[ Trail Description ] [ Environment ] [ Accommodation Facilities ] [ Trail Facilities & Safety ] [ Difficulty Grading ] [ Maps ] [ Photos ] [ Reservations ]

Classification A network of circular walks.	Environment: Semi-urban Accommodation: Excellent Facilities and safety: Satisfactorily maintained
Download the brochure for this trail (PDF, 1.32 MB)	Difficulty Rating: Easy to moderate

Basic Trail Description:

On 25 February 1895 Pres. Paul Kruger proclaimed the valley of the southern outskirts of Pretoria as a game sanctuary - this was the first game sanctuary on the continent of Africa. Its main purpose was to protect the large herd animals from hunters who were responsible for their demise.

In 1994 the Groenkloof Nature Reserve became the responsibility of the Department of Nature Conservation (of Pretoria City council) and much game was introduced. Game that occurs in abundance is giraffe, kudu, impala, zebra and blue wildebeest, and bird lovers can enjoy the rich bird life.

The trail traverses hilly grasslands with scattered trees and is of easy to moderate difficulty rating: the Yellow trail of 10km being the most exacting and the other two half its lenght - following the valley of the Apies River.

There is one overnight hut but the trails can also be used as day walks only. The trail has a surprisingly natural atmosphere given the urban enrivonment where it occurs. The reserve is also being used by 4x4 and mountain biking enthusiasts.