Where to stay in Welgevonden Game Reserve
5 hand-picked glamping camps and lodges in and around the park.
Welgevonden Game Reserve guide
Overview
Welgevonden Game Reserve covers about 36,000 hectares of the Waterberg plateau in Limpopo, about three hours north of Johannesburg. It’s a private reserve owned by a group of landowners, and it lies within the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve.
The landscape is made of sandstone mountains, deep valleys, grassland and bushveld, with clear streams running through the gorges. It’s quite different from the lowveld reserves near Kruger.
Welgevonden has strict rules to protect its wilderness. Only a limited number of vehicles are allowed, there are no day visitors, and you leave your car at the gate and are transferred to your lodge. It’s malaria-free and close to Gauteng, so it suits short trips and families.
Wildlife & Biodiversity
Big Five
Lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard live in the reserve, along with cheetah and brown hyena.
Other wildlife
Giraffe, zebra, red hartebeest, eland, kudu, waterbuck and mountain reedbuck are common. The cliffs are good for raptors.
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: May to September, in the dry winter, when the bush thins out and game is easier to see.
| Months | Season | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| May – Aug | Cool, dry season | Clear, sunny days and cold nights. The best game viewing. |
| Sep – Oct | Spring | Warmer, with animals at the waterholes. |
| Nov – Apr | Hot, wet season | Green and lush, with storms and newborn animals. |
Winter nights on the plateau are cold. Pack warm layers for early game drives.
Getting There
By air
| Airport | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| O.R. Tambo International (JNB), Johannesburg | Long-haul arrivals and self-drive | About 3 hours by road. |
By road
From Johannesburg, take the N1 north to Bela-Bela, then drive via Vaalwater on the R33 to the main gate. You park at the gate and your lodge collects you.
Entrance & Fees
Welgevonden doesn't take day visitors. Access is for guests at its lodges, and a reserve levy or conservation fee is charged per person per night. It's usually added to your lodge bill or included in the rate.
Confirm the current levy with your lodge before you travel.
Fees last checked October 2026 against the Welgevonden Game Reserve website.
