Media Statement
Monday, 17 August 2026
For Immediate Release
Make it a family reunion at the Joburg Zoo for just R22 on 22 August 2026
This Saturday, 22 August 2026, Joburg families can reconnect, picnic, laugh and make new memories at the Zoo for only R22 per person.
When last did the whole family spend a day together — grandparents, parents, children, cousins, aunties, uncles and those special friends who have simply become family?
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is giving residents an affordable reason to bring everyone together, with entrance to the Johannesburg Zoo for just R22 per person.
The popular R22 on the 22nd special was introduced in celebration of the Johannesburg Zoo's 122nd anniversary, commemorated in March, and is available on the 22nd of every month.
This month, however, the calendar has delivered something special: the 22nd falls on a Saturday, creating the perfect opportunity to turn an ordinary weekend into a family reunion at one of Johannesburg's most loved green spaces.
Bring the generations together.
JCPZ is encouraging residents to phone the cousins, gather the grandparents, invite the neighbours and bring along the children for a relaxed family day at the Zoo.
At a time when the cost of entertainment can make a family outing difficult for many households, the R22 special offers residents who may not ordinarily be able to afford a Zoo visit the opportunity to enjoy a full day out without placing undue pressure on the family budget.
It is also an invitation to Johannesburg's stokvels, senior citizens' groups, church groups, community organisations, youth groups and friendship circles to make the Zoo their meeting place for the weekend.
Pack a picnic, put on comfortable walking shoes and spend time together.
The animals may be the attraction, but this Saturday, family is the occasion.
The Johannesburg Zoo offers something increasingly precious in a busy city: a safe, green public space where generations can slow down, walk together, talk, laugh and simply enjoy each other's company.
122 years – and generations of Joburg memories
For 122 years, the Johannesburg Zoo has been part of the lives of generations of residents. Many adults who now bring their children and grandchildren through its gates can remember visiting the Zoo themselves as youngsters.
This weekend is an opportunity to continue that tradition.
"We want the R22 special to put quality family time within reach of more Johannesburg residents. With the 22nd falling on a Saturday, there could hardly be a better opportunity for a family reunion. Bring Grandma and Grandpa, bring the children, bring the cousins and the people you have been promising to spend more time with. For R22, come and make a new family memory at the Johannesburg Zoo."
JCPZ also encourages visitors to use the occasion to introduce younger generations to wildlife, conservation and the importance of protecting the natural environment.
Your family outing. Your Zoo. Your responsibility.
A great day at the Zoo should not leave a trail of litter behind.
With higher visitors anticipated, JCPZ is appealing to everyone attending on Saturday to deposit all waste in the bins provided and to help keep picnic areas, pathways, lawns and animal viewing areas clean.
Parents and caregivers are specifically asked to encourage children to dispose of their own waste responsibly.
Teaching a child not to litter is one of the simplest lessons in environmental stewardship — and it is a lesson that extends beyond the Zoo into our parks, streets, schools and neighbourhoods.
Enjoy the special. Enjoy the Zoo. Respect the space.
Make Saturday your family day
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo invites residents across the city to take advantage of this exceptional-value weekend outing.
Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026
Special entrance fee: R22 per person
Venue: Johannesburg Zoo
Occasion: R22 on the 22nd – celebrating the Zoo's 122-year legacy
So, instead of asking "What are we doing this weekend?", ask:
"Who are we bringing to the Zoo?"
Reconnect with the people who matter. Rediscover one of Johannesburg's most treasured attractions. And celebrate 122 years of the Johannesburg Zoo for just R22.
ENDS
Issued by:
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Media and Advocacy | iGRAD
Issued on behalf of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Media enquiries can be directed to: Jenny Moodley, Spokesperson, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo: 082 803 0748, E: jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com.
