About Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Golden Gate Highlands National Park Flora & Fauna
With more than 60 different types of grass, Golden Gate Highlands National Park has become the only grassland national park in South Africa. The majority of the vegetation in the Golden Gate Nature Reserve is found in forested grasslands, gullies, and ravines. The two types of grasslands that make up the vegetation are highveld and montane. Other vegetation includes the Oldwood, which is the most prevalent, and the Afromontane forest. The Arum Lily, Fire Lilies, Watsonias, and Red-Hot Pokers are just a few of the uncommon and native flowers found in the park. The region's climate aids in maintaining the required quantity of moisture, shielding the flora from inclement weather and fire.
The Golden Gate Free State Nature Reserve is home to over 140 bird species. It is also one of the remaining sanctuaries for the endangered Bearded Vulture and the uncommon bald ibis, both of which breed annually in Cathedral Cave. Inside the park, the Vulture Restaurant has a hide where bird watchers may get up close views of these beautiful creatures. A vast variety of grazers are well adapted to the park's unique environment, including red hartebeest, eland, blesbok, springbok, and mountain reedbuck. Except for the black-backed jackal, which is rather abundant, and the caracal, which is present but rarely seen, predators are rarely sighted. Absence of predators allows animals to graze freely in the park as well as visitors to embark on horseback riding and hiking adventures.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park Trails
This loop trail is the flagship trek in Golden Gate Highlands, offering some of the best vistas of Mont-aux-Sources and the Malutis. From Generaalkop, the highest point of the trail, the legendary Brandwag Mountain, Ribbokspruit Waterfall, and verdant woods to rock pools, this trail is full of magical stuff. The incredible 28 km stretch offers sightings of eland, black wildebeest, Burchell’s zebra, and loads of other game, making it ideal for wildlife lovers.
Time Taken: 2-day and one-night
Distance: 28 km
Price: USD 25 to 30 per person
The breathtaking 10.5 km loop takes you to the summit of Wodehouse Peak and features continuously changing topography. The views over the Drakensberg on the other side of the valley from the peak's top are magnificent, and the sandstone faces make fascinating overhangs to investigate. You will have the opportunity to see herds of various animals, including zebra, black wildebeest, and reedbuck.
Time Taken: 4 to 4.5 hours
Distance: 10.5 km
Timings: Flexible till 4:00 pm
Price: USD 25 to 30 per person
A moderately challenging route, it is worthwhile for the breathtaking vistas along the way and at the top. This track is popular amongst nature admirers and solitude seekers as it has amazing geological characteristics and breathtaking sunrise and sunset panoramas. The path is properly marked and supported by permanent chains placed at strategic points throughout the route.
Time Taken: 60 to 75 minutes
Distance: 2.7 km
Timings: Flexible till 4:00 pm
Price: Registration fee of USD 25 to 30 per person
This is a short 2.3-km moderately difficult trail that ascends 178 m and meanders by a creek. The trip offers opportunities to witness wildlife, mainly antelope, wildflowers, and fresh streams, providing a rejuvenating escape into nature. The panorama of hills and mountain ranges blanketed in green carpet is a sight to behold and capture with the camera.
Time Taken: 60 to 75 minutes
Distance: 2.3 km
Timings: Flexible till 4:00 pm
Price: USD 25 to 30 per person
One of the park's easier trails, this trek covers 3.2 km through varied terrain while offering breathtaking landscapes. It gains 286 m in elevation and provides beautiful views of the Little Berg and Escarpment wall. You'll be looking up in wonder as you traverse gorgeous bridges, navigate a cave, and marvel at the stunning red and gold rock face.
Time Taken: 110 to 130 minutes
Distance: 3.2 km
Timings: Flexible till 4:00 pm
Price: USD 25 to 30 per person
The trek to Boskloof is a quick and simple one, passing through thick foliage on a moderate ascending trail. The profusion of nature and numerous intriguing rock formations leave hikers feeling rejuvenated and delighted. The presence of a huge variety of avian species throughout the trail makes it a bird lover's paradise.
Time Taken: 50 to 60 minutes
Distance: 2.1 km
Timings: Flexible till 4:00 pm
Price: USD 25 to 30 per person
Things to Do at Golden Gate Highlands National Park
The Park has two well-maintained, tarred self-drive loops, Oribi Loop (4.2 km) and Blesbok Loop (6.7 km), allowing you to take in the park's wilderness. You can choose any trail and enjoy a scenic car ride at 30 km/h. The stunning Drakensberg scenery and the possibility to view the Vulture Feeding Project will captivate you on the Oribi Loop. The Blesbok Loop offers spectacular landscapes and views from the General's Kop viewing point.
One of the best ways to experience the park and its surrounding beauty is to go through it on one of many several hiking trails. The Ribbok Hiking Trail, Cathedral Cave Hike, Wodehouse Hike, Mushroom Rock Hike, Eco-Ravine Hike, Boskloof Hike, Holkrans Hike, and Brandwag Rock Hike are all nearby hiking paths that will take you through the lush greenery and stunning surroundings. Hiking is done during the warmer months and allows you to see a large variety of animals up close.
There are several gazetted horseback riding trails in the Golden Gate National Park where you can enjoy a one-hour session and explore the wilderness of the park. Ponies are available for children ages 3 to 6, while trained horses are available for all visitors over the age of 6.
Timing: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 am, 11:00 am, and 2:00 pm
Price: USD 4- USD 20
Visit the historical sites of QwaQwa in the Basotho cultural hamlet with a local guide to discover more about the first residents of the area. You will get to see live traditional dance performances, a museum, and a store selling local art and craft, and learn about Basotho people's culture and traditions.
Location: Golden Gate Highlands National Park Bethlehem 9701
Timings: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
Price: USD 4 to USD 5
Go abseiling in the Golden Gate National Park at the Wilgenhof Education Center if you are looking for some thrilling experiences amidst the beautiful landscapes. You must reserve this heart-pounding activity one day in advance as the slots get booked quickly. Under professional supervision and with the safety gear you will get as part of your package reservation, you will be safe.
Location: Wilgenhof Education Center, Golden Gate National Park
There are different 4x4 trails in the Golden Gate National Park that you may explore with an expert guide and enjoy some heart pumping experiences. You will get to witness the vista and varying flora and fauna of the park from a different perspective. Guides on their own vehicle will keep you informed about the diverse plants, animals, and ecosystems during the activity.
Price: USD 15 to 20 per vehicle
Lodges and Camps in Golden Gate Highlands National Park
The Glen Reenen Rest Camp provides Clarens self-catering accommodations such as Rondavels, Longdavels, and Guest Cottages, as well as caravan and camping sites. The units include either one double/two single beds or two single and one stack beds. Those who appreciate being in nature would adore staying here for a few days.
Location: Golden Gate National Park, Clarens, Free State, South Africa
Amenities: Rondavels, Longdavels, and Cottages with an attached bathroom and a kitchen with basic equipment, braai facilities, DSTV, fireplace, etc.
Price: USD 60 to 70 per night
Visitors looking for a private and opulent location will love a stay at the Highlands Mountain Retreat. With its eight wooden lodges, stunning vista of the Maluti Mountains, cutting-edge services, and a welcoming atmosphere, it provides a peaceful getaway. You can choose from couple-sized lodges or family-sized lodges as per your requirement and have a memorable stay.
Location: Golden Gate National Park, Clarens, South Africa
Amenities: Well-equipped cabins with en-suite bathrooms, private barbecue facilities, fully-equipped kitchen, built-in fireplace, underfloor heating, electric blankets, etc.
Price: USD 100 to 120 per night
Nestled on the Golden Gate Highlands National Park's eastern corner, this camp looks like an 1860s Basotho village. The surroundings reflect Basotho architecture and lifestyle, making you learn about regional culture and traditions. The Camp features luxurious self-catering lodging from where you may enjoy safe game viewing without going on a real game drive.
Location: Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Bethlehem 9701
Amenities: Self-catering accommodation, communal braai facilities, private Weber braai facilities, traditional dance performances, Ngaka (traditional healer) consultation, etc. Price: USD 100 to 120 per night
This charming small farmhouse is 6 miles from Glen Reenen Rest Camp and offers you a cozy environment. Here, you may enjoy the refreshing surroundings and a comfortable stay for up to 6 people while also getting a "prehistoric" impression of the eastern Free State. The farmhouse has two bedrooms, one with a double bed and another with three single beds and a sleeping couch, and a living room.
Amenities: Kitchen, lounge/dining room with fireplace, two bathrooms; one with WC and bath, one with WC and shower, etc.
Price: USD 100 to 110 per night
This well-kept facility has 92 beds, a large hall, and a well-equipped kitchen, and can be booked for minimum 25 persons. Besides offering accommodation facilities, it also offers competent and excellent educational programmes. This is a great place for young groups to experience the local environment firsthand while learning about the place's history and culture.
Amenities: 80 dorm beds in 4 rooms, 12 beds for facilitators/drivers in 6 twin rooms, hall, well-equipped kitchen with the self-catering facility.
Price: USD 3 to 4 per person per night plus USD 25 to 30 for kitchen/hall per day (minimum booking for 25 persons)
Plan Your Visit to Golden Gate Highlands National Park
How to Reach
- By Air: The closest airports with connections to other nations and South African towns are O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport. You can take a private cab or a rented car from here to go to the park.
- By Road: Golden Gate Highlands National Park is located 320 kilometers by road from Bloemfontein, Durban, and Johannesburg. You can either self-drive there or reserve an organized safari package including round-trip transportation.
Best Time to Visit
The warmer months from October through May are the best times to visit Golden Gate. At this time of year, the foliage is green and the skies are clear of cloud and dust, rendering the park at its most magnificent. Animals are easy to spot at this time of year because they graze in the open in the large grassland.
Refillable water bottles
Sunscreen, sunglasses, scarf/hat, and insect repellent (DEET)
Some quick bites and ready-to-eat food packets
Layers
Swimsuit
Dry Bag
A torch/headlight
ID and Passport
The park is open all year round, but visitors should be prepared for all weather scenarios because it might change suddenly.
Don't overspeed while doing game drives; although the roads are beautiful, they have potholes.
Pack some easy-to-prepare food items if opting for self-catering accommodation.
Carry your personal medication kit as medical/hospital and pharmaceutical facilities are distant.
FAQ’s of Golden Gate Highlands National Park
What activities can we do at Golden Gate Highlands National Park camps?
Game Drives
Games (Tennis Court, Volleyball and Mini Soccer Ball, Board Games, and Card Games at the Golden Gate Hotel)
Hiking and Nature Walks
Horse Riding
Swimming
Tour Cathedral Cave
4x4 Route Trails
Basotho Cultural Village Tour
Camping
Canoeing
How many days do you need in Golden Gate Highlands National Park?
Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a stunning location with wonderful hiking, lodging, camping, and a variety of intriguing activities like game drives, swimming, nature walks, etc. You need at least 3 days to indulge in some of the most exciting activities. Although you may cut your trip short to a half-day hiking excursion or extend it for a week if you want to make the most of it.
What is the best time of year to visit the Golden Gate Highlands National Park?
The best time to visit the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is during the wet and warmer months of October to May. This is also the busiest in terms of tourism, so plan ahead and reserve your lodging and activities and be prepared to face the crowds.
What facilities will I get in Golden Gate Highlands National Park camps?
Activities (Hiking and Nature Walks, Forest Excursions, Birding, Mountain Biking, and Water Sports)
Restaurants
Curio shops
Galleries/Art & Craft
Well-equipped lodges and chalets and self-catering units
Camping facility
Fuel Stations
Barbecue facilities
Which are the best places to visit in Golden Gate Highlands National Park?
Cathedral Cave Trail: This four-hour guided adventure allows you to explore an astonishing 165 feet deep and 820 feet wide cavern, Cathedral Cave, and another cave accessible via a deep pool of water.
Brandwag Buttress Trail: This 1.7-mile trail leads you past one of the park's most recognised sandstone structures, the Brandwag Buttress.
Basotho Cultural Village: Basotho Cultural Village lets you learn about traditional Basotho life, visit a rock-art site, a museum and a local shop, and enjoy a traditional dance performance.