of memories before and after your ride.
If you're a photography enthusiast, a good camera can capture the vibrant atmosphere and thrilling rides. However, your smartphone will likely suffice for most visitors.
Don't miss capturing the dramatic drops of the Tower of Terror, the loops of the Golden Loop, and the overall energetic vibe of the park.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the park still make for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid overwhelming crowds. Pack snacks and drinks if allowed (check park policy), or budget for the various food stalls. Ensure children are tall enough for the rides they wish to experience, and consider purchasing a park map to navigate efficiently.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own water bottles and some snacks to reduce spending on food and drinks within the park, though always check the park's policy on outside food. Look for combo deals if available, or prioritize which rides are most important to you to manage your time and energy effectively.
couples
For a more romantic or relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the hustle and bustle. This allows for more quality time together without long queues. You can also explore the historical aspects of the park, adding a unique dimension to your date.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Thrills: Gold Reef City Rides
Beyond the major coasters, Gold Reef City offers a variety of other attractions. Visitors can experience spinning rides, water rides (weather permitting), and family-friendly attractions. It's worth noting that some rides, like the Anaconda, have had historical incidents, such as getting stuck, but the park generally maintains its rides well. Checking the park's app or social media for ride status is always a good idea, especially during off-peak seasons.
When planning your visit, consider the intensity of the rides. If you're prone to motion sickness or have health concerns, it's wise to review ride descriptions and perhaps start with milder attractions before tackling the most extreme ones. The park's layout encourages exploration, so take your time to discover all the different zones and their unique offerings.
Planning Your Visit: Timing and Tickets
Securing your entry is also crucial. It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance. Many visitors have reported that on-site ticket purchases are no longer the norm, and online booking is essential to guarantee entry and potentially secure better prices. Always check the official Gold Reef City website for the most current pricing and booking procedures.
Be aware that school groups can book out the entire park on certain weekdays, so it's wise to check for any such bookings if possible. While the park aims to have all rides operating, it's prudent to check their social media or app for any ride closures, especially during maintenance periods or off-peak seasons.
Beyond the Rides: History and Entertainment
In addition to the historical exhibits, Gold Reef City often hosts various entertainment options. While not always highlighted in short social media clips, the park aims to provide a full day of fun. Keep an eye out for any live performances or special events that might be scheduled during your visit. The park's atmosphere is generally vibrant and festive, contributing to an enjoyable overall experience.
For those looking for a more relaxed pace, the park also offers amenities like food courts and designated areas to rest. Some visitors even mention enjoying adult beverages, adding a different dimension to the day out. This blend of adrenaline-pumping rides, historical insights, and leisure options makes Gold Reef City a well-rounded destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit