Gamkaberg Nature Reserve

from 145 Google reviews

A bench with a mountain in the background

About the garden

We are fortunate in the Western Cape. The land forever heightens our sense of exploration with its expanses and its wilderness. And with the Gamkaberg Nature Reserve in the Little Karoo, we need not go far to find a place with such space and detachment.

The brooding Gamkaberg, together with the equally mysterious Rooiberg, appear to have been laid down as one over the lowlands of the Little Karoo. The Gamka is, therefore, a range in isolation and its name is derived from the Khoisan, gami, meaning lion, where the Cape Lion – now extinct – once so successfully wondered here.

As the humans approached, so the lions withdrew so humanity could prosper. The Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, now a World Heritage Site, was established in 1974 to conserve a small, remnant herd of endangered Cape mountain zebra. They numbered just five in 1976 but, fortunately, focused conservation initiatives, involving resettling of animals into private and national nature reserves, helped their numbers increase.

The reserve is open daily from 7h30 to 16h00. Day visitors can browse the information centre, enjoy finding their way through the labyrinth, take short hikes and use the picnic or braai facilities. The reserve is ideally suited to those seeking some peace and tranquillity.

Opening times

Reserve office hours | 07h30 to 16h00

Useful details

Cafe or restaurant

No cafe or restaurant on site

Shops

None

South Cape DC

Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit

Weather forecast

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Gamkaberg Nature Reserve

South Cape DC

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Google reviews

4.8
from 145 Google reviews

Ann Price

a year ago

We loved our three night stay at Fossil Ridge Eco Camp. Beautifully laid out. Both tents have plenty of privacy tucked away amongst the thorn trees. The bathrooms Were spotless. The kitchen was well equipped. The eco pool, although chilly when we visited in winter, was gorgeous & worth a freezing dip. A short path from the pool leads to a level area wth two deck chairs with stunning view. Ideal for sunset drinks.

Cathy Milner

9 months ago

We stayed at the Tierkloof eco lodge. It is so well set up with an Evo pool, a lovely boma and comfy glamping tents. Beautiful hikes around the reserve with beautiful scenery. Highly recommended

Jenny Blacquiere (Jenna Business Systems)

6 months ago

Fantastic weekend hiking up to Oukraal hut on Saturday then down again on the 4X4 route today. Facilities are brilliant, welcomed courteously by staff on duty. Well worth a visit to a beautiful area. Thanks Gamka.

D E

a year ago

Mountaneous unspoilt nature at it's best! Nature reserve managed by Cape Nature. Normal vehicles can access main camp near northern entrance through unpaved access road. Self catering accommodation available. Day hiking on various footpaths can be done. Vehicles with 4X4, high clearance and low range can negotiate the various roads in the nature reserve. Roads into mountain are very rocky and narrow and extreme care is needed to prevent tyre damage. Spectacular scenic views from top of pass. Excellent drive for 4X4 enthusiasts and nature lovers. Proteas and mountain zebras are further highlights.

Fred Van Lith

a month ago

One of the nicest nature reserves in the country. And so we'll managed by Cape Nature.

Contact the garden

021 483 0080

capenature.co.za/reserves/

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