Verloren Valei Nature Reserve
Facts and practical information
Verloren Valei Nature Reserve is a protected area in Mpumalanga, South Africa. One of the few places in the country to breed the three species cranes present in South Africa, the Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve lies roughly 13 km outside Dullstroom, a beautiful, peaceful part of the Steenkampsberg plateau that includes rolling grasslands and sensitive wetlands. ()
Mpumalanga
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Blue crane
The blue crane, also known as the Stanley crane or paradise crane, is South Africa's national bird and is currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. These elegant birds are ground-dwellers and are easily recognizable. They stand about 100 to 120 cm tall and weigh...
Birds
Wattled crane
The wattled crane is a majestic bird native to Africa, residing south of the Sahara Desert. Sometimes, it is classified under its specialized genus, Bugeranus. Johann Friedrich Gmelin first described this bird in 1789. Although it was initially placed in its own genus...
Birds
Brown hyena
The brown hyena, also known as the strandwolf, is a rare and captivating species of hyena. Found in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, its largest populations flourish in the southern Kalahari Desert and along the coast of Southwest Africa.
Mammals
Serval
The serval is a wild cat native to Africa, predominantly inhabiting the sub-Saharan region while avoiding rainforest areas. Classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, the serval is not currently at risk of extinction.
Mammals
Caracal
The caracal is a captivating medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and India. Distinguished by its muscular build, long legs, and unique tufted ears, this feline is further set apart by its reddish-tan or sandy coat with lighter...
Mammals
Mpumalanga