About Swartberg Nature Reserve

The Swartberg Nature Reserve is a narrow 121 000 hectare finger of land that divides the Groot and Klein Karoo, lying between Prince Albert and Oudtshoorn.

Did you know? Gamkaskloof is no longer hidden from the rest of the world. It is, however, quite a feat to reach the little valley and the greater Swartberg Nature Reserve, but well worth the effort, if escaping from it all is high on your list of priorities.

Flanked to the north by the Gamkapoort Nature Reserve, and west by the Towerkop Nature Reserve (neither of which is open to the public) the three reserves function as one large mountainous conservation area of 180 000 hectares.

The Swartberg Pass cuts the reserve almost in two whilst further east, Meiringspoort wends its way through the Swartberg Nature Reserve before it reaches De Rust.

The Swartberg Nature Reserve is a World Heritage Site (one of eight regions that collectively protect the Cape Floral Region, renowned for its biodiversity).

It boasts a sense of vastness, a peaceful atmosphere that appeals to hikers, or to those simply after a tranquil picnic at the picnic and braai spots in the reserve. The Gamkapoort Dam, in the north western corner of the reserve, provides ample opportunity for fishing, canoeing and sailing.

The reserve is most famous for the trail of the same name, the three-day hiking route that takes hikers into the heart of unspoilt mountain fynbos via caves filled with San rock art with overnight huts at Ou Tol and Bothashoek and views of the Cape fold mountains.

Gamkaskloof, also known as Die Hel, lies isolated within the reserve in the wedge of the Gamkaskloof valley south of the dam. A Cultural Historical Site in its own right, Die Hel's community remained undiscovered for years, with little communication with the outside world. The valley now has nine restored historical cottages, as well as camp sites, available in which to stay and one reaches it only via the Swartberg Pass.

Need to Know

WhereSwartberg Nature Reserve, Oudtshoorn, 6620, Karoo / Route 62, Western Cape, South Africa

WhenDaylight hours.

OvernightStay in Prince Albert Accommodation, Western Cape

Disclaimer

Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.

Feedback?

If this is your reserve, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.

Wish you were here?

Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

  • Property TypeGame Lodge
  • Guests75
  • Rooms/Units25
View and book

Game & Nature Reserves in Western Cape

In the vicinity

Hotels & other accommodation options in Prince Albert

Things to do in the area

Noteworthy attractions

Accommodation near Swartberg Nature Reserve

FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Western Cape Accommodation / Cape Town Accommodation / Karoo Accommodation / Prince Albert Accommodation

Prince Albert as a destination

Want to stay overnight?

Dates

When would you like to stay?
Choose dates

Number of Guests

Why book with SA-Venues.com
  • Your card is safe with us; strictest card verification in the industry and we don't store card numbers.
  • No airy fairy service fees; you save!
  • We care. Service with integrity.
  • Multiple payment methods:
    credit card, SID instant EFT, bank transfer.
  • All Prince Albert property owners / managers are verified (our experience protects you from online fraud).
  • Secure your booking
Our Payment Protection Guarantee only applies if your deposit payment is made via SA-Venues.com
Game Reserves
South Africa. Explore. Experience. Stay

SA-Venues.com® has been assisting travellers with their South Africa travel plans since 1999, and is the largest, independent online travel guide for South Africa available in both English and German.