Are you a conscientious consumer who wants the assurance that the agricultural produce they are patronizing was cultivated in a sustainable way? Or perhaps you want to avoid the short and long-term effects of consuming food produced with pesticides, hormones, and the likes? Then, have no worries as we have rounded up some of the top farmers’ markets located in South Africa. These markets will not only give you access to organic and sustainably grown produce but also offers you an opportunity to sample local arts, crafts, and music, amidst a wonderful ambiance. Indeed, the whole experience is packaged in an amazing experience that goes beyond just shopping and doubles as a fun day’s out, perfect for the weekends and holidays.
The Best Farmers Market in South Africa
1. Fourways Farmers Market
- Address: Modderfontein Reserve, Lethabong
- Year founded: 2013
- Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays (8 am to 4 pm)
You don’t need to sight the produce to know that there is something extraordinary about the Fourways Farmers Market. Described as the prettiest market in Johannesburg, it is located within a beautiful reserve, boasting a lake and a garden, which makes it the perfect spot to get away from the bustle and hassle of the city. With regards to its offerings, Fourways boasts 60 vendor stalls that have everything from locally made cheese to cured meats, freshly squeezed juice, beautifully handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and beauty products. So, whatever you need, you are covered.
Quick fact: Fourways Farmers Market is committed to environmental sustainability and encourages shoppers to come with their own shopping bags.
2. Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market
- Address: Shongweni Resource Reserve, Durban
- Year founded: 1998
- Opening hours: Saturday (6:30 am to 12:30 pm)
One of the top farmers’ markets in South Africa, the Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market formerly focused on products such as crafts, readymade foods, farm produce, pet products, and outdoor goods. They have continually evolved and now feature live music which makes it an ideal weekend outing for families. There is also a monthly talent show where an array of local artists come out to showcase their skills to the people.
Quick fact: pets are allowed into the Shongewni Farmers Market.
3. Jasmyn Farm Products
- Address: Jan Smuts Way, Meerhof, Hartbeespoort Dam, North West Province
- Year founded: 2006
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday (8 am to 6 pm)
While most of the top farmer’s markets in South Africa only operate on weekends, Jasmny Farm Products is a refreshingly different setup that operates seven days a week, from 8 am to 6 pm each day. It, therefore, means that anytime you want to get fresh farm produce such as fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, rusks, biltong, nuts, dried fruits, and honey, you can do so at this market. The market also has a restaurant where you can hang out before going home.
Quick fact: Jasmyn Farm Product is located near the famous Hartbeespoort Dam.
4. Oranjezicht City Farm Market
- Address: Haul Road, Granger Bay Blvd, Cape Town
- Year founded: 2000s
- Opening hours: Saturdays (8:15 am to 2 pm) and Sundays (9 am – 2 pm)
Cited under a tent overlooking Granger Bay, the location of Oranjezicht City Farm Market naturally makes it one of the most scenic farmers’ markets in South Africa. Well-suited for the hip crowd, the market sells everything from oysters to artisanal sausages, gluten-free treats, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven. You can also fill your shopping baskets with cheese, cured meat, fresh fruits, and Fynbos honey.
Quick fact – The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is located near the Victoria and Alfred waterfall.
5. Karkloof Farmers’ Market
- Address: Karkloof Road Howick Durban
- Year founded: 2007
- Opening hours: Saturday (07 am to 11 am)
The Karkloof Farmers Market is open for just four hours each Saturday morning, meaning that you have to wake up early if you want to catch up. But don’t worry, even if you have to skip breakfast to get there, you can always fill up on their irresistible bagels and burgers, freshly-squeezed juice, and amazing cappuccino. For your actual shopping needs, there is French artisan bread, organic cheese, and yogurt, as well as a smattering of delicious desserts for you.
Quick fact: Karkloof features sandpits and jungle gyms for the young ones.
6. Pretoria Boeremark
- Address: 665 Moreleta Street, Silverton, Pretoria
- Year founded: 2000s
- Opening hours: Saturdays (5:30 am to 9:30 am)
Each Saturday morning, hundreds if not thousands of people arrive in Pretoria to check out its foremost farmers market. Asides from the popular edibles such as cheese, fresh milk, Pretoria Boeremark distinguishes itself by offering South African dishes such as traditional porridge, Vetkoek (a deep-fried dough), and Melkkos (a sweet and creamy dessert).
Quick fact: shoppers at the Pretoria Boeremark also get the option of buying wooden and steel crafts as a memento for the experience.
7. Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market
- Address: N2 Sedgefield 6573
- Year founded: 1999
- Opening hours: Saturdays (winters – 8 am to 12 noon, summers – 7:30 – 12 noon)
Though small and rustic, the Wild Oats Community Farmer’s Market is internationally famous, catering to a combination of proud locals and discerning travelers who are connected by a passion for agricultural and environmental awareness. Looking for free-range meats, baked goods, or fresh vegetables? Then, Wild Oaths is for you. Looking for plants and flowers? You are equally covered.
Quick facts – Wild Oats Community Farmers Market is located near the Swartblei lake/lagoon.
8. Hazel Food Market
- Address: 378 Queen’s Crescent, Lynnwood, Pretoria
- Year founded: 2006
- Opening hours: 8 am to 2 pm
By opening at 8 am, the Hazel Food Market allows you to get some decent sleep before heading out on a Saturday morning to sample all that they have in stock for you. This includes locally grown food products. There are also arts and crafts, clothing and jewelry for customers. All these are set against the backdrop of a terrific environment which also features a club restaurant with an ample selection of alcoholic beverages for your taste buds.
Quick fact: The Hazel Food Market is rated amongst the most trustworthy markets in Pretoria east.
9. The Neighbourgoods Market
- Address: 373 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
- Year founded: 2006
- Opening hours: Saturdays (9 am to 3 pm)
Beyond fresh food products, the Neighbourgoods Market is also the perfect place to check out if you are looking for chic dresses, sunglasses, jewelry, hats, leather-bound notebooks, quirky ceramics, bags, and shoes, etc. A huge favorite with locals, there is also live music as you wander up and down the stalls and shop to your heart’s content.
Quick fact: The Neighbourgoods Market is located in the Old Biscuit Mill, a series of shops and restaurants that use to be a former cookie factory.
10. Outeniqua Family Market
- Address: N. 2 George 6530, SA
- Year founded: 2011
- Opening hours: Saturdays (8 am to 2 pm)
The Outeniqua Family Market promises something for everyone in the family and just about delivers. For adults, they can shop the freshest fruits and vegetables, as well as an assortment of international cuisine, sweet treats, and gifts/décor. For the kids, there are Boere train rides, pedal cars, pony cycle rides, face painting, sand art, and a massive play park. Pets are not left out either as they are very much welcome with watering points strategically located. Other attractions include freebies such as Wi-Fi, zero entrance fee, and free to play board games.
Quick fact: The Outeniqua Family Market is one of the biggest in George’s, Western Cape, South Africa.
Recap of Top Ten Farmers Market in South Africa
- Fourways Farmers Market
- Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market
- Jasmyn Farm Products
- Oranjezicht City Farm Market
- Karkloof Farmers’ Market
- Pretoria Boeremark
- Wild Oaths Community Farmers’ Market
- Hazel Food Market
- The Neighbourgoods Market
- Outeniqua Family Market
