Most of the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve is traversable on foot - from the low dolerite ridges of the Black Hills on its eastern boundary, through flat Lowveld grasslands dotted with distinctive mopane and combretum trees, to its western side lying close to the Kruger National Park. In the north, the Great Letaba River draws a vibrant array of birdlife to its banks, while crocodiles and hippos can be spotted lazing in its waters.

 

Three self-guided trails start from the visitor’s centre and wind their way in various directions and distances through the Lowveld. The three-day 32km Giraffe trail offers a complete encounter with the beauty of the reserve. A game-viewing self-drive route snakes through the grasslands offering up sightings of antelope, giraffe, wildebeest, and warthog. 

 

The reserve is easily accessible from Tzaneen, which lies only 70km to the south-west, and is merely an hour’s drive from the Phalaborwa Gate of the Kruger National Park. The reserve is a breeding site for giraffe and sable antelope, which it supplies to other reserves. The Muti Wa Vatsonga Museum also lies within its borders and houses a wealth of information on the Tsonga tribe’s culture.

 

 

Highlights