Golden Gate Highlands National Park Travel Guide: Top Sights in South

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Golden Gate Highlands National Park- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 48 hours

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, located in South Africa's Free State Province near the Lesotho border, enchants visitors with its striking golden sandstone cliffs and diverse terrain, including the iconic Brandwag rock. This 340 km² park not only showcases a dramatic landscape painted in ochre and orange but also offers a rich historical tapestry through San rock art and significant paleontological finds, such as ancient dinosaur eggs and skeletons. Beyond its visual allure, the park supports a variety of wildlife, including eland, zebras, and over 100 bird species, while its varied elevations—from 1,800 to 2,700 meters—create diverse habitats and climates, enhancing the visitor experience. With accommodation options at Glen Reenen and Brandwag Rest camps, as well as the Golden Gate Hotel, visitors can enjoy a blend of comfort and nature, all within easy reach of nearby towns like Clarens.

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Reviews of Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Pierre Du Toit

5
Reviewed: 2024-07-31

Amazing place to visit or to juat drive through. The roads are in a good condition, they are doing repairs on some of the detour routes whuch shows the park is being maintained. Some good viewpoints
Kelsey Waddell

5
Reviewed: 2024-07-14

what an amazing national park! the views are absolutely incredible, the trails are well maintained and has routes for beginners, kids, the elderly and more experienced hikers! it is well worth your time, energy and effort.
Yolandie Kelly

5
Reviewed: 2024-07-02

Breathtakingly beautiful! Did the Echo Ravine hiking trail. Only 2.5 km, but would not call it a walk in the park... But... It's worth every single step!!
Christel

4
Reviewed: 2024-07-02

Golden Gate is one of South Africa's Treasures. The beauty speaks for itself. I was surprised that the entry Gate is not being controlled and managed anymore and it's a concern to the maintenance and wellness of the Park. The roads are mostly good but the sides are not being kept neat. The Dinosaur Fossil Area is closed and completely neglected and vandalized.
Ronalda De Beer

5
Reviewed: 2024-02-24

Golden Gate National Park in South Africa is a breathtakingly scenic park that showcases the natural beauty of the region in a way that is nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment you enter the park, you're greeted with landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. The park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife add to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. One of the park's highlights is the Cathedral hike, an experience I found to be absolutely amazing. The trail offers a perfect blend of challenge and beauty, leading hikers through stunning vistas that are sure to impress. The panoramic views of the park's unique geological formations and the vibrant colors of the flora are unforgettable. For adventure seekers, taking a swim in the natural pools encountered during the hike is an experience I highly recommend. The pools provide a refreshing and serene escape, perfectly complementing the exhilarating hike. It's a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South Africa, and it epitomizes the adventurous spirit of the park. Golden Gate National Park truly is a testament to South Africa's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the great outdoors, this park has something special to offer. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the remarkable Cathedral hike make it a top recommendation for anyone looking to explore the best of what South Africa has to offer.