The Groenkloof Nature Reserve, Pretoria
Giraffes, zebra and sable antelope walk free in this 600 ha bushveld nature reserve, one of the oldest proclaimed game sanctuaries in Africa (1895). Situated in the heart of Pretoria, Groenkloof offers nature lovers a quick escape from city life, while its mountain bike trail is said to be among the best in South Africa.
Text and pictures by Charl Steenkamp
The Groenkloof Nature Reserve is only 5 km from the city centre and hugs the Fountains Valley at its northern part. Hiking and cycling within the 600 ha reserve make for a quick escape from everyday city life, while also providing an unique opportunity to get up close to some of Pretoria’s best wildlife.
Wildlife
Mammals
Giraffe, kudu, impala, burchell’s zebra, blue wildebeest, klipspringer and sable antelope are among the more than 20 larger mammal species present at Groenkloof.
Birds
More than a 100 species have been recorded thus far. The current list includes the Verreaux’s Eagle, Fairy Flycatcher, Orangebreasted Bush Shrike, Black Cuckoo, Little Sparrow Hawk and Common Whitethroat.
Vegetation
The nature reserve is situated where the highveld and bushveld regions meet and therefore an interesting mixture of these two veld types can be found here. A mature woodland of white stinkwood trees is also present on the reserve.
Activities at Groenkloof Nature Reserve
Cycling
The 20 km mountain bike trail is rated among the top mountain bike trails in South Africa. The route is clearly marked and features some great technical climbs and descents. Note: Helmets are compulsory.
Families can make use of the mountain bike jeep track which is not as challenging as the single track.
Related article: Pretoria cycling and mountain biking
Hiking Trails
Although situated in an urban environment the reserve offers hikers a surprisingly natural atmosphere. There are three trails to choose from that differ in distance and difficulty. All trails start and end near the parking lot and it’s possible to easily combine them.
The trails are also very popular among trail runners.
Main article: Groenkloof Hiking Trails
Other Activities
- Various guided horse trails: minimum 4, maximum 6 horses (pony trails for children also available)
- Overnight facilities for overnight hiking and 4×4 trails
- Bamber Youth Camp
- A two-hour night drive, which includes the use of the lapa
- A 5 km motorcar route
- A 14 km 4×4 route
- A picnic and braai area (rated as one of South Africa’s top 6 braai spots by Getaway Magazine in 2013)
Contact details:
Contact: 012 440 8316
Email: groenkloofnaturereserve@tshwane.gov.za
Website: Official page at City of Tshwane – Groenkloof Nature Reserve
Directions
Address: Christina de Wit Avenue, Groenkloof, Pretoria, 0027
Entrance gate during the week:
During the week the reserve can be reached via the Fountains Valley Resort. Follow the R21 to the Fountains Circle, take the Fountains/Centurion turn-off into Christina de Wit Avenue. About 500 m further, turn left at the entrance to the Fountains Valley Resort.
Entrance gate on weekends and public holidays:
On weekends visitors must use the alternative entrance gate 800 m past the the Fountains Valley Resort main entrance gate.
Entrance fees:
Day Tariff
Adults (18 – 59 years): R 51 per person
Pensioners and disabled persons (60 years or older): R 32 per person
School children (7 – 17 years old): R 32 per person
Preschool children (3 – 6 years): R 17
Infants (0 to 2 years) – Free
| Pretoria Tshwane Day Trip Resorts | Pretoria’s top nature reserves |
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