Glen Reenen Rest Camp

Glen Reenen Rest Camp is nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains within Golden Gate Highlands National Park, providing a scenic getaway for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by iconic sandstone cliffs, golden rock formations, and lush grasslands, the camp offers both rondawels and family chalets, as well as a shady campsite, all set close to the reception office, shop, and filling station on one side and the camping area on the other.​

Who is it for?

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking spectacular scenery, hiking trails, and unique geological features.

Families and groups wanting affordable self-catering options or a relaxed camping experience, with open space for kids to play and swim (there’s a natural swimming pool with waterslide).

Birdwatchers and wildlife viewers, with year-round access to resident antelope species, over 100 bird species, and rare sights like bearded and Cape vultures at the vulture restaurant or hide.

Independent travellers looking for a base near Clarens (22 km away), accessible by various vehicle types.

Who is it not suited for?

Visitors seeking luxury or complete privacy; the rondawels and longdawels can be close together, with shared spaces and occasional noise from neighboring units or day visitors.​

Guests expecting traditional safari wildlife, as the park is noted more for its landscape and antelope than for the Big Five; no major predators are present, making it ideal—but not thrilling—for scenic hikes and relaxed wildlife viewing.​

Those who require reliable cellphone or WiFi coverage, as connectivity is limited across the camp.

People with pets, as pets are not allowed. Only guide dogs are allowed, and only by prior arrangement.​

Wildlife Viewing Options

Game viewing: You’ll see black wildebeest, eland, blesbok, oribi, springbok, Burchell’s zebra, mountain reedbuck, red hartebeest, grey rhebok, common duiker, and steenbok through self-drive routes (like Blesbok Loop and Oribi Loop), guided hikes, or on horseback.​

Birdwatching: Over 100 bird species are recorded, including rare southern bald ibis, bearded vultures, and migratory species. The vulture feeding project is a highlight, and birding drives often yield large atlassing totals.

Scenic features: Key sights include Brandwag Buttress, Cathedral Cave, and the new Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre—a unique learning excursion.

Glen Reenen Rest Camp is best described as a scenic, family-friendly retreat for those wanting to immerse themselves in the spectacular landscape and wildlife of Golden Gate Highlands National Park. It’s perfect for hikers, birders, and outdoor lovers, though luxury seekers or those craving solitude should look elsewhere. Every visitor is rewarded with breathtaking views, abundant wildlife sightings, and a sense of relaxation away from city life.