Rietvlei Nature Reserve

What a pleasant surprise!!! Right on our doorstep and yet I have not frequented the reserve before. It was so easy to get into the reserve, staff were helpful and friendly and it was a day that was really relaxing to view the game and try to spot those elusive cheetahs. Visit the picknic spot, it is so tranquil but get there early if you want a good spot. The old farm house now operating as a restautant needs some tlc. I see how specific little trinkets can produce a steady flow of cash for the reserve from those who want a souvenir.

A short 25 minute drive from Pretoria East you'll find a wonderful day outing in the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. At a total cost of R125 for one adult and a kid it is absolutely worth the fee. The staff are friendly, from the moment you enter the gate, to purchasing tickets and entering the Reserve. All were friendly and welcoming. We packed a picnic, our camera and embarked on a self-drive fueled by a bunch of excitement to be out in Nature in search of wildlife. The roads are easily drive able even in a small hatch back vehicle. We stopped at three different bird hides/ lookout points and each were well maintained. We enjoyed a slow meander and eventually ended up at the coffee shop. There is a section that is home to a few Donkeys which the kids love to feed ( bring a bag of carrots, you'll be a favourite) . We enjoyed a coffee and an ice-cream before heading back out to look at more game and birds. We saw a meerkat, lots of Buffalo , zebras, ostriches, and a number of birds. Not much bird variety, but it was midday. After enjoying a good 4.5 hours of driving around we headed back home. There is are restrooms at Reception, by the coffee shop and at the Finfoot hide. All of which were decently maintained and had loo paper. We will most certainly become more regular visitors.

Went today for the first time, and it was AMAZING! Saw so many animals including rhino! The reserve is small, but worth going most definately! Road are fine with a normal car. The only negative thing I can say is, if you stop to buy food at the coffee shop, be prepared to wait long. Two toasted cheese and onions took almost 40min even though they were not that busy!

Went for a self-drive at the reserve and really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. The place is huge, perfect for getting some fresh air and taking in the natural surroundings. The experience was relaxing overall, though it would’ve been nice to see more animals along the way. On the plus side, the food was tasty and very affordable, which made the visit even better. A great spot if you’re looking for a quiet escape into nature.

One of my favorite places to visit not far to drive if you live in Gauteng between Pretoria and Johannesburg, and the atmosphere is perfect if you enjoy wild life. One has to be by the gate before 6:00 AM to see the Sun rise. Always animals to see and you do not require a 4x4 vehicle.

We had a wonderful time here. Saw quite a few different animals. Roads are also in good condition for all types of vehicles which is a big plus! We stopped at the coffee shop which served some really great food. Next time we will make use of the lovely braai facilities.

We were lucky to see so many animals and birds right next to the tarred road. Beautiful reserve. Three hours there are not enough. Remember to take your binoculars and a picnic basket with

Not so far away from Joburg, hidden away in Pretoria you can find this nature reserve filled with different animals in their natural habitat. This self-drive experience on tarred roads makes it easy for any car to navigate through the reserve. It’s tranquil with animals up close and personal. Bring along your picnic or even have a braai while you there.