Faerie Glen is located in the urban heart of Pretoria and is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. This enchanting sanctuary offers a relaxing day from the hustle and bustle of city life. The reserve invites visitors to explore its diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, and well-maintained hiking trails.
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Information:
Level: Easy to Moderate
Cost: Refer to their website to see pricing. (Do take note that they don’t take cash, only cards!)
Operating Times: Monday to Sunday from 07:00 to 17:00
Distance: Depending on the trail you choose (see trail options below)
Location:📍 January Masilela Dr, Faerie Glen
Pet Friendly: Yes, but a permit is needed!
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The trails
There are three loop trails on the reserve:
- Hadeda trail – 2.3 km
- Acacia trail – 3.2 km
- Kieperson trail – 4.2 km
Where to start
My suggestion would be to start from the left of the reserve. This way you’ll start the trail with a steep climb up the hill which, in my opinion, is the hardest part of the trail.
Once you’ve entered the nature reserve, continue to your left and walk along the fence until you get to the paved trail. In the past there was a trail where you passed a wooden bridge that crossed the Moreleta Spruit; however, this bridge is not there anymore and they’ve created a trail next to the fence.
Once you get to the paved trail, this is where the steep climb begins. Do take note that there are a lot of wild ants walking around when you make your way up the hill. So do not even attempt to stand still for a second, because they will crawl up your leg. These ants do magically disappear once you’ve reached the top. Just look at it as motivation to continue up the hill.
Luckily there are multiple viewpoints and benches available for you to sit and take in your beautiful surroundings. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll get a stunning view of the city of Pretoria.
Other great trails in Pretoria:
Continue with the trail
As you continue straight with the path you’ll see multiple trails turning right or you can continue straight. Continue straight if you want to combine two or more trails. But if you would like to go back to the entrance of the reserve, make your way to the right.
Once you’ve reached the third split in the road, you’ll see a sign indicating a ‘lookout point’. If you continue left to the lookout point, you’ll get to the highest point of the hill. This trail is also the Kiepersol trail and here the level of the trail will start to get moderate, as it does require you to scramble over some big rocks. But the view from here is worth it.
Once you’ve reached the lookout point, you can continue straight with the trail, which will lead you down the other side of the hill.
You’ll continue with the trail until you’ve reached the next wooden bridge that crosses the Moreleta Spruit. Do take a minute here to enjoy the beautiful sound of the water rushing down the rocks. Just continue straight until you’ve reached a sign indicating ‘exit’ and then make your way back to the entrance.
Why should you visit Faerie Glen Nature Reserve?
The reserve has its occasional traffic jam of zebras roaming the reserve. You’ll either find them right at the entrance of the reserve or somewhere on the trail.
The scenery itself also makes this hike so worth it. From the views of the city to the beautiful flowers, the Moreleta Spruit, and what feels like a forest, you’ll get your nature fix.
The sunsets are also breathtaking, as the whole field turns into a golden hue.
There are also picnic spots available at the reserve. So if you do not feel like hiking, you can just go and enjoy some quality time in nature with a picnic basket.
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