Randfontein
Introduction
Randfontein is a gold mining town in the West Rand of Gauteng, South Africa, about 40 km west of Johannesburg. It owes its existence to the Witwatersrand gold rush: with the rush in full swing, mining financier JB Robinson bought the farm Randfontein and, in 1889, floated the Randfontein Estates Gold Mining Company.
The town was established in 1890 to serve the new mine and was administered by Krugersdorp until it became a municipality in 1929. Expect a place shaped by its mining origins rather than a polished tourist town.
When to go
Randfontein has a subtropical highland climate, so your choice of season depends on whether you prefer dry, bright days or warm, stormy ones. Winter brings mild, sunny weather with clear skies and very little rain, though nights turn cold, so pack layers if you plan to be out after dark. Days are generally dry and bright, making this a good time to be outdoors.
Summer is warm and wet, with thunderstorms dominating the weather and most of the year's rain falling then. Expect humid, unsettled conditions and plan around afternoon storms if you visit during this season.
Three days in Randfontein
Day one: Start in Randfontein itself, in the West Rand of Gauteng, South Africa, and get your bearings in a town shaped by the Witwatersrand gold rush. The Randfontein Estates Gold Mining Company and JB Robinson are the names to look for as you trace that history. Expect a highveld setting where winter days are dry and bright and summer brings warmth and afternoon rain.
Day two: Use Randfontein as your base for the wider West Rand, with Krugersdorp nearby for a change of scene. Johannesburg is within reach if you want a bigger city for the day. Winter mornings can be bitterly cold, so layer up before setting out.
Day three: Slow down and take in the town at an easier pace, revisiting the corners of Randfontein that caught your eye. Summer days are warm and humid, so plan around the afternoon weather. Keep the Witwatersrand and its gold-mining story in mind as you close out your three days.