Dinokeng Game Reserve Johannesburg
A Big 5 malaria-free game reserve just an hour from Johannesburg, offering lodges, glamping, and self-drive safaris.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Dinokeng Game Reserve Johannesburg
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Big 5 malaria-free game reserve just an hour from Johannesburg, offering lodges, glamping, and self-drive safaris.
"The perfect place for glamping with friends or family. Luxury in the bush!"
🎯 Book Guided Drives
Guided drives increase your chances of spotting wildlife and are more relaxing than self-driving.
🚗 Self-Drive Option
The southern part of the reserve is great for self-driving. Plan your route and be patient!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Big 5 Encounters
Spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in their natural habitat. A thrilling experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
Glamping & Safari Lodges
Experience luxury in the bush with unique glamping options and comfortable safari lodges. Perfect for romantic getaways or family trips.
Self-Drive Safaris
Explore the reserve at your own pace. The southern part of the park is accessible for self-drive adventures, offering flexibility.
Planning Your Visit
Wildlife Sightings: Manage Expectations
Book Game Drives in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Drives
Guided drives increase your chances of spotting wildlife and are more relaxing than self-driving. +1
🚗 Self-Drive Option
The southern part of the reserve is great for self-driving. Plan your route and be patient!
🏨 Lodge Variety
From glamping to self-catering chalets, find accommodation that suits your style and budget. +1
🍺 Surprise Brewery
Discover a unique brewery hidden within the reserve for a refreshing break.
Dinokeng Nature Reserve
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Drives
Guided drives increase your chances of spotting wildlife and are more relaxing than self-driving. +1
🚗 Self-Drive Option
The southern part of the reserve is great for self-driving. Plan your route and be patient!
🏨 Lodge Variety
From glamping to self-catering chalets, find accommodation that suits your style and budget. +1
🍺 Surprise Brewery
Discover a unique brewery hidden within the reserve for a refreshing break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dinokeng Game Reserve is praised for its convenient location near Johannesburg and its malaria-free status, making it a popular choice for short getaways and families. Visitors appreciate the variety of accommodation, from glamping to self-catering, and the unique surprise brewery within the reserve. However, some travelers caution that consistent Big 5 sightings, especially predators, are not guaranteed and may be less frequent than in larger reserves.
"Dinokeng Game Reserve is an absolute gem – the perfect getaway if you’re craving wildlife and nature without driving too far from Gauteng. We spotted hyenas, giraffes, buffalo, White and Black rhino , Hippos and a lot of buck (from a safe distance, of course!). The self-drive route is well marked, and there’s a good mix of open savannah and thick bushveld.
What makes it special is how close you feel to the wild – no overcrowding, just you, your car, and the animals. There are some lovely picnic spots and lodges scattered throughout the park if you want to spend a night or two.
Highly recommend bringing binoculars, packing snacks, and taking your time. It’s a real African bush experience that’s surprisingly accessible. Will definitely be back!"
Matthew Passmore
"We went on a self drive game drive. All the animals are so beautiful, they're healthy, have plenty to eat and enough water. We wished to see the big 5 but only saw the rhino's. It's a very big area to cover, but we've been lucky to see atleast one of the big 5 and plenty other animals, when we visited the reserve. There's a cute little arts and crafts place where you can have a bite to eat and drink something refreshing while painting your own choice of pottery, then carry on with your game drive. The curio shop at the main gate got lovely gift and other items one can buy. There's also a small museum with different animal skulls, bones etc. There's a few places you can stop to stretch your legs inside the reserve. We enjoyed our day in the reserve, it's defenitely worth going there. We stayed at Jakkelsroep accomodation and rhe reserve is only 7km away. We can highly recommend it to others, it's almost as if you are in the Kruger National Park. We enjoyed our stay at Jakkelsroep and day visit to Dinokeng Game Reserve. 😉🌻"
Marlize Serfontein
"It was my first time visiting, and I was so surprised at how nice this reserve is. There is nice scenery, lots of animals to see, lodges, restaurants and the roads are quite well kept. Dinokeng is a great day out especially if you live in Johannesburg and surrounds."
James Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dinokeng Game Reserve is approximately a 1-hour drive from Johannesburg, making it a convenient getaway. You can drive your own vehicle or arrange for transport through your lodge.
Direct shuttles from OR Tambo International Airport to Dinokeng are not common. It's best to contact individual lodges directly to inquire about private transfer options.
Yes, Dinokeng Game Reserve is a malaria-free area, making it a safe choice for travelers concerned about malaria.
Absolutely! Dinokeng is feasible as a day trip from Johannesburg, especially if you plan to join an early morning or late afternoon game drive.
The most common route involves taking the N1 North towards Polokwane and then exiting towards Dinokeng. GPS navigation is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary, but typically there's a per-vehicle or per-person fee. It's advisable to check the official Dinokeng website or contact the reserve for the most current pricing.
Yes, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, as lodges can fill up quickly. +1
The reserve generally opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. Specific gate times can vary, so it's best to confirm before your visit.
Most lodges and the main reception points accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or unexpected fees.
Yes, there are different access points, with the southern part being popular for self-drives and lodges located throughout the reserve.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Dinokeng is a Big 5 reserve, meaning you have the chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. You'll also likely see various antelope species like impalas and kudus, as well as giraffes.
Guided game drives offered by lodges like Mongena Game Lodge or The Look Out Safari Lodge are highly recommended for optimal wildlife viewing.
Yes, the southern part of Dinokeng is suitable for self-drive safaris. However, some visitors suggest guided drives offer a better experience. +1
Yes, there's a surprise brewery located within the reserve, offering a unique stop during your visit.
Dinokeng offers a range of accommodation, from luxury glamping at Leadwood Safari Company to self-catering chalets at Tshikwalo Lodge and caravan sites.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many lodges within Dinokeng have their own restaurants, offering dining experiences for guests. Tshikwalo Lodge, for example, has an excellent restaurant.
Yes, several lodges and campsites offer self-catering facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals.
Indeed, there is a surprise brewery located within the reserve, providing a unique dining and tasting experience.
Dining options vary by lodge, but generally include a mix of traditional South African cuisine and international dishes, often with bush views. +1
While you can bring your own food and drinks for self-catering, it's always good practice to check the specific rules of your chosen lodge or the reserve regarding consumption within public areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the best light for wildlife photography, coinciding with peak animal activity.
A telephoto lens (300mm or more) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.
While dedicated photography tours might be limited, guided game drives are excellent opportunities for photographers. Inform your guide of your interests.
Challenges include unpredictable animal movements, varying light conditions, and the need for patience. Binoculars can help spot subjects before reaching for your camera.
Yes, you can take photos from your own vehicle during self-drives, but be mindful of safety and do not exit your vehicle in areas with wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking guided game drives as they are often more engaging for kids, with guides who can point out interesting facts and behaviors.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Imagine enjoying sundowners with views of the bush, or waking up to the sounds of nature. The reserve's proximity to Johannesburg makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway to reconnect and create special memories. Booking a private game drive can add an extra layer of intimacy to your safari experience.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Self-driving your own vehicle can also save on costs compared to guided tours, though it requires more planning and patience for wildlife spotting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Wildlife Sightings
To maximize your chances, consider booking guided game drives. Lodges often employ experienced guides who know the reserve's habits and best viewing spots. These drives are typically conducted in open vehicles, offering better visibility and a more immersive experience. Early morning and late afternoon drives are generally the most productive as animals are most active during these cooler parts of the day.
While self-driving is an option, especially in the southern part of the reserve, it requires more patience and luck. If seeing specific animals is a priority, especially for international visitors with limited time, some travelers suggest considering larger reserves like Kruger or Pilanesberg for a higher probability of sightings.
Accommodation Options: From Bush Luxury to Cozy Camps
For families or groups, Tshikwalo Lodge is a popular choice, offering self-catering chalets that can accommodate larger parties. They also have an excellent on-site restaurant.
When booking, consider the location within the reserve and the amenities offered. Some lodges are situated in prime wildlife viewing areas, while others offer unique experiences like the surprise brewery discovered by one visitor.
Experiencing Dinokeng: Day Trips vs. Overnight Stays
While a day trip offers a taste of the safari experience, an overnight stay allows for a more relaxed and immersive encounter with the bush. You can enjoy multiple game drives, explore different areas of the reserve, and truly unwind in the natural surroundings.
If you're on a tight schedule and looking for a quick safari fix, Dinokeng is a great option. However, if you have more time and are seeking a more comprehensive wildlife experience, consider extending your stay or exploring larger reserves.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit