I was pleasantly surprised when we visited the Wilds Nature Reserve. Even though it is located in one of the biggest cities in South Africa – Johannesburg, this is the perfect spot to get away from the busy city life. Without actually getting away.
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The reserve is divided into two sections – the East and West side. It is divided by the main road Houghton drive, but there is a pedestrian bridge that’ll lead you from one side to the other.
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Basic information
Location:
The Wilds Nature Reserve is located smack-bam in the middle of Johannesburg at Houghton Drive.
Entrance fee: FREE!
Operating hours: Monday to Friday from 6 am to 6 pm.
Pet friendly? Yes!
Hiking at the Wilds Nature Reserve
There are some really nice walkway paths on both the East and West side. The rocky pathways tangle through the gardens. I won’t suggest walking around if you struggle walking on unstable ground.
All the walkways are also clearly marked throughout the reserve.
The West Side
The West Side is perfect for taking a relaxed stroll through the indigenous gardens. There are so many beautiful city views where the skyline stands tall against the big blue sky. The walkways are mostly shaded and you can have a nice picnic on the massive Giraffe lawn.
You can look out for the following spots on the West Side:
- Greenhouses
- Jock’s View
- Owl Forest
- Kudu Corner
- Bushwillow Pond
- Aloe Corner
- Big Rock
- Giraffe Lawn (just keep an eye out for the big giraffe statue)
The East Side
The East Side is more for the adventurous hiker, as this area is more out in the open. It is advised that you don’t walk around alone, but keep in groups.
You can look out for the following spots on the East Side:
- Eagle’s View
- Green Pond
- Sugarbush Corner
- Masjid View
- White House Lawn
The sculptures
You will see sculptures all over the reserve. Artist, James Delaney, installed 67 owl sculptures for Mandela Day back in 2017. So try to find the 67 owls nestled in the yellowwood forest of the Wilds Nature Reserve.
You also cannot miss the other sculptures scattered around the reserve. These include the massive Giraffe at the Giraffe lawn, and some other wildlife animals, such as bucks.
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