Waterberg

The Waterberg (translates to Water Mountain) region is a typical South African safari getaway. As beautiful as the next one, separated from the rush of the busy towns and other tourist attraction, it offers visitors a chance to relax, soothe their weary muscles and see some of South Africa’s legendary wildlife. The Waterberg area has more recently become the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve and includes 5000 square kilometers of mountainous terrain, offering visitors spectacular views of sweeping vistas and valleys. A biosphere reserve is a relatively new concept that incorporates a few ideals into the creation of the reserves, which include dedication to sustainable development, conservation and environmental awareness, as well as including local communities into the reserve for the benefit of all the people involved, not just the prospective tourists.

Inside the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve are plenty of 5 star lodges for guests to stay in, there are 129 various species of mammals, including South Africa’s “Big 5”, 350 bird species and over 2000 species of plants. This just goes to show how important it is to conserve an area such as the Waterberg. The Waterberg region is also home to many indigenous African people farming and living off the land and is one of the most mineral rich areas of South Africa, metals such as platinum, nickel and chromium can all be found here.

Within the boundaries of the Waterberg region are an absolute ton of game reserves. The area is so fill of wildlife, river-filled valleys and savannahs that there is easily enough for ten or so parks that have sprung up over the years. So, whether you are just looking to relax in the beautiful savannah landscape, or go in search of South Africa’s famous “Big 5”, or maybe be a bit more adventurous and go abseiling, hiking or kloofing in the various valleys, the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve is definitely worth looking into, not to mention it is conveniently located only 2 hours from the city of Johannesburg.