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

    Lovely place, we enjoyed a beautiful morning walk!

    Zelda Susan Avatar Zelda Susan
    September 20, 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
  • 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

    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

    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

    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

    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