For those wishing to spend a sweltering afternoon in the relief of a cool breeze while enjoying the relaxation associated with fishing, there is only one place you need to go with a multitude of species that can be lured to the hooks of keen anglers. Nestled contentedly on the foothills of the Waterberg Range, this 7.000-ha nature reserve lies close to Limpopo’s major highway, half an hour’s drive from Mokopane and Mookgophong. Doorndraai boasts a wide variety of woodland habitats such as acacia, hillside broad-leaved woodland and riverine woodland. Around and below the Doorndraai Dam is a range of grassland types and more open savannah biospheres. Wall, rock and riverine habitats occur. Game found on the reserve includes tsessebe, Sable Antelope, Mountain Reedbuck, kudu, bushbuck, Blue Wildebeest, leopard, impala and steenbuck. Sightings of duiker, klipspringer, waterbuck, zebra, giraffe, warthog, bushpig, Brown Hyena, genet, African Wild Cat, Black-footed Cat, aardvark, hedgehog, Honey Badger and otter are common. The reserve is also a renowned birding site and the dam a prime angling spot, while the resort is a popular destination for the whole family enjoying various water sports.
CAMPING & ACCOMMODATION
There are 3 camping sites at Doorndraai Dam with basic ablution facilities for each. A secluded Group Camp hosting 16+ guests is available and includes a thatched lapa, boma, basic toilets and open air ablutions. The Rooiribbok Trails Camp offers 2 self-catering chalets with kitchen, shower and toilet. Beds and matresses are provided. Guests need to bring own linen, cutlery and crockery. There is no electricity in the resort but the main ablution facilities are equipped with solar panels for heating water.
Highlights & Activities:Â Canoeing/Kayaking, Boating and water sports, Fishing, self Game drives, Wildlife photography, Birding, Hiking
Facilities:Â 3 Camping Sites with basic ablutions, Group Camp hosting 16+ guests, Fully self-catering trails hut
How to get there:Â From the R101 between Mokopane and Mookgophong turn towards Sterkrivier/Doorndraai. After 17km, turn left onto a gravel road towards Doorndraai, after 5km on the left is the first gate. The main gate/office is another kilometer into the reserve.