The 25 kilometre walk for democracy will take you through the streets of Joburg, from the gritty Braamfontein to the leafy green canopy of Saxonwold. The pinnacle of the walk treads peacefully past iconic landmarks such as the Houghton home of the father of democracy, Nelson Mandela, Wits Great Hall, Constitutional Hill and the Joburg Zoo.
Both fun walks were designed with enjoyment in mind. You will find the start down Judith Road easy and the route manageable, even for the most sedentary. The walk down Emmarentia Drive, past the Parkview Golf Course, is a relaxing and pleasant stroll. The stretch back to Mark’s Park may prove slightly more challenging so keep a little in reserve.
The 15 kilometre walk incorporates some of Johannesburg’s iconic landmarks. To be sure the first half is a lot harder than the second, as you grind your way along Empire Road and up through the University of the Witwatersrand campus. By the time you reach the halfway all hope may seem lost, but take heart for the balance of the course is both interesting and easy. First there is the Nelson Mandela Bridge followed by the Queen Elizabeth Bridge and then Constitution Hill. The most beautiful parts of the previous route have been preserved. There is the mysterious shade of Sherbourne Road along with the famous Anglican Church of St George and the downhill canter along Loch Avenue. The finishing stretch along Barry Hertzog to the line at Marks Park gives a unique view of this busy street. The colonial clubhouse at Marks Park is the perfect backdrop to the country feel at the finish area.