Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - Bloemfontein
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Thanks to the lack of predators, the wildlife has become quite tame. This is great for photo opportunities, but keep your distance to 5 meters as they are still wild animals. © Bloemfontein Tourism![]()
Contrary to popular belief, the two naval guns are no longer on Naval Hill. The Naval Brigade took the canons with them after the Anglo-Boer war ended. (Image adapted) © Bloemfontein Tourism
Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - Bloemfontein
Naval Hill, located in Bloemfontein, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks, offering panoramic views of the city below and incorporates the Franklin Game Reserve, a unique feature that sets it apart from other urban parks worldwide. Established in 1930, the Franklin Game Reserve is notable for being one of the few reserves located within a city, allowing visitors to experience wildlife in a metropolitan setting. Named after Sir John Franklin, a British Arctic explorer, the reserve was created to protect the native flora and fauna of the area.
Covering around 250 hectares, the Franklin Game Reserve is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, eland, and a range of smaller mammals and bird species. It offers visitors the opportunity to drive or walk through the reserve and observe wildlife in a peaceful, natural environment. The reserve also serves as a popular spot for hiking and cycling, with several trails leading through the picturesque landscape.
At the summit of Naval Hill stands the imposing White Horse sculpture, a prominent historical symbol in Bloemfontein, dating back to the Anglo-Boer War. Another key attraction is the Nelson Mandela statue, a giant bronze figure of the former president, unveiled in 2012 as a tribute to his legacy. In addition to its natural beauty, Naval Hill is home to the Naval Hill Planetarium, the first digital planetarium in Sub-Saharan Africa, where visitors can enjoy astronomy shows and educational programs.
Contact Details for Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve:
|Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
Phone: +27 (0) 51 412 7010 (Bloemfontein Tourism Office)
Email: see website
Website: https://bloemfonteintourism.co.za
Accommodation Near Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - Bloemfontein
Allegro Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bayswater, Bloemfontein
1.1km from Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - BloemfonteinAllegro Guest House offers guests beautiful rooms on a bed and breakfast basis in the suburb of Bayswater in Bloemfontein. We offer seven individually themed luxury en-suite rooms. Rooms are furnished with double, queen-size or king-size beds. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lily Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bayswater, Bloemfontein
1.8km from Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - BloemfonteinLily Guesthouse in the northern suburbs of Bloemfontein is easily accessible from the N1, yet situated in tranquil surroundings. We take pride in our true hospitality and excellent personal service. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
De Witt'e Gastehuis
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bayswater, Bloemfontein
1.8km from Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - BloemfonteinDe Witt'e Gastehuis is a stately, thatched guest house, situated in a quiet area in the Northern part of Bloemfontein. It offers tranquil, quality accommodation with its stylish rooms and a swimming pool for those hot summer days. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bedrock Self Catering
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Bayswater, Bloemfontein
2km from Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - BloemfonteinBedrock provides visitors to Bloemfontein with self catering accommodation set in the leafy suburb of Bayswater. Set in the northern suburbs, close to a shopping center, take away, eating places, medical facilities and schools in a quiet safe garden. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
@ Mamma's Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Bloemfontein
3.1km from Naval Hill & Franklin Game Reserve - Bloemfontein@ Mamma’s Guesthouse is the place to stay if you are looking for an ad home experience with great South African hospitality from the friendly and helpful Staff. Going the extra mile is what we do. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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