Somabula Nature Reserve

Break away from the city.

Nestled peacefully in a valley surrounded by pristine bush, Somabula Nature Reserve offers the perfect environment in which to unwind.

Ideally situated for weekend getaways, only one hour from Johannesburg and 40 minutes from Pretoria, the reserve boasts a wide variety of antelope as well as giraffe, zebra and wildebeest and an abundance of birdlife.

Somabula Nature Reserve

Offers self-catering chalets, shaded camp sites and accommodation in beautifully restored ox wagons.

Activities include game viewing, hiking and birdwatching.

Day visitors can make use of the lapa with its braai area for family gatherings or special occasions. There are more than 30kms of roads and trails for walking and hiking.

Nearby, visit the quaint diamond village of Cullinan for a tour in the world famous Premier Diamond Mine and stroll down historic Oak Avenue with its various museums, shops and restaurants

Don't take our Word, take Theirs!

  • Our first visit to Somabula was very pleasant. Friendly staff, spacious personal campsite—you almost don’t realize you have campers next door. The private bathroom was clean, and we felt safe at night. It was lovely to wake up to birdsong and end the day with jackal howling. We enjoyed the walks and downloaded the bird, mammal, tree, reptile, and frog lists from the website. The variety was impressive, and ticking them off was great fun. I added a few new pages to my nature journal. The fire pit was perfect for ending the day with a relaxing bushveld fire. We’ll definitely visit again.

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    Anita Faber Avatar Anita Faber
    October 29, 2025

    Wonderful experience. The chalet is well equipped (with an outside, functioning kitchen). We especially enjoyed the shower. Everything was clean and tidy. I was surprised by the effort of making the chalet wheelchair accessible (yes, from entrance through to the bathroom and shower). We enjoyed a hike and was thankful for the provided, clear map. We spent the weekend birding (even saw a hamerkop) and watching the game from the comfort of our chalet. The dam is gorgeous. The service is thoughtful and they even asked us afterwards for feedback. Highly recommend.

    carine joubert Avatar carine joubert
    March 14, 2026

    Dis lekker om n Boer te wees. Dis hoe Somabula jou laat voel. Dankie Sonja jy is n pot sonskyn! Lekker 4x4 gaan ry. Beslis die moeite werd!

    Annique Avatar Annique
    September 10, 2025
  • The house we were in was adequately appointed with all the usual crockery, cutlery, gas cooker, gas fridge, etc. Brilliant view over the hill opposite and a short walk to the dam. We enjoyed sitting on the veranda watching and listening to the sound of nature. The house is open plan. Even though there were four beds, it is perhaps better suited to a family with young children. Bit awkward for two adult couples. Other accommodation is available.

    Derek Bezuidenhout Avatar Derek Bezuidenhout
    October 13, 2025

    Lovely place, we enjoyed a beautiful morning walk!

    Zelda Susan Avatar Zelda Susan
    September 20, 2025

    We spent yesterday in Balentines Ox wagon and it was fantatic, very helpfull and friendly service. We welcomed the first spring rain and it was great. You guys will see us again. Saw a lot of healthy game, eland, blesbuck, nyala, sable, zebra. Drove around the 4x4 track. Ive been to many lodges and reserves and this one is well managed.

    Ronsard Moolman Avatar Ronsard Moolman
    September 7, 2025
  • Took time out to go for a hike. Great selection of trails and not all that strenuous. Great to walk freely with the animals. Saw Zebra, Wildebeest, Impala, Nyala, Kudu, Blesbok and watched some Dung beetles. Had a picnic under the trees at the camp site. Later took a drive through the reserve. Good service from the staff.

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    Defender Taz Avatar Defender Taz
    October 9, 2025

    Wonderful place. Wagon accommodation needs some maintenance especially electrics and tent flaps

    Leon Joffe Avatar Leon Joffe
    December 12, 2025

    What a Gem! 45 minutes from Centurion. Ideal for a quick break away. Stunning little cottages, very clean. Nature all around you with bird sounds, animals and stary nights.

    Lelane Bezuidenhout Avatar Lelane Bezuidenhout
    November 9, 2025