The Golden Gate National Park is located on the foothill of the Maluti Mountains and is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
This place has such a special place in my heart, as I can clearly remember the stories my grandfather told me about hiking these magical mountains.
It is located about a 3 hour drive from Johannesburg. I would suggest driving to Harrismith and then continue your way to Golden Gate, as the road is in a much better condition.
It is also about 3 hours from Bloemfontein and 4 hours from Durban.
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What you need to know
Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, but you’ll mostly hear South Africans speak English, Afrikaans and Xhosa.
Currency: The currency in South Africa is called Rand (R)
15USD will get you 1 Rand
17 EUR will get you 1 Rand
Credit Cards and ATMS: All the facilities does have credit card machines to make it easier, some even have a no-cash policy. However, the closest ATM is located in Clarens which is a 20 minute drive from the National Park.
When to visit? During winter time you will see the Maluti Mountains covered with snow. It can get really cold here, so be prepared. Summer time can be quite hot with your afternoon showers. I believe the best time to visit is during March to May, as this is right after the rainy season, so the fields will be nice and green and it is not too hot or too cold.
Top things to do at the Golden Gate National Park
Before you start your adventure, I suggest you buy a permit at the information centre located at the Total Garage/Glen Reenen Camp and Chalets. You’ll receive a map with all the points of interest.
Here are some of the adventures you can embark on:
Drive the famous Lichen Pass
The Lichen Pass, also known as the Golden Gate Pass, is 2041m and just driving this will make a trip to Golden Gate National Park worth it. It winds through the Park with some spectacular mountain views.
Stop at the various viewpoints
There are various lookout points to stop at while you cruise through the Golden Gate National Park.
One overlooking the Lichen Pass, some overlooking the Drakensberg Mountain Range and others the Red Mountains. These are the perfect spots to just have a snack whilst chatting away with your family or friends.
Go hiking
The Golden Gate National Park is the hiking hub of the Free State and there are so many great options to choose from. They range from easy to moderate and there are short to longer trails.
Some of the most popular hiking trails are the Echo Ravine, Mushroom Rock and the Brandwag Buttress.
Read more on the permits on my post about the Golden Gate Hiking Trails.
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Drive the Blesbok Loop
The Blesbok loop is a one way road of 6.7km that has various viewpoints. Just make sure to use the entrance closest to the Glen Reenen Rest Camp, but don’t worry the signs are clear here.
Some of the viewpoints include the Langtoon Dam, Zuluhoek lookout point and the Generaalskop view point.
Please just remember that you need a permit to drive these loops. The permit can be bought at the information centre located at the Glen Reenen Camps and Chalets (GPS Coordinates) and can be used for all activities in the Golden Gate National Park.
Oribi Loop
The Oribi Loop is also a one-way road of 4.2 km. The entrance is also closest to the Glen Reenen Rest Camp and you’ll see a lot of wild animals roaming around. Here you’ll have access to the Vulture Feeding Project and the Drakensberg View point.
Visit the Natural Swimming Pool
Located right behind the Glen Reenen Chalets, you can make your way among the tall grass until you see the natural swimming pool come into view. This is the perfect spot for taking a swim or just have a picnic.
Spend the Day at Clarens
Clarens is just 20 minutes from Golden Gate and has the best quirky shops. There are also such a massive variety of restaurants to choose from. So park your car and explore this small town by foot.
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Take a trip to the Drakensberg and hike to the tallest waterfall in the world
Who does not want to adventure to the tallest waterfall in the world? The trail starts at the Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, which is an hours drive from Golden Gate. Get up early and make your way to the Drakensberg and tackle the 12km hike. This moderate trail will challenge you mentally with the chain ladders of terror (that’s if you are afraid of heights). But the view at the end will make this so worth it!
Go grab a cup of coffee at the Bus Stop
Although not located in the National Park itself, it is just after it. Make your way to the Red Bus and grab a coffee before you set of to explore some more.
Stop at the yellow frame
All over South Africa you’ll find the yellow frames to take pictures at with iconic backgrounds.
Located just next to Golden Gate Hotel, you’ll find the yellow frame. There is a parking space next to the road and from there you just follow the footpath to the frame.
Stay Over
The best way to explore this gem of South Africa is by booking a place to stay at the National Park.
Do book in advance, as there is only a few accommodations available.
- Glen Reenen Camp and Chalets – You can either bring your tent and camp at the slope of the mountains or book a chalet to stay in. Both provide you with spectacular views. ($)
- Highland Mountain Retreat – If you are looking for a place with the best view, this is the place for you! However, don’t expect luxury rooms. These eight wooden log cabins overlook the vast grassland and mountains. ($)
- Golden Gate Hotel – If you are looking for a bit more luxury, then Golden Gate Hotel is the place for you. There are various rooms available, as well as chalets. ($)
