The best ways to spend Mother's Day in Johannesburg

A High Tea is a special treat for many people, so why not consider this option when planning Mother's Day? Little pastries and sandwiches accompanied by finely brewed tea and other delicious drinks, what's not to like? The Saxon does a mean High Tea, Fairlawns does a 'Tea in the Woods', while Just Teddy is known for their High Tea skills. Wherever you choose to go, please book in advance, as this is a very popular Mother's Day activity.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort is a truly stunning spot to chill and connect with your mom. Pack a picnic basket filled with her favourite treats and head down for a lazy morning/afternoon of glorious walks through the garden, views of the waterfall and chats over tasty snacks. The entrance fee is R100 per adult, R25 for children and free for kids under 6 years of age.

The 8th Annual Joburg Choral Festival takes place on Sunday, 11 May 2025, at the Joburg Theatre. Treat your mom to a celebration of voices, culture and choral excellence. The festival starts at 10am and ends at 4pm. Tickets cost just R50 and are available from Webtickets.

Johannesburg has a plethora of amazing restaurants for you to treat your mom to this Mother's Day. From fine dining to messy burgers, there is something for every palate. For the meat-loving moms out there, indulge in a delicious steak or share some slices of pizza at these great spots in Jozi.

For more restaurant recommendations, click here.

You may live in Johannesburg, but do you really know Johannesburg? Take your mom along for an adventure around Jozi as you learn more about the City of Gold from a City Sightseeing Red Bus. Prices vary depending on the route you wish to take, but whichever one you choose will be a chance for you and mom to explore together. Memories!

Now we are not saying you should go out and get sloshed with your mom, but we would recommend taking her for a gin experience, should she be into that sort of thing, of course. Johannesburg has a number of cool gin spots, including the Inverroche Gin School at Indaba Hotel, Time Anchor Distillery and Jozi Gin Bar.

Dinokeng Game Reserve, De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary and Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve are all within a short drive of Johannesburg. If your mom loves being out in nature, consider one of these reserves as a special Mother's Day treat. Prices vary depending on where you go, but it will be unforgettable day out with your mom. If you fancy a slightly longer drive - 3 hours, we highly recommend checking out Qwabi Private Game Reserve.

La Beato is hosting a Mother’s Day celebration set in a whimsical bohemian garden! Enjoy a day of relaxation and indulgence, sipping exquisite Iona wines amidst lush greenery and vibrant florals. Treat your mom to a memorable experience filled with live music, delicious wine pairings and a serene, boho-inspired atmosphere. Book now to avoid disappointment.

Immerse yourself and your mom in the history and culture of Johannesburg with a stroll through the city’s best museums and galleries. You can find the best options by scrolling through our list of the 11 best museums and galleries in Johannesburg to explore. Not all cultural activities are open on Sundays, so this could be the perfect pre-Mother's Day treat should your favourite be closed on 11 May.

Leafy, village-like and effortlessly stylish, Parkhurst is Joburg’s answer to a European café district. Its heart, 4th Avenue, is lined with boutiques, delis and some of the best restaurants in the city. You could spend the whole of Mother's Day here, checking out the shops and dining on some of the best food around. 

Yes, we know it is a bit of a drive, but Sun City is celebrating Mother's Day a day early to accommodate those coming in for the day/night. On Saturday, 10 May, there is a 'Sip, Paint & Smell' session at the Green House from 12pm and a Queen’s Dinner at The Palace from 6pm (which needs to be booked directly through Sun International on 014 557 4307). This could well be the ultimate Mother's Day treat... just saying.