Groendal Nature Reserve Travel Guide: Top Sights in South africa,

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Groendal Nature Reserve- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; South Africa; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 6 hours

Groendal Nature Reserve, situated in the Groot Winterhoek Mountains just outside Uitenhage (around 30 km from Gqeberha), spans roughly 30 000 hectares and holds the unique distinction of being the only officially declared wilderness in the Eastern Cape. This rugged landscape is sculpted by deep kloofs, flowing streams and the headwaters of the Swartkops (KwaZunga) River. A mosaic of vegetation spans grassy fynbos, valley bushveld, and pockets of indigenous forest in the ravines—supporting around 180 bird species and mammals such as bushbuck, Cape grysbok, and vervet monkeys. Beyond its ecological value, Groendal offers a tangible window into South Africa's precolonial past with protected Khoi-San rock art and archaeological caves nestled along its trails. Trails range from family-friendly day hikes—like the Lower Blindekloof circuit featuring crystal-clear pools and river crossings—to multi-day wilderness routes such as the Upper Blindekloof and Emerald Pool Trail. Permits, maps, and basic facilities are managed at the reserve office, making Groendal a compelling destination for visitors seeking immersive natural history and adventure near Gqeberha.

Operators offering tours in South Africa

Attractions in Gqeberha

Donkin Reserve

3.2

Kragga Kamma Game Park

4.2

AutoPavilion

4.8

South African Air Force Museum

4.8

South End Museum

4.6

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum

4.6

St. George's Park

4.4

Route 67

Reviews of Groendal Nature Reserve

Christiaan du Toit

5
Reviewed: 2022-12-05

We walked from the Groendal office to Eel Cave and spent two nights there. It's a moderately long walk, about 15km. There is one very challenging climb early into the walk called Narina Ridge, about 0.7m long, with about 240m elevation. Once you are at the top the walk is easy with lots of fynbos all around you. When you get close to the end of the trail, a fairly steep descent takes you to where the path splits towards Emerald Pool and Eel Cave. The path down to Emerald Pool is extremely steep and there are some very mild exposure to heights. Do not go down there the same day. Take the other path to Eel Cave, spend the night there, and then explore Emerald pool the next day without big backpacks, as the climb back up is strenuous. You will need at least 2 litres of water before you go up Narina Ridge, as you will not get water again untill you reach the end of the trail. When you carry on past the cave you will find Eel Pool, which is easy to reach, and your best option for refilling water on arrival. You are not allowed to make fires anywhere in this reserve. Even though there is evidence of people making fires before, Groendal has since forbidden it so please observe the rules to keep the Cave and Pools tidy.
Teddie

4
Reviewed: 2021-01-11

Great place to hike. Lovely area. Need more trails....
Sharon Bezuidenhout

4
Reviewed: 2019-01-16

It's a nice trail it's not hectic u can evens takes ur 13year old child there that's how nice it is
Schandre Barnes

4
Reviewed: 2018-11-09

Beautiful scenery. The lower Blindekloof trail is a moderately difficult hike with 8 pools to explore along the way. The not too clearly marked trail adds to the excitement
Christopher Siddall

5
Reviewed: 2018-08-09

The lower Blindekloof trail is a great hiking trail for the family. Just needs more visible markings, but otherwise its an easy and tranquil trail.