The Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Pretoria
Primarily responsible for the conservation of the Rietvlei Dam catchment and the accumulation and distribution of drinking water, the Rietvlei Nature Reserve consists of open grassland with undulating hills of central variation of Bankenveld.
The Rietvlei Nature Reserve, only 18km from the centre of Pretoria, offers activities such as hiking trails, horse riding trails, birding and game viewing tours as well as angling. The Reserve is also equipped with overnight and Lapa facilities.
Activities at Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Angling
Fish caught in Rietvlei dam include carp, catfish, yellowfish, and tilapia. Facilities includes toilet and braai facilities as well as camping and chalets for overnight guests. No canoes or bait boats are allowed.
Birding
With more than 250 species it makes for some exciting bird watching from their strategically placed birdhides or by foot.
For more information regarding birding at Rietvlei see related article: Birding watching in Pretoria
Horse Riding and Hiking Trails
Guided horse riding trails need to be booked in advance. Horses and saddles are supplied. Day and Overnight rides are available and cover a distance of 36km. Contact the reserve to book alternative times.
Day rides: (6 – 10 persons)
Overnight rides (6 – 8 persons)
Age restriction: No person under the age of 12 & Weight restriction: No person over 120kg
For more information regarding hiking at Rietvlei see related article: Rietvlei hiking trail
Wildlife
Game is readily seen along the roads including Blesbuck, black wildebeest, eland, Burchell’s zebra, waterbuck, springbuck, rhino and many more. The Reserve offers tours and night drives visit Tshwane Website for more information.
Tariffs
Day tariff:
Infants (0 – 2): Free
Preschool children (2 to 6 years): R 15
Schoolchildren (7 to 17 years): R 44
Adults (18 to 59 years) – R 75
Pensioners (60 years and older with proof thereof) and persons with disabilities – R44
Season tickets (only valid for six months, unlimited day entrance):
Per adult – R 1280
Per pensioner, child or person with disability – R 503
Opening hours
Summer: September to March 05:30 – 17:00 (You may remain inside until 19:00 when the gates close). Winter: April to August 06:00 – 16:00 (You may remain inside until 18:00 when the gates close).
Contact details:
Tel: 012 358 1811/2, 012 811 9901 or 072 047 3590
Email: rietvlein@tshwane.gov.za
Website: Official page at City of Tshwane – Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Directions
On the R21 take the Irene/Rietvleidam off-ramp and turn in an easterly direction (towards Rietvleidam). At the first four-way stop turn right towards Olifantsfontein and the St George’s Hotel. Drive for 1.5km, crossing the Sesmylspruit. On the left is the signboard for the reserve. Turn left and follow the road up the hill to the main gate. Drive past the stone entrance until you get to the offices and entrance gate.
For more information about The Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Accommodation and Lapa facilities visit The City of Tshwane Rietvlei Nature Reserve page.
| Pretoria’s top nature reserves |
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