Experience Africa in one day at Dinokeng Game Reserve 

We live in South Africa: the doorstep of hinterland sunrises, the big five and the call of hadedas in the morning.

While it might sound a little like the treatment for a Taylor Swift or Jain music video, the truth is, if you live in this country you are used to natural splendour in one way or another.

While our friends in Cape Town often seem more blessed (that mountain, you know), in Gauteng, Dinokeng Game Reserve opens up a whole new world of beauty.

Just outside Pretoria, Dinokeng is the province’s only free-roaming big-five reserve, and also operates with the slogan “Africa in one day”.

That’s a truthful approach. In the 18,500 hectare reserve the bush comes alive, but you know town is close by.

Why is that a good thing? Because it’s the perfect place to visit for a day (or a weekend) without getting awkwardly overburdened with holiday planning (the Hammanskraal strip mall is just down the road).

In fact, the concessions within the reserve are so carefree, one of the resorts – SunEden – doesn’t even require you to wear clothing. The naturist resort is a clothing-optional paradise for those who really want to let their hair down.

Considering its position, it’s a wonderland for tourists – with international visitors soaking up the sun here. But considering the mix of camping, self-catering, luxury and private resorts, Dinokeng suits holidaymakers just as much as day visitors.

Day visitors can easily enjoy a day in the wild – and can almost with certainty tick off a few beasts from the big five list; the major one being black rhino. The reserve’s rhinos all have poisoned horns – which means poaching is scarce – are quite free and often put up a show.

The roads, while bumpy, can easily be driven in a small hatch, which means there’s a lot to see and it’s accessible.

But that’s not what makes Dinokeng so much fun. It’s really the fact that it’s all a bit of a lucky packet. It’s not over-ridden with tourists, the clout of safari vehicles are not yet a reality and you have to take your time (and do some research) before choosing where to dine and wine.

It’s also affordable, with entrance for a self-drive vehicle starting at R150.

The reserve, while not massive, certainly does have the chops for providing an easy day out, 45 minutes from Pretoria. There are also a number of events taking place at Dinokeng, which prove its worth as a day-stination.

Close to one of the main gates, Ritsako Game Lodge is gearing up for its annual wine show. Wining in the Wild is an unpretentious boutique-ish wine-tasting, tourism and lifestyle experience between pouring water fountains in the heart of the veld.

Taking place October 19, Ritsako will be showcasing some of the finest Cape wines as well as a mini-craft market. A live band and a DJ will be on site to entertain the crowds.

But, do go early and take in some of the wonderful game and driving opportunities before settling down at Ritsako. Kids are also welcome.

What a treat! Dinokeng – truly Africa in a day.

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