Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern Gauteng
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Suikerbosrand Provincial Nature Reserve, just 30 mins from Johannesburg © Derek Keats, License![]()
Brubru, Nilaus afer - at Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve © Derek Keats, License![]()
Tranquility, just 30 mins from Jozi © Derek Keats, License
Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern Gauteng
About an hours drive from Johannesburg and close to the town of Heidelberg you will find the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve. The reserve is named after the Transvaal Suikerbos, (Protea Caffra), which outnumbers all plants and vegetation in the 11,595 hectare reserve. Ranging from 1,545m to 1,917m above sea level, the main feature of the reserve that forms its backbone is the Suikerbosrand Mountain Range.
The mountains, valleys and grassy plains together with the extensive flora and fauna make the reserve an excellent destination for hiking, cycling and picnicking. A network of backpacking hiking trails which covers 66 kilometres, has been established, as well as a short, 4km long interpretive trail called the Cheetah Trail. When setting out on foot it is advisable to get an early start, especially in summer as the area can be very hot at midday and is subject to violent thunder storms in the afternoons. The best time to hike in the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is Spring and Autumn. Be prepared for extremes of weather whatever time of the year you do the hike. And for those who prefer the comfort and security of a motor vehicle, there is also a 60km long motor vehicle route. While in the reserve visitors should keep their eyes open for Zebra, Black Wildebeest, Red Hartebeest, Brown Hyena Mountain Reedbuck, Steenbok, Grey and Common Duiker, Baboon, Blesbok, Springbok, Kudu and Cheetah. Approximately 200 birds have made the reserve their home which has made Suikerbosrand a firm favourite with the birders too.
The flora and fauna is varied and includes a large number of grass species. Trees in the reserve include the white stinkwood, highveld cabbage tree, ouhout, sweet thorn, and the common guarrie. Wild flowers include the agapanthus, disseldoring, wild sweet pea, Orange River lily, and the large witchweed.
The Diepkloof Farm Museum is also located within the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve.
Whichever way you choose to explore Suikerbosrand, on foot, mountain bike or by vehicle, it will definitely be worth the effort. An experience to remember!
Accommodation Near Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern Gauteng
Bri-Shel Manor B&B
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Heidelberg
14km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengSituated in Heidelberg, Bri-Shel Manor is an unique 4 star establishment offering luxurious accommodation fully equipped with free wifi, amenities, dstv, splendid linen, aircon and electric under blankets. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Angelica Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Boksburg
23.8km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengAngelica Guesthouse provides accommodation on a bed and breakfast and self catering basis in Boksburg on the Johannesburg East Rand. Situated in Libradene, a quiet suburb of Boksburg about 13kms from OR Tambo Airport. We're just off the N17 Freeway. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Marle' Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Alberton, East Rand
24km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengMarle' Lodge has 11 double en-suite rooms all beautifully finished in matching African theme. Two of the rooms have an inter-leading door to cater for families who wish to stay together. All rooms have DStv. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Mooi Begin Guest Farm & Venue
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Heidelberg
24.3km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengMooi Begin Guest Farm & Venue (previously: Yesterday Today Tomorrow) is nestled in the beautiful Suikerbosrand hills and borders on the Suikerbos river. Sleep peacefully in a 6 sleeper or 4 sleeper house. We also have various 2 sleepers. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Stone Cellar
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Heidelberg
26.6km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengThe Stone Cellar provides self catering or bed & breakfast accommodation on the slopes of the Suikerbosrand River Valley. Nestled in the Heidelberg farmlands, only a 45 minute drive from Johannesburg. The old-style farmhouse is perfectly suited for... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Afrique Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Boksburg
29km from Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve - nr Heidelberg, Southern GautengAfrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo is situated in Boksburg on the Johannesburg East Rand in Gauteng. Afrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo has 24 delightfully stylish and luxurious air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and state of the art... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
