The Best Nature Reserves in Pretoria
Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Discover Pretoria’s hidden gem, Rietvlei Nature Reserve, located approximately 18 km southeast of Pretoria Central. The reserve consists mainly of grassland and wetlands, and is known to protect endangered animals and birds, as well as endangered vegetation types, plants, and water systems. What was once the Rietvlei farm was officially declared a nature conservation area in 1929. Since then, it has evolved into one of the premier nature reserves in Gauteng. The Rietvlei dam also provides the residents of Pretoria with about 41 million litres of drinking water daily.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve, with its various endangered flora and fauna, presents unique opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Its dynamic landscapes offer stunning backdrops and the chance to capture remarkable wildlife moments. However, the reserve faces environmental challenges, like the invasive pink pompom weed, which, despite its invasiveness, can add a visually appealing element to photographs.
How to Get to the Reserve
- The Pretoria Rietvlei Nature Reserve main entrance is on the M57 towards Kempton Park (Olifantsfontein Road). Look out for the signboard just before the R21 near St George Hotel.
- From OR Tambo International Airport, Rietvlei Game Reserve is about 25 25-minute drive: coordinates 25°52’58.6″S 28°15’46.7″.
temperature at Rietvlei Reserve
- During the summer, the temperature at Rietvlei Reserve reaches as high as 34°C, and rainfall of 724mm falls during the summer rainy season.
- In winter, between April and July, temperatures get as low as -2° with hardly any rain. The open grassland reserve at Rietvlei has a typical highveld climate with dry, frosty winters.
What to do at Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Game Viewing
Rietvlei is home to about 2,000 heads of game roaming on the 4,000 hectares of African grassland, and one of the best things to do at Rietvlei Nature Reserve is to connect with nature and look out for wildlife, semi-aquatic animals, and nocturnal animals. There are several bird and game viewing options in the reserve. Self-drive: The reserve is open to self-drive game viewing, with about 30 km of self-drive roads. All roads are well-maintained with a 30 km/h speed limit. Rietvlei Game Drives: Both day and night drives involve a two-hour excursion in the reserve’s vehicle.
Rietvlei Night Drives: On the Rietvlei night drives, the game is tracked from open game vehicles that cater to between 6 and 20 people. Visitors enjoy a braai at the Fish Eagle Lapa with firewood and blankets afterwards between 18:00 and 20:00 with a qualified professional guide. Remember, animals always have the right of way, so take note of Rietvlei rules and regulations, (012)358 1812
What Animals Can Be Seen at Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Besides Buffalo, Rhino, Cheetah, Wildlife includes Eland, Springbok, Rooi Hartebeest, Blesbok, Waterbuck, Black Wildebeest, Zebra, Buffalo, Rhino and Cheetah. Native to Africa, serval cats prey on small mammals and birds for sustenance. Nocturnal animals in the reserve are the hedgehog, aardvark, bushpig, aardwolf, brown hyena, and serval cats. Although nocturnal animals mostly sleep during the day and stay awake at night, some are active during the day.
Sadly, in October 2019, the Rietvlei lions were killed by poachers. Since then, no lions have been kept here. Unfortunately, due to human greed, animals are under constant threat.
Birding at Rietvlei
We all need time out, and birding is an excellent opportunity to get still. I would describe this as “me time”. Besides your hat, smartphone or camera, you only need binoculars, a bird book, drinks, snacks and patience.
Rietvlei Pretoria nature reserves are a photographer and Bird lover’s paradise, and the six bird hides are all reachable on the self-drive roads. The 350 bird species include the rare migrating European Honey-buzzard and the green sandpiper.
Although winter provides more comfortable viewing as the veld is dry and open, spring is lusciously green and brings abundant bird species. Bird lovers can observe a great variety of bird species, including Ostriches. Popular bird-watching spots are at the Otter Bridge, with water streams and bird hides.
Tips from Will Goodlet are that a person needs a solid bean bag and a telephoto lens to take outstanding photos. Thanks to Will for his Photographer’s Guide. Will, thank you, you’re a big inspiration.
Fishing at Rietvlei Dam
The Rietvlei dam at Rietvlei Game Reserves in Pretoria offers a few sporting facilities, such as Fishing and a yacht clubhouse on the north-western shore.
Anglers can try to catch Yellowtail, Carp, Tilapia, bass, carp, or barbel. Rietvlei dam fishing amenities include toilets and braai facilities.
Overnight facilities at Rietvlei dam angling area consist of camping spots and chalets. Rietvlei dam fishing prices are R65.00, but as tariffs change without notice, call them at 067 022 8442 or 012 480 9944.
Rules for Fishing at Rietvlei Dam
- Anglers must use the entrance gate on Nellmapius Drive to enter. Gates are open from 06:00 to 18:00.
- Canoes and bait boats are not allowed.
- Admission: Weekdays and weekends: 07:00 until 18:00
- No entry an hour before closing time at 18h00
- No alcohol is allowed.
- A recreational fishing permit is required.
- Other requirements are Proof of residential address,
- Only two persons per barricaded angling spot,
- Maximum two fishing rods per angler allowed.
- Upstream from the Rietvlei Dam is the Marais Dam, but fishing is not allowed at the dam.
Hiking at Rietvlei
One of the most FAQ is Can you hike at Rietvlei Nature Reserve? Yes, hiking at Rietvlei Nature Reserve is very popular. As the pioneers found it in the past century, you can experience the Rietvlei Game Reserve on foot. On a Rietvlei hike, you can encounter antelope grazing in the grass fields, and might be lucky to spot the White Rhino, Cape buffalo and Cheetah. The many water systems like the wetlands and dams provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Rietvlei Day Hikes: Rietvlei hiking trail prices: R127.00 per person. Your guide will meet you at the main gate of the Reserve at 07h30. The Rietvlei hiking trail is between about 14km in distance, with a duration of 3 – 4 hours. Group must be a minimum of 6 persons and maximum of 10 persons with no children under 12 years of age. Booking for hikes is essential.
What to take for a Day hike in the Rietvlei Reserve:
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes.
- A hat, sun block, and bug repellant.
- Day Pack with sufficient water and snacks.
- Camera and binocular.
- Raincoat (Weather dependant)
- Winter: dress in layers as it might be cold but get warmer throughout the day.
Picnicking at Marais Dam
There is a large, tranquil Picnic area with braai facilities overlooking the Marais Dam. Besides the facilities, there is a bird hide on the far left and the far right of the Picnic area.
No functions are allowed in the picnic area, but get-togethers are not functions, right? The picnic area must be vacated at 17:00 in summertime and 18:00 in winter.
Visit the Rietvlei Coffee Shop
A place you cannot afford to miss is the charming Rietvlei restaurant and Coffee shop. Enjoy Coffee and Cake at the Coffee shop while watching the mongoose and squirrels.
Apart from refreshments and snacks, they serve cakes and other meals. Takeaway food is available between 08:00 and 16:00. The Rietvlei Coffee Shop contact details: 082 500 4422, or email [email protected].
Horse Riding
There are no horse riding trips at Rietvlei, but it may change at any time. Therefore, check their website for updates.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve Prices
Herewith, seasonal tickets (unlimited day entry valid up to 6 months) and Rietvlei Nature Reserve entrance fees (August 2025).
| Adults (18 to 59 years) | R79,00 | |
| Pensioners (60 years and older with proof thereof) and persons with disabilities | R46,00 | |
| Schoolchildren (7 to 17 years) | R46,00 | |
| Preschool children (2 to 6 years) | R16,00 | |
| Infants (0 to 2 years) | Free of charge | |
| Season tickets (only valid for six months, unlimited day entrance) | Per adult Per pensioner, child or person with disability | R1 339,00 R 526,00 |
Rietvlei nature reserve contact details
- Phone +27 (012) 358 1811/1812, or (012) 358 1810/1/2
- Email: [email protected] (bookings)
- Address: Rietvlei Nature Reserve, 14 Game Reserve Avenue, Irene
- The gate opens at 05h30 (best bird sightings); the next best time is before sunset.
- Website: www.tshwane.gov.za/rietvleinaturereserve.
Accommodation on Rietvlei Nature Reserve
To book any Rietvlei Nature Reserve Accommodation, contact the Reserve on 012 358 1811 or 012 358 1812.
- All Rietvlei dam accommodation must be booked directly with the reserve.
- Rietvlei dam chalets offer Accommodation for 4 – 6 persons @ R750 per night.
- Jakkalsdans’ house is sometimes available on request.
- Rietvlei Camping facilities: Generally you don’t have to book in advance although this might change.
Rules and Regulations
- Take a card, as no cash is accepted,
- An identity document and a driver’s license are required.
- Drones are not allowed,
- No swimming,
- Fishing only in the designated area,
- No loud music or any noises are permitted,
- Pack a rubbish bag
- Littering is forbidden.
- No pets allowed at Rietvlei game reserves Pretoria.
Lapa Venues at Rietvlei Dam
Booking Lapa venues in Pretoria, Rietvlei, and Pretoria Nature reserves is essential. Book at least three weeks in advance at Tel. 012 358 1811/2. The booking fee includes a refundable deposit and an entrance fee per person.
Tshukudu Lapa
The smallest Tshukudu Lapa can accommodate 50 persons, including braai stands, firewood, tables, electricity, a washing-up area, and bathrooms.
Fish Eagle Lapa
The Fish Eagle Lapa is only available with night drive and Lecture bookings. Bookings are essential; payment must be made in advance at the Main Gate of Rietvlei Nature Reserve.
Tariffs: R 1170,00 per occasion plus a deposit of R 940.00. The deposit is refundable if everything is in order.
Thank you to the talented Photographers from Friends of Rietvlei for allowing me to use their images.
Citation: This article was edited using Grammarly’s AI power tool for spelling, grammar and style.
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You had me at sweet tooth. Going on a safari it on my bucket list, hopefully this year (fingers crossed).