Here’s Why The Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve Is Your Ultimate Summer-Holiday Escape

As the year ends and families hunt for memorable ways to celebrate, skip the shopping centres and head straight to the wild. Just 45 minutes from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve in the Cradle of Humankind is the perfect end-of-year day trip or overnight adventure.

Spanning over 1 200 hectares of pristine bushveld, the reserve is home to more than 700 animals including white rhino, lion, cheetah, endangered Cape wild dog, giraffe, hippo, zebra and dozens of antelope species. Here are the experiences that make it South Africa’s favourite close-to-home wildlife destination this festive season.

Self-Drives and Guided Game Drives 

The primary experience at the reserve revolves around its superb opportunities for viewing African wildlife. Guests have the freedom to enjoy flexible self-drives at their own pace, navigating the well-maintained routes to spot various species, including the reserve’s iconic rhino and lion. For those who prefer expert guidance, join a guided game drive (morning, afternoon or sunset options) for insider knowledge and the best wildlife sightings.

The Bothongo WonderCave

Descend 87 steps into the Bothongo Wondercave – the third-largest cave chamber in South Africa, a 15–20-million-year-old limestone masterpiece set within 2.2-billion-year-old dolomite. Marvel at glittering stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations. It’s cool, educational and unforgettable for all ages, solidifying the Reserve's place as a highlight within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

Delicious Food and Beverage Options

There’s something for everyone’s palate at the reserve. With its relaxed atmosphere and generous menu of all-day breakfasts, freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches and hearty light lunches, Thatch Café offers a relaxed environment and easy bites. The Neck & Deck restaurant sits high above the reserve, where guests can watch wildlife roam while tucking into wood-fired pizzas, flame-grilled burgers, crisp salads and ice-cold craft beers or milkshakes. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, a leisurely lunch or sunset cocktails.

A Kids’ Haven

The Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve understands that happy children mean happy parents. The reserve boasts a number of sparkling swimming pools, jungle gyms, trampolines and dedicated children’s play zones designed to burn off energy for hours. Older kids, and adventurous adults, can tackle the junior 4×4 obstacle course under professional supervision which is a guaranteed highlight of any family visit.

Unforgettable Animal Encounters

Beyond standard game viewing, the reserve offers several unique and scheduled activities that elevate the visitor experience. Guests can enjoy the rare chance to get up close and hand-feed the reserve’s friendly giraffe, Skye. The highly anticipated predator feedings take place every Wednesday, on weekends, and all public holidays, giving visitors an exciting look into the natural behaviours of the reserve’s big cats. The Snake & Reptile Park adds an educational twist, offering insight into local reptile species through engaging snake shows every Tuesday to Thursday, as well as on weekends and public holidays.

With so much on offer, the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is the perfect day out this holiday season. For more information, visit https://www.rhinolion.co.za/ or the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve’s Facebook or Instagram pages.