Finishing exams is a huge relief, and it’s natural to want to relax and celebrate — without spending too much money. If you’re in Gauteng and looking for fun, budget-friendly ways to enjoy your post-exam freedom, you’re in luck. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Pretoria, or somewhere in between, Gauteng offers a range of affordable activities for students and young adults.
Budget-Friendly Things to Do After Exams in Gauteng
Here’s a comprehensive guide to budget-friendly things to do after exams in Gauteng.
1. Explore Free Museums and Galleries
Several museums in Gauteng offer free or low-cost entry and are perfect for a relaxed and educational outing. The Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill in Johannesburg have student discounts and provide a thought-provoking experience. In Pretoria, the National Cultural History Museum and the Pretoria Art Museum often host exhibitions that cost less than R50 for students
2. Visit Parks and Nature Reserves
Gauteng is home to several green spaces where you can unwind and enjoy nature. The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort charges a small entry fee and is great for picnics, birdwatching, or hiking. Emmarentia Dam and the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are free to enter and offer wide open spaces for relaxation. In Pretoria, Groenkloof Nature Reserve and Faerie Glen Nature Reserve are affordable places to hike or spot wildlife.
3. Plan a Budget Picnic with Friends
A simple and fun way to celebrate after exams is by organizing a picnic. You and your friends can bring homemade snacks and drinks, a speaker for music, and enjoy the sunshine. Popular picnic spots include Zoo Lake, Delta Park, James and Ethel Gray Park, and Burgers Park in Pretoria.
4. Catch a Cheap Movie
Several cinemas in Gauteng offer discounts for students or special deals on certain days. Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro sometimes have half-price Tuesdays or student discount days. You can also check out independent cinemas like The Bioscope in Johannesburg, which often have quirky film screenings and student-friendly pricing.
5. Attend Local Markets and Free Events
After exams, take time to explore Gauteng’s vibrant weekend markets. Markets like the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, Fourways Farmers Market, and Hazel Food Market in Pretoria are free to enter, and you can browse stalls, listen to live music, and enjoy affordable street food. Also, keep an eye on social media for free pop-up events, poetry sessions, or art exhibitions happening in your city.
Read more: Ways to Make Money While Studying Without Losing Focus
6. Go on a Walking Tour
Walking tours are a great way to learn more about the city you live in. Companies like Jozi Walks and Dlala Nje offer affordable walking tours of historic parts of Johannesburg, including Hillbrow, Maboneng, and the CBD. These tours are often donation-based or cost under R100, and they give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s history and culture.
7. Take Advantage of Student Specials
Many restaurants, cafés, and activity venues offer student specials, especially during off-peak hours. Places like Montecasino, Gold Reef City, or indoor arcades sometimes have special pricing for students with valid IDs. Always ask about student discounts wherever you go — you might be surprised how much you can save.
8. Try a New Hobby or Attend a Free Workshop
Check out community centres, libraries, or local coffee shops for free or low-cost workshops. From art classes and poetry nights to open mic sessions and coding bootcamps, Gauteng has something for everyone. This is a great way to meet new people and try something different while keeping costs low.
Final Tips
- Always carry your student card to take advantage of discounts.
- Use apps like Webtickets, Quicket, or Facebook Events to find budget-friendly local happenings.
- Share transport or use Gautrain and Rea Vaya buses to get around affordably.
Also check: Key Features of Varsity Vibe: Unlocking Student Perks and Discounts in 2025
After exams, you deserve to relax and recharge — and with the wide variety of low-cost activities in Gauteng, you don’t need a big budget to have fun.
