Golden Gate National Park

Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The park derives its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the park’s sandstone cliffs, especially the imposing Brandwag rock, keeping vigil over the main rest camp.

This 11 600 hectares of unique environment is true highland habitat, providing home to a variety of mammals – black wildebeest, eland, blesbok, oribi, springbok and Burchell’s zebra - and birds, including the rare bearded vulture (lammergeier) and the equally rare bald ibis, which breed on the ledges in the sandstone cliffs. Ribbokkop, the highest point in the park, reveals a breathtaking tapestry of red, yellow and purple hues as its warm shades merge with the cool mountain shadows towards evening.

Areas Of Special Interest
The Van Reenen family graveyard
The Impressive Brandwag buttress rock formation
Vulture Restaurant
Cathedral Cave (Guided Walk)
Interesting lookout points and viewpoints - Zuluhoek lookout point, Generaalskop viewpoint, the third highest point in the park; Oribi basin and Drakensberg view
5 Things To Seek
Bearded Vulture
Bald Ibis
Black Wildebeest
Eland
Oribi

Activities
Rhebok Hiking Trail (2 days and 1 night): maximum of 18 persons per group. Advance booking essential. Hikers provide all own necessities. Enquire at the reservations office. Tariffs and Map
Short nature trails (varying from 1 hour to 5 hours): no bookings required.
Game viewing at leisure in own vehicle.
Holiday programmes are conducted during the April and December holidays. Enquire at reception.
Environmental education courses (varying from 1 to 5 days).
Bowls, tennis, table tennis and snooker (at the hotel).
Horse riding available - please book at 058 225 0951.
Absailing and canoeing available for people using Wilgenhof Environmental Education Centre
Facilities
Cosy atmospheric pub with log fire (at the hotel).
Picnic site for day visitors has ablution and barbecue facilities.
Glen Reenen general dealer and filling station, Brandwag curio shop, licensed restaurant, coffee shop and ladies’ bar. Enquire at reception.
Catering for conferences, weddings and other functions at Brandwag should be made direct to the hotel on +27 (0)58 255 0012 for all reservations and inquiries)
Swimming in natural pool at Glen Reenen.

For more information visit www.sanparks.org

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