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 stay here and so pleasant. Sonja and her team super nice. Spacious personal campsite very well maintained. The private bathroom very nice and clean, and we felt safe. Wildlife spectacular hiking through the reserve. The fire pit and braai facilities perfect. We’ll definitely visit again.

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    Louis Greyling Avatar Louis Greyling
    November 10, 2025

    Had a wonderful morning walk .Neat and safe!! Choice of 3, 7, 12km..greeted a beautiful family of Sables along the way..

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    Zelda Susan Avatar Zelda Susan
    September 20, 2025

    We camped on the Barbet campsite for the weekend. The bathroom was clean and the sites are far from each other. There are lovely hiking routes and we saw lots of animals. I would recommend this place to someone who loves nature and enjoy peace and quiet camping.

    Simoné Loosen Avatar Simoné Loosen
    April 21, 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

    Had the most amazing and relaxed time here. The campsites are clean, spacious and very safe. Did a drive around the reserve, got lost here and there as I didn't want to use the map but seeing the animals roaming around made the experience worth while. Daniel has the most amazing service as he is easily approachable.

    Marubini Mutavhatsindi Avatar Marubini Mutavhatsindi
    March 16, 2026

    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
  • What a beautiful location and enjoyable hike. We saw Sable, Nyala, Kudu and Giraffe on our route. Sonja's service was also impeccable. We will be back soon!

    Gavin Norton Avatar Gavin Norton
    January 19, 2026

    Hidden Gem Alert! Tucked away between Cullinan and Rayton lies Somabula Nature Reserve – a true hidden gem. This may not be for everyone, but if you're looking for a quick getaway close to home, a break from city life, unreliable internet, and the chance to switch off and reconnect with nature, then this is definitely the place for you. We thoroughly enjoyed our peaceful quick getaway, which was only 20 minutes from our home. During the day, we were surrounded by the sounds of birds, and at night we fell asleep to the chorus of crickets, cicadas, and what sounded like several species of frogs from the nearby dam. We stayed in the Pumba unit, which is the closest to the dam, and the setting was incredibly relaxing both day and night. The unit was clean, comfortable, and equipped with everything we needed for our stay. Reception stocks basic essentials such as wood, ice, firelighters, and matches. Just remember to bring cash, as the reserve operates off-grid and card facilities won't be available. For those who enjoy being active, there are three well marked hiking trail options ranging from a short scenic walk to a longer hike. Along the routes, you're likely to spot wildlife including zebras, eland, wildebeest, impala, and blesbok. If you're looking for peace, quiet, nature, and a chance to truly switch off, Somabula Nature Reserve is well worth a visit.

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    Nadia de Vos Avatar Nadia de Vos
    June 1, 2026

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

    Leon Joffe Avatar Leon Joffe
    December 12, 2025