The reserve is the first in South Africa to reintroduce lions in a residential and commercial area through a public-private partnership.
It utilizes a 'Big 5' model where the reserve is not fully enclosed by a single fence, but rather utilizes a perimeter fence system designed to keep dangerous game confined.
The reserve name 'Dinokeng' translates from Setswana to 'a place of rivers'.
It is situated within the Dinokeng Big 5 Area, which encompasses several historical and cultural heritage sites outside the reserve's core.
The reserve's layout incorporates existing public roads, requiring specific permits and strict speed adherence for visitors.
It serves as a significant breeding ground for the endangered African Wild Dog within a protected, managed environment.
Dinokeng Game Reserve is the only Big 5 game reserve located entirely within the Gauteng province of South Africa. Established in 2011, it covers approximately 21,000 hectares of diverse bushveld habitat. The reserve functions as a public-private partnership, integrating private land and communal properties into a single unfenced wildlife area. It features a self-drive route network, allowing visitors to navigate the reserve in their own vehicles. The ecosystem supports lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, alongside various plains game. Its proximity to major urban hubs makes it a primary destination for short-duration safari experiences. The reserve is managed under the Dinokeng Management Association, which coordinates conservation and tourism efforts across the collective land. Water sources are provided by the Pienaars and Moretele rivers passing through the region.
The elevated lookout points near the primary waterholes during the golden hour.
Download the digital map or purchase a paper guide at the entrance to navigate the self-drive routes accurately.
Pack binoculars and a camera with a high-zoom lens, as animal sightings depend on natural migration patterns within the vast bushveld.
Always keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed when in the presence of predators or elephants.
Do not attempt to exit your vehicle anywhere except for clearly marked, fenced-in designated picnic spots or camps.
Maintain silence during animal encounters, do not feed wildlife, and strictly remain inside your vehicle at all times.
