I have visited Rietvlei twice in the last three months for birding. The place is well maintained,with clean toilets and hides. Unfortunately, the reed's around some of the hides are overgrown, making it difficult to see any water birds. The birds can be heard but not seen. I believe that if the reed's were cut a bit it would allow for better birding. The park itself has a good amount of animals and plenty of bird life. Roads are good in the dry season, but i think that in the wet season some of the dirt roads will be a challenge to normal cars. Picnic sites are clean and well maintained. It is a pleasure to visit this park.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a gem on the edge of town in Pretoria East. This quaint, small and stunning reserve is the perfect place for a day visit no matter the season. It has a nice selection of wildlife, often is the home of a cheetah or six, and has an abundance of birdlife that make it a birder's must visit. Animals are relaxed, and the "Friends of Rietvlei" keep the reserve well looked after. It has a beautifully selection of hides, picnic areas, a nice "Coffee Shop" where you can enjoy drinks and food, and the tar roads are well kept, and most of the dirt roads are in good condition too but some sections can be a bit challenging for an urban car especially after rain. The reserve is very popular on weekends, so things can be a bit messy on Mondays and Tuesdays around picnic areas, but usually by Wednesday everything is beautifully pristine again. If you do enjoy this reserve or want to become an avid visitor, join "Fiends of Rietvlei" membership to support the volunteers who look after the reserve, or join their efforts yourself.
I absolutely loved the place and the beauty it holds within. It is well maintained and kept clean. They also have some game animals too but none that are carnivorous or dangerous. It is massive and have things that you can do such as calm, quiet drives, hideouts, lapas and bomas and the dam is accessible for being on the water. It is definitely a family orientated place and the kids will be able to enjoy the day and have the best sleep that night.
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