Caledon Nature Reserve Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Caledon Nature Reserve, located in the Free State region of South Africa, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The reserve covers an expansive area of 14,500 hectares, offering visitors a diverse range of landscapes to explore, from grassy plains to rocky hills and deep valleys.
One of the main attractions of Caledon Nature Reserve is its stunning array of wildlife, including herds of eland, zebra, and wildebeest roaming freely across the plains. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the diverse bird species that call the reserve home, with over 200 different species to spot.
For those seeking adventure, the reserve offers a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and 4x4 trails. The rugged terrain and breathtaking views make it a popular destination for outdoor activities, and visitors can also enjoy picnicking and camping in the midst of the natural beauty.
In addition to its natural attractions, Caledon Nature Reserve also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with evidence of San rock art sites dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore these ancient rock art sites and gain insight into the history and traditions of the indigenous San people.
Free State
Caledon Nature Reserve Attractions - What to See and Explore
Caledon Nature Reserve offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Welbedacht Dam. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Caledon Nature Reserve
Learn when is the best time to travel to Caledon Nature Reserve weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Impala
The impala is a medium-sized antelope that roams the grasslands and woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. It is the sole species in the genus Aepyceros and was first introduced to Europeans by German zoologist Hinrich Lichtenstein in 1812.
Mammals
Springbok
The springbok is a medium-sized antelope native to southern and southwestern Africa, renowned for its distinctive appearance and behaviors. First described by German zoologist Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann in 1780, the springbok is the sole species in the...
Mammals
Black wildebeest
The black wildebeest, also known as the white-tailed gnu, is a fascinating species closely related to the blue wildebeest. Part of the genus *Connochaetes* within the Bovidae family, it was first described in 1780 by Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann.
Mammals
Gemsbok, Beisa
The gemsbok, also known as the gemsbuck or South African oryx, is a distinctive antelope native to the arid regions of Southern Africa, including the Kalahari Desert. It is so iconic that it even appears on Namibia's coat of arms! Currently, there are about 373,000...
Mammals
Red hartebeest
The red hartebeest is a captivating African antelope predominantly found in Southern Africa. Belonging to the Bovidae family, it has close associations with the tsessebe and the topi. With a population exceeding 130,000, these animals are a vital part of the African...
Mammals
Free State