Overview
Grietjie Private Nature Reserve is located 30 kilometers south of Phalaborwa in the northern section of the Balule Nature Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park.With stunning landscapes that varies from rocky outcrops to plains, the reserve is home to a healthy diversity of wildlife including Africa 2019s Big 5 and about 280 bird species.There 2019s a variety of accommodation available, from luxury guest houses and lodges to self-catering facilities.Why Go:
- Authentic African safari
- Plenty of accommodation options
- Full-title properties of impressive sizes
- More than 280 different bird species
- Distinct biodiversity and undeniable beauty
- Excellent wildlife viewing with all of the Big Five present
Wildlife
Grietjie Private Nature Reserve is a Big 5 Reserve, which means that it’s home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceroses. In addition to these animals you can also expect to see the jackal, waterbuck, crocodile and more than 280 bird species when you go on a safari or game drive.
More About the WildlifeScenery
The reserve encompasses some stunning landscapes with bergs and rocky outcrops to plains and riverine bush. Part of Grietjie is situated on the perennial Olifants River.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit Grietjie Game Reserve is during the dry winter season, as temperatures remain comfortable.
More About the Best Time to VisitWeather & Climate
The dry winter season is from May to September, which is also the best time to visit Grietjie Game Reserve.
More About the Weather and ClimateWildlife & Animals
Grietjie is a Big Five reserve, which means that it is home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceroses. But, in addition to these exciting animals, there are much more to spot in their natural habitat. Go on a safari or game drive and look out for jackal, waterbuck, crocodile, and a host of exciting bird species.-
Elephant
Common -
Giraffe
Common -
Hippo
Common -
Buffalo
Common -
Zebra
Abundant -
Wildbeest
Common -
White Rhino
Occasional -
Black Rhino
Rare -
Lion
Occasional -
Leopard
Rare -
Cheetah
Rare -
Hyena
Common -
Wild Dog
Rare
Wildlife highlights
The reserve has an impressive hippo population which can be found wallowing in the river during the day. Civets and honey badgers are just two of the rarer creatures sometimes encountered.Best time for wildlife viewing
The dry months of June to September make up the prime time for wildlife viewing in Grietjie. In particular, the period from August to September (the end of the Dry season) is a recommended time for a visit as temperatures rise and animals concentrate around the Olifants River after the dry spell.Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to GoMay to September
(Dry season) - High SeasonOctober to March
(It can get a bit busy)
-
May to September
Dry Season
-
October to March
Less people
-
April to September
Perfect time for bird watching
-
April to May
Mild with a little rain
-
June to August
Chilly right through the day
-
December to February
Warm and Dry
May to September
- Dry Season – Winter- Low humidity and mild weather
October to April
- Wet Season – Summer- Fewer tourists in camps and on roads
Weather & Climate
Summer temperatures can rise to a maximum of 32°C, with afternoon rainfall that brings relief from the heat. Winter is drier, with cooler evening temperatures and less thick vegetation which makes it ideal for spotting animals.Climate Chart
- 500M / 1,640Ft© chart & park data: SafariBookings. © climate grid data: WorldClim project. All rights reserved.
Dry season
- May to September – WinterThe dry winter season is from May to September, which is also the best time to visit Grietjie Game Reserve.
Wet season
- October to April – SummerA typical summer means more comfortable temperatures, but slightly more rainfall. Although primarily sunny, cloud cover is possible and it could drizzle all day.
Getting There
Grietjie Private Game Reserve is in the northern section of the Balule Nature Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park, just south of Phalaborwa in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The closets airports are Phalaborwa Airport (27km) and Hoedspruit Airport (67km).Contact the reserve directly for enquiries about airport transfers.Getting to Grietjie Game Reserve by Road
• Follow the N4 towards Nelspruit.
• Take the Belfast off-ramp and drive through Belfast, Dullstroom, Lydenberg and Origstad.
• Make your way over the Abel Erasmus Pass.
• Drive through the Strydom Tunnel and on to Hoedspruit.
• At Hoedspruit, turn left at the 4 way stop onto the R40 towards Phalaborwa.
• Approximately 17km further on, turn right into the Olifants West gate
• This is the entrance to the Balule Nature Reserve.
• A reserve entrance fee is payable at the gate.
Airlines and Ticket Prices
To book your International and local flights, it is best to discuss options with our agents. They will be able to secure best tariffs and match it with your safari dates.
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