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Situated in the Cradle of Humankind, World Heritage Site just 40 kilometres west of Johannesburg, the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is the premier game reserve in the Gauteng province. The private game park has been listed among the top 5 tourist attractions in Gauteng. Home to 25 animal species including 3 of the Big Five, it is no wonder the park has become so popular with those looking to get a bite of the wild.
 Humble Beginnings
The reserve was previously a dairy and agricultural produce farm. Then in 1985 a stockbroker, Ed Hern, established the reserve
so as to retain this picturesque landscape. It began with 2 white rhinos named Ouvrou and Bulle, and a few antelope species. The reserve grew rapidly and is today inhabited by over 600 animals. This includes the endangered Cape wild dog, cheetah, hippopotamus, tiger and wildebeest. But most impressive of all the animals are 3 of the Big Five – the lion, buffalo and the white rhino.
Currently there are 2 prides of lion, 19 altogether. There are 7 white rhino and approximately 20 Buffalo. The park has also grown in size, covering about 1, 100 hectares. Since it is a private organisation, it is dependant solely on their customers for support so that the game reserve can keep on looking after the needs of its inhabitants and visitors.
When Suits go on Safari
 Visitors to the game reserve will be taken into either the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve or the Lion and Predator Camp where they will be able to view some of the most impressive wildlife in the world. An experienced guide accompanies visitors on the game drives, which lasts approx. 3 hours. Visitors are able to view game from an open vehicle, letting you get closer to the animals.
Included in the game drives on Saturdays and Sundays are the lion, cheetah and wild dog feed, which is always a spectacle in itself. It is fascinating to see these predators wake from their slumber and slowly make their way to the feeding area when they sense the vehicle with their food is approaching. Once the lions are given the meat, you can enjoy watching them feast.
Night game drives are fast becoming a popular option, as you will get to see those animals that only prowl at night. The rare Cape vulture can also be seen floating about in the vulture hide situated in the reserve.
Rare Cat Breeding
The Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve’s breeding section houses some of the rarest cats in the world. White lion and Bengal tigers are just some of the predators that are taken care of at the breeding section. There is also an animal crèche where visitors are able to play with and cuddle some of the various breeds of these feline cubs.
Your Own Lair
For those wishing to stay at the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, there are a number of choices. There are luxurious catered or self-catered tented camps that can sleep groups of up to 12 people. They are fitted with en-suite bathrooms and also include a fully stocked fridge. The rest camp comprises 3 private, fully equipped chalets. Each chalet can sleep up to 6 people. The rest camp also has its own swimming pool and lapa.
Other Activities in the Park:
The Observatory
Stargazing is always best where there are clear skies. And in the wild, surrounded by nature and clean air, a glimpse at the night sky will bring out the best sightings of those activities happening in outer space. The observatory, which is situated within the park’s vicinity, is where visitors can witness life beyond our earth. Depending on weather conditions and the phases of the moon, the observatory will be open daily.
The Wondercave
The Wondercave, the third largest cave chamber in South Africa, is also part of the game reserve. Here, visitors are taken on a guided tour of the cave. The cave also offers abseiling, which is a terrific teambuilding exercise.
Snake Displays
Live snake displays take place every day at the reserve. Visitors are given a basic talk and advice by a snake expert, such as knowing what to do when you are bitten by one of these slithery reptiles. The snakes are brought out of their holdings so that the expert is able to explain a bit more about them, but touching them is not permitted for your own safety.
Croc Pub
At first, the Croc Pub is like any other bar. But once you glance at the pool that the pub overlooks, you will see two massive Nile crocodiles lazing or swimming about. In the pub, you’ll also find a thick glass through which you can see the crocodiles in their night room.
Links:
For an overview of the reserve go to www.rhinolion.co.za |
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