Hike Overview: Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve
The trails on this wonderfully central Nature Reserve are fun and diverse. There is something for everyone – from walkers or trail runners, to bird or wildlife enthusiasts, and even those of us who just want to enjoy some fresh air (and have an excuse to eat a slice of cake at Rademeyers, the restaurant located on the Reserve).
Go Outside Rating: ***
Type: Day Hike
Level: Easy
Total distance: 3-6 km’s
Location: Pretoria east
Google Maps: Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve
Ablutions: Yes, a short distance from the entrance gate
Path Markings: None
Facilities: Rademeyers Restaurant is on the Reserve
Access Road: Paved, great condition and well sign posted
Parking: Yes, uncovered with a security guard
Cell Reception: Yes
Bookings: No bookings required
Price: Free Entrance
Dog Friendly: No
MORELETA KLOOF NATURE RESERVE
There is a wonderful contrast in Gauteng between bustling concrete jungle and abundant unspoilt green spaces – and the ease at which both can be accessed is one of the reasons why I love living here.
Situated in the heart of Pretoria East, the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is a prime example of this. The reserve is surprisingly large, and offers an opportunity to easily escape the commotion of everyday life. There are 3 different hiking trails on the reserve; the Rademeyer, Duiker and Suikerbos Trails, which are all under 4km’s. Because they are quite short, we recommend combining them into one long route, to circle the full reserve. This can be done by setting off from the reserve parking lot in the direction of the Rademeyer and Duiker Trails. This direction forms a natural loop and should take 1,5 to 2 hours, however there are no real path markings and many little side paths to explore, so it is best to just let your fitness level (or the Zebras) guide you.
One of the highlights of the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is the wildlife. We have seen beautiful birds, buck and shy little Duikers right next to the path. The Zebras and Impalas are always around and we have even walked some of the trail with an Ostrich and her new hatchlings (which is not recommended but was very exciting).
Other highlights along the trail include a wooden birding platform, where you can sit in the shade and bird watch, a few bridges and a section of the trail that is covered by a dense forest canopy. Although these highlights are year round features – the best time to hike in the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is in summer when there has been a bit of rain.
All of the trails on the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve are easy and relatively flat. The hike is suitable for young children and all fitness levels. Dogs are not permitted because of the Wildlife on the Reserve which is unfortunate, but again – the ability to walk so freely with wild South African animals is what makes the reserve so unique – and well worth a visit.
Plus, entrance into the reserve is free, and the restaurant is an institution in Pretoria – so really it is the perfect day out!
Moreleta Kloof
Video Date: 19 Feb 2017
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Extra Info
The reserve is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily.
You can find more information on the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve, guided tours and other events on their website.
The Friends of Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve organise fantastic conservation and community initiatives, you can find more information on how to get involved on their Facebook page.
