OUR EXPERT

Grant Christie

“Rietvlei Nature Reserve is an unlikely wildlife haven between Pretoria and Joburg. This 38 km2 Highveld-grassland reserve is home to buffalo, white rhino and herds of blesbok and wildebeest, all within the confines of the city limits.

“The four bird hides give birders a chance to relax with their binoculars and observe the birds, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a Cape clawless otter.

“You can drive in your own vehicle within the reserve or do a game drive with a guide, but by far the best way to experience Rietvlei is on a guided walk. The gently undulating 8 km trail is suitable for all fitness levels. It offers vast views of the dams and cityscape beyond, and an opportunity to encounter the grazers eye to eye. You might even spot Njozi the cheetah and her five cubs. The guides are highly experienced and you’ll leave feeling enriched. Walks last about three hours and cost only R130 per person, excluding the reserve entry fee of R65 per adult and R37 per child.

(No children under 12 are allowed on the walk.)

“Bookings are made through the Rietvlei Coffee Shop. Call

074 820 9926; e-mail melanie@rietvleicoffee.co.za.”