Nystroom - Lapalala Wilderness Area

The Nylsvley Nature Reserve, 20km/12.5mi south of Naboomspruit, lies on the flood plain of the Nyl River. In years with a lot of rain 150sq.km/58sq.mi of low-lying grassland and wooded savanna are flooded, and more than 400 species of birds then settle here. Various species of antelope can also be observed in the reserve. (open: daily 6am-6pm; no accommodation for visitors)

121km/75mi northwest of Nylstroom (R 517 to Vaalwater, then northeast on Melk River road) is the Lapalala Wilderness Area, a private reserve taking in 24,000ha/60,000ac of the Waterberg range which is home to zebras, wildebeests, hippopotamuses, giraffes, antelopes, gazelles and rhinos. Accommodation for visitors is available in a number of small camps within the reserve. Canoeing on a 50km/30mi long stretch of river; guided hikes led by experienced rangers