A real gem if ever there was one, the historic Zoo Lake Swimming Bath is a local favourite. Built in the 1930s the pool retains its original features and is well maintained.

Probably the most unique thing about this pool is its shape; 30 metres by 30 metres square. When it gets busy, there are no demarcated lanes per se so pick a direction and do your laps, or for fun you can always opt for a full circuit – just watch out for the teenagers practising their dive bombs near the shallow end.

In the height of summer the pool gets busy with kids, although most confine themselves to the shallow end or splash around in the neighbouring kiddies pool area. There are always two lifeguards on duty and like most public pools, the Zoo Lake pool is unheated, so a dip is particularly bracing in spring and autumn.

Arrive early to mark out your picnic spot on the grassy area overlooking the pool or if the sun is blazing you'll find shade on the bleachers. There are no lockers in the changing rooms so take your belongings with you to leave by the side of the pool or lock up your valuables in your car.

Note that there is no alcohol or braais allowed on the premises, although you can bring your own snacks and soft drinks for a picnic. Loud sound systems are also not allowed at the pool.

For large group bookings and information about special requirements contact the swimming pool on +27 11 646 8495 or pay them a visit and discuss any special needs directly with the site office.

Venue Info

Location

Location

Cnr Prince of Wales and Lower Park Drv, Parkwood, Johannesburg, South Africa
Phone

Phone

+27 11 646 8495

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Comments

Johannesburg In Your Pocket

Johannesburg

12. 6. 2026

Hello, Please note the swimming pool is open daily (weekdays and weekends) from 10:00. The pool usually closes at around 17:00 (if the pool has been very busy, note they may close slightly earlier). There is no need to book in advance, but on weekends we recommend arriving early in the morning as this is a very popular pool and it can get very busy by lunchtime

nasiphi_b10

Johannesburg, South Africa

12. 6. 2026

Is the zoo lake opening on Sunday and on what time is it opening and closing?

vanessadube07@gmail.com

Johannesburg

12. 6. 2026

May l please ask I want to come to the swimming this Saturday and we are 10 so l should buy the tickets or l should book ?!

Vanessa

Jhb

12. 6. 2026

Good evening May l please ask l want to come this Saturday we are only 10 .. as a family so should l book or l have to just come and pay at the gate

Bonolo

Meredale

12. 6. 2026

Hi there. If I may ask, are there any built in braai stands? Or we have to bring our own?

Johannesburg In Your Pocket

Johannesburg

12. 6. 2026

Hi Grace, No braais are allowed at Zoo Lake swimming pool. You can only braai at the designated stands inside the park (near the lake). The swimming pool reopens to the public for the summer season on October 1, 2021

Grace

Vereeniging

12. 6. 2026

Hi there Do you have braai stands and is the pool opened for the 24 th of September 2021

Johannesburg In Your Pocket

Johannesburg

12. 6. 2026

Hello, The entrance fees for 2021 should be R12, this price will be indicated at the entrance to the pool where you buy the ticket. There are no differentiated swimming session times, although the pool is usually quietest in the morning The pool reopens for the summer season from Oct 1. There are lifeguards at the pool. If you cannot swim you must obey their instructions and stay in the shallow end. You can bring picnic food but strictly no alcohol is allowed and no sound systems. You should be wearing your mask when you arrive at the ticket window, of course inside the pool you do not need masks

12. 6. 2026

Hi there. Can I please know what is the entrance fee when going for the swimming pool and what are the procedures

Johannesburg In Your Pocket

Johannesburg

12. 6. 2026

Hi Nathi, the dates that different pools will be reopening vary. We checked with the caretakers at Zoo Lake Pool and we were told lifeguards will be at the pool from Mon Oct 26, 2020 meaning that from that day the public may return for social swimming as the pool will be safe :)