Guide to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park

• By: Editor
• On: 16/Oct/2008
• In: South Africa Travel Tips

First of all, how did it get its name? Well, the name Golden Gate Highlands National Park comes from the different shades of gold from the sun as it shines down on the sandstone cliffs.  

The Golden Gate Highland National Park is home to an impressive array of sandstone rock formations as well as towering mountains and sheltered valleys. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors you’ll be in heaven here.

The National Park boasts some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery and it’s ideal for a variety of activities. You’ll also catch a glimpse of the park’s residents which include Burchell’s Zebra, Black Wildebeest, White-tailed gnu, Southern Eland and the Springbok which features as an emblem on the national Rugby team’s jerseys.

In total there’s about 140 different bird species identified at the Golden Gate Highland National Park, making it a bird watchers paradise.

If you’re the adventurous type then you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice with the range and abundance of activities here. Why not take a long swim in the cool waters of a natural mountain pool, discover the park on horse back, or why not take a hike in the many wonderful hiking pathways throughout?

You can also avail of tennis, bowls, table tennis, snooker, short nature trails that are signposted and will take you on a 1-5 hour walk, or why not go viewing game at your leisure in your car rental.

If you’re up for a challenge why not have a go at the 31km hike through the national park. The Rhebok Trail offers a 2-day hike that covers this area - it’s not for the faint hearted or the unfit though! This hike should not be attempted unless accompanied by a professional hiker. As with all walks and hikes it’s recommended to bring suitable clothing, footwear and plenty of water, and be prepared for anything! 

Day 1 commences at Glen Reenen with a steep hike up Brandwag. Here you’ll follow pathways along the sandstone formation, taking in fantastic views, and eventually making your way to camp.

Day 2 consists of an eight hour walk, again, taking in spectacular scenery, reaching new heights and descending depths where you will eventually return to Glen Reenen.

During this hike you’ll see the Van Reenen Family graveyard, the impressive Brandwag Buttress formation of rocks, the amazing bird hide at the Langtoon Dam, the Generaalskop viewpoint, Zuluhoek viewpoint, the Oribin basin and the Drakensberg viewpoint. 

Find out more about The Rhebok Trail.

Another fantastic feature of The Golden Gate Highland National Park is its many coves and caves. Not only can you shelter from the rain but you can also check out the amazing cave paintings. These paintings date back to pre-historic times, the earliest European cave painting dates back to approximately 32,000 years ago. 

As with most national parks in South Africa, a conservation fee is required and is paid at the offices and entrance gates. Tourists and visitors are also entitled to purchase a ‘Wild Card’ which will give discount rates should they wish to stay longer than 5 or 6 days. South African citizens, students etc. are always entitled to a discounted rate. 

With so much to see and do, the abundance of many activities on offer, the impressive scenery, amazing wildlife, peace and tranquillity and much more, you’ll cherish your holiday memories of South Africa, and especially your visit to The Golden Gates Highlands National Park.  

Discover South Africa for yourself and book car hire South Africa securely online today. 

If you have any comments or questions, or need any assistance booking car hire, we’d be delighted to hear from you. Drop us a line in the comment box below.