Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
520 Kromdraai Road, Krugersdorp, Gauteng, 1739
From tiny fennec foxes to majestic leopards and lions, the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve brims with life—and is the perfect way to discover the diversity of South African wildlife. Compared to traditional safaris, it has more organized and curated experiences. It's also close to downtown Johannesburg and a top city destination.
The Basics
Visitors usually start by taking educational safari-type drives to spot lions, rhinos, and buffalos. Other options include visiting the Wildlife Centre, which houses rehabilitated animals, or taking guided hikes through the reserve's rolling hills. Along with over 100 species of animals to see and learn about, the reserve boasts several restaurants and overnight options. Rustic cabins have hot tubs and offer the chance to sleep surrounded by the tranquility of the South African bush.
Things To Know Before You Go
- Always follow the regulations and stay aware of the wildlife—despite fencing and management, the reserve is not a zoo.
- Your reserve entrance pass includes access to a pool and picnic and braai (barbecue) facilities.
- Save time for the surrounding attractions—Bothongo Wondercave within the reserve is among the largest caves in South Africa.
- Visitors with cars can take a self-driving tour and take their time exploring the reserve.
How To Get There
The reserve is located a 1-hour drive from downtown Johannesburg along the M5 highway. While it's close to the city, taking public transportation can take 3-4 hours and isn't recommended. However, many tour options provide round-trip transportation.
When To Get There
The reserve opens at 8am Tuesday through Sunday. To make the most out of your visit, check the park's website and note the start and opening time times for particular activities and attractions. Seasonally, the area is a temperate year-round destination with dry winters and warm, humid summers.
Discover the Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to some of the oldest human ancestral remains in the world, is just five minutes from Bothongo by car. The paleoanthropological site showcases the history of human development with exhibitions, fossil sites, cave tours, and more.
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