Hartbeespoort is a popular leisure destination set around Hartbeespoort Dam and framed by the Magaliesberg Mountains. Conveniently located close to Johannesburg and Pretoria, it offers an easy escape from city life with a wide range of outdoor activities, markets, restaurants and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, the Harties Cableway, adventure activities, scenic viewpoints and weekend markets. The area is especially popular for short breaks, romantic getaways and family outings. With its combination of mountain scenery, dam views and convenient access from Gauteng, Hartbeespoort is a practical and enjoyable destination for travellers wanting a relaxing break without travelling far.
Hartbeespoort is a South African resort town north of Gauteng. It’s known for the Hartbeespoort Dam and the whitewater rapids of the Crocodile River. Both are visible from the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway, which ascends to the top of the Magaliesberg mountains. Outside of town, Miracle Waters is a spring-water dive site in a former chrome mine. Also nearby is the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre – a big-cat sanctuary and small animal park, The Elephant Sanctuary and Monkey Sanctuary.
At a glance
Why stay in Hartbeespoort?
Hartbeespoort is a convenient countryside escape with dam views, mountain scenery and fun activities close to Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Accommodation & specials in Hartbeespoort
The Elephant Sanctuary (Hartbeespoort)
Gauteng, Hartbeespoort
From R1,000
From 01 Nov 2025 to 31 Oct 2026
More about Hartbeespoort
Hartbeespoort Dam, the Magaliesberg Mountains, cableway and outdoor activities.
The area developed around the dam and has become a long-standing leisure destination for Gauteng travellers.
Bushveld vegetation, birdlife and wildlife attractions in the surrounding area.
Cableway, boat cruises, markets, adventure activities, restaurants and scenic drives.
Warm summers and mild to cool winters, with summer rainfall.
A mix of residential, tourism and farming communities. English and Afrikaans are commonly spoken.