In Dutch, “Welgevonden” means “well-found” or “serendipitous discovery” and from the moment you drive through the gates it will become obvious why. Nearly 40 000 hectares of untouched African wilderness, this truly majestic stretch of land offers an intimate, personal experience of the bush.
Situated in the Waterberg District of South Africa’s Limpopo province, just 2.5hrs from Johannesburg (or a quick 45min flight), Welgevonden is easily one of Southern Africa’s most accessible game reserves and boasts the additional convenience of being in a Malaria-free area.
Welgevonden’s diverse landscape presents a varying experience; travel through the vast savannahs and grasslands, explore the leafy wooded mountains and deep rocky ravines and uncover the many reasons the Waterberg was declared a Unesco heritage site.
Home to over 50 species of mammal, once you’ve had your fill of big 5 spotting, you can shift your focus to Welgevonden’s host of rare and sought-after species like Cheetah, Brown hyena, Caracal, Aardwolf and Aardvark.
And for those moments when the wildlife is laying low, gaze up at the sky and enjoy over 300 species of birds such as Blue Crane, Malachite kingfisher, Martial eagle, Denham's bustard and Cape vulture.
A reserve with a commitment to conservation, Welgevonden’s track record speaks for itself. Reintroduction of game began in 1994 with only 5 Lions and since then many of the offspring has been relocated to boost the Lion populations in other parks and reserves in Africa.
An adventure in the African bush is a pleasant experience all year round. Although many South Africans choose to safari during Winter (lower grasses and less foliage mean one can see further), Welgevonden is a truly special place during Summer when migratory birds are resident, and many species of game are birthing their young.
