Kloofendal Nature Reserve Johannesburg
Discover Johannesburg's first gold mine and serene hiking trails at Kloofendal Nature Reserve. A peaceful escape blending history and nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Kloofendal Nature Reserve Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Johannesburg's first gold mine and serene hiking trails at Kloofendal Nature Reserve. A peaceful escape blending history and nature.
"Escape the city hustle and step into nature’s calm at Kloofendal Nature Reserve in Johannesburg!"
🚶♀️ Lace Up Your Shoes
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the various trails within the reserve.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a delightful picnic amidst nature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hiking Trails
Throughout the reserve
Explore diverse trails offering scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. Perfect for a refreshing walk.

Former Gold Mine Site
Central area
Discover the historical remnants of Johannesburg's first gold mine, adding a unique dimension to your visit.

Picnic Spots
Designated areas
Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the natural beauty of the reserve. A perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Gold Mine History & Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Lace Up Your Shoes
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the various trails within the reserve.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a delightful picnic amidst nature.
☀️ Check the Weather
Johannesburg weather can be unpredictable; check forecasts before your visit.
🚗 Easy Access
The reserve is easily accessible by car, with parking available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Lace Up Your Shoes
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the various trails within the reserve.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket
Bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a delightful picnic amidst nature.
☀️ Check the Weather
Johannesburg weather can be unpredictable; check forecasts before your visit.
🚗 Easy Access
The reserve is easily accessible by car, with parking available.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entry fees are generally low, making it an economical outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Kloofendal Nature Reserve for its accessible hiking trails, historical significance as Johannesburg's first gold mine, and its role as a peaceful natural escape. It's a budget-friendly option for picnics and leisurely walks. Some find the trails a bit short for extensive hiking, but it's generally well-regarded for a relaxed day out.
"We visited Kloofendal Nature Reserve a few weeks ago and had a great time. The hiking trails are well marked and offer just the right level of challenge — enough to keep things interesting but still very manageable. The views are stunning, and it was so refreshing to be surrounded by nature.
The reserve was also really clean and well looked after, which made the experience even better. We spotted a variety of plants and animals along the way, and it was just a great way to spend time outdoors. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good hike and some fresh air!"
Chris Duys
"I often hike at Kloofendal Nature Reserve, it’s an easy, accessible trail that anyone can enjoy, regardless of fitness level. The reserve is well maintained and especially beautiful in summer, with plenty of flowers along the way. There’s security at both the gate and the parking area, so I felt safe, especially since I was hiking with a group. One of the highlights is the lookout point, where you get lovely views of Joburg, Sandton, and Roodepoort. A peaceful and scenic spot for a weekend hike!"
Mpumelelo Ndaba
"Free entrance. And it's a good hiking spot if you looking for something that is not too hard. And there's a spot for picnic, it's beautiful."
Nobesotho Cecilia Nyati
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kloofendal Nature Reserve is located in Roodepoort, West of Johannesburg. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the entrance.
Public transport options might be limited and less direct. Driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the reserve.
There is parking available at the reserve, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While primarily known for hiking, some areas might be suitable for cycling, but it's best to stick to designated paths and be mindful of other visitors.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt can be used to get to Kloofendal Nature Reserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Kloofendal Nature Reserve is generally affordable, often around R58 for adults and R37 for children, though prices can vary.
Kloofendal Nature Reserve is known to host concerts and organized walks, so it's worth checking their schedule for upcoming events.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, for specific events like concerts, it's advisable to check for ticket availability.
Opening hours can vary, but the reserve is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm the current operating times before your visit.
Yes, activities like horse riding, if offered, usually come with an additional fee. For example, horse riding has been noted at R136.50 for an hour.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While it's a nature reserve, sightings can vary. You might encounter various bird species and smaller wildlife. The focus is more on the natural landscape and historical aspects.
Kloofendal offers a few trails, and while they are generally not very long, they can be a good starting point for beginners. Some Reddit users mention the hikes are shorter than 9km.
Typically, pets are not allowed in nature reserves to protect the local flora and fauna. It's best to confirm this policy before visiting.
Kloofendal is considered a good option for solo hikers, including women, due to its generally safe environment and community presence.
Facilities usually include picnic areas and walking trails. Restrooms might be available, but it's advisable to check beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The hiking trails offer scenic viewpoints, and the historical mine remnants provide unique photographic opportunities. The natural landscapes are also great for capturing.
Drone usage is often restricted in nature reserves to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
The remnants of the old gold mine and the natural rock formations along the trails are popular subjects for photographers.
Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family. The reserve offers a safe environment for kids to connect with nature, observe local birdlife, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors. It's a great way to introduce children to the importance of conservation and local history in a fun and accessible setting.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & De-stressers
The reserve's accessibility and manageable trail lengths make it ideal for a solo outing without feeling overwhelmed. You can immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, listen to the birds, and enjoy the tranquility. It's a great place to recharge and find a moment of calm away from the city's hustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Hiking Trails
These trails are also noted for their safety, making Kloofendal a recommended destination for solo hikers, including women looking for a peaceful environment to de-stress and clear their minds. The reserve's accessibility and relatively short trail options make it a convenient choice for a quick nature escape within Johannesburg.
For those interested in a more structured experience, the reserve sometimes hosts organized walks, which can provide insights into the local flora and fauna. The combination of natural scenery and historical significance makes hiking here a unique experience.
A Glimpse into Johannesburg's Mining Past
This historical aspect is a key draw for many visitors, providing an educational element to their outdoor excursion. It's a chance to reflect on the industrial past that shaped Johannesburg while enjoying the present-day tranquility of the reserve. The juxtaposition of nature reclaiming the old mining sites is quite striking and offers excellent photographic opportunities.
While the mining structures are historical remnants, the reserve itself is a thriving ecosystem. The blend of this industrial heritage with the natural environment creates a distinctive atmosphere that sets Kloofendal apart from other green spaces in the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit