Nestling in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The park derives its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the park’s sandstone cliffs, especially the imposing Brandwag rock, keeping vigil over the main rest camp. This 11, 600 hectares of unique environment is true highland habitat, providing home to a variety of mammals – black wildebeest, eland, blesbok, oribi, springbok and Burchell’s zebra – and birds, including the rare bearded vulture (lammergeier) and the equally rare bald ibis, which breed on the ledges in the sandstone cliffs. Ribbokkop, the highest point in the park, reveals a breathtaking tapestry of red, yellow and purple hues as its warm shades merge with the cool mountain shadows towards evening.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park was officially proclaimed in1963 during the period in which national parks were proclaimed for pristine area protection. Golden Gate has much geological significance and aesthetic beauty and represents the threatened grassland biome. The park is currently the only grassland National Park in South Africa. The park contains over 60 species of grasses. In addition, judging by the primitive stone tools and rock paintings found at various places throughout Golden Gate, the first inhabitants of the area were the Khoisan, and there is no doubt that they lived under the many overhangs which offered excellent shelter. Golden Gate was not spared the ravages of the Anglo-Boer wars, and much damage was done during the Second Anglo-Boer War. When the Southern passes were occupied by the British, the main Boer force retreated in the direction of Golden Gate.

The park offers varying-length hiking trails, holiday progammes and environmental education courses. Activities such as horse-riding, canoeing and abseiling can be arranged. Accommodation is offered in the park from luxury cabins to camping. Day visitors are also welcome, and game viewing can be done at leisure from private vehicles.

R17 (SA citizens/residents), R35 (SADC nationals) R70 (Foreign adult nationals); R35 (foreign child national under 12 years) - proof of ID must be shown.
Central Reservations: t 012 428 9111; f 012 343 0905

Entrance: as above
Open: 7am–5pm
t 058 255 0012 f 058 255 0022
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