About Modderfontein Nature Reserve
The Modderfontein Nature Reserve is a stunning spot in Edenvale, and acclaimed for its variety of animal and plant species. At 275 hectares, it is the second-largest private nature reserve in the country, and it makes use of its area to undertake a number of eco-initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Did you know? This reserve is only 20 minutes’ drive from the OR Tambo International Airport, as well as Sandton and its many malls and office blocks.
Modderfontein Nature Reserve has put the protection of South African species at the top of their list of priorities, testifying to the great value that these have. However, a massive part of the vision of the reserve is to complement these eco-initiatives with recreational activities and educational programmes.
The Modderfontein Nature Reserve boasts a varied landscape that includes rolling green hills, tranquil dams and savannahs that stretch far into the distance. This makes it the habitat of choice for a number of the local species. These include the black-backed jackal, Cape clawless otter, four different kinds of mongoose, and the elusive duiker, amongst others. The spotted-necked otter can also be found here, which is significant as it is a near-threatened species.
But, it is the birdlife here that is especially impressive. There are more than 250 recorded species on the reserve, which is made more remarkable by the fact that this is within an urban setting, which many of these birds usually avoid. Some of these avian residents are the fish eagle, black swan, jackal buzzard, sacred ibis, little grebe, crimson-breasted shrike, various herons, Verreaux’s eagle, long-crested eagle, African spoonbill, fiery-necked nightjar, barn owl, goshawk, marsh owl, blue crane, and plenty of other exciting species.
Visitors to the nature reserve are reminded to bring their binoculars along, as well as a bird identification guide. Thanks to the blue gums and pine trees here (which are all alien species), a number of raptors have been attracted to the reserve. Since this is also a problem, the reserve has to balance its approach. It continues to replace alien vegetation with indigenous varieties, and has to weigh up the effect that this has on such raptor species. This is a huge responsibility that requires professional and sensitive management.
The various trails through this nature reserve are fabulous for hiking and cycling. Whether you are an avid sports enthusiast or a traveller that simply wants to smell the fresh scents of the South African countryside, these trails invite you to explore the region on foot or in the saddle. You can adjust your pace and ensure that you get the most out of your Modderfontein experience. Guided walks are a great way to wander the reserve with the added input of a knowledgeable and experienced person that will add much value to your time here.
Of course, thanks to the mining industry of yesteryear, this area also has a rich heritage and history in Modderfontein. The nature reserve is home to a number of buildings that tell the fascinating story of this area. These include the Modderfontein Dynamite Company Museum and the Stone Barn.
Need to Know
WhereModderfontein Nature Reserve, Modderfontein, West Rand, Gauteng
WhenDaily in Summer from 05h30 to 18h30. Winter from 06h00 to 18h00.
Telephone+27 (0)11 372-3600
OvernightStay in Modderfontein Accommodation, Gauteng
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.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inGame & Nature Reserves in Gauteng
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in East Rand
Topaz Cove Luxury Villas
Topaz Cove Luxury Villas is situated in the secure Emerald Estate in Modderfontein. Sandton and Midrand are within 15 km of the estate and there ...
Nightingale BnB
Nestled in the highly sought-after area of Glen Marais in Kempton Park, Nightingale Bed and Breakfast offers luxury, comfort, and peaceful rest. ...
African Moon Corporate House
African Moon Corporate House welcomes you to a luxurious and comfortable stay only 10 minutes from Johannesburg International Airport. Situated i...
Sonyador Guesthouse
Sonyador offers fine accommodation in five luxurious double rooms with percale linen and en-suite bathrooms. Three rooms open up onto a veranda o...
Golfer's Lodge
A luxury Guest Lodge conveniently situated in Edenvale, Johannesburg, 8km from OR Tambo International Airport. Close to top golf courses with eas...
Airport Game Lodge
Situated a mere 10 km north of Johannesburg International Airport, the secluded Airport Game Lodge combines the solitude of the African bush with...
Armagh Guesthouse
Armagh Guesthouse in Boksburg is Irish themed, located on a busy road close to all amenities yet secluded. The guesthouse has a lovely swimming p...
Emma's Guesthouse
Emma's Guesthouse offers accommodation in Kempton Park centrally located close to OR Tambo International Airport and Gautrain stations with easy ...
Edenvale Guest House
Edenvale Guest House is well situated to accommodate all your business and holiday requirements. From here you close to the airport and major hig...
Things to do in the area
Dobbs House Restaurant
The Dobbs House Restaurant enjoys its prime positioning in the glorious Modderfontein Nature Reserve. Although this reserve is in the heart of th...
Modderfontein Reserve Parkrun
Modderfontein Reserve Parkrun is a free weekly 5km timed run!The Modderfontein Nature Reserve is a natural treasure in the heart of the urban vib...
Taroko Trail Park
The spotless beauty of the South African terrain is put on a display of the prettiest sort at the Modderfontein Nature Reserve, which is only a s...
Noteworthy attractions
Benoni Country Club
Benoni Golf Course and Country Club is located on Johannesburg’s East Rand and serves as a wonderful break from the city yet remains within the c...
Benoni Lake Golf Club
One of the four large expanses of water that form a chain through this East Rand municipality is known as Middle Lake, and it is on the shores of...
ERPM Golf Course
The ERPM Golf course has bent grass greens and kikuyu fairways, and has a flat parkland layout. The long-time home of US Senior PGA star John Bla...
Germiston Country Club
18 holes, par-72. Rating 71, 6 523 metres. The course has kikuyu fairway and bent grass greens. The Germiston Lake comes into play on the par-thr...
Glendower Golf Club
Conveniently located within 10 minutes of OR Tambo International Airport, Glendower Golf Course is a well designed 6770m course, situated against...
Glenvista Golf Club
The Glenvista golf course boasts 18 superb bent grass greens built to United States Golf Association standards. Five dams, four of which come int...
Kempton Park Golf Club
The Kempton Park Golf Course is on the corner of Plein and Green Avenue in Spartan, Kempton Park. Ernie Els learnt to play golf at the Kempton Pa...
Modderfontein Golf Club
Modderfontein Golf Course has Kikuyu fairways and bent grass greens. Water comes into play on 11 of the 18 holes. The club has had a top 20 ratin...
Reading Country Club
Reading Country Club boasts a 18-hole golf course in a typical woodlands layout. The course is tree-lined with water featuring on 10 of the 18 ho...
Accommodation near Modderfontein Nature Reserve
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Gauteng Accommodation / Johannesburg Accommodation / East Rand Accommodation / Modderfontein Accommodation