Westcliff Stairs Johannesburg
Iconic Johannesburg stairs offering a challenging climb, panoramic city views, and a vibrant local fitness community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Westcliff Stairs Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Johannesburg stairs offering a challenging climb, panoramic city views, and a vibrant local fitness community.
"A challenging climb with rewarding city views, the Westcliff Stairs are a must-visit for fitness and photography."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Proper athletic shoes are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. It's a serious workout!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Staircase
Westcliff Ridge
An iconic architectural marvel offering a challenging climb and panoramic city views. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts and sightseers alike.
City Vistas
Top of the stairs
Enjoy breathtaking views of Johannesburg's sprawling cityscape, a rewarding sight after your ascent.
Community Fitness Hub
Base and along the stairs
Join locals of all ages for a workout, run, or hike. It's a vibrant hub for fitness and outdoor activity.
+1Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Climb
Safety and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Proper athletic shoes are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. It's a serious workout!
📸 Capture the Views
The city vistas from the top are stunning, perfect for photos.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid the midday sun and peak crowds by visiting in the early morning or late afternoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Proper athletic shoes are a must for grip and comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. It's a serious workout!
📸 Capture the Views
The city vistas from the top are stunning, perfect for photos.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid the midday sun and peak crowds by visiting in the early morning or late afternoon.
💪 It's a Great Workout
Many locals use the stairs for intense training sessions. Be prepared for a challenge!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Westcliff Stairs as a fantastic spot for a challenging workout and breathtaking city views. It's praised for its safety and the vibrant community of locals who use it for fitness. Some find the climb very demanding, and it's not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.
"We didn't plan much for the weekend but heard a lot on the Westcliff Stairs. Sometimes it is nice to do things spontaneously and often these activities turn out to be great. The Westcliff Stairs are well known and have a historical meaning too. It did feel like walking through the past, the vibe, the old houses and the stairs contributed to that feeling. It's a well worth activity to do in ca 1,5 hours and we walked a loop starting at the east side and then walked through Westcliff tackling the West stairs. The east side is easy to walk down. You get support from the railing. The walk through Westcliff is safe and beautiful too. The West stairs are steep and one needs proper shoes for this walk. It's easier to walk up on the ramp next to the stairs for the first bit. It took us about 15-20 minutes leisurely. On top one can feel the achievement and it feels great. So, if you are looking for something you can do in under 2 hours, I recommend this walk. Best to park your car at the east stairs. It's off the main road and reasonably secure."
Carola Trummer
"Our intention of visited the Westcliff stairs was to evaluate our walking fitness, for an upcoming hike. It was our first time to visit Westcliff stairs despite know of its existence for some time. The walking was good, but the experience of walking on stairs crafted from local rock about 100 years ago left one with a sense of awe. The surroundings filled with historical homes and large well established trees in beautiful gardens was the highlight of the visit. In addition, there are numerous herritage sites in close proximity.
Worth the visit."
Leon de Nysschen
"In a beautiful Cosy safe neighborhood, would recommend it for people who are just starting their fitness journey, and not advanced or experienced people like myself, ☺️as an athlete/ long distance runner😎💪🏽, I was expecting more. I climbed/ran up and down 5 times, still didn't feel anything, but I enjoyed it nevertheless. Also wear propper running shoes with a strong grip, because the stairs got like marble rocks kinda cemented in them too. You don't wanna slip and fall"
Debrah Ruvando
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Westcliff Stairs are located in the suburb of Westcliff. Driving is the most common method, with parking available nearby. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services. While the Joburg Red Bus tour passes through the city center, it doesn't directly stop at the stairs, so it's best for general sightseeing rather than a dedicated visit. +1
Yes, there is parking available near the Westcliff Stairs, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Direct public transport to the stairs is limited. The Joburg Red Bus offers city tours but doesn't have a stop here. It's recommended to use a private car or ride-sharing service for direct access. +1
Many runners start from the base of the stairs and ascend multiple times. The surrounding roads also offer routes for warm-ups or cool-downs.
The stairs themselves are a significant physical challenge and not accessible for wheelchairs or those with severe mobility issues. The surrounding area has some paved paths, but the main attraction is the climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Westcliff Stairs are a public outdoor space and do not require any tickets or admission fees. Entry is free for everyone.
As an outdoor public space, the Westcliff Stairs are generally accessible at all hours. However, for safety and the best experience, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours.
It's generally advised to avoid visiting very late at night. While locals use it for training, daylight hours are recommended for safety and better visibility.
While the Joburg Red Bus tours cover many city sights, they do not typically include a stop at the Westcliff Stairs. It's best visited independently for a dedicated fitness or sightseeing experience. +1
There are no formal bookings required for personal fitness. It's a public space where individuals and groups can train freely.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the stairs offers panoramic views of Johannesburg, making it a prime spot for cityscapes. The intricate design of the stairs themselves also makes for great architectural shots.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful lighting for photos of the city skyline. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer people.
Drone usage regulations can be complex in urban areas. It's advisable to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
You can capture the scale and design of the stairs from various angles, including looking up from the bottom, down from the top, and from the sides to emphasize the climb.
🎫 💪 Fitness & Activities
The stairs are perfect for stair climbing, interval training, and leg workouts. Many people do multiple loops for a cardio and strength challenge.
While the exact number can vary depending on how you count, it's a significant climb, often described as a substantial challenge for fitness enthusiasts.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for a challenging urban hike or stair workout. It provides a good simulation for mountain hiking.
Workouts can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on your fitness level and goals. Some individuals complete 10 loops in under two hours.
It's a popular spot for informal running and fitness groups. You'll often see groups training together, especially on weekend mornings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting with children, ensure they have appropriate footwear and plenty of water. Consider making it a shorter climb or focusing on reaching a specific viewpoint rather than completing numerous loops. The community atmosphere of locals exercising can also be inspiring for kids.
+1💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
+1Be prepared to push your limits. Completing multiple loops is common, and you can track your progress by counting ascents or using fitness apps. The challenging incline and sheer number of steps make it a superior alternative to many indoor stair-climbing machines. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body.
+1📸 Photography Lovers
Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. The contrast between the urban sprawl and the natural ridge provides a compelling subject. Be mindful of other visitors, especially during peak times, to get clear shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Westcliff Stairs: An Architectural and Fitness Marvel
+1The stairs are a popular training ground for runners, hikers, and anyone looking for a rigorous workout. The sheer number of steps and the incline provide an excellent cardiovascular challenge and a great way to build leg strength. Many visitors aim to complete multiple loops, turning a simple climb into a comprehensive fitness session. The atmosphere is often energetic, with people of all ages and fitness levels pushing themselves.
+2Beyond their fitness appeal, the Westcliff Stairs offer stunning panoramic views of Johannesburg. As you ascend, the cityscape unfolds, providing a unique perspective on the vastness of South Africa's largest city. The best times to visit for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the urban sprawl.
Experiencing Johannesburg's Urban Heart
Johannesburg itself is often described as underrated, with a unique energy that differs from the more tourist-centric coastal cities of South Africa. This lack of overwhelming tourist crowds can make it a more authentic experience for those who venture into its heart. The city is a hub of creativity and finance, and exploring areas like the CBD, even from a bus, reveals its complex character.
For those looking to combine their visit to the Westcliff Stairs with other city experiences, consider exploring nearby areas or planning a day that includes both active pursuits and cultural sightseeing. The stairs provide a great starting point for understanding the city's topography and its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit