Time to visit Joburg’s jungle
MELVILLE – A clean river and air, green plants and trees in every direction, wooded trails, majestic rock formations, panoramic views and so much more awaits you.
Friends of Melville Koppies invite the public back to the scenic City Heritage Site.
The chance to enjoy panoramic views of Johannesburg while breathing in some of the cleanest air in the city, all while strolling through one of the greenest space is finally back. Melville Koppies has reopened once more and the Friends of Melville Koppies (FOMK) is excited to take the public on their relaxing and educational hikes of the Johannesburg City Heritage Site. FOMK chairman and hiking guide Wendy Carstens expressed, “We have had many, many calls from people who want to hike. I think the missed events such as the many marathons taking place around Marks Park have got people interested in exercise and keeping fit.”
Due to the lockdown, the FOMK could not host their usual group hikes and group guided tours. Carstens said that a lot of adapting had to be done to ensure they could grant peoples hiking wishes while keeping them safe from the coronavirus. Having handled this, the FOMK look forward to showing the public the August secrets of the Koppies. Carstens said, “The grasses are a beautiful golden brown, the August gold flowers are blooming in August, as nature organises. A clean river, wooded trails, majestic rock formations, panoramic views and so much more awaits the residents of Gauteng at the Koppies.”
On 9 August they hosted their first group of hikes and will continue to host these every week. According to Carstens, the first batch of people that visited the Koppies since the lockdown started in March thoroughly enjoyed their hike and experience. “All were impressed with the condition of the Koppies. It is a chance to relax in a natural space in the middle of a large city.”
Judging by the engagement and photos being taken by the visitors, the FOMK are still confident in the Koppies being the perfect outing for any family, group of friends, couples and colleagues. Melville Koppies guided tours will take place every Sunday morning from 8am to 11.30am. To keep all visitors safe during the Covid-19 pandemic, the FOMK pleaded with the public to pre-book their hikes. This promotes minimal handling of forms by the committee members on duty. Hikers will be expected to wear a face mask or shield and adhere to physical distancing protocols. Numbers will be restricted to 50 people per session.
Booking and prepayment (non-refundable) are essential costing R80 for adults and R40 for scholars. For more information on visiting the Melville Koppies, contact the Friends of Melville Koppies via email fomk@mk.org.za or wendavid@mweb.co.za or telephone 011 482 4797.
