FAERIE GLEN NATURE RESERVE
The beautiful Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is well known to the Pretoria East community (and their dogs). It is a great spot for walking, hiking, trail running and birding and it could not be more convenient for those needing some mid-week fresh air. Dogs are allowed on the reserve with a permit. (The permit needs to be obtained in advance from Faerie Glen Nature Reserve – it takes about 5 days.)
Go Outside Rating: ***
Type: Day Hike
Level: Easy
Total distance: 2-5 km’s
Location: Pretoria east
Google Maps: Faerie Glen Nature Reserve
Ablutions: Yes, at the reserve entrance
Path Markings: None (okay, maybe one or two but none that make much sense)
Facilities: Shaded picnic area
Access Road: Paved, great condition and well sign posted
Parking: Yes, uncovered with a security guard
Cell Reception: Yes
Bookings: No bookings required
Price: Under R20 for adults
Dogs: Permit for entrance must be obtained in advance
FAERIE GLEN NATURE RESERVE
I lived in Pretoria for 4 years before I finally visited Faerie Glen Nature Reserve. I think I resisted going because I always assume that places so close to the city won’t be as nice as reserves further out. But in this instance, I couldn’t have been more wrong, and since that first visit I have spent many, many afternoons exploring this beautiful reserve.
There are 3 official trails on offer, varying in length from 2 – 5km but there is no real signage for these trails and there are so many different paths that criss-cross the reserve that your best option is just to meander along in the direction and pace that suits you. Some of the sights on offer include a bird hide, a few wooden bridges, the Moreleta Spruit, a rocky river crossing and wonderful panoramic views of Pretoria East. There are a number of different lookout points as well as benches dotted throughout the Reserve with something new to see around every bend.
One of the fantastic aspects of Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is the wildlife that can be seen grazing and flitting about the reserve. This includes a small dazzle of Zebras that were introduced into the reserve a few years ago, as well as Impala and many other smaller animals. And then there are all the different dogs of Pretoria that enjoy the reserve with their owners. Dogs were banned form the reserve for a short time but they are now permitted to enter (free of charge) provided a relevant permit is obtained in advance from the reserve.
The Reserve recommends visiting in the early morning for the best chance of seeing the Zebra’s but I have spotted them a few times in the late afternoon as well. As the reserve is relatively small, there is a good chance that you will come across them on your walk.
There really is something for everyone in the Faerie Glen Nature Reserve. The flat, grassy flood plain can be enjoyed by those of any fitness level while the steeper routes to the top of the two koppies offer a bit more of a challenge for fitter visitors. There is a lovely shaded picnic area for tired legs and plenty of space for kids to play.
Because the space is so conveniently located in the heart of Pretoria East, an evening visit after work is highly recommended. The park does close at 6pm, but an hour in this wonderful setting is enough to clear the mind and energise the body after a long day. And the sunset from the top of the hill is a wonderful bonus!
Faerie Glen Nature Reserve
Video Date: 29 August 2016
An evening hike in the beautiful Faerie Glen Nature Reserve, with the newest addition to the GO OUTSIDE Team.
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Extra Info
Operating hours: 6am – 6pm daily
Tours of the Reserve are available on request, but must be booked in advance.
Faerie Glen Nature Reserve offers some great initiatives such as clearing of invasive plants and community clean up days. Please inquire at the reserve if you are interested in getting involved.
