The views over the city from the top of the rocky Northcliff Ridge, instantly recognisable with its distinctive water tower on the top, are among the most impressive in Joburg. At 1,807 metres above sea level, the steep Northcliff Ridge is the second tallest in Joburg (pipped to the post by just one metre by the Observatory ridge in the east of the city).
The skyscrapers of the City Centre to the south and Sandton’s business district to the north are both visible from the top and in jacaranda season you'll see a glorious carpet of purple foliage lying below you. The small park area was upgraded in the early 2020s to improve the pathways and upgrade the seating. While security has also been improved we recommend visiting during the day when guards are on duty.
Made up predominantly of hard smooth quartzite, this area offers a great climb for avid rock climbers, although caution is advised as people have been known to have had tragic accidents climbing up this ridge.
You can choose to park your car at the bottom of the hill and take a long strenuous winding hike up to the top or alternatively take the easier route and drive to the top of the hill and park by the gates.
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