Depart from your flights to South Africa and seek out cheaper accommodation and car rentals in Johannesburg the city of gold.

The huge demand of gold extraction in the fast growing mining area, Johannesburg, took precedent during the gold rush years. The Boer leader Paul Kruger was quick to spot a potential market for the explosives industry. A huge tract of land was allotted some, 2400 hectares, in the veld of the Transvaal. Construction in 1895 and four basic structures built to manufacture explosives.

Therefore, from humble beginnings an industry boom raised along side the profitable gold mines. Locally manufactured explosives brought overall cost down for the mines.

Construction started in April 1895

Four explosives factories were built complete with road and rail network and housing for labourers and staff. Some famous personalities such as Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement.

Present day and the area around the factories have been turned to a conservation area, which was proclaimed in 1988. There is a riverine, lush vegetation to wetlands for bird watchers. As far as game goes, you could easily spot the occasional black-backed jackal or steenbok. Once done with your nature walk, saunter off to the wonderful 33 high street restaurant & bar. The place reside in an old house built in 1896. It comprises of five separate dining rooms, with great service and ambiance.