Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

from 2678 Google reviews

About the garden

This nature reserve is home to the majestic Jonkershoek Mountains and parts of the Jonkershoek valley. The reserve, which includes the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, lies near the town of Stellenbosch in the south-western Cape. Visitors may choose to explore one or both reserves, as they are in easy reach of each other. The reserves are about 9km from Stellenbosch, on the Jonkershoek valley road.

The rugged Jonkershoek Mountains, which form part of the Boland Mountains, are ideal for hiking enthusiasts. The Eerste, Berg, Lourens and Riviersonderend rivers all start high in these mountains, although only the Eerste River actually flows through the Jonkershoek valley. The area is also rich in animal and plant life, with over 1 100 plant species and a variety of small mammals, birds and reptiles. Hikers should be on the lookout for berg adders, puff adders, boomslang and Cape cobras.

The reserve is about 9 800 hectares, while Assegaaibosch is about 204 hectares. The smaller reserve is home to the historical Assegaaibosch farmstead, a national monument built in 1792, while both reserves are World Heritage Sites.

Jonkershoek is hot in summer, and cold and wet in winter. Visitors in the colder months may even see snow dusting the higher mountain peaks. Hikers should note that weather conditions can change rapidly.

Opening times

Office Hours | 07h30 to 1600

Useful details

Cafe or restaurant

No cafe or restaurant on site

Shops

None

Cape Winelands, 7600

Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit

Weather forecast

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Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

Cape Winelands

7600

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Google reviews

4.6
from 2678 Google reviews

Jean-Pierre Smit

11 months ago

It is an absolutely lovely place with great hiking routes. The waterfalls may not be the most impressive during the drier seasons, but it is still lush, beautiful and magical. The staff at the gate and info desk were so friendly and extremely helpful. I will most definitely be back.

Daneal Rorke

3 months ago

No matter which direction you look, this place is full of beautiful views. Walking the first 5km from the main gate gives you the opportunity to enjoy the valley. The first and second waterfalls aren't huge and gushing in October, but still provide a majestic experience. The staff at the main gate are incredibly friendly and the parking area outside is quite safe. Will definitely be coming back!

Malcolm Freeman

a month ago

Super trails for walking, hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Amazing panoramic views on offer for everyone. Ticket prices are fair for a day pass. Be sure to take water and your sun lotion as well as something warm as the wind can turn whilst out in the trails. Unfortunately many of the trails were closed today due to the severe storms last week. However the teams were hard at working clearing and ensuring that the paths are safe for all. The yellowed hiking trail was stunning and the circle road which is usually the route to all other trails was all that was currently open for walkers but a number of the riding trails were also available. The park looks well maintained with much new life after the last fires which swept through.

Renier Z

10 months ago

Great place to go mountain biking. They have amazing trails for a wide range of riders. Easy to very advanced. A definite must if you are into mountain biking. Above the great trails, the park is beautiful with amazing views. There is a shop with great coffee at the entrance, too, so after your hike or ride, you can sit on the benches and enjoy something hot whilst taking in the scenery.

Yolanda Ntungele

10 months ago

My Team really Enjoyed this Hiking trail.. Althow it was a Long walk from the main gate to the actual hiking Trail, we walked 5km Before our hiking trail then we did 3.5 km hiking trails... started around 7:30am till 12pm. Total of 19km.. But It was a nice experience the Waterfalls were awesome definitely going it again

Contact the garden

+27 (0)82 467 0405

capenature.co.za/reserves/

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