Welgevonden Private Game Reserve
Limpopo Province, South Africa
Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is found within the wilderness expanse of the majestic Waterberg Mountain range in South Africa’s northern most Province Limpopo. Welgevonden means ‘well found’ which is a fitting description for this beautiful area which is made up rocky plateaus, open woodland and reclaimed farmland dissected by crystal clear streams, ravines and stony gorges. The 36 000 hectare malaria-free reserve is home to large numbers of wildlife, many of which have been recently re-introduced, including members of the Big Five, other general game and over 300 species of bird of which South Africa’s national bird - the blue crane - is a rare and special member. The impressive bio-diversity of Welgevonden includes the following species:
Lodges and camps:
- 56 mammal species
- 139 tree species
- Over 300 bird species
- 32 reptile species
- 16 amphibian species
Although seldomly visited, there are a few Bushman painting sites on the property which provide an interesting cultural element to a typical safari experience. Welgevonden is part of the Waterberg Mountains, which is aptly named after all the rivers and streams which carve the landscape, and forms part of the Waterberg Biosphere. This 150 000 hectare biosphere was established in 2001 so as to further strengthen conservation and social initiatives in the Waterberg. Welgevonden lies adjacent to Marakele National Park and there are plans in place to remove the fences and unite these two fantastic reserves to form one of South Africa’s largest public-private conservancies.
There is a high density of lodges on Welgevonden each owning 500 hectares of land but having traversing rights over the entire property. The luxurious lodges are generally small and intimate in nature accommodating a maximum of ten guests. The higher density of lodges however does little to detract from the exceptional bush and wilderness experience that you will have at Welgevonden. Activities include anything from game drives and safari walks to star gazing and spa treatments depending on where one stays.
Lodges on Welgevonden:
Welgevonden is easily accessible and the reserve gates are a short two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. Getting to the lodges may take longer as guests are met at the gates and transferred to their respective lodge. There are airstrips on the reserve for those wishing to charter in private flights which only take forty five minutes from Johannesburg.