The reserve is in need of some maintenance. The signs on the routes are completely faded, some of the benches are broken and some of the bins have holes at the bottom due to rust. I think much more effort can be put into the general upkeep of the place.We still enjoyed the trail leading up to the mountain. It is quite steep but the view from the top is nice. Another part of the trail that is worth mentioning, is the river one has to cross. We did not see any animals, probably because we did not stay very long - we basically only went up and down the mountain.Although we enjoyed the outing, we were still a bit disappointed with the reality of the reserve. Maybe we will have a better experience in the future, if we decide to return.
It’s a beautiful place. The climb to the mountain is steep but paved so it’s a steep walk, rather than a hike in the true sense of the word. The routes are short but they interlink so you can “mix and match” for a custom and long-ish route. The markings are scant but because the place is not that big, you don’t feel lost.
I was looking for dog friendly park as Im new to Pretoria.We found it on Google.It advertised a waterfall so I was super excited but we didnt find it.When we arrived there we had to pay R110 for a dog permit which lasts for 1yr and adults pay R17.I asked the gentleman if I could please have a map so he said its outside. When we got to the map it was sunburnt so we couldnt see much.We followed the route that said picnic area.Everything was super dry and they had burnt certain areas so nothing was lush or scenic.We met some people walking past they said there is a bird hide and a little stream up ahead.We walked for a bit and then found the sign.The river or stream is quite polluted we saw alot of plastic bags in it very sad.Then we decided to walk up the little mountain.They have rubbish bins which is nice.The view was also very nice.Then we took the opposite path down and its very steep but has a cemented path which was nice.At the bottom some crossed the stream which smelt of sewage very upsetting and we found an alternative path alongside the fence ..I wish they had more signage up.I would definitely go again but wish they had more signage up and did something about the stream/river.They also have a few benches to sit and rest.I am sure it would look stunning in Summer with the rain.
Excellent hiking trails. From beginner to experienced, theres a trail for everyone. The area is also large enough that it does not feel crowded. The views from the peaks are definitely worth the effort.
A very peaceful place to enjoy your walk ...
Nice trails and affordable access. I didnt have much to compare it with as I wasnt much of a hiker before this.I enjoyed the trail and the challenge of the hill. Looks like itll be beautiful in the summer
One of the most amazing views in Pretoria, and easy enough for anybody to get up there.Definitely worth a walk in nature for this one.
Faerie Nature Reserve came highly recommended by numerous people and is rated as a must do in Pretoria - I agree.It is a municipal park that is open from 6am to 6pm year round. Entrance fee for the general public is R11 (@ 1 October 2017) If you are a local or plan in frequenting Faerie Glen it will pay you to become a member.We were greeted by Nico who explained the 3 routes available to hike, walk, run ... whatever takes your fancy. Degree of difficulty 1 & 2 star routes.We started off doing the Acacia route but next thing we knew we were scrambling the rocks making our way to the top ... so not sure what route we ended up doing. The park could do with some signposting, not that this detracted from our very pleasant time spent here. Apart from more signage needed the park is in a good state of repair. We encountered Zebras and Impalas on our run ... dont know who was more surprised - me or the Zebras! They were unusually calm, placid and clearly are used to sharing this habitat. The impalas not so much ... they were skittish and happy to scuttle off on hearing our approach.What a wonderful facility right in the middle of suburbia! Glad we visited.
Very disappointing. Litter everywhere. Trails are poorly demarcated
What a lovely reserve, catering for young and old and dog friendly also! My grandkids and I had lots of fun walking in the reserve...the views are amazing from the top!!..
Only R15 entrance and great hike trails for groups or being alone. A must to visit, and there are beautiful Zebras!!!
Had a lovely hike up. Always beautiful around 4:30pm (Winter time) on your way down.
Definitely worth it.
Its a such a serene environment. The hike up the mountain is delightfuly short (albeit rather steep). You can bring a book along and read it at the top top of the mountain too! The hike down was nice. We went down the other side of the mountain, where there were a lot of trees. We also found a stream of water!Remember to pack sunscreen and water and enjoy these moments in nature!
A beautiful corner of nature where you can escape city life, enjoy a small hike and take in some fabulous views of Pretoria and natural scenary while enjoying the flora and fauna. Well worth the humble entrance fees. Dog permits can also be purchased, but take 3 days to process. One permit covers two dogs for one year.
Stunning combo of flat and hilly terrain intersected by a river right in Pretoria. Any walk here rebalance your spirit!
Great place to bring your pet for a little adventure, great for exercise or a group activity. Quite a reasonable price for the maximum distance of 4.1km. Make sure you have some sunscreen and a hat.
Wonderful natural beauty
I love it,
If you are looking for a very steep climb, this is your spot. The steepest climb is about 2km long and the hike in total can range from 3 to 5 or slightly more kilometers. The rest of the climb is fairly ok. Not too demanding. Awesome view of Pretoria from the top of the mountain.
Were come hike here very often. Its a nice place to visit. Also very affordable compared to other nature reserves. G theres a few different routes, we usually take the one that goes right up to the look out point. Its such a breathtaking view of the city around us.Theres also plenty of picnic spots.
Great walk, wonderful views and even the odd critter or two!
Love to walk the dogs here on weekends (and during the week). Beautiful Zebras. You need to be a Friend and get a permit to walk you dogs. They have to be on a leach all the time.
The sewage pipe that runs through the reserve stinks. All signage needs attention and the benches are broken.Great views. Secure parking.
Great trail was fun even in the rain
Fearie glen nature reserve offers dog friendly hiking trails. Open from 6am to 6pm. R12 per person. They have 3 different routes to choose from. Distances vary from just over 3 to 6km with moderate difficulty. The routes are fairly clean and easy to follow. There is also a picknic area available. Enjoy!
Really nice experience to witness GODS will🙏🌆
Nice n calm place to relax n a good city view
A great escape inside the middle of Pretoria East. Cover is a couple of bucks but that keeps the place (relatively) clean and makes sure nobody stays there for the night/forever.My kids absolutely love coming here.The koppie near the entrance is a nice climb and has a great cement road to make it easy to walk up (or trail run if you wish). On top you have great views of the surrounding area.A must if you stay in Pretoria (or even if you dont)
Having a park in the middle of a built up area is never ideal. There is noise, litter and traffic. The park is small with two small hills that have great look out spots. The cement pathway uphill is great and the benches are in the right spaces. I didn’t see any buck but I could see there their droppings and spoor. Lots of birds - Piet my vrou. And weavers. I saw a zebra and there is a bird hide next to a little dam / stream. Toilets and some picnic benches are the only amenities. Dogs on leads are allowed
It was our first visit to the reserve and we really enjoy the views from the two lookout points on top of the hills. The climb was challenging at times. We didnt see any game. We will definetely be back with our dogs. We got all the info needed to apply for the yearly permit at the entrance desk. (It is R 70 per dog per year)The entrance fee to the reserve is R15 pp per day.
Good place for any time of day walk/hike
Nice trails
Beautiful place with a paved path, easy for all ages. It does get a bit steep, but rewards you with the best views of Pretoria! There is also an unbeaten path that takes you up to the highest point- recommended for those with a higher fitness level. Pet friendly (permit needed) and great picnic spot! Definitely a hidden gem!
Good morning hike to escape from the city. Well maintained hiking and walking trails (poorly marked, but easy to navigate yourself if you have a decent look at the trail poster at the reception before starting). Bring your own water and snacks. Guarded parking area. Public toilets. Picnic area (no braai facilities). Ill definitely return for another morning hike soon.
Easy and beautiful trail in Pretoria east, very cheap as well ☺️
Great place to visit to just unwind and appreciate nature. There is no clear signs giving clear directions.
Very loving and relaxing place to walk, beautiful scenery, a place for the whole family and the dogs are also allowed in the reserve
Love the peace and tranquilty...good theraoy😇
Enclosed nature reserve with paths for walks and a hike. Small entrance fee to enter the reserve (Under R20 for my son and I) We saw a variety of birds as well as an Iguana near the walking path. Take water to stay hydrated on your walk.
Beautiful place for a very small entrance fee. There is a parking lot for cars. We have seen zebras last year and springboks a few days ago.
Always a favourite to go for a short walk in a safe innercity reserve. But where has the wildlife gone to? There is some serious work needed on the invasive species flora and cleaning of the Riverside from plastics after the rains a few months ago. Its so popular, they should increase the parking as well.
Excellent, scenic outdoor venue to enjoy with family and friends. Enjoy walking/running/exploring in nature.
We love going to our back garden. Easy trails for more sedentary walking, as well as moderately challenging ones for those intending to get a bit fitter. Dog friendly.
It strengthens our muscles and keeps our body more healthier
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip with a friend to the 🌿 Faerie Glen Nature Reserve! The flora was in full bloom 🌺 and the sky lit up the day with refreshing shades. However, because we didnt think of the fire ants 🔥🐜 our feet were under attack until we reached higher ground. Overall I had a wonderful time and will return soon.
This place is really Africa! They actually had Hartebeests there! Streams, brooks, waterfalls and the sound of waterfalls, and birds chirping and cooing. 🦌🦆🐜🌲🌳🌴🌲🌳🌴🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺 Mountains around one-side and trails ... NATURE EVERY WHERE.Unique and colorful birds - larger than MOST with fascinating turquoise, blue heads! Grasses growing! Sun blazing! Clean, clear air with areas of fantastically beautiful rocks, and reddish-soil everywhere. Totally relaxing in a place where you can totally enjoy walking and WATCHING!!! 🐾🐦🦉🦒🦉🦆🦅🌎
Great place to get away from the city. Well-marked trails and lots of animals to seen. Parking has 2 guards (on a sunday) and there is an entrance fee of R12p/p. Dogs welcome on a leash. The Kiepersol route goes all the way around. Definitely worth a visit.
I like it because its close by and its not expensive. But not much in the way of upkeep or attractions here. Very little signage and lots of it confusing. But you can do a 3.6km hike with some nice views of the east of Pretoria if you climb the hills. R12 for 13 years and over and R6 for kids over 6 cash only. Good parking space and friendly staff. Annual plans available.
Not marked clearly and short but good for short hikes with family
Lots of hiking trails to choose from. Felt secure and loved the outdoor experience!!!
This family friendly nature reserve offers a three short hiking trails – if you’re up for the challenge you can combine them to make up a 10km trail. I only did the 4.2km Kiepersol trail, which starts off with a rather steep paved walk. The only snag about this is that you can hear cars drive by as the reserve is near a couple of main roads.There’s some awesome vegetation along the way and if you’re lucky you’ll find zebra’s roaming around. What’s even better is that you’re able to take along your furry friends, but need to obtain a permit beforehand. Another bonus is that you can spot the Moreleta Spruit flowing through the Reserve.My Verdict: Definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a dose of nature without a long drive.
Nice place to do trail running,hiking or take quiet afternoon walk
You pay entrance but the upkeep is poor. The trails are not marked and the boards that are on the route is unreadable. Go to rademeyers. Its free and the routes are marked.
Dog on leash at all times, have to get a permit at the entrance.Beautiful views, river for dogs to cool down after a long walk. Was fun
Beautiful views.Nice hike.Very bad signs especially at start.
Very beautiful for hiking and best of all, dogs on leashes are allowed... You have to have a license and I think you can obtain one there but there isnt much clarity on that. Best for a saturday walk and seeing the views that pretoria has to offer
Walk was wonderful and my granddaughter says she could see the whole world from the top of the mountain.
Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is perfect for a comfortable to tough hike. One can also have a picnic if you like. Theres a chance you will be enjoying your meal with zebras and springboks. Worth a visit.
The paths were not clearly marked, but other than that a beautiful day and hike!
Beautiful hiking trails, secure park ideal for birdwatching...
Nice very good exercise, getting lost in the city
Wonderful place to go for a walk. If you take the obvious uphill route and not the Acacia route to start with, the climb may be too much for people who are unfit, but if taken in short bursts on the uphill track you will be fine. The view from the top is beautiful and if you walk the far way around, you end up in a semi forest area where there is a small fairy garden tucked away to the side. Overall wonderful.
Excellent nature reserve for walking and relaxation. Together with my 2 children we up the mountain on the western side and came down from the eastern side, what a pleasant morning.
I had a lovely time.
Love living so close to the Nature Reserve....seeing the Zebra, Buck and variety of birds when going to work and driving home in the evenings is priceless..
Connecting with Nature itself in the Capital is simply visiting this Jungle Jewel just on the outskirts of Menlyn CBD.Challenging Trails followed by the satisfying views at the top plus the few animals that call this place home is just what fulfills every heart. Of course I with there were more animals.Well kept and really enjoyable from the toddlers to the oldies and well worthy it spending time with Family 👪.Beautiful ❤️
Over the years we have visited this nice nature area often. Unfortunately on our last visit the place really is in need of a good service. The bathrooms were very very dirty and no toilet paper was available in the ladies. The trails are slightly overgrown and in need of renewed signage and a bit of a refurbishment. I will continue going and really hope these things will improve. For the access fee of R16 per person and the large volume of people going there one would really think this place could be in very good condition!
Definitely a must visit place. Very quiet, refreshing afternoon or morning walks. My husband and I love the nature reserve.
Depending on the route you choose, it can become quite a technical and challenging hike.
Very well taken care of. Nice views