Gauteng Reserves

Gauteng Nature & Game Reserves

The bustling City of Gold (as Johannesburg is affectionately known) is surrounded by spectacular natural areas, making it easy to go on safari in South Africa without having to leave the province of Gauteng.

Botanical gardens, bird sanctuaries, nature reserves, and a veritable treasure trove of archaeological, paleontological and geological sites (such as the renowned Cradle of Humankind) await visitors that want to enjoy their African adventure in new and exciting ways.

Some of these areas can be toured on foot, following well laid-out paths through the countryside and taking in the prettiness and variety of the local fauna and flora. Other places are best seen on guided or self-driven game drives and staying in a game lodge gives you easy access to these highlights. Guided tours are fabulous because the visitors get to relax and enjoy the ride, follow and see animals that may otherwise have escaped them, and learn more about the species and their habitat.

Witness some of South Africa’s wild and endangered species up-close at the Lion and Rhino Park, just outside Johannesburg. Or, visit the De Wildt Cheetah Research Station on the way to the scenic Hartbeespoort Dam. The Tswaing Nature Reserve has amazing wildlife and birds, but is best known for its crater, which was caused by the impact of a meteor some 220 000 years ago. Or, relish the rare opportunity to see the Big Five (buffalo, rhino, elephant, leopard and lion) in their natural environment at the Dinokeng Game Reserve, close to Pretoria.

Just a short drive from these game and nature reserves are some of the hottest eating and shopping spots in Africa, making Gauteng a multifaceted destination with so much to offer.